Believed to have been built in the early 1800s, Barh ki Chowki served as a police post from 1923 to 1963. In 2023, Delhi’s oldest surviving police chowki — an early 19th century structure at Sarai Rohilla — was restored to its former glory by the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH). A year-and-a-half after its restoration, the structure that is known as Barh ki Chowki still awaits its occupants, and lies unattended. Believed to have been built in the early 1800s, Barh ki Chowki served as a police post from 1923 to 1963 for the Sabzi Mandi police station, and eventually fell into disrepair. Neglected and forgotten, it was "rediscovered" by a police officer who was researching a coffee table book for the force, and INTACH and National Culture Fund took up its restoration in March 2022. HT has learnt that the post was to be inaugurated on the Delhi Police Raising Day, which is observed annually on February 16 — first in 2024, and then in 2025.

However, the inauguration was postponed on both occasions. A police officer aware of the delay said, "It was scheduled but because of unforeseen circumstances, the inauguration was postponed." However, deputy commissioner of police (north) Raja Banthia said, “The space is being used by Anti- Auto Theft Squad and Anti Narcotics Squad.” During the restoration process, apart from the single-storey linear masonry building, INTACH also restored a 19th century well in the premises, and a garden was prepared around the main building. However, when HT visited the post last week, two small gardens in the courtyard desperately needed water as plants were drying, even as the well to the right — which was restored two years ago — was now filled with the dried leaves and garbage. INTACH’s conservation architect Hrutika Satdive, who worked on the restoration, said that the building is solely the responsibility of Delhi Police.

"Restoration was one aspect of the project and maintenance is another. The original plan as told to us was that it’ll be used by the Sarai Rohilla police station, but if it’s not being used, then it’s at a risk of deterioration. The longevity of such structures depends on their usage. If they are used regularly, then they are also maintained," she said. A sub-inspector who has been to Barh ki Chowki said that while it is a beautiful structure, it may be tough to sustain as an office. "Ceiling fans cannot be installed here because there is no such provision in the restored structure.

We have an electricity connection but only table fans can be installed here. Winters may still be manageable, but I am not sure about summers,” he said. Subhead: Restoring a 19th century site Historian Swapna Liddle, who edited an English translation of Sair-Ul-Manazil, said the book mentions the post by the name of “Bad ki Chowki”. “Sair-Ul-Manazil mentions the presence of a police chowki known as Bad Ki Chowki in an area where there is a kala pahad (hill) and a temple of Sheetla. Near this chowki, there is a sarai (inn) of Rohilla Khan,” she said. Assistant sub-inspector Rajender Kalkal “rediscovered” the structure in 2006, while researching for History and Heritage, a coffee table book that had been commissioned by the then Delhi Police commissioner Dr KK Paul. “Anjuman Taraqqi Urdu, an organisation that works on art and culture, told me about an early 19th century book Sair-Ul-Manazil by Mirza Sangin Beg which had listed out old establishments in Delhi.

The book mentioned that there was a ‘Badi Chowki’ in Sarai of Rahullah Khan. When I reached the location, I found an old structure. We later found out that it was a police post for Subzi Mandi police station from 1923 to 1963,” Kalkal said, adding that the name was possibly derived from the presence of banyan trees surrounding the post. Sair-ul Manazil (a journey from one destination to another) was reportedly commissioned by the British East India Company, which asked Beg to write about 19th-century Delhi. According to the coffee table book, Sadar Bazar in north Delhi is the oldest police station in Delhi built in 1861. Besides Sadar Bazar, Sabzi Mandi, Mehrauli, Kotwali and Mundka are among the oldest police stations in Delhi, the coffee table book published by the Delhi Police says.

According to officers, when Barh ki Chowki was “rediscovered”, it was in a dilapidated state, hidden behind a temporary structure from where Anti Auto Theft Squad’s office was operating from. The roof had collapsed and heavy vegetation had come up around the walls. During restoration, INTACH officials repaired the damaged roof, removed the trees that were intertwined with the building, filled the gaps and cracks that had developed over the years, inserted doors and windows, and removed the porta cabins that blocked the view of the chowki while illuminating it.

https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/delhi-news/delhis-oldest-police-post-restored-but-neglected-101741284430964.html, March 3, 2025

As part of the third edition of the Tawi Festival, a five-day Terracotta and Glazing Art Workshop was inaugurated today at Chhani Himmat, Jammu. The workshop was organized to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Amar Mahal Museum and Library, in collaboration with Blue River Ceramics and INTACH Jammu Chapter. On the occasion, Dr. Jyotsna Singh, Director of Amar Mahal Museum and Library, inaugurated the workshop, aiming to revive traditional art forms and enhance cultural appreciation through hands-on sessions in pottery and painting. Esteemed artisans, including Shubham Sankhyan from Andretta Pottery and Sohan Bilawria, a renowned miniature painter from Basohli, are leading the sessions to share their expertise in terracotta and glazing techniques.

