In a startling archaeological find, three bronze idols, believed to date back approximately 400 years, have been unearthed during excavation for a house construction project in Mohammadpur Baghanki village of Manesar, Haryana.
The local police department, upon learning of the discovery, swiftly intervened to protect the idols, halting construction work in the process. Authorities from the Archaeology Department have announced plans to conduct further excavations to ascertain if additional artifacts lie buried in the vicinity.
The idols, representing Hindu deities Lord Vishnu and Mata Lakshmi, bear intricate carvings and designs. Standing at around 1.5 feet, the Lord Vishnu idol is accompanied by a seated Mata Lakshmi idol, slightly smaller in stature. A third idol depicts Vishnu and Lakshmi together in a seated position.
The police revealed that the idols were stumbled upon during the excavation for a new house foundation, while construction work was underway utilizing heavy machinery. Initially, attempts were made to conceal the discovery, with the plot owner allegedly offering bribes to the machinery operator to keep quiet. However, after two days, the driver alerted the authorities, prompting a response from the Bilaspur police.
Local villagers have interpreted the find as a divine blessing and have expressed a desire to construct a temple on the plot where the idols were unearthed. Despite their wishes, officials from the Archaeology Department have refused to comply, asserting that the idols are government property and will be preserved in the department’s museum following thorough examination in their laboratory.
Deputy Director of the Archaeology Department, Banani Bhattacharya, emphasized the significance of the find, noting that the idols were discovered at a depth of approximately 15 feet and are crafted from bronze. Speaking to the Times of India, Bhattacharya stated that the department intends to utilize scientific methods to determine the precise age of the statues. While initial assessments suggest an age of around 400 years, further analysis is required to confirm their origins.
Officials have appealed to the public to refrain from disturbing the site or the artifacts, emphasizing the need for cooperation in preserving this important historical find. Haryana, known for its rich cultural and historical heritage, has been the site of numerous significant archaeological discoveries, including stone carvings in the Aravalis and remnants of the Indus Valley Civilization at Rakhigarhi.
The discovery of these ancient bronze idols in the village of Mohammadpur Baghanki serves as a poignant reminder of Haryana’s rich cultural legacy and the need for diligent preservation of its historical treasures. As authorities embark on further examination and analysis of these artifacts, it is imperative that the public cooperates in safeguarding the site and respecting the significance of this find. Through collaborative efforts, we can ensure that future generations continue to marvel at and learn from the remnants of our shared past, enriching our understanding of history and heritage.