Time and again, the 117-year-old Badshapur baoli pops into public memory, only to fade. The heritage structure is once again at the crossroads, staring at a similar fate, four years after it was saved from destruction in the nick of time. Like last time, there is a road — which, if built according to the proposal — will run over the catchment area, drying out the baoli and making it redundant. Officials of the Gurugram Metropolitan Development Authority said on Tuesday that the stretch is part of a master road for sectors 66 and 67 in the city.

Most of the work has been completed and a small 150-200 metre portion — where the stepwell is located — is pending, they said. So far, the only thing standing in the way of GMDA is litigation over the land where the baoli now stands. “Most of the road was constructed by HSVP (Haryana Shehri Vikas Pradhikaran) a few years ago. There is only a 150- to 200-metre long portion that we have to construct. The land for the work is to be handed over to us by HSVP but that is stuck due to litigation,” a senior GMDA official said on the condition of anonymity. When asked about the project, the official said: “Until the land is transferred, we are not in a position to comment on the fate of the stepwell. Once it is given, only then can we investigate and plan further.” An HSVP official corroborated this, saying the land was acquired by the authority for construction of the 60-metre-wide (including a 30-m-wide green belt) road.

"Around 8-9 houses and a government school fall in the alignment of the road. The house owners have challenged the acquisition of land and the matter is pending before the Punjab and Haryana HC,” the official said. The Badshapur baoli, less than 10km from the city centre, is one of the few remaining historical sites in the millennium city. Built in 1905 by Mohanlal Mangla, it was intended to be a catchment area for a region where water supply wasn’t adequate.But neglected and forgotten, the stepwell dried up over 25 years ago. Although it was declared a heritage site in 2000 and taken over by the Haryana government in 2012, little changed in the official approach. In January 2018, the HSVP proposed a sector road running through the baoli, triggering a barrage of criticism from historians who appealed the government to alter the road’s placement to save the structure. The government relented, in what appeared to be a fresh lease of life. The state’s Department of Archaeology also promised to take over the site and restore it. These too never materialised. The baoli lays idle, filled with construction waste and garbage that are threatening to bury its existence even if the road doesn’t. “We keep going to Delhi to see the heritage preserved there but we are losing similar sites we have in our own city. Even if a road has to be made, it can be elevated,” said Yasmin Contractor, Convenor of the Gurgaon Chapter of Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH). “In these modern times, we have to learn to coexist with heritage structures,” she said.

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/gurgaon/a-road-project-stands-in-way-of-badshapur-baoli-again/articleshow/91297571.cms, May 1, 2022

Some resident species are also available on the outer parts of the Jheel. Winters may have gone, however, the long distance winter migratory birds are still with us. Where? At the Najafgarh jheel, one of the largest wetlands of Delhi NCR. Though the number of these migratory birds is not much, still they are present at the jheel in small flocks. TK Roy, an ecologist and conservationist who has been monitoring the Najafgarh jheel these days says, "Fifteen species of long distant winter migratory water birds are still feeding on the extensive part of Najafgarh Jheel. However, they are present in smaller flocks.

This is a wonderful sight and a great sign as far as ecology is concerned. On the out parts of the jheel, the migratory birds which largely consist of wader species include- Great Cormorant, Pied Avocet, Kentish Plover, Little Ringed Plover, Little Stint, Temminck’s Stint, Black-tailed Godwit, Ruff, Eurasian Coot, Northern Shoveler, Common Teal, Great White Pelican, Ruddy Shelduck, Gadwal, Black-headed Gull, etc.” Roy further shares, "Some resident species are also available on the outer parts of the Jheel. These include Painted Stork, Black-headed Ibis, Indian Cormorant, Greater Flamingo, Large Egret, Little Egret, Indian Pond Heron, Black-winged Stilt, Indian Spot-billed Duck and Greater Painted Snipe among others.

The jheel is full of life and the birds are giving a relief to people like us.” According to some data shared by TK Roy, as per the Wetlands International’s largest Asian Waterbird Census (AWC) 2021, record of 81 water bird species diversity includes IUCN Red-listed threatened species, migratory species from far central Asia, north Asia, Russian and Siberian part and scheduled species under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 with total population of 27,673. However, as per AWC 2022, there is a sharp decrease in water bird diversity with total population 10,592 which reflects the status of degrading & disturbed wetland habitat. According to the bird watcher community of Delhi and environment activists, summers affects the wetlands in negative way and there is a need for the government to look into this.

“Extreme human intervention for unsustainable concrete development, misuse or overuse of natural resources of the wetland, regular illegal fishing, water pollution, encroachment of the drying parts of the wetland for agricultural purposes is destroying ecology & functioning ecosystem of the jheel. It is also degrading the aquatic biodiversity habitat which usually turns dry in summers. He further says, “Surprisingly, this summer, water level of the jheel is higher and has submerged its peripheries. But thickly chocked by water hyacinth, lack of space for congregation & feeding of the waders and illegal net-fishing on the floating tubes across the jheel creates heavy disturbance. Hardly any resident species is available now. Whereas on the extensive private part of the jheel, still 15 species of winter migratory water birds are residing in smaller flocks in 43 degree celsius temperature these days,” says Roy. He further emphasised on the role of National Green Tribunal(NGT) on Najafgarh Jheel.

“NGT’s valuable order in February, 2022 in respect to INTACH’s PIL for notification of the Najafgarh Jheel by the government as per the Wetland (Conservation & Management) Rules, 2017 for restoration and protection in all respect of the wetland has given a great hope to the citizens for its sustainability but no conservation actions by the government has been noticed yet,” expresses Roy. While talking about the current situation of Najafgarh jheel, Roy says, “Najafgarh Jheel, the second largest wetland in NCR-Delhi locates partly in Haryana and partly in Delhi and claims total area of 5.84 sq km in Delhi and 4.46 sq km in Haryana. However, rest extensive area is now under private ownership. Monsoon rainfall still supports the ecosystem and rich biodiversity of the jheel includes large variety of water & water dependent birds. Water birds are one of the most important components of biodiversity and are also a key indicator of wetland’s health. They are also crucial to humans & environment."

https://www.cityspidey.com/news/17652/world-migratory-bird-day-winter-migratory-birds-still-soaking-sun-in-najafgarh, May 4, 2022

Walking tours aren't just for tourists, they also help residents to rediscover and reconnect with their city - its culture, history and hidden gems. This article is part of a series on India heritage tours. INTACH Kashmir organises walking tours that focus on the medieval and colonial histories, arts and crafts, and culture of Srinagar. (Photo courtesy: INTACH Kashmir)