The inauguration witnessed the presence of prominent personalities such as Sohan Billawaria, Lalit Magotra, Balwant Thakur, SM Sahni, Ajay Gandotra, Hemant Sharma, Kuldeep Wahi, Dr. CM Seth, and Resham Kashyap, among others. Their participation emphasized the significance of preserving and promoting Jammu’s artistic heritage. Speaking at the event, Dr. Jyotsna Singh highlighted the importance of sustaining traditional art forms and encouraged participants to embrace the skills imparted during the workshop. She applauded the efforts of Blue River Ceramics and INTACH Jammu Chapter in fostering a platform for cultural exchange and learning. The workshop will continue till March 8, 2025, offering participants an opportunity to explore various aspects of pottery and glazing art. As a part of the three-day Tawi Festival starting from March 7, the event promises to be a vibrant celebration of Jammu’s cultural legacy.

https://boldnewsonline.com/dr-jyotsna-inaugurates-five-day-terracotta-glazing-art-workshop-as-part-of-tawi-festival/, March 4, 2025

Many researchers and scholars on Punjab’s history believe that the early mention of Phulkari happened in Waris Shah’s Heer, where Heer describes her wedding trousseau. The famous handloom from Punjab also finds mention in Guru Nanak Dev’s bani, where he states that a woman can only be considered accomplished when she can embroider her own blouse (mentioning kasida of Phulkari). As the history goes, in Punjab, when daughters were born into a household, the grandmothers, mothers and women in the family would start embroidering Phulkari, as it would make for a prized item in her daaj (dowry). Births, weddings and any auspicious occasion in the family would have the women dressed up in traditional finery, with the Phulkari Bagh draped to complete the look. The craft, which is now among the most popular handlooms in the country, originated in rural Punjab.

With a growing market and dwindling number of craftsmen and weavers left for this traditional craft, the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH), in a major initiative, has set up a Centre of Excellence on hand-embroidered Phulkari at Sugga village in Tarn Taran, which has held deep cultural significance for centuries in Punjab. Maj-Gen Balwinder Singh, VSM (retd), INTACH, Punjab, state convener, said they were are making all-out efforts to revive the art and crafts local industry in Punjab. Phulkari, which literally means “flower work”, traditionally served as an integral part of a Punjabi bride’s trousseau. The main element of phulkari is the cross darn stitch on the wrong side of the coarse cotton cloth, also called Khaddar, with coloured silken thread. “With machine work overtaking the original hand-embroidered work in Phulkari took back stage. Of late, people have realised the importance of original traditional work, hence efforts are under way to revive the exquisite traditional embroidery of Punjab; the authentic hand-embroidered phulkari craft in its purest form starting at Sugga village,” said Dr Baljit Kaur, who is the Tarn Taran in-charge of INTACH and heading this project.

"We have identified more than 50 women, all from nearby villages, who will be trained to identify their aptitude and skill. Training is being carried out by Sunaina Suneja, an expert in Phulkari hand-woven embroidery. Initially, 15-day training and thereafter, on requirement basis again will be called,” said Dr Baljit. After identifying their aptitude, training for one month or more, these women will be hand held in setting up small embroidery units for creating phulkari products for financial support. Sunaina Suneja, a designer and revivalist, who has extensively worked on revival of Phulkari in the Nabha belt and commercialise it through modern designs, said the revival of traditional Phulkari represents more than just preservation of a craft. ‘It’s about maintaining cultural identity and creating economic opportunities. With proper support and recognition, this initiative could serve as a model for other traditional craft-revival projects across Punjab." Maj-Gen Singh (retd) said he aimed at creating one centre of excellence in every district of Punjab on various crafts.

https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/amritsar/centre-of-excellence-for-phulkari-opens/, March 5, 2025

The practical and field work will be conducted at ancient sites in the coastal region of Gujarat; Dwarka and Beyt Dwarka, a city belonging to Lord Krishna, which is submerged in the waters. After the revival of its underwater archeology wing, the Archeological Survey of India (ASI) has decided to impart training to young archeologists in conducting underwater explorations. With this initiative, the survey aims to create a pool of experts in the country to ramp up archeological activities in water. The practical and field work will be conducted at ancient sites in the coastal region of Gujarat; Dwarka and Beyt Dwarka, a city belonging to Lord Krishna, which is submerged in the waters. The ASI recently resumed underwater explorations in the area which is being led by its Additional Director General-Archaeology (ADG-A) Professor Alok Tripath.

