In a momentous archaeological breakthrough, a series of ancient Hindu idols and Shivlings have been unearthed in north and south Kashmir, shedding new light on the region’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage.
The twin discoveries at Anantnag and Baramulla are being hailed as significant additions to Jammu and Kashmir’s historical legacy and have rekindled local interest in preserving the Union Territory’s ancient past.
The most striking find occurred at Karkoot Nag in South Kashmir’s Anantnag district, where labourers, while working on the restoration of a natural spring, stumbled upon a cache of ancient idols during excavation.
The renovation was being carried out by the Public Works Department (PWD) as part of a broader government initiative.
Officials said the site yielded 15 intricately carved stone artefacts, including 11 Shivlings and a damaged sculpture believed to be a remnant of a temple pillar.
Preliminary assessments suggest these relics date back to 625–855 CE, during the reign of the Karkota dynasty, though some experts believe they may be even older.
“This is not just an archaeological discovery—it is a rediscovery of our spiritual heritage,” said a local community elder, as calls emerged for the reconstruction of a temple at the site, which already holds religious significance for Kashmiri Hindus.
Experts from the Department of Archives, Archaeology and Museums, who visited the site shortly after the discovery, noted that the nature and number of the idols indicate the presence of a once-prominent temple complex.
Some sculptures depict multiple deities, suggesting a vibrant religious center in ancient times. It is speculated that the idols may have been deliberately buried or concealed during periods of conflict.
The recovered artefacts have been transferred to the Shri Pratap Singh (SPS) Museum in Srinagar, where they will undergo detailed analysis, including material testing and carbon dating, to determine their exact age and origin.
In a parallel discovery in North Kashmir, a large Shivling, believed to date back to the 10th century AD, was recovered from the Jhelum River near an Army camp at Khanpora, Baramulla, during routine sand extraction by local labourers.
Measuring 137 cm in length and 160 cm in width, the finely carved stone Shivling was initially secured by the 22 Medium Regiment of the Indian Army.
Recognizing its historical importance, the Army promptly handed over the Shivling to the Department of Archives, Archaeology and Museums. It has since been transported to the SPS Museum, where it will be preserved and displayed for public viewing.
“This recovery is not only an important archaeological find but also a testament to our enduring cultural legacy,” said Kuldeep Krishan Sidha, Director of Archives, Archaeology & Museums, Jammu & Kashmir.
“The Department is committed to the preservation and respectful showcasing of such artefacts for the educational and spiritual enrichment of the public.”