On the 64th day of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)’s investigation into the historic Bhojshala complex, significant discoveries were made in the site’s northern and southern parts. The survey unearthed stone remains of pillars in the northern section and additional remains in the sanctum sanctorum. Gopal Sharma, Secretary of the Maharaja Bhoj Sewa Samiti and a key petitioner noted that the shapes and symbols on these remains resemble the existing pillars of Bhojshala. Experts are now calculating the age and historical significance of these artefacts.
The Paramara dynasty, ruling from the 10th to 13th centuries in Central India with their capital in Dhar (now Madhya Pradesh), is renowned for its contributions to art and architecture. King Bhoja, the most celebrated ruler, constructed a temple dedicated to Saraswati (Vagdevi), the goddess of knowledge, in the 11th century. This temple became a significant education centre, attracting pilgrims from distant regions. However, it suffered damage during Islamic invasions in the medieval period.
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There has been a renewed interest in reviving India’s historical heritage in recent years. Archaeological investigations, such as those at Kashi Vishvanath, have revealed structures built on the ruins of Hindu temples.
On May 18, the Hindu side made a big claim. According to them, a stone was found while the soil was removed towards the north. The remarkable thing is that this stone is shaped like a lotus flower. Hindu representative Gopal Sharma said that their numbering is also being done, along with cleaning and brushing the excavated remains. Soil removal from the wall visible near the Yagya Kund also continued. Soil removal 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. This raised expectations for further significant discoveries in that area. Excavation efforts are being intensified inside and outside the complex to ensure a thorough investigation.
The Madhya Pradesh High Court has similarly ordered a scientific survey of Bhojshala by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). Historical records and prior excavations suggest that Bhojshala was originally a Saraswati temple built by King Bhoja. Findings include Hindu sculptures and Paramara-style pillars within the complex, indicating the presence of a Hindu temple. Despite these facts, some continue to refer to Bhojshala as a mosque.
The ASI has commenced using advanced ground-penetrating radar (GPR) and GPS technology in its ongoing survey of the historic Bhojshala complex. This significant step, taken on the 65th day of the survey, follows long-standing demands from the Hindu community for a detailed, technologically assisted investigation.
Critical for conducting a thorough survey, the GPR and GPS machines arrived in Bhojshala on May 25 from Hyderabad. Labourers transported the equipment, which is now being operated by a team of four experts. These technologies are expected to accelerate the survey process and uncover hidden artefacts and structural details within the complex.
The Madhya Pradesh High Court ordered the scientific survey on March 11, requiring the ASI to use modern techniques such as videography, photography, GPR, and GPS technology. The directive aimed to ensure a comprehensive and accurate investigation of the Bhojshala complex. The ASI must submit its report to the Indore High Court by July 4.
On May 25, 18 officers and 40 labourers were on-site at Bhojshala, continuing their detailed examination of the area. The arrival of the GPR machine, operated by seven officials, marked a significant advancement in the survey. Sharma highlighted that this technology will help reveal additional evidence hidden within the sanctum sanctorum and speed up the overall process.
The survey has ignited protests from the Muslim community, who, on May 24, wore black bands and offered prayers at Bhojshala. They voiced concerns that the excavation could violate a Supreme Court directive. The Bhojshala complex holds deep significance for both communities. Hindus regard it as a temple dedicated to Mata Vagdevi (Saraswati), while Muslims recognize it as the Kamal Maula Mosque.
Since April 7, 2003, an arrangement has been in place allowing Hindus to perform puja on Tuesdays and Muslims to offer namaz on Fridays. This agreement was designed to maintain communal harmony while respecting the religious sentiments of both groups.
As the ASI’s survey continues with the aid of advanced technology, it is expected to provide deeper insights into the Bhojshala complex’s historical and cultural layers. The findings will be crucial in understanding the site’s significance and addressing the ongoing disputes between the Hindu and Muslim communities.
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