The two-week long training programme will start on March 17 and the agency will select a batch of 20 young professionals and enthusiasts who are having keen interest in underwater archeology. After completion of the training, they may be roped in the ongoing study of submerged artefacts. The theoretical sessions will be conducted at Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay Institute of Heritage in Greater Noida, said officials. “All the interested archaeologists having fair knowledge of swimming may apply. Professor Tripath, who is widely recognized for his expertise in underwater archaeology, especially in the excavation and surveying of archaeological materials submerged underwater will lead the training programme,” officials added. The underwater archeology wing was established in 2001 and since then it conducted explorations at atleast 11 sites in the Arabian Sea, Indian Ocean, Bay of Bengal, Ariyankuppam river and Loktak Lake in Manipur. The division was non-operational for a long time.

In collaboration with the Indian Navy, it had carried out an excavation of a shipwreck, Princess Royal, in Lakshadweep waters in 2003. It had retrieved many antiquities including iron cannon, glazed pottery, and blue on white porcelain, nails, and objects of copper. Till date, it is the deepest archaeological excavation conducted so far in the country. The Princess Royal, 18th-century British ship, sank in the Arabian Sea near Bangaram Island in the Lakshadweep archipelago. “The Wing has been organizing training courses on different aspects of underwater Archaeology on occasions. It had trained eight assistant archaeologists of ASI, three archaeologists from Department of Archaeology of Andhra Pradesh, Kerala and Maharashtra, and one research scholar from Andhra University. The programme included lectures on aspects of Underwater Archaeology, traditional boat building, diving, navigation, maritime law, archival researches and chemical preservation besides practical demonstrations and film on important underwater archaeological investigations held across the globe,” officials added.

https://www.newindianexpress.com/thesundaystandard/2025/Mar/02/asi-to-line-up-experts-for-underwater-surveys, March 6, 2025

A recent field visit by a team of Nagpur University researchers to Kurhad village in Yavatmal district, around 130km from Nagpur, unearthed an archaeological site with multiple ruined temple complexes across four distinct localities. The shrines are believed to be at least 1,000 years old. Situated on the meandering river Adan, Kurhad village is dotted with architectural temple remains, along with two intact temples and one complete mound with plinth-level remains of a Panchayatana-style temple complex. While some of these ancient monuments have been robbed of their idols and other sculptures, villagers have tried to protect a dilapidated temple by reinforcing it with modern-day construction material. The amateur measures by villagers are proving futile for the dilapidated structures. Loose stones and sculptures coming off from these shrines have also been found at several homes in the village. NU's postgraduate department of Ancient Indian History, Culture and Archaeology (AIHCA) team, comprising professor and head Prabash Sahu, faculty members KS Chandra and Mohan Pardhi, along with research scholars Tanmoy Howlader, Neha Ricchariya, and Pawan Harde, visited the temple village of Kurhad in Ghatanji taluka in December last year.

The visit was initiated on the invitation of a retired range forest officer, Gopichand Kamble, and Siddharth B Jadhav, head of the history department at Nankibai Wadhwani Kala Mahavidyalay, Yavatmal. The research team assessed the condition of the monuments, which were noted by Kamble and Jadhav in 2021. "The Mahadev temple in the village was reported by Henry Cousens in 1897," said Chandra. Professor Sahu said that looking at these structures and the remains, it seems that between the 10th and 12th centuries this village might have been a religious and cultural centre, catering to people travelling in the north, south, east, and west directions. "On the basis of observations and present conditions, this area can be restored and converted into a prospective religious tourism centre.

Active measures need to be taken to conserve and preserve our dwindling heritage," he said. He added that the AIHCA department may collaborate with the state archaeology department with expertise, as it's nearly impossible for the AIHCA department alone to carry out restoration with meagre financial resources. Chandra and Pardhi said the first locality has an elevated mound showcasing a Panchayatana temple built with black basalt, featuring detailed carvings and Shaivite elements. "The architectural components include decorated pillars, foundation remains, and a prominent shivling," they said. Pardhi said the second locality houses remnants of a Jain shrine, notable for its carved lintel depicting Parsvanath. "The third locality contains a partially standing shrine with an intact garbhagriha (inner sanctum) and mandapa (temple hall), though its shikhara (pointed tower) has collapsed.

