Archaeological Excavation Reveals Artifacts, Ancient Hindu Idols, Shivlingas Linked to the Historic Karkoota dynasty in Anantnag

An archaeological discovery has been made in the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir, where ancient Hindu idols and Shivlingas were unearthed during routine excavation work at a spring restoration project. The Hindu idol excavation in Kashmir occurred when labourers engaged in revival and restoration work led by the Public Works Department discovered the artifacts at the Karkoot Nag spring in the Salia area of Aishmuqam, located approximately 16 kilometers from the district headquarters.

The Anantnag archaeological find has drawn attention from heritage preservation authorities, with officials from the Jammu and Kashmir Department of Archives, Archaeology, and Museums visiting the site to take custody of the recovered ancient temple relics.

According to sources, the site holds considerable historical significance for the Kashmiri Pandit community and is believed to be connected to the Karkoota dynasty, which governed Kashmir between 625 and 855 CE. Local community members have indicated that the region maintains historical links to this ancient ruling dynasty.

"The idols and sculptures will be sent to the SPS Museum in Srinagar, where research scholars and department experts will study them to determine their age and historical context," stated a department official regarding the idol discovery, J&K 2025.

The artifacts were recovered from what has long been considered a sacred pond and pilgrimage site. Community representatives have expressed their desire for the preservation of these discoveries, with a local Kashmiri Pandit stating, "We want these artefacts to be preserved. We have heard that a temple once stood here. A new temple should be built and the Shivlingas reinstalled there."

The recovered items comprise several Shivlingas, sculptures, and other religious artifacts. The site's historical importance stems from its believed association with the seat of the Karkoota dynasty's rule from 625 to 855 CE. Conservation efforts are expected to proceed following the completion of a scholarly evaluation by archaeological experts. The discovery represents a significant addition to the understanding of Kashmir's ancient Hindu heritage and the region's rich archaeological landscape.

The Public Works Department's spring restoration project, which led to this unexpected archaeological discovery, demonstrates the potential for further historical findings as infrastructure development continues in the region.