Discovery of Ancient Idols Sparks Cultural Reverence in Kashmir
Ancient Hindu idols, including 'Shivlings', have been uncovered during excavation work in Anantnag district, Kashmir. The artifacts, discovered in Karkoot Nag, are believed to be linked to the historic Karkoota dynasty. Authorities plan to send the idols to Srinagar for further study, while locals call for a temple restoration.
- Country:
- India
In a significant archaeological find, ancient Hindu idols, including 'Shivlings', have been unearthed during excavation work for the renovation of a spring in Jammu and Kashmir's Anantnag district, officials disclosed on Saturday. This historic discovery occurred at Karkoot Nag in the Salia area of Aishmuqam.
The idols, many of which feature engravings of deities, were recovered by laborers working under the Public Works Department during a restoration project at the spring. The Jammu and Kashmir Department of Archives, Archaeology, and Museums has since visited the site, with plans to transport the idols to Srinagar for detailed testing to ascertain their age and origins.
Local Kashmiri Pandits hold the site in reverence due to its historical ties with the Karkoota dynasty, a possible explanation for the idols' presence. The artifacts, including Shivlings and sculptures, recovered from the sacred pond, are spurring calls for the government to build a new temple at the site, preserving these cultural relics.
(With inputs from agencies.)
Google News