Various sculptural elements like kirtimukha and vyala figures remain," he said. Chandra explained that in the fourth locality, only the garbhagriha survives, with modern reinforcements added by locals. "Ancient sculptures of Ganesh, Mahishasurmardini, and Naga are preserved inside, though the principal deity is absent. The site demonstrates significant architectural heritage with scattered structural elements showing skilled craftsmanship," he said.
*Discovery of Ancient Temple Town of Kurhad*
Locality 1
* Mound elevation approx 292m, consisting of temple remains along with a retaining wall * Prima facie structural composition on mound are of Panchayatana-style temple complex. Scientific debris clearance might give better picture
* Structure constructed of commonly available black basalt. Architectural members consist of lintel, parts of adhishthana (foundation), intricately carved pillars with floral designs and srivasta (an epithet of Vishnu) in the centre, on some kirtimukha (demon face) is visible * Structure seems to be Shaivite as a shivling is prominently noticed on the top * Most of the architectural members are scattered along periphery of the mound, with many being used by villagers to construct houses and reinforce flooring
Locality 2
* Near existing village temple, scattered structural remains of Jain temple in the form of a carved lintel having an image of Parsvanath seated on coiled snake with raised hood above his head in the centre, pillars with floral motifs

Locality 3
* At south-east corner of village, a partially intact shrine, with garbhagriha and mandapa; most of the structure is in ruins (shikhara portion collapsed). Villagers have used brick and stone masonry to support remaining structure

* Sculptures seen here are kirtimukha, simha vyala (head missing), gaja vyala (part broken), sarvatobhadra (partly damaged)
Locality 4
* At the entrance of village, only portion of garbhagriha remains, rest reconstructed by villagers using brick and concrete masonry to prevent original structure from collapsing. Inside garbhagriha, sculptures of Ganesh, Mahishasurmardini, and Naga are kept to one side

* Main deity missing. Scattered architectural members such as lintels and pillars with immaculate sculpturing seen in and around temple

Suggestions On Site Restoration
1. Documentation of site
2. Excavation
3. Conservation and preservation
4. Landscaping

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/nagpur/nu-researchers-explore-1000-year-old-ancienttemple-complex-in-yavatmals-kurhad-village/articleshowprint/118654115.cms, March 6, 2025

Ongoing excavations at the Ratnagiri (“hill of jewels”) archaeological site, home to the remains of the most significant Buddhist monastery in India’s eastern Odisha State, have garnered much media attention for the wealth of historical artifacts unearthed—substantial evidence of the region’s rich Buddhist history and heritage. Notable artifacts recovered by archaeologists include three huge Buddha heads, numerous votive stupas, an ancient wall, inscription plaques, clay pottery and ceramic artifacts, and other relics—some of which are estimated to be 1,500 years old. A team of archaeologists from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has been working on the 5th–13th century Buddhist complex for the past three months—an effort that comes after a 60-year gap in excavations—hoping to learn more about the Buddhist legacy of India’s historic eastern coastal region of Kalinga.* Among the latest finds are stone tablets bearing inscriptions and votive stupas, also with inscriptions, which have helped the archaeologists date the remarkable Buddha heads.

Translations of the inscriptions, which are written in Sanskrit and in the Kutila script, have led archaeologists to conclude that the heads date to the eighth century CE. Many of the inscriptions are reported to record dharanis, lengthy Buddhist mantras. In addition, Nagari script inscriptions dated to the 12th century CE have been found. [The largest Buddha head] “was magnificent,” the superintending archaeologist (Puri Circle), Dibishada Brajasundar Garnayak, acknowledged. “There were wrinkles on its neck. I was amazed at the level of expertise people had back then, carving such sharp and intricate features without modern tools. Besides the colossal head, we also found two other Buddha heads lying nearby."

(The Hindu) Garnayak added that the true significance of the recovered materials would only be known after a throrough analysis. More stone-carved body parts, including palms and fingers, have been unearthed since the head, leading archaeologists to surmise that they are part of a huge sculpture of the Buddha in a meditative posture. Another ASI archaeologist noted that although Buddha heads were found at Ratnagiri during the previous period of excavations from 1958–61, the noses and ears of those examples had been broken. “This time the heads are in perfect shape,” he said. “One of the three heads is the biggest one recovered so far. It is about 1.5 meters high. A stone pedestal, used for holding the Buddha head, has also been found.” (Orissa Post) PhD scholar Rajat Gajbhiye from Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya Institute of Archaeology in Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, remarked that he had visited nearly all of the Buddhist sites in the region. "The sculptures unearthed here exhibit mature facial features that have evolved over time,” he said. "The artisans of Ratnagiri demonstrated greater precision compared to those who worked at the other sites. The remarkable finesse of these sculptures is likely the result of months of meticulous polishing with various materials.” (The Hindu) Spread across 7.3 hectares, Ratnagiri is one of the three major Buddhist sites in the region, collectively known as the “Diamond Triangle.” The others are Lalitgiri and Udayagiri.

Once a thriving center of Buddhist learning and pilgrimage, historical evidence indicates that Ratnagiri flourished from the 5th–13th centuries. The researchers further indicated that Ratnagiri was a center for both Mahayana and Vajrayana Buddhist study and practice, with Vajrayana activities in the area continuing until the 16th century. Historians have postulated that Ratnagiri rivaled Nalanda as a center of Buddhist learning. The main mahavihara at Ratnagiri is the only Buddhist monastery in India with a curvilinear roof, according to media reports, which cited historical research as indicating that the complex was home to as many as 500 monastics, who practice tantric expressions of Buddhism.