SRINAGAR

Medieval Heritage Trail

Walk through the interconnected passages of the Old City - a historic hub of Kashmir’s political, economic and cultural activity. See the past and the present coming together, with remnants of more than 600 years of Kashmiri heritage. Duration: 2.5 hours

Mughal Heritage Trail

Visit the medieval gateways that guarded the city’s entrances, shrines and mosques built inside the enchanting almond orchard and the colossal fort that looks over Srinagar. Duration: 2.5 hours

Sufi Heritage Trail

A walk through Srinagar’s spiritual landscape. Duration: 2.5 hours Colonial Heritage Walk Palaces, royal courts, colonial administrative buildings, religious structures, graveyards and banks, this walk takes you through some of the focal points of 19th and 20th century Srinagar. Duration: 2.5 hours Textiles, Arts and Crafts Heritage Trail Explore the living tradition of walnut wood carving, Pashmina Shawl Weaving, Kashmiri Embroidery, Khatamband and, Wood crafts, Papier Mâché. Duration: 3 hours Jhelum Riverfront Heritage Trail A boat ride that covers the traditional riverfront of Jhelum, stretching along both banks of the river, from Zero bridge up to Safa Kadal. Duration: 3 hours Conducted by: INTACH Kashmir Cost: INR 1,000 per person (group of 4) Booking: Call 8377961516; Email: [email protected].

OLD DELHI
Old Delhi Tour The half-day Old Delhi Tour on foot and by rickshaw includes local culture, hidden heritage treasures, a walk through the local bazaar and the region’s oldest spice market (Khari Baoli), street food and interactions with business owners who have worked here for several generations. The tour ends with a traditional home-cooked meal in a haveli. Conducted by: Dhruv Gupta of Masterji Kee Haveli (Masterjikeehaveli.com) Duration: 3.5 to 4 hours Cost: Group Tour (8-10 people): INR 3,750 per person. Private tour also available. Mehrauli Archaeological Park Heritage Walk Explore the historically significant monuments spread over 200 acres, the only area in Delhi known for 1,000 years of continuous habitation. Walk amongst the architectural relics of glorious Delhi Sultanate, Mughal Empire and the British Raj. Locations covered: Balban's Tomb, Jamali Kamali, Metcalfe's Folly and bridge, Quli Khan's Tomb, Rajon ki Baoli. Conducted by: India City Walks (indiacitywalks.com) Duration: 3 hours Booking: Call 9899692790; Email: [email protected] The Old Delhi half-day tour ends with a meal in Masterjee kee Haveli. (Photo courtesy: Dhruv Gupta, Masterjee Kee Haveli) The Old Delhi half-day tour. (Photo courtesy: Dhruv Gupta, Masterjee Kee Haveli)

MUMBAI
Apollo Gate and The Front Bay Walk Go back in time almost 350 years when there was no Mumbai, just one small island of Bombay. Duration: 3 hours. Church Gate and The Heritage Mile Walk Takes you into the heart of the old ‘Fort’. Explore the ‘White Town’ or the European half of the old town that existed within the Fort walls. Duration: 3 hours. Bandra, The Queen of Suburbs Walk Walk begins in the bylanes of Chimbai village, meanders through St Andrews Church, abode of the Ranwar village community, Saint Stephen’s Church and culminates in Bandra Fort. Duration: 3 hours. Malabar Hill, The Mayfair of Mumbai Walk On this walk, go to Chowpatty beach, visit Jain temple at ‘teen batti’, find out the etymology of the name Walkeshwar and at the Kamla Nehru Park and Hanging Gardens get an aerial view of the Marine Drive. Duration: 2 hours. Mumbai in the Indian Independence Struggle tour On this car-cum-walk tour, visit several spots in Mumbai that played a role in the Indian freedom struggle. Duration: 4 hours. Conducted by: Raconteur Walks (mumbaiwalkingtours.com) Cost: Between INR 750 and 2,000 per person (depending on the walk) To book, Whatsapp: +91 9769187580, Email: [email protected]

KOLKATA
In the footsteps of the Raj / White Town Walk It is the perfect introduction to British Calcutta, and gives you a sneak peek into what went into the making of the Colonial Capital of India. Walk through Dalhousie Square, now known as Benoy-Badal-Dinesh Bagh, one of South Asia’s few surviving colonial centres. Conducted by: Calcutta Walks (calcuttawalks.com) Timings: 7-10 am (April-September) 8-11 am (October-March). Cost: INR 2,000 per person.

GOA
Latin Quarter Walk in Panjim Walk through Fontainhas, also called the Latin Quarters of Panjim. The tour uncovers the 'Making of Panaji’. Listen to stories about the most prominent monuments of the area; visit a local house and one of the oldest bakeries of the city and try out some local delicacies. Conducted by: Soul Travelling (soultravelling.in) Timings: Starts at 8 am. Duration: 2.5-3 hours. Cost: INR 599 per person.

CHENNAI
The Mylapore Walk

The village of Mylapore pre-dates Chennai. Visit the temple, walk through small lanes with old-style homes, through silk shops, stores selling music and religious memorablia, ‘kutcheri’ auditoriums, etc. The tour ends at the popular Saravana Bhavan for snacks and coffee.

Conducted by: Chennai Magic (chennaimagic.com) Duration: 2 hours. All days of the week. Cost: INR 1,050 per person for 7-10 persons; INR 2,150 per person for 2 persons, INR 3,750 for a solo traveler

LUCKNOW
Wajid Ali Shah Walk Kaiserbagh Palace Complex was the most well-planned works of grandeur by Wajid Ali Shah, the last ruler of Awadh. This walking tour covers Kaiserbagh, reconstructing it virtually and understanding the personality of the ruler. Conducted by: Tornos India (tornosindia.com) Duration: 2 hours. Starts at 3 pm. Does not operate on Sundays. Cost: INR 3,850 per person (Minimum 2 guests required)

HYDERABAD
The City of Pearls Tour Covers two of the best preserved monuments from the Qutb Shahi period – the Charminar and the nearby Mecca mosque, followed by the Asaf Jahi highlight of Chowmahalla Palace. Duration: 4 hours Old Hyderabad Food Walk Visit some of the best eateries serving Hyderabadi food. From the local take on the famous paya to melt-in-the-mouth kebabs, from different types of chai to the famous Osmania biscuit – taste at least 10 different dishes on the walk. Duration: 3 hours Conducted by: The Hyderabad Walking Company (www.thwc.in) Cost: INR 3,000 per person (group of 4 & above); Rs 5,000 for 1 person

