indian archaeology 2006-07

INDIAN ARCHAEOLOGY 2006-07- A REVIEW

PUBLISHED BY THE DIRECTOR GENERAL

ARCHAEOLOGICAL SURVEY OF INDIAJANPATH, NEW DELHI

2016

Chief editor

Rakesh TewariDirector General

Editors

D. N. DimriDirector (Publications)

Jeeban Kumar PatnaikSuperintending Archaeologist (in-charge)

©

2016

ARCHAEOLOGICAL SURVEY OF INDIA

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

Front Back

Front Cover : 1. Exposed remains (Kanthamanenivarigudem); 2. Terracotta snake figurines (Juafardih); 3. Gold coin of Devaraya-II (Daulatabad fort); 4. Pot with graffiti (Sembian Kandiyur)

Back Cover : 1 and 2. Harshnath temple (Sikar), before and after conservation; 3 and 4. Ahmed Shah Wali tomb (Bidar), before and after chemical conservation; 5 and 6. Ancient site (Nagari), before and after landscaping.

Price : ` ......./-

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PREFACE

I am happy to present this issue of Indian Archaeology 2006-07 - A Review, before the scholars and general readers, though belatedly. In order to clear the backlog of the issues of the Review to record the achievements of archaeology of the country, it was decided in the month of July, 2014 to entrust the work to some of the officers of the Survey, who volunteered to take up the editing of the Review. This presentation is the outcome of such painstaking challenging endeavors.

This issue includes information on archaeological research undertaken during the year 2006-07 throughout the country and abroad including explorations, excavations, epigraphy, numismatics, outstanding discoveries, palaeobotany, museums, structural/chemical conservation as well as landscaping work by the Archaeological Survey of India and other organizations. I thank all the contributors and heads of archaeological organizations in States, Universities, Museums and Research Institutes including our own colleagues in the Survey for their cooperation in bringing out this publication in present form. In editing this vast material, some errors might have crept in for which I must tender my apologies. However, in respect of information furnished by the respective contributors, the responsibility lies with them only.

I would be failing in my duty if I do not mention my gratitude to Dr. D.N. Dimri, Director (Publications) and his team in the Publication Section for their positive efforts in bringing out the publication promptly.

I also record my special appreciation to Dr. Jeeban Kumar Patnaik, Superintending Archaeologist (I/C), Excavation Branch-IV, Bhubaneswar as the present task was assigned to him after his successful submission of Indian Archaeology 2012-13 - A Review. He and his staff especially Shri Ajaya Kumar Sasmal and Ms. Barsarani Rout, who have compiled, edited and made it camera ready in a record time deserve my sincerest thanks. Last but not the least, I would like to thank Shri C. Dorje, Former Joint Director General, Archaeological Survey of India for going through the final manuscript and suggesting necessary corrections.

Date:…../…../2016 New Delhi

(Rakesh Tewari)Director General

Archaeological Survey of India

CONTENTS

I. Explorations and Excavations .... .... .... 1

Andhra Pradesh, 1; Arunachal Pradesh, 4; Assam, 4;

Bihar, 6; Chhattisgarh, 28; Goa, 28; Gujarat, 29;

Haryana, 32; Jammu and Kashmir, 38; Jharkhand, 19;

Maharashtra, 40; Meghalaya, 54; Odisha, 55;

Punjab, 88; Rajasthan, 89; Sikkim, 98; Tamilnadu, 100;

Uttarakhand, 120; Uttar Pradesh,122; West Bengal, 133

II. Epigraphy .... .... .... .... 143

Sanskritic and Dravidic Inscriptions, 143

Andhra Pradesh, 143; Jharkhand, 144; Madhya Pradesh, 144;

Odisha, 144; Tamilnadu, 144; Uttar Pradesh, 147;

Arabic and Persian Inscription, 148

Delhi, 148; Madhya Pradesh, 148; Maharashtra, 149;

Uttar Pradesh, 149

III. Numismatics and Treasure Trove 152

IV. Other Important Discoveries 153

Jammu and Kashmir, 153; Jharkhand, 153; Karnataka, 153;

Kerala, 154; Manipur, 159; Rajasthan, 159; Tamilnadu, 159

V. Palaeobotanical and Pollen Analytical Investigations 160

Uttar Pradesh, 160

VI. Museums 162

VII. Architectural Survey .... .... .... 168

Southern Region, 168

VIII. Preservation of Monuments … … … 171

Monuments of National Importance, 171

Aurangabad Circle, 171; Bangalore Circle, 178;

Bhopal Circle, 195; Bhubaneswar Circle, 209; Chandigarh Circle, 228;

Chennai Circle, 230; Dehradun Circle, 233; Dharwad Circle, 239;

.... .... ....

