The ongoing Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) survey at the historic Bhojshala in Dhar district has unearthed finely carved stone pieces, causing a stir among the involved parties. On the 59th day of the court-ordered survey, a team of 20 ASI members and 40 labourers discovered these artefacts while excavating soil in the northern section of the site. To determine their period, the ASI will conduct tests.
The ASI team commenced their work at 8:30 AM and concluded at 5 PM. During the excavation in the north, several finely carved stone pieces were uncovered, which are believed to be part of a larger structure. Hindu representative Gopal Sharma noted the discovery of five to seven intricately designed stone fragments, suggesting they might be pieces of the same original artefact. Additionally, the survey revealed a stone base in the field, corroborating findings previously indicated by a Ground-Penetrating Penetrating Radar (GPR) survey.
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Responses from Hindu and Muslim Parties
The discovery has elicited different reactions from the Hindu and Muslim communities. Hindu party member Gopal Sharma emphasised the significance of the finds, expressing optimism about uncovering further historical artefacts. The survey team has focused on meticulously cleaning, brushing, and numbering the remains found.
Conversely, Abdul Samad, representing the Muslim party, voiced concerns about the ongoing excavation’s impact on the site’s structural integrity. He mentioned that while excavation on the northern side continued, work in the Dargah complex remained halted. Samad highlighted the challenges faced by the community, particularly during Friday prayers, due to the disturbances caused by the excavation.
Historical Artefacts and Deep Foundations
The survey has been marked by significant discoveries over the past few days. On the 57th day, large stone fragments, each weighing over one quintal, were found. Tests are to be conducted by ASI to determine their historical period. Notably, in Sanskrit and Marathi, the word “pashan” means rock or stone. Such stones provide insights into the civilisation and culture of their time. Thus, it can be ascertained which era the stones found in Bhojshala belong to.
Moreover, deep foundations of two walls were uncovered in the sanctum sanctorum. Initial estimates placed the foundations at 15 feet deep, but further excavation revealed they might extend beyond 20 feet.
Hindu Symbolism on Artefacts
Ashish Goyal, who petitioned the Indore bench of the Madhya Pradesh High Court, reported that around 400 large artefacts, many of which bear Hindu symbols and deity images, were discovered during the survey. Additionally, over a thousand smaller artefacts were found, reinforcing the site’s rich historical and cultural significance.
Despite the ongoing debates, the ASI continues its detailed work at Bhojshala. Notably, the ASI team increased the number of labourers to expedite the excavation process across multiple areas. As a result, excavation efforts have intensified inside and outside the complex. A special team has also conducted videography and photography to document the findings.
On May 18, the Hindu side made a big claim. According to them, a stone was found while removing soil towards the north. The special thing is that this stone has the shape of a lotus flower. Hindu representative Gopal Sharma told that, along with cleaning and brushing of the excavated remains, their numbering is also being done. The work of removing soil from the wall visible near the Yagya Kund also continued Soil removal work was also done in the trench built in the field behind.
On May 17, excavation continued in the south and west corners, where a sword was discovered on May 16, raising expectations for further significant discoveries in that area. Excavation efforts are being intensified inside and outside the complex to ensure a thorough investigation.
The ASI survey at Bhojshala remains a focal point of historical and cultural interest, with the recent discoveries adding layers to the site’s rich tapestry. As the survey progresses, the findings will likely provide deeper insights into the region’s heritage amidst the varying perspectives of the involved communities.