BHOPAL
Begums of Bhopal Walk This walk covers stories about Rani Kamlapati and Nawab Sultan Jahan Begum, among other. Places covered – Kamlapati Palace, Gauhar Mahal, Moti Mahal, Shaukat Mahal, Sadar Manzil, Iqbal Maidan, Moti Masjid. Shahjahanbad Walk This walk covers the beautiful city of Shahjahanabad in Old Bhopal. Places covered: Taj-ul-Masajid, Gol Ghar, Pari Bazaar, Bab-e-Ali Stadium, Tomb of Dost Mohammad Khan. Conducted by: Bhopal Walks (bhopalwalks.co.in) Duration: 2 hours Cost: INR 300 per person Heritage Walks by India City Walks India City Walks, a three-time National Tourism Award winner and a Hall of Fame award winner from the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, conducts heritage walks in several cities across India. The per person cost is between INR 1,500 and INR 4,500 (depending on the walk experience). For more details, visit: indiacitywalks.com.

https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/photos/trends/travel-trends/the-hills-are-calling-visit-these-beautiful-hill-stations-in-india-to-escape-summer-heat-8524861.html, May 6, 2022

Raj worked on more than 250 projects in a career that spanned more than six decades. He pioneered the use of innovative engineering solutions in architectural design. Structural engineer Mahendra Raj, known for some of the most iconic buildings in the country, including the Hall of Nations in Pragati Maidan in Delhi and Salarjung Museum in Hyderabad, besides many other architectural marvels, passed away on Sunday morning in the national capital. The 97-year-old’s last rites were performed in the Lodhi Road crematorium on Sunday evening. His friends said the nonagenarian had not been keeping well for the past few years due to age-related ailments. Raj worked on more than 250 projects in a career that spanned more than six decades. He pioneered the use of innovative engineering solutions in architectural design. Early in his professional career, he worked as an assistant design engineer for the construction of the Punjab and Haryana high court.

“With grief and sorrow, we inform you about the passing of Mr Mahendra Raj on Sunday May 8,” said a note by his family, adding that a prayer meet to celebrate his life will be held at the India International Centre between 3pm and 5pm on Tuesday. Outlining his contributions to the field of architecture, KT Ravindran, convener of INTACH Delhi, said Raj understood the intricacies of architectural designing like none else. “He was a structural engineer and designer who understood the intricacies of architecture and engineering. He understood how they could be fused together. He was one of the few people who could turn a structure into a piece of architectural design,” said Ravindran, who was closely associated with Raj through various committees and juries and collaborate with him during his time at the School of Planning and Architecture where Raj helped in designing the course structure of some courses. He added that Raj had a unique ability to understand what the architect wanted. “Every remarkable building in Delhi has been made by Raj.

These included the Hall of Nations, which was demolished some years ago. Every remarkable large building that one can think of has been done by him,” said Ravindran. The Hall of Nations was demolished in April 2017. Raj, who was active from the 1960s till 2002, had a remarkable professional career, recalled Ravindran. He was among the few structural engineers who worked with nearly every recognised architect, he added. “He was originally working with Le Corbusier [a Swiss-French architect] in Chandigarh. He went to study abroad later. On returning, his first project was Charles Correa’s stadium in Ahmedabad. From then onwards, every important architect tried to work with him,” said Ravindran.

https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/delhi-news/mahendra-raj-the-man-behind-pragati-maidan-passes-away-at-97-101652037285607.html, May 7, 2022

Mumbai’s oldest museum, the Bhau Daji Lad in Byculla, is celebrating 150 years at its current site. The milestone was marked on Tuesday with Maharashtra minister for tourism and environment Aaditya Thackeray launching a book and a special exhibition. Thackeray also discussed moving forward on a pending plan for a museum extension. The book launched on Tuesday — Mumbai: A City Through Objects, edited by honorary director of the museum Tasneem Zakaria Mehta — is a showcase of 101 artefacts from the museum’s collection. These include old maps from the 17th century, made with watercolour and ink, and coloured postcards of Bombay from the 18th and 19th century. The corresponding exhibition is titled Hall of Wonder. “The history of the city and the history of the museum are so intertwined. The story we tell in the book, and through the museum, is not a grand history of battles and emperors. It’s the history of ordinary people, the common man — the crafts people, industrialists, merchants and shopkeepers who built this city,” Mehta says.

The museum originally opened at Fort in the 1850s. In 1872, it was reopened in Byculla as the Victoria and Albert, Bombay, a reference to the corresponding institution in London. It was renamed after the Indian polymath Dr Bhau Daji Lad, a physician, Sanskrit scholar and antiquarian, in 1975. From 2003 to 2008, the museum underwent an award-winning conservation and restoration, a joint effort by the Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai (MCGM), Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) and Jamnalal Bajaj Foundation. “It was an early example of a successful public-private partnership model for conservation,” says conservation architect Vikas Dilawari, who worked on the project, which was helmed by Mehta. “This building set a very high benchmark for conservation at the time and helped in triggering a larger conservation movement in the city.” The museum restoration won a UNESCO award for excellence in conservation in 2005, still the only building in the city to have won this award.

Even if you think you know the city, the museum is worth a visit. “There are so many rare artefacts on display here, like the elephant of Elephanta, old maps, and the limit stones of Bombay. In the ’60s there was a wave of nationalism and many statues of European figures were moved here as well, from public areas. They stand in the museum courtyard,” says Bharat Gothoskar, founder of the heritage outreach organisation Khaki Tours. “Moving forward, we’d like to work on using digital mediums to enrich the in-person experience,” says Mehta. “A QR code could take one into layers of information about an artefact, videos and curator interviews. With funds and an enabling environment, we can do a lot more.”

https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/mumbai-news/book-launch-marks-150-years-of-dr-bhau-daji-lad-museum-101652809550195.html, May 7, 2022

People of different faiths thronged Masjid-e-Azizia at Humayun Nagar on Sunday as it threw open its doors for public, cutting across gender and religion, to take part in a free guided tour of the mosque. The aim was to familiarise people with the place of worship —starting with the wazu (ablution), azaan (call to prayer), salatul-Jumu’ah (Friday prayer) to performing daily namaz, among other things. Apart from Muslims, the gathering included Hindus, Christians and even heritage experts from the city. The Masjid-e-Azizia committee members along with Jamaat-e-Islami Hind and other volunteers organised the ‘discover masjid’ programme as part of the interfaith Eid Milap initiative that took place between 11 am to 1.30 pm.