.... .... ....

....

.... .... .... ....

Goa Circle, 254; Guwahati Circle, 257;

Hyderabad Circle, 259; Jaipur Circle, 270; Kolkata Circle, 274;

Lucknow Circle, 280; Mumbai Circle, 281; Patna Circle, 292;

Raipur Circle, 293; Ranchi Circle, 297; Shimla Circle, 297;

Thrissur Circle, 304; Vadodara Circle, 305

IX. Archaeological Chemistry .... .... .... 309

Treatment of Monuments and Paintings, 309

Andhra Pradesh, 309; Assam, 312; Bihar, 312; Chhatisgarh, 313;

Delhi, 314; Goa, 316; Gujarat, 316; Haryana, 318; Himachal Pradesh, 318;

Karnataka, 320; Kerala, 322; Madhya Pradesh, 323;

Maharashtra, 326; Odisha, 328; Punjab, 330; Rajasthan, 331;

Tamilnadu, 332; Uttarakhand, 334; Uttar Pradesh, 335;

West Bengal, 338;

Treatment of Excavated objects and Museum Exhibits, 338;

Research and Analysis, 341

X. Archaeological Gardens .... .... .... 348

Delhi, 348; Gujarat, 348; Haryana, 348; Himachal Pradesh, 349;

Jammu and Kashmir, 349; Punjab, 349; Rajasthan, 350

XI. Publications .... .... .... 358

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EXPLORATIONS AND EXCAVATIONSINDIAN ARCHAEOLOGY 2006-07 - A REVIEW

ANDHRA PRADESH

1. EXCAVATIONS AT BUDDHIST SITE, PHANIGIRI

(V), THIRUMALAGIRI MANDAL, DISTRICT

NALAGONDA

The Department of Archaeology andMuseums, conducted excavations at Buddhistsitess, Phanigiri (V), Thirumalagiri Mandal,Nalagonda District. During the field seasonexcavations were taken up on the south easternside of Mahastupa in order to trace the furthercontinuation of votive stupas. A circular stonevotive stupa and a brick circular votive stupawere exposed. Exterior wall of stupas wereplastered with lime. It appears that the stupa isbuilt with in a square platform demarcated withlime concrete. The core part of stone votiveand brick votive stupas were filled with brickbats and stone pieces, etc. To trace the furthercontinuation of the already exposed viharalocated on the eastern side of monastic complex,diggings are continued. Three cells wereexposed. Lime plaster on the exterior surfaceof brick wall was noticed. Further to trace theextension of these cells of vihara towardsnorthern direction, six trenches were laid andexposed twelve cells. Each cell measures2.40x3.30m with partition of the vihara wascreated by constructing single course of brickwall.

To trace the further continuation ofstone pillared congregation hall located northof Mahastupa, diggings were taken up. Duringthe course of excavations, lime stone pillar

stumps with brick masonry platform are broughtto light. By observing, the above evidences, itappears to be a fortyeight pillared congregationhall. Lime stone alignments in rectangular shapewere exposed around this congregation hall.There is a provision of sockets on the top portionof these lime stone beams so as to fix the wallwith railing. Upright Cuddapah slabs areexposed abutting the alignment at some places.The purpose of these Cuddapah slabs probablymeant for supporting the parapet wall. On thenorth west side of the Mahastupa excavationsbrought to light two square brick structures withmoulded bricks and off-setting. Entrances andpurpose of these two structures is yet to beascertained. Associated with the structuresyielded meagre antiquities such as a decoratedmale head in lime stone, coins of Ikshavakus,iron nails, terracotta beads and lime stone pieceswith two letters in Brahmi characters, a stoneball and early historic pottery datable to 1st-3rd

century CE.

2. EXCAVATIONS AT BUDDHIST SITE,JAGATHIPADU (V), POLAKI MANDAL, DISTRICT

SRIKAKULAM

The Department of Archaeology andMuseums, Andhra Pradesh carried outexcavations at Jagathipadu (180 13’N; 840 15’E)a small village is situated on the left bank ofthe river Vamsadhara in Sirkakulam district ofAndhra Pradesh. It is about 12km fromNarasannapeta town and opposite toSalihundam, a famous Buddhist site in thedistrict. A small modern temple dedicated togod Siva, locally called Jagadeswara temple is

I. EXPLORATIONS AND EXCAVATIONS

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INDIAN ARCHAEOLOGY 2006-07 - A REVIEW

constructed in recent times over the moundwhich disturbed the mound to some extent.

