Sculptures from the Karnata period found in Dhanusha

By Bijaya Kumar Sah,Dhalkebar, July 11: Although 900-year-old statues and historical artifacts from the Karnata period were found in the Durvasha Temple area, located in Bideha Municipality-2, Dhanusha, the lack of historical research, preservation, and promotion has led to the neglect of this site.

The archaeological artifacts, discovered during excavations five decades ago, are currently stored in an old, roofless house. Scientific testing, documentation, and study of the sculptures found in Durvasha, located about 10 kilometers east of Janakpur Dham near the Indian border, have yet to be conducted.

According to local residents, this area is believed to be the meditation site of Sage Durvasha. Based on this belief, the site is also known as Durvasha Gadi. Hindu scriptures suggest that the presence of Durvasha Muni spanned from the Satya Yuga to the Dvapara Yuga, giving the site significant mythological importance.

Local resident Umesh Kumar Pandit stated that artistic idols of deities were discovered during the excavation fifty years ago. According to him, around half a dozen idols and other historical artifacts were unearthed at that time.

Since then, although worship and rituals have continued at the site, scientific study, conservation, and promotion have not taken place. He mentioned that once significant artifacts began to surface, the government of the time imposed a ban on further digging. He believes that if excavations were resumed, there is a strong possibility of uncovering more relics from the Ramayana period.

Eighty-one-year-old Nanudevi Jha, who has been preserving and worshipping the idols for the past five decades, also believes that more historical artifacts remain buried around the temple site. She claims that many more idols are likely hidden in the surrounding soil.

Dr. Rajiv Jha, Chairman of the Nepal-India Open Border Dialogue, stated that the artistic quality of the sculptures suggests they belong to the Karnata dynasty period. He said, “The statue is estimated to be around 900 years old. Its craftsmanship and style are highly artistic. Based on these features, it can be attributed to the Karnata period.”

Chairman Jha emphasised that the sculptures should be scientifically tested, and the Department of Archaeology should be formally notified to conduct further studies. He added, “Durvasha Gadi could become a source of pride for the province from religious, historical, and tourism perspectives. The local government should show greater interest in its study, preservation, and promotion.”

Highlighting that Durvasha Gadi is a historically significant site in Nepal, he noted that infrastructure development and targeted promotion could help establish it as a religious tourist destination.

Asha Devi Jha, Deputy Mayor of Bideha Municipality, affirmed the site's historical and mythological significance and said that the local government is actively working for its preservation and promotion. “We are making efforts to link this site to the Ramayana circuit. Project officials have already visited for observation,” she said.

She added, “Although this site holds significant historical, religious, and tourism value, it has not been properly promoted. If effectively publicised and supported by the concerned authorities, this area could become a prime destination for tourists.”