During a renovation project at a Hindu religious site in the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir, several ancient idols were found buried underground.
The discovery was made at Karkoot Nag (also called Karkut Nag) in the Salia area of Aishmuqam town, around 16 km from the district headquarters. This site is believed to be linked to the Karkoota dynasty, which ruled Kashmir from 625 to 855 CE/BC.
According to reports, 15 ancient idols, including 11 Shivlings, were uncovered. These items may be more than 2,000 years old. A damaged sculpture showing multiple deities was also found. Experts believe it may have been part of an ancient temple pillar
The idols were found while the Public Works Department was carrying out restoration work near a spring. Once the idols were discovered, officials from the Department of Archives, Archaeology, and Museums visited the site.
The idols will be sent to Shri Pratap Singh Museum in Srinagar for further study, including material and dating tests to learn more about their age and origin. Research scholars will also take part in the analysis.
A local Kashmiri Pandit suggested that a temple might have once stood at the site or that the idols had been placed there to keep them safe. Community members who were present have requested that a new temple be built to bring back the spiritual and cultural importance of the area.
