The ongoing excavation at the revered Jageshwar Dham site unearthed two ancient Shivalings buried underground. As soon as the news about the appearance of the Shivlings spread, devotees flocked to the site to catch a glimpse of the sacred artefacts believed to be connected to Bhagwan Shiva. The incident has sparked discussions and speculation, with locals and experts alike marvelling at the significance of the find.
According to reports, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has taken charge of safeguarding the newly discovered Shivalings, which are estimated to date back to the 14th century. The unexpected nature of the discovery has added to its allure, capturing the attention of devotees and historians alike.
The excavation work at Jageshwar Dham is part of a larger master plan aimed at enhancing the site’s beauty and accessibility. As part of this initiative, efforts are underway to install lighting systems around the temple complex. However, May 9 brought a surprising twist to the ongoing project when labourers stumbled upon an ancient Shivaling hidden beneath the temple grounds. The discovery, made behind the Jageshwar Temple, immediately drew attention from all quarters.
VIDEO | Ancient Shivling found during excavation at Jageshwar Dham in Uttarakhand’s Almora earlier today.
“The excavation process was underway at the temple complex when the Shivling was found by the workers. People in large numbers are coming to see the Shivling. Since this is… pic.twitter.com/wOiqcOL3UL
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) May 8, 2024
Upon learning of the discovery, devotees wasted no time in converging on Jageshwar Dham to worship Bhagwan Shiva and witness the sacred artefacts firsthand. Traditional rituals, including offerings of vermilion, sandalwood, and flowers, were accompanied by fervent chants and prayers as devotees expressed their reverence for the divine.
However, the joy and excitement surrounding the discovery were tempered by the need to ensure the artefacts’ safety and preservation. Consequently, the authorities took swift action to halt further excavation at the site, with plans for the Archaeological Department to take over and conduct additional surveys and assessments.
The significance of Jageshwar Dham as a centre of worship for Bhagwan Shiva cannot be overstated. According to local beliefs, the tradition of worshipping Bhagwan Shiva in the form of a linga originated at this sacred site. With approximately 108 temples dedicated to Bhagwan Shiva within the Jageshwar temple complex, the discovery of the ancient Shiva Lingas adds another layer of historical and spiritual significance to the region.
This is not the first time such discoveries have been made in the vicinity. About two and a half kilometres from Jageshwar, in Koteshwar, previous excavations have yielded several Shiva Lingas, further reinforcing the area’s rich cultural and religious heritage.
Additionally, recent years have seen other remarkable findings during excavation work in Almora, including the murti of Bhagwan Vishnu, which was discovered a decade ago. The ASI has played a crucial role in preserving these artefacts, ensuring their protection and conservation for future generations.
