Ancient Idols Unearthed: Rediscovering Kashmir's Sacred Past

Ancient Hindu idols and 'Shivlings' were found during excavation in Jammu and Kashmir's Anantnag district. The site, significant to Kashmiri Pandits, dates back to the Karkoota dynasty. The artifacts will be analyzed in Srinagar for historical insights, and there's a call for temple reconstruction.

Ancient Hindu idols have been unearthed in Jammu and Kashmir's Anantnag district during renovation works at a spring, according to officials. These artifacts, including 'Shivlings,' were discovered in the Karkoot Nag area of Aishmuqam, a site of immense historical significance for Kashmiri Pandits.

The Public Works Department's ongoing restoration efforts led to the recovery of these artifacts, believed to be linked to the Karkoota dynasty that once ruled the region between 625 to 855 CE. The Jammu and Kashmir Department of Archives, Archaeology, and Museums has visited the site, with plans to send the idols to Srinagar for further testing to determine their age and origin.

Local Kashmiri Pandits have expressed the need to protect the discovered items, suggesting the reconstruction of a temple at the site. They believe the area has been a longstanding pilgrimage center and propose that the historical 'Shivlings' be housed in a new temple, preserving the region's rich cultural heritage.

(With inputs from agencies.)