A copper plate charter of King Karnadeva (r. c. 1100–1110) of the Somavamsi dynasty, unearthed during excavations, confirmed that the site was once a major centre for tantric Buddhism. “There are some studies that suggest that the renowned Chinese Buddhist monk and traveler, Xuanzang, who visited Odisha from 638–39 CE, might have visited Ratnagiri,”an ASI official was quoted as saying. “The new excavations would shed light about the lifestyle, culture, religion, art and architecture at different times and also suggest whether there were more ancient [before the fifth century] relics at the site.” (The Indian Express) A shrine complex has also been discovered, with several hundred votive stupas, Garnayak noted: “[The] discovery of such a large number of votive stupas indicates that Ratnagiri was a major center for Buddhist monks.” (Orissa Post) In recent weeks, substantial quantities of pottery shards have been discovered, dated from the 7th–8th century CE to the 14th century CE, and providing a physical link to the medieval traditions of Odisha. Garnayak observed that pottery could be considered the “alphabet” of archaeology, able to provide evidence of food habits, religion, and social systems. “Therefore, during this excavation, we are giving more emphasis on pottery assemblage which was not the case during the 1960s excavation, when the focus was more on structural findings."

(The New Indian Express) Buddhism in the Kalinga region gained prominence under Emperor Ashoka ( c.304–232 BCE; r. c.268–232 BCE) after the Kalinga war, which ended c. 261 BCE, historians noted. Ratnagiri served as a major center of study and practice, and as a waypoint from which Buddhism was transmitted via maritime and overland routes to other parts of the world, in particular Southeast Asia. Excavations at Ratnagiri are expected to continue until the end of March, when summer temperatures will make further work untenable. Further analysis of the findings to date will then be carried out, including determining whether the 1.5-meter Buddha head is the largest ever found in India.

https://www.buddhistdoor.net/news/new-treasures-unearthed-at-ongoing-ratnagiri-archaeological-excavation-in-odisha-india/, March 7, 2025

Taking a serious note of the flooding of the whole area of the historic Rang Ghar in Sivasagar due to waterlogging for more than two days, the Leader of the Opposition in the State Legislative Assembly Debabrata Saikia has sought the intervention of the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) to conserve the Ahom-era monuments, such as the Rang Ghar and the Talatal Ghar, and other significant sites in Assam, which stand as proud symbols of the State's rich cultural heritage. In a letter sent to the director of the INTACH on March 18, Saikia said that as the Rang Ghar was created with traditional technology and materials, waterlogging may damage this centuries-old monument if proper conservation methodology is not applied immediately before the start of the new tourism-related government project at the site.

"The Government of Assam has recently announced a tourism development project in the vicinity of these sites. While promotion of tourism is commendable for its potential to bolster the economy of the State and share Assam's heritage with the world, there are concerns that improper planning or development activities may inadvertently harm these delicate structures which have withstood the test of time but now require careful conservation," Saikia said in the letter to the INTACH director.

Saikia urged the INTACH to evaluate the current structural condition of monuments like the Rang Ghar and the Talatal Ghar, and other significant sites, recommend measures to keep these sites intact while accommodating the proposed tourism projects in a sustainable and culturally sensitive manner, assist in developing heritage-sensitive approaches for infrastructure development and visitor management in the region, and organize workshops and initiatives to educate the local community and other stakeholders about the importance of preservation of these historical treasures. While emphasizing the need to balance economic growth with cultural preservation, the Opposition Leader in the State Assembly suggested that a team of the INTACH should visit Assam at the earliest possible time to assess the situation and provide guidance with regard to conservation of the historical monuments in the State

https://assamtribune.com/assam/opposition-leader-raises-alarm-over-rang-ghar-waterlogging-seeks-intach-intervention-1571575, March 10, 2025

Leader of the Opposition in the Assam Legislative Assembly, Debabrata Saikia, has sought the assistance of the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) to safeguard Ahom-era monuments in the state, including Rang Ghar and Talatal Ghar. In a letter written to INTACH, Saikia expressed his concern for the protection and preservation of the monuments of the Ahom era after he came to know about the waterlogging issue on the Rang Ghar premises. Saikia stressed the urgent need for expert evaluation and financial support to safeguard Rang Ghar, Talatal Ghar, and other historical sites, which he called “proud symbols of Assam’s rich cultural heritage."

