Today(on 15th July), The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has submitted a comprehensive report to the High Court, revealing the discovery of over 1700 antiquities at Dhar Bhojshala, including idols of 37 different deities such as Krishna, Lord Ganesha, Mata Parvati, and Lord Bholenath. These findings offer valuable insights into the site’s historical and cultural significance.
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Madhya Pradesh: Today(on 15th July), The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has submitted its comprehensive survey report of Dhar Bhojshala to the High Court. The report reveals an astounding discovery of more than 1700 antiquities during the excavation. These findings include numerous idols of various deities, shedding light on the rich historical and cultural significance of the site.
The ASI team’s meticulous excavation unearthed an impressive array of relics, including idols of 37 different deities. Among these were representations of Krishna, Lord Ganesha, Mata Parvati, and Lord Bholenath. The significance of these discoveries is immense, as they provide valuable insights into the religious and cultural practices of the era.
The hearing for this case is scheduled for July 22.
Court-Ordered Survey and Findings
The origins of this significant survey date back to March 11, when the Indore Bench of the Madhya Pradesh High Court ordered a detailed examination of Bhojshala in Dhar, akin to the survey conducted at Gyanvapi. The court directed the ASI to assemble a team of five experts and submit their findings within a six-week timeframe. The initial deadline for completing the survey was April 29, but due to the extensive nature of the work, the timeline was extended. Although the final report was due on July 2, the ASI requested an additional four weeks, leading to today’s presentation.
Background of the Controversy
The genesis of this legal and archaeological endeavor can be traced back to May 1, 2022, when the Hindu Front for Justice filed a petition in the Indore High Court. The petition highlighted a conflict of religious practices at Bhojshala.
It stated-
“Hindus conduct Yagya at Bhojshala every Tuesday, while Muslims use the Yagya Kund for Namaz on Fridays.”
The petition demanded the cessation of these activities and advocated for the complete ownership of Bhojshala to be transferred to Hindus. Additionally, it called for comprehensive photography, videography, and excavation of the entire Bhojshala. Based on these points, the High Court sanctioned the ASI survey.
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Historical Significance of Bhojshala
Bhojshala holds a profound place in the annals of Indian history. Established in 1034 AD by Raja Bhoj, the ruler of the Parmar dynasty in Dhar from 1000 to 1055 AD, Bhojshala was a prestigious college and a center of learning and devotion. Raja Bhoj, a devout follower of Goddess Saraswati, founded this institution, which has since evolved into a revered site for Hindus.
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The recent discoveries by the ASI have not only added to the historical narrative of Bhojshala but also underscored its cultural and religious importance. The idols and relics unearthed during the excavation offer a glimpse into the artistic and devotional practices of the period. As the hearing approaches, these findings will likely influence the court’s decision, potentially impacting the future management and preservation of this historical site.
