10,000-YO Civilisation In Odisha? ASI Finds Imprints Older Than Mohenjo Daro At Bhimamandali

This news might interest history lovers! The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has begun digging deep at the Bhimamandali mountains in Redakhol, Sambalpur, Odisha. This comes after the discovery of rock-cut paintings and ancient Stone Age tools. The team may succeed in revealing a civilisation dating back up to 10,000 years. Here’s more on this exciting update!

A 10,000-Y-O Civilisation Could Be Uncovered In Odisha

History in the making from Odisha!

Excavations underway may reveal a civilisation dating back up to 10,000 years, possibly older than Mohenjo-daro & Harappa.

The ASI has begun digging at the Bhimmandali mountains, Redakhol (Sambalpur) after discovering rock-cut paintings and… pic.twitter.com/C7GE0gEdYe

— Manas Muduli (@manas_muduli) January 15, 2026

You might be surprised to know that a 10,000-year-old civilisation could be hidden under Odisha. According to a report by NDTV, rock-cut paintings and ancient tools were discovered at the Bhimamandali mountains in Redakhol, Sambalpur district. Researchers at ASI believe these could be imprints of a Stone Age civilisation.

Reportedly, experts suggest that these findings may even predate the Indus Valley Civilisation of Mohenjo-daro and Harappa. Sounds intriguing, right? Local tradition also links the site to the Mahabharata era. However, scientific teams from Gangadhar Meher University and INTACH are focusing on its prehistoric importance. A user on X, @manas_muduli, also shared images showing the ASI team digging at the Bhimamandali mountains. 

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Ancient Stone Arrows, Spears & More Discovered 

Experts believe this revelation could open a new chapter in India’s ancient past. ASI Superintending Archaeologist DB Gadnayak shared with NDTV that the excavation work is extremely delicate. To protect the findings, teams are digging by hand instead of using heavy machinery. The work progresses by barely a centimetre a day.

An ASI team member told NDTV that they have so far recovered fragments of stone arrows, knives, and spears, all clearly ancient. The site features over 45 rock shelters adorned with inscriptions and paintings. Prehistoric artists used natural pigments made from iron oxide mixed with tree bark and leaves. The artwork mostly depicts forest surroundings and daily life, serving as both expression and record of existence.

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We are truly excited to see what the ASI team uncovers next. Imagine new secrets emerging from a 10,000-year-old civilisation in Odisha. History textbooks may soon have a new chapter added!

Cover Image Courtesy: @manas_muduli/X