Ancient Durga Sculpture Discovered in River Jhelum, Kashmir

Authorities in Jammu and Kashmir announced the recovery of an ancient stone-carved sculpture of Goddess Durga from the River Jhelum in Baramulla district. The discovery, made on September 26, 2023, highlights the region’s rich cultural heritage, as officials noted the significance of such archaeological finds.

The sculpture was retrieved by local fisherman Nazir Ahmad Latoo from the village of Zogyar. While casting nets in the river, Latoo spotted the intricately carved artifact and promptly reported it to Police Station Sheeri. In a swift response, police secured the sculpture, ensuring its preservation by placing it under safe custody.

Commitment to Cultural Heritage

Following standard procedures, the sculpture was officially handed over to the Archaeology Wing of the Directorate of Archives, Archaeology & Museums in the capital, Srinagar. The Baramulla Police reiterated their dedication to protecting the region’s cultural legacy, stating, “We reiterate our commitment to the protection of cultural heritage and urge citizens to promptly inform authorities about any such discoveries of historical or archaeological importance.”

While the exact age and stylistic origins of the Durga sculpture are yet to be determined, experts expect further examination to provide insights. Officials have commented that such findings from the Jhelum River shed light on Kashmir’s deep-rooted Shaivite and Shakta traditions, which have left a remarkable imprint on the region’s history.

This discovery follows another significant find earlier in the year. In August 2023, a well-preserved stone-carved Shivling, estimated to date back to the 10th century AD, was unearthed during sand extraction near Khanpora in Baramulla. Measuring 137 cm in length and 160 cm in width, this artifact garnered attention for its impressive craftsmanship. The Indian Army’s 22 Medium Regiment initially secured the Shivling before transferring it to the Department of Archives, Archaeology & Museums. It is now preserved and displayed at the Sri Pratap Singh (SPS) Museum in Srinagar.

Insights into Kashmir’s Artistic Legacy

Director of the SPS Museum, Kuldeep Krishan Sidha, described the Shivling as “a vital archaeological discovery and a testament to our cultural legacy.” He emphasized the importance of collaboration among local communities, security forces, and heritage institutions in safeguarding Jammu and Kashmir’s ancient past.

Recent recoveries echo earlier archaeological findings that underscore Kashmir’s long-standing sculptural traditions. In February 2017, excavations at the historic site of Semthan in Bijbehara uncovered multiple artifacts linked to the renowned Kashmir School of Sculpture. Among these were fragmented stone sculptures of Lord Vishnu, identifiable as dating from the 12th century AD, as well as partial figures in warrior attire mounted on elephants.

All artifacts from these discoveries have been transferred to the SPS Museum for preservation, study, and documentation. Archaeologists see immense potential in these sites, suggesting further excavations may reveal additional layers of Kashmir’s ancient cultural landscape.

These findings provide compelling insights into Kashmir’s historical significance as a center of Hindu temple art, iconography, and worship. Despite the erosion caused by time and nature, such artifacts continue to emerge, reminding us of the region’s complex civilizational past. An anonymous official noted, “They also underscore the urgent need for sustained conservation efforts, public awareness, and scholarly research to protect and interpret Jammu and Kashmir’s archaeological treasures for future generations.”