Speaking to TOI, Mateen Ahmed, supervising the arrangements, explained that the event stands as an opportunity for an interfaith understanding. “We wanted to show what we do in the masjid and other activities that we follow as part of our religion. This will show what we have in common and understand the meaning behind our practices,” Ahmed told TOI. Irrespective of the religion, people visiting the mosque found the experience ‘insightful.’ “This experience is an eye-opener for many who misunderstand the religion. I believe communities connecting like this can eradicate issues of disharmony among people of different faiths,” Srinivas Rao, a businessman and resident of Masab Tank, said. Another participant, Rajylakshmi , from Humayun Nagar, lauded the volunteers who conducted the tour seamlessly and by involving everyone.

“They were very welcoming. Not just in ushering us but also in giving straight answers to questions,” she said. Heritage expert Anuradha Reddy, convenor of the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) said she always wanted to visit and understand more about the activities that take place inside a mosque. The 56-year-old Masjid-e-Azizia happens to be the fourth such mosque that had opened its doors and conducted a guided tour for non-Muslims. “This isn’t the only service that this mosque offers to non-Muslims. We also provide interest-free gold loans as collecting interest is banned in Islam. The mosque also houses a clinic that provides free consultation and discounted treatments that several non-Muslims avail,” Mateen said.

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/hyderabad/building-bridges-mosque-opens-doors-to-one-all/articleshow/91583307.cms, May 8, 2022

During a recent survey of Thar Geoglyphs in the district by ERDS Foundation, the survey team discovered a chain of pillars forming a Chatra (an umbrella figure)belonging to the 11th and 12th century on Monday. The figure is not drawn on the surface like geoglyphs but instead the connecting points of this umbrella are marked with uniquely carved stone pillars, most of which are located nearby the geoglyphs. These conical shaped pillars decorated with auspicious marks of lion shaped Kirtimukhas and bells, are mysterious in nature with no clear purpose.

Overall 27 such pillars have been discovered by the team and when the GPS points of all were seen together they appeared to be the part of a superficial umbrella design. The survey team in-charge Parth Jagani described that the team took GPS locations of these pillars, which are more than thousand years old by appearance, located across a vast stretch of the desert. They are placed several kilometres apart from each other and the longest distance between the two points is 90 kilometres.

They are connected with each other in an umbrella shape, which is very much similar to the ancient design still prevalent in Southeast Asian countries. There is a possibility that some early Bhati king had installed them to declare his rule and territory. Yashowardhan Sandilya, Rajasthan environment secretary of INTACH, which financially supported the survey said, “This is a very important historical discovery by the team, as it could be linked to the erstwhile royal family of Jaisalmer, Bhati Rajputs are known as Chhatrala Yadupadis, where Chhatrala refers to the bearer of Umbrella, as the family is descendant of Lord Krishna's Yadukul and possess heavenly Meghadambar Chhatra, which was gifted by Lord Indra to Krishna. The image of this umbrella is still present on the old flag of Jaisalmer princely state and a 9th century inscription of Bauka from Mandore Pratihar lineage also confirms the association of Bhati family with umbrella.”

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/jaipur/survey-team-discovers-chatras-marked-by-12th-century-pillars/articleshow/91527874.cms, May 9, 2022

Rare and unique uniface coins made of copper and silver belonging to the period of Tyagsimha (890-900 AD), who was the last ruler of the Mlechchha dynasty, have been unearthed in central Assam’s Morigaon district. A total of 12 coins and 10 broken pieces of coins have been recovered by the state directorate of archaeology. The coins are mostly made of copper and only a couple of them are made of silver, which the directorate says requires further study.

“Only the obverse side of the coins bears (moulded) the alphabet Ta (used in Assamese and Bengali), while the reverse side has been left bare,” the directorate revealed on Monday. After the fall of the Varman dynasty, the Mlechchha dynasty ruled Kamapura from its capital Harruppesvar or present-day Tezpur in northern Assam. People involved in the recovery felt that it may bring to light a chapter in history associated with the Mlechchha dynasty. “Civilization flourished on the banks of the Brahmaputra.

The Kuji Beel lake, near which the coins have been found, is connected to the Brahmaputra through the Mora-Sonai tributary. It can be speculated that the archaeological remains were carried by the flowing water or the location has its own rich history as is evident in the scattered terracotta remains,” Gayatrie Pathak, circle officer, Mikirbheta told TOI. She said a farmer, earlier this month, first found the coins while digging the paddy field adjacent to the lake.

“Perhaps the paddy field was part of the lake in the past,” she added. A team of the state archaeology directorate also recovered terracotta pieces of parts of body, rim, neck, lid parts, a broken pipe and base part. “The area requires a thorough research to unearth more aspects of the wider archaeological potential,” said Ranjana Sharma, deputy director, archaeology. Acting on the information received from Prof Sheela Bora, convener of INTACH, Assam Chapter, and at the initiative of the state chief secretary, Jishnu Barua, Morigaon district administration took possession of the coins. Morigaon deputy commissioner handed over the coins to the directorate of archaeology team for further study.

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/guwahati/ancient-copper-coins-found-in-assam/articleshow/91605939.cms, May 10, 2022

The Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) Mandi chapter held a seminar on Tankri script here today. The move was aimed to preserve the script, which is on the verge of extinction in Mandi. The seminar was presided over by Mandi Sadar Sub-Divisional Magistrate Ritika Jindal. Jagdish Kapoor, an expert of the script, gave detailed information about the prevalence of Tankri script in Pahari language in various parts of the state in the past. Kapoor said the script was also prevalent in Mandi but now it is on the verge of extinction.

There is a need to make efforts to preserve it. Writer Murari Sharma also expressed his views over the issue. INTACH Mandi chapter president Naresh Malohtra said the motive of organising the seminar was to create an awareness among masses about the importance of the script. The SDM, who was the chief guest at the event, said it was a good move for the preservation of Tankri script. The administration will provide full cooperation to the The Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage for the purpose, Jindal added.

https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/himachal/seminar-on-preservation-of-tankri-script-393122, May 11, 2022

A five-day workshop to preserve the ancient art of frescoes on heritage buildings in Kangra district is under way at the Nandpur Guler fort here. Experts from all over India are training students of fine arts from various colleges in the ancient art of drawing frescoes on the walls of heritage buildings. Raghav Guleria, owner of the Nandpur Guler fort who is organising the workshop, said, “Mohrakashi is a lime fresco tradition indigenous to Punjab.

