A major discovery regarding archaeological findings in India has been made at the Baitarani River in the Bhadrak district of Odisha, where a number of archaeological sculptures have been found, including Shaiva and Buddhist idols. Scholars estimate these artefacts belong to the 6th or 7th century CE, providing information on the local history, including the identity of people.
The find consists of 18 detailed worked sculptures and artefacts, idols, and symbolic items like miniature shrines and ‘argha stupas’, which were unearthed near the Maninathpur village in Bhandaripokhari block earlier this week. Analysis of these artefacts demonstrates that Shaivism and Buddhism coexisted and influenced one another in this area.
The great discovery process was catalyzed by Bibekananda, an unemployed young man who was taking a morning jog and came across the statue. Realizing its historical importance, he quickly got in touch with members of INTACH as well as young researcher Biswambbar Raut. As a result, Raut noted 18 sculptures and small temples in the area after the visit.
The sculptures present different Shaiva deities like Lord Shiva, Parvati, and Ganesh, as well as Buddhists such as Buddha Tara and Padmapani. These are clearly products of the high-quality workmanship that was characteristic of the period and culture of the region.
Scholars have hailed this discovery, stating that it would attract a lot of other historians and archaeologists around the world. The artefacts are expected to offer a further understanding of the synergy between Shaiva and Buddhist practices, which dominated the region in the ancient period. Specialists of various authorities and non-governmental organizations are already thinking about measures for further exploration and protection of the site for future generations.
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