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Over 15 Ancient Hindu Idols, Including 11 Shivlings, Found During Restoration Work In J&K’s Anantnag

This remarkable discovery has drawn the attention of archaeologists and local communities alike. It has prompted further research into Kashmir’s ancient temple culture and calls for the reconstruction of a temple.

by Mallika Khurana
Over 15 Ancient Hindu Idols, Including 11 Shivlings, Found During Restoration Work In J&K’s Anantnag

In the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir, a collection of ancient Hindu idols and Shivlings thought to be over 2,000 years old has been uncovered. The significant artefacts were discovered during renovations at a religious site known as Karkoot Nag (or Karkut Nag).

Ancient Idols Discovered In J&K’s Anantnag

It all started when the Public Works Department (PWD) began work on restoring a natural spring at the site as part of a larger government project. On Saturday, August 2, while digging, labourers came across something unusual buried beneath the ground. As they dug deeper, they uncovered 15 ancient idols, including 11 Shivlings and a damaged sculpture believed to be part of an old temple pillar, Hindustan Times reported.

It has been estimated that these statues and idols were created between 625 and 855 CE, while the Karkoota dynasty dominated the Kashmir Valley, or perhaps even earlier. This site is already a sacred place for many Kashmiri Pandits. And now, the discovery of these ancient idols in Anantnag also boosts the significance of Karkoot Nag.

Given the sheer number of idols, it is possible that an old temple once stood there or that these holy objects were meticulously preserved and concealed underground during times of war. According to the Hindustan Times reports, a sculpture found at the site shows multiple deities carved together, and experts believe it was once a part of a temple pillar.

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What Will Happen Next?

Soon after the idols were found, officials from the Department of Archives, Archaeology, and Museums visited the site. They have taken steps to send the idols to Srinagar, where they will be studied at the Shri Pratap Singh (SPS) Museum, as per the Hindustan Times reports. Reportedly, experts will conduct material tests and carbon dating on these artefacts. These tests will confirm how old the idols are and offer more information about where they came from.

This discovery has sparked strong feelings among locals, with many in favour of building a new temple at the site. The community leaders echoed the emotion and shared how the ancient roots of the site must be celebrated. This discovery reminds us of the many stories that lie hidden beneath the surface.

Cover Image Courtesy: Ranjan jotshi/X

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First Published: August 03, 2025 3:15 PM