Ancient Shiva Linga Discovered Near Varanasi Ghat
A remarkable archaeological discovery has been made near Lalita Ghat in Varanasi, where excavation work for a new drainage project unearthed a massive Shiva Linga estimated to be over 1,200 years old. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has confirmed that the artifact likely dates back to the Pala dynasty period (8th-12th century CE).
The black basalt Shiva Linga, measuring approximately 4.5 feet in height and 2 feet in diameter, was found buried under 15 feet of sediment along with fragments of temple architecture including carved pillars and a partial Nandi statue. ASI experts believe these are remnants of a once-grand Shiva temple that was likely destroyed during medieval invasions.
The discovery has generated immense excitement among devotees and historians alike. Thousands of locals gathered at the excavation site to offer prayers upon hearing the news. The Kashi Vishwanath Temple Trust has requested the ASI to conduct a comprehensive survey of the surrounding area for additional artifacts.
Professor Rajesh Sharma of Banaras Hindu University's Department of Ancient Indian History described the find as historically significant, noting that inscriptions on the base of the Linga could provide valuable insights into the religious practices and temple architecture of the Pala period in the Varanasi region.