"As the structure was created with traditional technology and material, waterlogging may damage this centuries-old heritage monument if proper preservation methodology is not applied immediately before the start of the new tourism-related govt project at the site,” he added. He said the state government recently announced a tourism development project in the vicinity of these ancient sites. While Saikia welcomed the initiative, he emphasized that these centuries-old, fragile structures necessitate careful preservation, as improper planning could put them at risk. He said the monuments of the Ahom era are not mere architectural marvels, but the embodiment of the state’s history, culture, and identity. He requested INTACH to conduct an expert assessment to evaluate the current structural condition of the monuments and develop preservation guidelines recommending measures to keep the sites intact while accommodating the proposed tourism projects in a sustainable and culturally sensitive manner.

He also suggested organizing workshops to educate local communities and stakeholders on heritage conservation. He requested INTACH to provide technical support to assist in developing heritage-sensitive approaches for infrastructure development and visitor management in the region. Expressing confidence in INTACH’s expertise, Saikia suggested their guidance would assist the government in achieving a balance between economic progress and cultural preservation.

https://nenews.in/assam/lop-debabrata-saikia-seeks-intachs-help-to-save-ahom-structures/21980/, March 11, 2025

A special heritage walk was organized today in Srinagar city by the INTACH Kashmir Chapter, in collaboration with Sahapedia, bringing alive the theme ‘My City, My Heritage’ for students of Government Boys Higher Secondary School, Soura. The initiative aimed to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of Srinagar’s historical and cultural legacy among the younger generation. The heritage walk saw enthusiastic participation from students of 9th and 10th grades, who embarked on an educational journey through two of the city’s iconic heritage sites—Pather Masjid and Khanqah-i-Maulla. Guiding them was heritage expert and conservation architect, Taha Mughal, who offered rich insights into the architectural, historical, and cultural significance of these centuries-old monuments. Throughout the walk, Mughal engaged the students with fascinating stories and facts about Srinagar’s past, helping them connect with their city’s vibrant history.

The students were introduced to the unique features of Mughal-era architecture at Pather Masjid and the spiritual legacy of Khanqah-i-Maulla, one of Kashmir’s oldest and most revered shrines. “This walk was not just about visiting monuments; it was about experiencing the living heritage of Srinagar,” said one of the organizers from INTACH Kashmir. “We believe that educating young minds about their cultural roots helps build a sense of identity and responsibility towards preservation.” The event concluded with expressions of gratitude to all who made the walk a success. The organizers thanked the participating students for their enthusiasm, the school administration and teachers for their support, and Sahapedia for its continued partnership in promoting cultural education in Kashmir. A special acknowledgment was extended to Taha Mughal for delivering an interactive and insightful experience, making the walk both meaningful and memorable. The heritage walk is part of a larger initiative by INTACH Kashmir and Sahapedia to engage communities, especially students, in exploring and preserving the Valley’s rich cultural and architectural heritage.

https://nenews.in/assam/lop-debabrata-saikia-seeks-intachs-help-to-save-ahom-structures/21980/, March 11, 2025

Around 80% of Roman coins discovered in India are from the Kongu region, mainly from places such as Vellalore, Sulur, Anamalai, Pollachi and Karur, says R. Poongundran, former Assistant Director of State Archaeology Department. The State government’s decision to conduct archaeological excavations at Vellalore in Coimbatore will shed more light on Kongu region’s rich history and ancient trade links that thrived along the banks of river Noyyal, according to historians. R. Poongundran, former Assistant Director of State Archaeology Department, said Vellalore was an important trade hub in the Kongu region and discoveries of Roman coins of different periods were testimonies to its trade links. “Roman coins discovered from Vellalore were of emperors who ruled between first century BC and fourth century AD. Around 80% of Roman coins discovered in India are from the Kongu region, mainly from places such as Vellalore, Sulur, Anamalai, Pollachi and Karur.

Kaadu Kuttai at Vellalore is a megalithic site,” he said. Vellalore was also known as ‘Velilur’ in the past. Mylai Seeni Venkatasamy’s book ‘Kongu Nattu Varalaru’ mentions that a hoard of 522 Roman coins were discovered from Vellalore in 1842. The coins were engraved with the images of Roman emperors Augustus, Tiberius, Caligula and Claudius. “Findings from Vellalore indicate that foreign trade flourished in the region 2,000 years ago. Vellalore as a trade hub is believed to have thrived as it is situated on the banks of Noyyal and in the Palakkad Gap of the Western Ghats, which links the western and eastern landscapes," said historian C.R. Elangovan. “Since not much archaeological explorations have been made in the Kongu region in the past, excavations at Vellalore will shed more light on the rich history of the region” he added. City chronicler Rajesh Govindarajulu said Roman traders are believed to have stayed at Vellalore and people from the region visited other countries for trade. The place, where also the city’s dump yard is situated, was once a trade hub where gold, silver and other valuables were exchanged. “Vellalore is expected to get a new identity for its rich history with the archaeological excavations” he added. Drawing reference from ‘Periplus’ (The Periplus of the Erythraean Sea) on the trade between India and the Roman Empire, eminent historian K. A. Nilakanta Sastri mentions in his book ‘A History of South India from Prehistoric Times to the Fall of Vijayanagar’ that beryls of Coimbatore district had a constant demand in Rome, hinting at the export of precious stones.

