Sambhal Temple: ASI Survey After 46 Years

Aakhir Tak – In Shorts

1. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) inspected the Kartikeya Temple in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, which reopened after 46 years.
2. The temple had been closed since 1978 following communal riots that displaced the local Hindu community.
3. A four-member ASI team conducted carbon dating and examined five pilgrimage sites nearby.
4. Idols of Goddesses Parvati and Lakshmi were found during well digging at the temple.
5. The temple is near the Shahi Jama Masjid, where violence recently occurred.

Aakhir Tak – In Depth

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) conducted an inspection of the Kartikeya Temple in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, which recently reopened after being locked for 46 years. The survey by the ASI took place after the temple reopened on December 13, involving carbon dating. Local accounts state that the temple had been shut since 1978 due to communal riots that led to the displacement of the local Hindu community. During this inspection, a four-member team from the ASI meticulously examined the temple and five surrounding pilgrimage sites.

Carbon Dating and Inspection of Pilgrimage Sites

According to the District Magistrate, the ASI’s inspection was conducted discreetly. The team not only performed carbon dating of the temple but also visited five nearby pilgrimage sites, including Bhadrak Ashram, Swargdeep, and Chakrapani. In addition, they also inspected 19 wells. The ASI had requested the local administration to ensure the inspection remained out of the media spotlight.

Unplanned Discovery of the Temple

Officials stated that the discovery of the temple occurred during an anti-encroachment drive. They described this as an unplanned finding, claiming they “stumbled” upon the site during operations. Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Vandana Mishra, who led the campaign against electricity theft in the area, stated, “While inspecting the region, we stumbled upon this temple. Upon noticing it, I immediately informed the district authorities.”

Discovery of Idols in a Well

After the temple reopened, three idols of about four to six inches were discovered while digging a well. Two of these idols appear to be of Goddesses Parvati and Lakshmi. The idols were found in a damaged state by workers during digging, at a depth of 15 to 20 feet. Following the discovery of the idols and the well, the Sambhal administration wrote to the ASI to carry out carbon dating of the shrine.

Significant Location

The temple is located a short distance from the Shahi Jama Masjid. On November 24, four people were killed there due to violence during a protest against a court-ordered survey. During the inspection, the ASI team meticulously observed all aspects and evaluated the historical significance of the temple. This development marks a significant step in understanding the area’s history and culture.

Aakhir Tak – Key Takeaways to Remember

The ASI surveyed the Kartikeya Temple in Sambhal after its reopening after 46 years. Carbon dating was done, and five pilgrimage sites were examined. Idols of Goddesses Parvati and Lakshmi were found in the well at the temple. The temple is situated in a sensitive region with a history of violence.

Aakhir Tak Editor-in-Chief

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