It gained prominence under the patronage of Maharaja Ranjit Singh in the 19th century. The development of Mohrakashi through this period gave rise to the Sikh school of art, with murals dominated by floral and foliage designs under the influence of the Kangra school of art.” He said that in Punjab, Mohrakashi frescoes adorn gurdwaras, temples, cenotaphs, havelis, inns and akharas. Similarly, in the Kangra region, frescoes depicting erotic sentiments of Radha and Krishna were predominant, though the production of such works fell out of fashion in the past 100 years, he added. Guleria said that it was for the first time that a unique workshop showcasing this heritage art form was being held at the Guler fort. It is being organised under the aegis of Kimberley Moyle, founder of Indi Architecture.

Master artisan Gupreet Singh from Jagraon is teaching a small group of eager participants, who have travelled from across the country to take part. Suresh K. Nair, an experienced mural artist from Kerala and Professor at Banaras University, is one such person, who along with Dhani Ram Kushdil, a respected Kangra miniature artist, have joined the workshop with his students. Phalguni Shinkar, a passionate young architect from Pune, Arjun Jain, an accomplished artist from Delhi, Ramesh, an expert lime artisan from Bihar, and Pankaj Trivedi, a documentary maker from Mumbai, are also taking part in the workshop. INTACH Kangra chapter president LN Agarwal too visited the workshop. He congratulated the organisers for their enthusiasm in keeping this art form alive, Raghav said.

https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/himachal/workshop-on-traditional-art-of-frescoes-under-way-in-guler-fort-397197, May 12, 2022

Tucked behind the Girish Park Metro Station, Niranjan Agar, one of the oldest ‘cabins’ of the city ,will complete its centenary on June 1, 2022. Founded by Niranjan Hazra in 1922, the joint was once frequented by legendary personalities like Uttam Kumar, Tarun Kumar, Bikash Roy, Utpal Dutt and Manna Dey. Over the years, it has retained its dignity and legacy and is still popular among the old timers, office-goers and students.

Every evening, it is a common sight to come across people, middle-aged or old, huddled together in the cabin discussing politics or socioeconomic issues over cups of steaming tea accompanied with chops and cutlets. Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (Intach) has given Niranjan Agar a heritage tag in 2019 as recognition of their resilience to stay in business, despite all odds. Vivekananda Pan, fourth generation owner of Niranjan Agar said, “My grandfather started this business by selling dust tea to students and office-goers. As Bengalis have a concept of ‘jalkhabar’ to fill the long gap between lunch and dinner, there was a demand for snacks along with tea in the evening.

He took the opportunity to establish this eatery that was quite popular at that time. Soon, the cabin became a regular haunt for customers who wanted to engross themselves in some ‘adda’ over tea and good food.” The cabins sprang up in the city in the 20th century and got their names from plypartitioned, curtained cabins, in which families, mostly womenfolk, could dine in privacy. Gradually, the word ‘cabin’ came to be loosely associated with small restaurants. Utsa Ray, assistant professor of history at Jadavpur University feels that these public eateries allowed the common man to discover “the pleasures of eating out.

”According to her, consuming cutlets, chops and devils were not always possible within the domestic space. Therefore these small cabins provided a space for those who could easily gorge into chicken cutlet, mutton chop without being concerned of the taboos found inside homes. Subol Mitra has been visiting Niranjan Agar for the last 50 years. “During the late 1960s, we would visit the cabin for our evening adda. We would take different items, tea and sit there for hours. Even now, I sometimes visit the eatery alone as it reminds me of the past,” said Mitra.

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kolkata/kol-eatery-rings-in-a-ton-with-dimer-devil-mutton-chop/articleshow/91903988.cms, May 13, 2022

A small museum can fulfil its purpose in a community by organising events that promote local heritage and culture, Professor Shrinivas Vir Padigar, a former professor and chairman of the department of ancient Indian history and epigraphy at Karnatak University, said on Wednesday. The event, to mark International Museum Day in Dharwad, was organised by the INTACHHDMC Heritage Museum here at the Karnatak Vidyavardhaka Sangha here.

Professor Padigar traced the beginnings of the concept of museums. He called them places for philosophical discussions and a repository of manuscripts of knowledge. The early museums came into existence by way of private collections that needed a proper place for systematic display and management. These began to fulfil the need for heritage education. Professor Padigar paid rich tributes to the late NP Bhat and his colleagues of the Dharwad chapter of INTACH for their vision and effort in establishing a cultural museum here.

He illustrated how a photo exhibition of narrative carvings of the life of Buddha found on the Sannati Stupa and of the scenes from Mahabharata can be utilised for educating students and the public about those themes and in creating awareness about the existence of such heritage art. Arvind Yalagi, the director of the Indo-Portuguese Literary Foundation, Goa, delivered a talk on the Cultural Properties of Karnataka displayed in International museums. JH Kulkarni, former vice-chancellor of the University of Agricultural Sciences in Dharwad, presided over the event. Sumangala Bhat welcomed the gathering. BR Sarathi introduced the speakers. Shaila Karagudari compered.

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/hubballi/on-museum-day-prof-speaks-on-the-role-of-curated-local-heritage/articleshow/91651118.cms, May 14, 2022

The Salar Jung Museum will be celebrating ‘International Museum Week’ from May 16 to 21 during which period, it will be exhibiting 75 objects from its reserve collection indicating 75 years of Indian Independence, host a special art exhibition by 75 artists of Hyderabad Art Society, organise a photography contest in association with the Bhagyanagar Photo Art Club and so on. Museum director A Nagender Reddy informed that the Ministry of Culture has called for celebrating the ‘International Museum Day’ on May 18 with the theme of “The Power of Museums.” Museums are not only store houses of cultural heritage, but they are also educational centres helping to enhance knowledge of the visitors regarding history, culture and traditions of the bygone era, he said.

During this time, differently-abled and orphan students can visit the museum and arrangements have been made for training schoolchildren on arts, crafts, drawing etc. A one day workshop/demonstration on making of Bidri and a special lecture on Humor in European Art, webinar on ‘Preventive Conservation’ and launching of photo point/selfie point ‘I Love SJM’ at two places are also on the agenda. Cultural programmes by the Telangana folk artists being organized by the Indian Council of Cultural Relations (ICCR) will be held, he said. Special prizes for the photography contest include gold, silver and bronze medals with ₹30,000 cash prizes. President of Hyderabad Art Society Ramana Reddy, Hyderabad chapter convenor of INTACH Anuradha Reddy, Photo Club president Janardha Reddy, curator Khusum, consultant M. Veerendra and other officials were present.

https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/telangana/salar-jung-museum-to-exhibit-75-rare-objects-from-reserve-collection/article65405097.ece, May 15, 2022

INTACH-HDMC Cultural Heritage Museum in Dharwad will observe International Museum Day on Wednesday by organising special talks by experts at Ra Ha Deshpande Hall in Karnatak Vidyavardhaka Sangha at 5.30pm. Srinivas Padigar, former professor, department of Ancient Indian History and Epigraphy, Karnataka University will deliver a talk on the ‘Concept of Museum’.