In continuation of last year field season2005-06 on the stupa area to know the planand architectural embellishments, a brickstructure (20.50x1.75m) in fifteen coursesrunning in north south direction was broughtto light. The brick structure is externallydecorated with pilaster motifs. Another brickstructure with decorated with pilaster motifsin equidistance of 1m was brought to light insouth eastern direction having sufficient space,another square brick platform with a waterchannel was also brought to light. It has anabraded Brahmi label inscription reading"Thapa" on localty available khondalite stone.

In continuation of the previous year’sexcavation the western, southern and easternareas of the main elevated mound were takenup with a view to expose the main structure.During this filed season total six trenches werelaid in Div.I and ten trenches excavationsconducted in Div.II.

During this field season lengthy outerwall running in the east-west direction isbrought to light. The bricks were used for theconstruction measures 53x27x8cm,54x28x7cm with four to seven courses ofbricks. Adjacent to this structure, open drain/channel running parallel to this structure wasbrought to light. During the course of diggingin Trench A6 tiled floor with traces of lime wasbrought to light. During the course ofexcavation, three hemispherical mounds on thenorthern side of stupa with traces of brickstructures on the south-eastern portion of thetank locally called as Subhamma Cheruvu haveto be tapped to know their plan, nature andpurpose.

3. EXCAVATION AT KANTHAMANE-NIVARIGUDEM

IN KAMAVARAPUKOTA MANDAL, DISTRICT WEST

GODAVARI

W.V.S. Narasimham, Ch. Babji Rao, A.Suresh, N. Subba Rao, Ch. Vijayanand and K.Veeranjaneyulu under the direction of D.Jithendra Das of Hyderabad Circle of the Ar-chaeological Survey of India1, carried out trialexcavations at Kanthamane-nivarigudem, lo-cated about 45km north-northwest of Eluru, thedistrict headquarters of West Godavari and liesabout 24km west of Tadikelapudi village onEluru-Jangareddygudem state road. The sitewith archaeological remains is situated 2kmwest of the present day settlement at villageKanthamane-nivarigudem (16059.779'N; 810

878'E) and is under cultivation resulting in lev-eling of surface besides partial quarrying of themound for agricultural purpose. Prior to thepresent work, while laying out water pipe lineby the land owner for cultivation, lime stonepillar/slab fragments got accidentally surfacedat the site and attracted the attention of archaeo-logical spade work. One of the lime stone slabsmeasuring 1.13x0.41x0.13m contains a seriesof four small sockets in a circular manner. Thetwo pillar fragments together form one side partof the pillar. It has a half medallion in doublelines with nine petals in the inner row and elevenon the outer row. Below the flower motif is arow of animals showing lion and goat or deer.The pillar fragments measure 1.30x0.20m and0.75x0.20m respectively. After joining themtogether, the total width of pillar is of 0.20m.A fragmentary pillar bears a three lined Brahmiinscription “sa dam he, ga ha pa ti na ni gata na bha ra ya ya ba bha ya sa ju hu tekaya da nam ma ha na ga pa va te ari (ya) sagha sa sa va da khi ni ya nam sa mo ra ne”was also found amongst them.

1Archaeological Survey of India is referred to in the following pages as the Survey only.

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EXPLORATIONS AND EXCAVATIONS

The ancient mound contains about 0.5m to1.5m deposit. Fragments of a life size seatedBuddha figure in red sand stone are noticedmeasuring about 82x60cm, while its thicknessis about 30cm. The figure is badly mutilated.

The prime objective of excavation was toknow the nature of structural remains and theirarchaeological chronology. Trial trench wastaken at the site around the tree covering an areaof about 250m. The cuttings have brought tolight remains of two brick chaityas innorthwest-southeast orientation at a distance of10.40m facing each other; monastic cells tofurther north-west of the chaityas a votive brickstupa and squarish brick platforms, probably thefoundation courses of votive stupas (Pl. 1). Ofthese two chaityas, the eastern chaitya withentrance from its western side is a Buddhachaitya and the western chaitya with anentrance from the east is an apsidal chaitya. TheBuddha chaitya is constructed over a rectangularbrick foundation measuring 10.8x5.2mcontaining six courses. The apsidal chaitya hasan offset at entrance and the curved end oneastern side with a maximum of 10 brickcourses. The apsidal chaitya measures 10m inlength and width of side walls is 1.23m thatbecomes broad and ends with 1.45m at thecurved end. The available height of the structureis 1.2m including the base. A stone step is foundat the entrance. The interior of the chaitya isdivided mainly into two parts of 3.25x2.6m forthe main shrine and 2.65x2.6m space at theentrance, separated by a horizontal brick baseof 1m width, followed by another small wallsof about 0.5m width each marked by a space of0.55m. A small stone (pedestal?) measuring0.38x0.50m is found with in shrine, where theBuddha figure was supposed to be erected.Traces of evidence of brick paved floor havealso been noticed here (Pl. 2).

