Excavation at Panditpur reveals additional underground structures

By Our Correspondent,Nawalparasi West, Apr. 25: The ongoing excavation at Panditpur, a significant archaeological and historical site located in Ramgram-18, has led to the discovery of additional underground structures. 

According to the Department of Archaeology (DoA), these structures are related to Buddha.

The DoA has been conducting excavations in Panditpur for a month. This is the second excavation in Panditpur in the current fiscal year, and this site is believed to be the capital of the Kolya Republic.

During the excavation at five locations within Panditpur, large brick walls, ancient canals and several artefacts have been uncovered.

The DoA stated that further studies will be conducted on the discovered stone and bone tools, utensils and other artefacts. Previous studies have confirmed that Panditpur contains a Buddha-era city structure arranged in a circular layout underground.

Archaeologist Bhaskar Gyawali said that further investigation is underway, as past studies indicated the presence of numerous structures at the site.

During a previous geophysical survey, the layout of the Buddha-era city was detected during excavation. A study conducted in Britain confirmed that the structures found in Panditpur dates back to the 6th century BC.

The DoA reported that some structures found in Panditpur are similar to those in Tilaurakot of Kapilvastu, which is in the process of being listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Covering an area of about 62 bighas of land, Panditpur is claimed to be the capital of the Kolya Republic and the maternal home of the Buddha.

According to archaeologists, some of the materials and mud walls found in Panditpur are unique and differ from those discovered in Tilaurakot.

As a result, the DoA has emphasised the importance of conserving the land at this site.

Dhanpat Yadav, Mayor of Ramgram Municipality, said the municipality has been working in coordination with archaeologists and is allocating funds annually to uncover the historical truth of Panditpur.

He added that efforts are underway to raise awareness among locals about the importance of conserving archaeological sites. Mayor Yadav also stressed the need for the federal government's support regarding budget and expert management.

Mayor Yadav expressed that with adequate study, Panditpur could be established as the world's oldest known site related to the Buddha.

Brick structures have been found just 10 centimetres below the surface. The municipality has announced plans to build a museum at the site to display the artefacts discovered.