Ancient Artefacts of 2,000-year-old Modern Society Discovered in Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh

By on May 08, 2023 09:43 am

Ancient Vishnu Sculpture at Bandhavgarh National Park

After discovering ancient Buddhist caves, temples, inscriptions, which were believed to be built between 2nd and 5th century BCE in Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve in 2022, this time, ASI has found a treasure trove which consists of the remains of a 2,000-year-old modern society, which is believed to have existed in the premises of the tiger reserve.

As per the reports, Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve has become home to a wealth of historical discoveries including a 1,500-year-old rock painting and a 2,000-year-old man-made waterbody. Experts from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) confirm that this area was once part of an ancient trade route. According to Shivakant Bajpai, superintendent archaeologist, ASI Jabalpur Circle, who made a statement on the ongoing excavations to the media, these artefacts uncover the ‘evidence’ of sophistication, which is believed to be present thousands of years ago.

According to the official, the construction of elevated water bodies in the area indicates the existence of a sophisticated civilization. The water bodies, which were used to collect rainwater, are estimated to be around 1,800 to 2,000 years old. However, further evidence suggests that they underwent renovations around 1,000 years ago.

Explorations in the Tala range of Bandhavgarh have led to the discovery of 11 rock-cut caves, which were utilised by traders for shelter during their journeys. One of these caves is particularly noteworthy, as it contains a 15-century-old painting believed to depict an animal from the Golden Age. This remarkable find is the first rock art ever discovered in the area and is unique due to its location within a rock-cut cave. Typically, rock art is found in natural caves or overhangs, making this discovery all the more intriguing.

The ongoing survey, which began on April 1 and will continue until June 30, holds the potential to uncover even more secrets about the advanced society that once inhabited the Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve.

Bandhavgarh National Park News Inputs.

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