Arvind Yalagi, director, Indo-Portuguese Literary Foundation, Goa will speak about ‘Cultural Properties of Karnataka displayed in international museums’. JH Kulkarni, former vicechancellor, University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad will preside over. The Cultural Heritage Museum, which has come into existence in 2014 and located in the Municipal Corporation office premises, has tried to showcase heritage and disseminate information about it to the population of Dharwad district. The department of Regional Archives will organize an exhibition of selected archival records in the premises of INTACH-HDMC Cultural Heritage Museum. The exhibition will be open to public from May 19 to 21 from 11am to 5pm.

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/hubballi/special-talk-to-mark-museum-day-today/articleshow/91628154.cms, May 16, 2022

High- intensity wind and lashing rain on Monday damaged the finial of the main dome of Jama Masjid and several stones came off minarets and other parts of the historic mosque, injuring at least two persons. The Shahi Imam of Jama Masjid, Syed Ahmed Bukhari said, “The kalas (finial) of the main dome fell off. It needs urgent repair to prevent further damages.

Some stones of the mosque structure also loosened and fell off. Bukhari said he would write to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the director general of Archaeological Survey of India for immediate repair of the mosque. The finial, said officials, weighed around 300kg. Officials of Delhi Waqf Board, which looks after the mosque, said they had deputed a team to inspect the mosque and assess the damages. “It is difficult to repair and fix the finial back. We will take a decision after the damage is fully assessed,” said an official. In last June, too, some stone pieces from the southern minaret of Jama Masjid fell off after a storm and the structure also suffered damages due to tremors last year. Delhi Waqf Board has already initiated the process of repairing the mosque and is trying to rope in INTACH. The overall repair may take two-three years and cost at least Rs 50 crore.

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/jama-masjid-finial-minaret-stones-fall-off-shahi-imam-to-approach-pm/articleshow/91900191.cms, May 17, 2022

The over 160-year old building of the Government Public Library, located at Chandreshekar Park of the city is all set to be restored as per its old golden legacy. The building, which is a marvel of the British architecture and has suffered major damage, would now be restored under the Smart City Project with the funds worth Rs five crores under the supervision of The Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH), New Delhi. The restoration work would begin from next month for which a Gwalior based agency has been shortlisted after following the due process. The restoration work is result of years of efforts, put in by the librarian, Gopal Mohan Shulka and an active support of the chairman of the Smart City Project, the divisional commissioner Sanjay Goyal and conservation architect Divya Kumar of INTACH.

“I have been raising the issue of conserving and restoring this architectural marvel at several forums but thanks to the interest shown by the present divisional commissioner, Sanjay Goyal that the funds were allocated for the restoration work of the building as this is heritage of the city and the funds were sanctioned from Smart City project”, said librarian, Gopal Mohan Shukla. Among the list of work that the agency would be undertaking for the restoration of the building includes dismantling and demolition of the damage structures, which would be replaced by exactly the same structure, using the same bonding material and keeping the original material intact.

“The site and surface would be cleaned and masonry work would be undertaken. Besides the woodwork, flooring structural and roofing work will also be undertaken”, said Shukla. The entire building would be restored in such a way that it will be 100 percent waterproof to check any further water seepage, he added. The interiors would be refurbished including furniture, lockers, exhibition panels etc. The restoration work would also include refitting of electrical work and making provision for firefighting. On transfer of the capital of the North-Western province from Agra to Allahabad (now Prayagraj ) the attention of the government was invited to the need of library, by the then secretary, Sadar-Board of Revenue, GHM Waitan proposed to establish a library in the capital so that the books of the general nature lying scattered in the secretariat and the other government offices may be transferred and collected. The then Lt Governor approved of the proposal in 1863. Thus, the government of north-western provinces established the public library in 1864.

Lt Governor Sir William laid the foundation stone of the present library building in the Alfred Park. The building is a magnificent example of the Gothik Art sculpture and has been constructed by the Chunar stone and its design was prepared by R Raskel Bayne. The actual name of this building is Thornhil-Mayne Memorial. The first sitting of the upper house of the UP christened ‘Legislative Council for the north-western provinces Awadh’ took place on January 08, 1887 and thereafter up to the year 1900, all the sitting of the said house were held in the hall of this building. The first centenary celebration of this library was solemnized on November 12, 1964 in the presence of the then Prime Minister of India, Lal Bahadur Shastri. Commenting on the all-important decision, the divisional commissioner, Sanjay Goyal said, “Smart City does not only means having smart equipment or technology to make denizens smarter, it is also about restoring and conserving our heritage like the building of the Government Public Library, Prayagraj which would be one of the major tourist attraction of the city in coming years”.

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/allahabad/160-year-old-library-to-be-restored/articleshow/91927928.cms, May 18, 2022

The discovery of the location took place after a teacher named Moumita Saha read about Kochpukur in the book 'Lavan Hrader Upakatha' by Bhupesh Kumar Pramanick. Researchers have found pieces of pottery and building material under a Mazar on the edge of New Town and East Kolkata Westland. The artefacts found are possibly 2,000 years old, said experts. The archaeological mound that has Mazar atop is only 20 KM away from the city in Kochpukur mouza of Bamanghata gram panchayat in Bhangar II Block of South 24 Parganas and spread over 1-acre land. Times of India report suggested that the researchers believe it is the first substantial archaeological site in the oldest deltaic plain. They think that the site could provide a crucial link between North 24 Parganas and South 24 Parganas archaeological sites, including Clive House in Dum Dum, Chandraketugarh in the moribund delta and others within the mangrove marsh. The discovery of the location took place after a teacher named Moumita Saha read about Kochpukur in the book ‘Lavan Hrader Upakatha’ by Bhupesh Kumar Pramanick. Saha visited the place in mid-2020 and talked in detail to local fishermen and farmers to learn about the local history. Saha, who is a researcher at Deshkal, a group of researchers, visited the place along with Punarbasu Chaudhuri, who is an assistant professor at Calcutta University’s environmental science department, at the end of 2021. They came to look for rare trees and medicinal plants when they found the artefacts. Chaudhuri said, “During a field visit, we came across the mound and a Mazar atop it known as ‘Baba Madar Shaheber Kabarsthan’. We were asked to take our shoes off to visit the shrine, and I felt something prick my feet. When I stopped to see what these broken materials were, we got hold of the artefacts. They were scattered all over the place and had grooves and paddle marks. The striations caught my eye, and I collected them for an expert opinion.” The mound has indications that a village or a village market existed at the place.

