The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has made exciting discoveries at Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, Madhya Pradesh. During a survey in April 2023, the ASI unearthed a 2000-year-old society, which provided evidence of a well-developed modern settlement. Last ASI found 26 Buddhist caves in there after a long summer exploration.
2nd-5th century BCE Buddhist caves
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) announced the discovery of 26 Buddhist caves in Madhya Pradesh’s Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, dating back to the 2nd-5th century BCE. The exploration, conducted from May 20 to June 26 by ASI’s Jabalpur Circle, led by Superintending Archaeologist Shivakant Bajpai, uncovered archaeological remains of the Mahayana sect, including chaitya-shaped doors and stone beds.
The findings are associated with the Ajanta caves’ timeframe. It includes 26 temples, two mathas, two stupas, 46 idols, sculptures, fragments, and 19 water bodies. The report mentions 24 Brahmi inscriptions from the 2nd-5th century CE and a Buddhist pillar fragment from the 2nd-3rd century CE. The exploration covered the Tala Range in the first phase, marking the first comprehensive survey since 1938 in Bandhavgarh.
ASI emphasises the significance of their official documentation, covering 35 temples, 76 caves, two mathas, two stupas, 50 inscriptions, 56 sculptures, 20 fragments, and 19 water bodies. Officials state the importance of documenting remains officially for the first time. The Bajpai report adds details to the former Chakravarty report that documented 35 temples, 76 caves, two mathas, two stupas, 50 inscriptions, 56 sculptures, 20 fragments, and 19 water bodies. The newly discovered Votive Stupa contributes to Bandhavgarh’s history and adds to its architectural significance.
Lost ancient civilisation
ASI has unearthed remnants of a “modern society” in Bandhavgarh National Park, in April this year. The discovery includes man-made water bodies and millennia-old rock paintings found deliberately placed in rock-cut caves, indicating intentional human activity. The site is estimated to be around 1800-2000 years old. The rock-cut shelters suggest it was a hub along an ancient trade route frequented by travellers. Notably, a 1500-year-old rock painting depicting an animal has been identified and is currently under study.
The presence of man-made water bodies is considered evidence of advanced water management in this ancient society, reflecting intelligence and coordination. These water bodies were constructed for diverse purposes such as agriculture, fishing, transportation, and religious ceremonies. This contributes to evidence of the sophisticated civilization. The archaeological findings also encompass Hindu and Buddhist structures, large monoliths, and sculptures of Lord Vishnu, depicting various avatars.
These discoveries not only enrich India’s understanding of its history and culture but also have the potential to attract visitors, generating economic benefits for the local community.