https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Coimbatore/archaeological-excavations-at-vellalore-to-shed-more-light-into-kongu-regions-rich-history-trade-links/article69330755.ece, March 12, 2025

According to Professor K P Rao of the University of Hyderabad, the Mudumal menhirs probably constitute the largest megalithic-era burial site in South India. The Mudumal Megalithic Menhirs or standing stones in Telangana’s Narayanpet district, dating back approximately 3,500 to 4,000 years, have been added to a tentative list of Unesco World Heritage Sites from India. Telangana has only one Unesco World Heritage Site at Ramappa temple, inscribed in 2021, and now the Mudumal menhirs is one step closer to achieving a second inscription for the state. “The Mudumal menhirs represent one of India’s most expansive and impeccably preserved megalithic astronomical observatory sites, showcasing an intricate and precise arrangement of boulder alignments, formations, and stone circles. Within a central area, a concentration of two distinct types of menhirs further enhances the site’s uniqueness,” read the dossier. Mudumal Menhirs is among six properties added to India’s Tentative List by Unesco’s World Heritage Centre in 2025.

The other five are Kanger Valley National Park in Chhattisgarh, Ashokan Edict Sites in multiple states, Chausath Yogini Temples in Madhya Pradesh and Odisha, Gupta Temples in multiple states, and the Palace-Fortresses of the Bundelas in Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh. A press statement from the Permanent Delegation of India to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (Unesco), Paris, said that “addition to the WHC Tentative List is mandatory, in case, in future a property is to be nominated for inscription to the World Heritage List.” The central government submitted the dossier on the menhirs to the Unesco World Heritage Convention (WHC) on February 11. With these additions, India now has 62 sites on the tentative list.

‘A rare archaeo-astronomical site’
According to Professor K P Rao of the University of Hyderabad, the Mudumal menhirs, as old as 3,500 years, probably constitute the largest megalithic-era burial site in South India. Rao, a former director of the State Archaeology Department, has been researching menhirs since 2003 and has presented several research papers at international forums. He says apart from the archaeological relevance, these stones have astronomical significance as well. Besides the standing stones, there are smaller stones placed in circular formations and also thousands of boulders appearing to be placed in certain alignments across an 80-acre spread of land – all of which hint at something unique about the location. There are close to 80 tall menhirs of 10 to 14 feet height, accompanied by nearly 3,000 alignment stones related to the funerary rights of the ancient community.

These stones are arranged in lines or rows in a 20-25 feet gap. The villagers of Mudumal believe that these strange-looking stones randomly placed across the neighbourhood are people who lived here and were turned into stones by an angered local goddess after they disrespected her. “Over time, local communities have associated these stones with their cultural heritage, incorporating them into their beliefs and practices. The menhirs are considered sacred by the local population, who refer to them as ‘Niluralla Thimmappa’ (Thimmappa of the Standing Stones), with one particular menhir being worshipped as Goddess Yellamma. This connection between the stones and the local beliefs demonstrates the site’s enduring cultural significance,” the dossier read. “These menhirs and alignment stones are arranged in different directions.

But when we carefully observe them on different days, especially days of solar significance like Equinox and Solstices, some of these rows align exactly with the sun. It appears they have been designed in a manner such that they align with the sun on particular days,” K P Rao had told indianexpress.com in 2021, adding that the sun’s propagation can be used to calculate the dates and calendrical events, and change of season, etc by carefully observing the movement of the sun in relation with these monuments. Further, he had said that one of the stones with a flat face present here is the earliest depiction of the night sky and a star constellation from anywhere in South Asia. “We have an alignment stone here with cup-marks of 3-4 mm depressions. It has seven prominent stars. This is a depiction of Ursa Major or Saptarshi Mandal. When an imaginary line is drawn between the top stars of the rectangle Merak and Dubhe, it points to the Pole Star or North Star. So, we can know the north direction at night.

