Three bronze idols dating back an estimated 400 years have been unearthed during a routine house construction project in the Mohammadpur Baghanki village of Manesar, Haryana, India.
The discovery unfolded as workers were excavating the ground for a new house foundation when their machinery struck something solid beneath the surface. Upon closer inspection, they uncovered three intricately carved bronze idols depicting Hindu deities – Lord Vishnu and Mata Lakshmi. One idol stood at about 1.5 feet, representing Lord Vishnu, while the seated Lakshmi idol measured one foot in height. A third idol showcased Vishnu and Lakshmi sitting together, all adorned with exquisite carvings and designs.
The plot thickened as it was revealed that the plot owner initially attempted to conceal the discovery, offering money to the JCB driver involved in the excavation to keep the find under wraps. However, after two days, the driver came forward and informed the authorities, prompting the Bilaspur police to intervene and halt construction activities.
The significance of the find did not escape the villagers, who saw it as a divine blessing. They expressed their desire for the idols to be handed over to the panchayat for the construction of a temple on the site. However, the Archaeology Department asserted its ownership, stating that the idols would be preserved in their museum after thorough study and analysis.
Deputy Director Banani Bhattacharya of the Archaeology Department emphasized, “These idols are the property of the government, and no individual can claim personal rights over them. Our laboratory will conduct detailed examinations to ascertain their age and historical context.”
The idols, discovered at a depth of approximately 15 feet, are believed to be relics from a bygone era, possibly buried intentionally centuries ago. The Archaeology Department plans to employ scientific methods to determine their exact age and origins, hoping to glean insights into the cultural and historical milieu of the region.
Haryana, renowned for its rich cultural and historical heritage, has been a treasure trove of archaeological wonders. From stone carvings in the Aravalis to remnants of the Indus Valley Civilization at Rakhigarhi, the state continues to unveil glimpses of its ancient past, adding layers to India’s diverse historical tapestry.