https://www.opindia.com/2022/05/kochpukur-west-bengal-artefact-baba-madar-mazar/, May 19, 2022

Two decorated pendants — one ivory and the other terracotta — were found during the archaeological excavation under way near Vembakottai. The first phase of excavation, being undertaken by Tamil Nadu State Department of Archeology, began in March. So far, over 700 antiquities have been discovered during the excavation being held at Uchimedu along the left bank of Vaippar river. "We have mostly found glass pieces, shell bangle pieces and terracotta beads. This is the first time we have found ivory pendant," said Vembakottai Archaeological site director Pon. Baskar. The cylindrical ivory pendant is 5 cm long with a diameter of 0.8 cm. It weighs 61 gm. The terracotta pendant is 2.2 cm long with a 1.01 cm diameter. It weighs 65.40 gm. These artefacts were found during the excavation of the 7th trench under way now. “Only carbon dating can reveal the age of those materials,” he added. Ear ornaments, hop scotch stone and spindle whorls were found among the surface collection at the site during field exploration conducted before the excavation. The first phase of excavation at Uchimedu would be completed in September.

https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/ivory-pendant-found-at-vembakottai-archaeological-excavation-site/article65416268.ece, May 20, 2022

Archaeological enthusiasts urged Tamil Nadu State Archaeology Department officials to preserve the inscription. The Tiruvannamalai Centre for Historical Research (TCHR) recently discovered a stone inscription, possibly dating back to the 10th century inside a Lord Shiva temple at Madipakkam near Cheyyar. The inscription was found during a field inspection carried out by the team of archaeological enthusiasts of the TCHR. The district-level society conducts research and documents archaeological findings.

The artefact, studied by epigraphist S Rajagopal, suggested that the inscription was made during the 3rd regnal year of Chola King Parthivendira Varman. It read that the 'Sri Bali' Pooja for Lord Shiva would be carried out twice and performed by giving offerings to Him in the four corners of the temple, accompanied by music. Further findings revealed that the pooja arrangement was made by Thenveethi Vidanganana Vaanavan Maaraayan.

Here, Maaraayan is a name given as an honour to experts in the field of music. However, the reason for performing the pooja was not mentioned in the inscription, said TCHR secretary Balamurugan. Another stone inscription had also been discovered inside the same temple. The TCHR secretary said it was found on another rock and was partly damaged. It suggested that the land was donated to maintain the temple garden. Archaeological enthusiasts urged Tamil Nadu State Archaeology Department officials to preserve the inscription.

https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2022/may/15/stone-inscription-dating-back-to-10th-century-found-in-shiva-temple-at-tiruvannamalai-2453781.html, May 21, 2022

Many of the jar sites in Assam contain engraved stone slabs decorated with human figures and other motifs. Research in Assam, North-East India, has discovered hundreds of mysterious giant sandstone jars dotted around the landscape. The presence of such jars in Assam has been known since the 1920s, but recent surveys – led by Tilok Thakuria from North-Eastern Hill University and Uttam Bathari from Gauhati University – have shed new light on this megalithic landscape and have identified four previously unknown sites in the region, bringing the number of recorded sites up to 11, together containing almost 800 jars. These jars exhibit varying degrees of survival; there are some complete examples, but many are broken or in a fragmentary condition. Most of the jars are bulbous in shape with an elongated conical bottom, although the survey also identified cylindrical and biconical examples. The jars range in size from 1m to 3m tall and from 0.85m to 2m in diameter, and although most are plain, some are decorated with patterns or human and animal figures. Similar jars are also known in Laos (see CWA 96, 102, and 108) and Indonesia, but their function remains uncertain. Many of the examples in Laos are associated with human burials made there later. They are therefore believed to have had some sort of mortuary role – and some scholars have suggested that this may also be the case for the Indonesian jars – so it is possible that this is true of the jars in Assam as well, although no human remains have been found at these sites. Many of the jar sites in Assam also contain engraved stone slabs decorated with human figures and other motifs. It is unclear how they are related to the jars but it has been suggested that – like the later burials found at several jar sites in Laos – their presence may reflect the continuing cultural significance of these sites over many years. The date when these jars were first placed in the ground is also unknown. Excavations have not yet been carried out at the sites, so there is currently no material available for scientific dating. However, researchers have proposed that they may date to the early Iron Age in India, c.400 BC. At present, not much is known about who created the jar sites in Assam, but they are believed to be part of the same tradition as the jars in Laos and Indonesia, perhaps brought to North-East India by migrating Austro-Asiatic peoples from Southeast Asia. The recent research has highlighted the widespread distribution of the stone jars across Assam, but researchers believe that there are many more as-yet-undiscovered jar sites to be found. It is hoped that future surveys will make this possible, as well as improving our understanding of the sites currently known. The research on the stone jar sites has been published in the Journal of Asian Archaeology (https://doi.org/10.1007/s41826-022-00043-3).

https://the-past.com/news/stone-jars-found-in-india/, May 22, 2022

A group of archaeology enthusiasts have identified a stone oil press in Nedumalai village, known for its stone quarries, near Trichy city. Epigraphists estimated that the structure belongs to the 9th century after analysing the style of the inscription on the stone press. The identification of such an artefact in Trichy is said to be rare, although similar structures had been found earlier in Perambalur and Karur. During a bird spotting drive near Punganur panchayat on the Trichy-Dindigul NH, the team, comprising Bala Bharathi, a school principal in Trichy , N Satheesh Kumar, Palaniyandi, Sathyaseelan and Manickaraj, was informed of the ancient object found on a rock in Nedumalai. The team found the stone oil press engraved with three lines in Tamil. Epigraphists confirmed that the script was engraved during the period of transition from Vattezhthu to Tamil. “We found a few fragments of Ayyanar idol, which hint that there was a place of worship near the press,” Bala told TOI.

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/trichy/9th-c-stone-oil-press-found/articleshow/91479070.cms, May 29, 2022

ASI discovered a 5000-year-old jewellery factory in Rakhi Garhi in Haryana in one of its biggest discoveries yet. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), which has been working in Rakhi Garhi in Haryana for the last 32 years, made one of its biggest discoveries yet with the excavation of a 5000 year old jewellery making factory. Rakhi Garhi is a village and one of the oldest archaeological sites belonging to the Indus Valley Civilisation in Hisar district of Haryana. The structure of some houses, a kitchen complex and a 5000-year-old jewellery making factory was discovered, which shows that the site must have been a very important trade centre.