This is the earliest depiction of a constellation from South Asia,” he had stated. According to the dossier, Mudumal stands out not only for its similarities to other renowned sites but also its distinctive features. “The precise alignment of its menhirs reflects an advanced grasp of mathematics and astronomy, establishing it as a rare archaeo-astronomical site. Furthermore, the ongoing cultural practices surrounding the menhirs highlight the living traditions maintained by local communities, enriching the site’s narrative," the dossier read.

https://indianexpress.com/article/india/telangana-mudumal-megalithic-menhirs-tentative-unesco-heritage-list-india-9887184/, March 14, 2025

Excavation work in Ratnagiri in Odisha's Jajpur district, has uncovered a wealth of Buddhist artefacts, including large Buddha heads, stupas, and stone inscriptions, dating back to between the 7th and 13th centuries. The site under the protection of the Archaeology Survey of India (ASI), is proving to be a significant find for historians and archaeologists. Dibishada Brajasunder Garnayak, Superintendent of Archaeology, Puri Division, said, "Excavation began in December 2024, and we have uncovered remnants of Buddhist architecture like the Chaitya Griha, three colossal Buddha heads, and several votive stupas, a rare discover."

The excavation revealed the largest Buddha head found in Odisha, with five total heads discovered, including the three new ones. Garnayak highlighted, "These artefacts are invaluable in understanding Odisha's Buddhist heritage." The site also attracts tourists, including Arpita from Maharashtra, who said, "It is a beautiful, ancient Buddist site near the Brahmani-Birupa River. Renovations and better facilities, like resting areas and washrooms, would make it more accessible for visitors." The site was first discovered in the early 20th century. (With PTI Inputs)

https://www.etvbharat.com/en/!videos/odisha-fresh-excavations-at-jajpurs-buddhist-site-reveal-a-treasure-trove-of-artefacts-enn25031803047, March 15, 2025

India strengthens its heritage conservation efforts by adding six culturally and historically significant sites to UNESCO’s tentative list of World Heritage Sites. These sites, spanning temples, monuments, and national parks, await global recognition. In a recent development towards India’s cultural and natural heritage preservation efforts, six new cities have been added to UNESCO's tentative list of World Heritage Sites. This move in heritage and culture is underscored by the country’s steps towards safeguarding its rich history as well as ecological assets. The addition of these sites can be seen as a preliminary step towards solidifying full World Heritage status, which comes with the potential to enhance global recognition and conservation support in addition to providing the sites with the much needed security.

Places Under Consideration For UNESCO’s World Heritage Site Status
Kanger Valley National Park, Chhattisgarh: Kanger Valley National Park, tucked away in the Bastar region, is well known for its rich biodiversity, which includes unusual plants and animals. Geological wonders like the Kutumsar and Dandak limestone caverns in the park draw both tourists and researchers. Mudumal Megalithic Menhirs, Telangana: These historic stone buildings in Mudumal village are important archaeological relics that shed light on the area's prehistoric human activity. It is thought that the menhirs were used as memorial monuments or as marks for burial.

Ashokan Edict Sites along the Mauryan Routes: This serial nomination covers a number of places in several states where pillars and rocks bear the inscriptions of Emperor Ashoka's decrees. The emperor's attempts to spread Buddhist values and moral leadership are reflected in these decrees, which date to the third century BCE.

Chausath Yogini Temples: These temples, which are distinctive circular shrines devoted to 64 yoginis and represent both seductive and powerful facets of feminine divinity, are dispersed over multiple states. Usually found on hills, the temples are rich in architectural and historical significance and have elaborate stone carvings.

Gupta Temples in North India: Temples from the Gupta era—often called India's "Golden Age"—are included in this serial nomination. These buildings serve as excellent examples of early temple construction and offer important new perspectives on the cultural and religious advancements of the time.

Palace-Fortresses of the Bundelas in Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh: The Bundela monarchs constructed these imposing buildings, which are representative of the area's architectural legacy. In addition to its protective functions, the strongholds are reminders of the Bundela dynasty's support of the arts and culture.

Significance of the Tentative List
For a site to be formally considered for World Heritage status in the future, it must first be included in this list. With these latest additions, India's preliminary list now includes 62 sites, representing the nation's rich natural and cultural legacy.

Current World Heritage Sites in India
As of now, India boasts 43 properties inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, comprising 35 cultural sites, seven natural sites, and one mixed site. These sites range from architectural marvels like the Taj Mahal and Qutub Minar to natural wonders like the Western Ghats and Sundarbans National Park.

Recent Achievements
In 2024, India hosted the World Heritage Committee meeting for the first time. During this session, the Moidams—the mound-burial system of the Ahom Dynasty in Assam—were accorded the coveted UNESCO tag, highlighting India's ongoing efforts to recognise and preserve its diverse heritage.

Path to World Heritage Status
The journey from the tentative list to full World Heritage status involves a comprehensive evaluation process. Each site must demonstrate outstanding universal value, meet stringent criteria, and have robust management and conservation plans in place. The inclusion of these six sites in the tentative list marks the beginning of this meticulous process, aiming to secure international recognition and support for their preservation.

https://www.outlooktraveller.com/travelnews/indian-sites-on-unesco-tentative-list-of-world-heritage-sites, March 21, 2025