Excavation resumes at Dangisharan, ancient Tharu village in Dang

BY A STAFF REPORTER

Dang, Apr. 12: Excavation activities have resumed at the archaeological site of the palace of the Tharu king Dangisharan, located at Sukaurakot in Tulsipur Sub-metropolitan City-11, Dang. The objective is to transform this location into a ‘living museum’. A specialised team from the Department of Archaeology, Kathmandu, has resumed operations halted earlier, aiming to complete the excavation. 

The initial excavation conducted approximately eleven years ago was left incomplete, thereby hindering a full understanding of the site’s historical significance. The ongoing effort seeks to fill this gap.

Churna Bahadur Chaudhary, the central treasurer of the Tharu Kalyankari Sabha, emphasised that the primary objective at this stage is to finalise the excavation process. “The team from the Department of Archaeology is actively working towards that goal,” he stated.

During the excavation, various ancient structures, including brick walls and palace foundations, dating back several millennia, have been uncovered, suggesting the existence of an organised palace and settlement in ancient times. Additionally, numerous artefacts related to Tharu art, culture, and traditions, such as clay horses used in rituals, earthen pots, and other traditional items, have been discovered. Previous excavations also revealed ornaments commonly used by the Tharu community.

Chaudhary remarked that these findings closely reflected the indigenous identity, lifestyle, and traditions of the indigenous Tharu community. He underscored the importance of systematically preserving the artefacts unearthed. 

Furthermore, he advocated for the development of the site into a ‘living museum’ to facilitate study, research, and observation. With government support, he proposed that the Dangisharan Durbar could even be expanded into a ‘cultural university’.

He also highlighted the importance of elevating the site’s profile, akin to the recognition of Lumbini on the global tourism stage. To achieve this, he suggested establishing a Dangisharan Development Trust and executing a comprehensive long-term development plan. 

In the meantime, financial resources have already been allocated for the site’s development. Former Chief Minister of Lumbini Province, Dilli Bahadur Chaudhary, announced that a total of Rs. 40 million has been designated for this purpose, with Rs. 30 million sourced from the federal government and Rs. 10 million from the provincial government. He noted that the allotted budget will support both the ongoing excavation activities and the preparation of a Detailed Project Report (DPR) for future development initiatives.