Copper and gold jewellery were also found which had been hidden for thousands of years. Like Sinauli in Uttar Pradesh- which gained attention for its Bronze Age solid-disk wheel carts found in 2018, which were interpreted by some as horse-pulled "chariots"- graveyards have been found in the excavation sites which archaeologists say explain that civilisation believed in life after death. ASI has made a lot of discoveries in the last two months in Rakhi Garhi which points to the civilisation progressing steadily towards development. Dr. Sanjay Manjul, Additional Director General (ADG), ASI, said, “We have done a lot of work on Sinauli, Hastinapur and Rakhigarhi in the last 20 years. You can say that the people of Rakhigarhi were the ancestors of the people of Hastinapur and from this the culture got development and momentum."

https://www.indiatoday.in/india/haryana/story/5000-year-old-jewellery-factory-haryana-indus-valley-site-rakhi-garhi-asi-1946740-2022-05-08, May 30, 2022

Archaeologists from Pune-based Deccan College Postgraduate and Research Institute have found artefacts dating back to the early historic era at Kotul in Ahmednagar district. Archaeologists from the Pune-based Deccan College Postgraduate and Research Institute have found artefacts and other ancient ruins dating back to the early historic era at Kotul, located in Ahmednagar district along the Junnar-Nashik route. A team of archaeologists recently concluded their excavation at a site in Kotul, the traces of which took them back nearly 2,000 years. According to Pandurang Sabale, head, department of ancient Indian history and culture and archaeology, the excavation site was discovered by him in the 2014-15 academic season after which geo-archaeological work was carried out in the Mula river basin. In the present 2021-22 field season, an archaeological excavation was carried out as part of the training of MA students in April at the site located in Akole tehsil, Ahmednagar district. Sabale, along with other researchers, led the excavation at Kotul. At the site, researchers found 2,000 years’ old artefacts from the Satavahana era. The artefacts include a variety of pots, bricks, terracotta beads and objects, shell bangles, coins and metal objects, grain storage jars etc. Large quantities of animal bones, skeletons and food grains too were collected. All these indicate that Kotul was an important settlement on the trade route even during the early historic era. According to Pandurang Sabale, head, department of ancient Indian history and culture and archaeology, the excavation site was discovered by him in the 2014-15 academic season after which geo-archaeological work was carried out in the Mula river basin. In the present 2021-22 field season, an archaeological excavation was carried out as part of the training of MA students in April at the site located in Akole tehsil, Ahmednagar district. Sabale, along with other researchers, led the excavation at Kotul. At the site, researchers found 2,000 years’ old artefacts from the Satavahana era. The artefacts include a variety of pots, bricks, terracotta beads and objects, shell bangles, coins and metal objects, grain storage jars etc. Large quantities of animal bones, skeletons and food grains too were collected. All these indicate that Kotul was an important settlement on the trade route even during the early historic era. “It was a host of artefacts like jewellery (beads) and earthen pots. The preliminary research suggests our findings date back to the early historic era,” Sabale told the Hindustan Times. The Kotul excavation site, which measures approximately 0.75 x 1.25 square kilometre was discovered in 2014 while the research was completed in the first week of May this year. “The discovery at the excavation site suggests that Kotul was important in the trading scheme of things from the early historic to the medieval period,” said Sabale. Neighbouring Junnar has already been a part of the Deccan college research where excavation began in 2005 and large brick structures were found at the site. It is believed that these structures were used for different purposes during the reign of the Satavahanas. Junnar was the first capital of the Satavahana dynasty that ruled the Deccan plateau region from the 1st century BC. The rulers from this dynasty had trade relations with ancient Rome and Greece and their munificence is evident in the form of cave temples and chaitya grihas that dot the landscape of the state. Junnar has also been important because it is on the trade route that links the ports of western India with Konkan and the Deccan interiors. The famous Naneghat inscription in Junnar dates back to this dynasty. The hills and vales of the region are rich in artefacts from the era. Multiple excavations have been carried out in the region by the ASI (Archaeological Survey of India) and Deccan college over many years. Future studies will be conducted after looking at the potential character of the Kotul site. More details about the culture, commerce, trade and occupations of the people of those times will be evident after studying the excavated materials.

https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/pune-news/excavation-at-kotul-site-dates-back-to-historic-era-101652381948889.html, May 29, 2022

Archaeological excavations in Mayiladumparai have found that the date of iron artefacts unearthed ‘ranges from 2172 BCE to 1615 BCE’, CM Stalin tells Tamil Nadu Assembly. Iron implements unearthed from excavations at a small hamlet called Mayiladumparai have revealed that the Iron Age in Tamil Nadu dates back 4,200 years, potentially making it the oldest in India, for now. Previously, the Iron Age burial site of Adichanallur in southern Tamil Nadu had revealed an impressive collection of iron implements, currently housed in Chennai’s Egmore Museum, dated between 1000 BCE and 600 BCE. Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, while addressing the Tamil Nadu Assembly Monday, said that of the 28 Accelerator Mass Spectrometry-based (AMS) dating of sites in India, this is the earliest. The 28 sites include sites in Karnataka and Uttar Pradesh.

“Through the findings, it has been established that Tamils who lived 4200 years ago were aware of iron. Dense forests were converted into fertile lands only after humankind began realising the use of iron,” Stalin said.This finding has answered questions relating to the start of agricultural activity in Tamil Nadu, he added. Among the other important findings is evidence that the late Neolithic phase in Tamil Nadu has been identified to have begun before 2200 BCE, based on a cultural deposit of 25 cm below the dated level. Archaeologists also found that black and red ware pottery was introduced in the late Neolithic phase itself, rather than the widely held belief that this occurred in the Iron Age.

Speaking to ThePrint, a source from the Tamil Nadu State Department of Archaeology (TNSDA) said the Mayiladumparai hamlet was the “earliest Iron Age site discovered thus far” in India. Excavations that were carried out earlier at sites such as Malhar near Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, and Brahmagiri in north Karnataka, had pushed the date to only around the second millennium BCE, the source noted. “The fact that the site in Tamil Nadu dates to 4,200 years ago gives us the opportunity to better study the connections with Indus Valley Civilisation,” the source said.

https://theprint.in/india/iron-age-in-tamil-nadu-dates-back-4200-years-oldest-in-india-excavated-implements-reveal/949224/, May 30, 2022