The exposed remains of stupa chaityawhich is in the same orientation as of Buddhachaitya, measures 10.40x5.75m and thethickness of wall is about 1.25m. The diameterof the base of stupa is 1.30m; it had verticalwall projection on either side to a thickness of0.65m each. At the entrance on the eastern side,it has two uniform rectangular projections onplan and a mini brick base 0.80x0.55m inside.The height of exposed structure is 0.62m withnine brick courses marked by mouldings at thetop. Remains of a brick circular votive stupahave been exposed adjacent to stupa chaityaat the north eastern corner of Trench YA1. Thisstructure has nine brick courses over a squarishbase of two brick courses. It had a moulding atthe top. The total height is 0.70m. Traces oftwo squarish brick platforms measuring1.8x1.8m were unearthed in the Trench XA1.The maximum exposed heights were 0.25m and0.5m with 3 and 7 brick courses respectively.Remains pertaining to a monastery in the formof three brick cells are exposed to furthernorthwest of stupa chaitya. In the absence ofany other material evidence, only onpaleographical and architectural style, theBuddhist establishment at the site can be datedto 2nd-3rd century CE.

The other structural finds of the siteinclude remains of a thoroughly disturbed stonetemple basement of a temple probably of a laterperiod which were unearthed on the northeastern side of the Buddha chaitya. The ceramicevidence from the site comprises red ware,meager percentage of polished red ware andblack and red ware. The principal shapesnoticed are of vase, handi, basin and bowl. Theother important surface finds include a smallstone plaque containing two seated images ofmale and female divinities and a fragment of asmall shell bangle.

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4. EXPLORATION IN DISTRICT EAST SIANG

Exploration was conducted in East Siangdistrict Arunachal Pradesh under the directionof D. Bhengra, Director (Prehistory) assistedby K.M. Girhe, R.K. Dwivedi, N.K. Nimje.Exploration yielded four lower Palaeolithicsites at Bodak (950 16'N; 280 10'E), Pasighat(950 19'N; 280 5'E), Ranighat (Pegging) (950

17'N; 280 8'E) and Yingkiong (950 14'N; 280

29'E).

ASSAM

ARUNACHAL PRADESH cella floor of the garbhagriha. A shortmukhamandapa with a stunted artificialsikhara is raised upon a massive ceiling slabof artistic finish with a blooming lotus, the seedvessel of which bears relief of a figure of flyingvidyadhara. Enormous carving of figures ofgods and goddesses, human, animal, floral andornamental designs is executed in the entiresurface beginning from the basement to thesikhara of the temple. The exterior of thetemple at Deoparvat was ornamented withsculptural representations. Curved panels ofsculptures, friezes, coner pieces, coping piecesfrom torana, pillar capital, door jamb, seriesof gajathara, vidyadhara, geometrical andfloral carvings, sculptural depictions of scenesfrom the epics Ramayana, Mahabharata,mythological episodes, kala-makara have beenfound very elegant. The sculptures have beencarved with flat nose, eyes, lips in a taperingface, which represents the nativephysiognomical features. Tall decoratedmukuta, large round patrakundalas in ears,attenuated waist, bulging breasts and hips,wearing of sophisticated dress, costumes,ornaments, depiction of sculptures in profileview, bearded chin of some human figures,carving of grotesque and animal figures toexposed salient features of Deoparvat Schoolof Art.

Scholars try to link up the kala-makarafrom the four cardinal points of the temple, nowlying in the site with temple architectural planfound at Java in South-east Asia as reported in(Annual Report, ASI 1936-37, p.58). Yet aremote influence of central Indian art speciallyfrom art of Bharhut at Deoparvat cannot beruled out. But the artists at Deoparvat generateda local art style enriched with regional featurewhich is unique in Assam.

Art work of kala-makara, kirttimukhadoorframes, flying vidyadhara, gajathara,scenes from the epics of Ramayana,

5. ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE DEOPARVAT,NUMALIGARH, DISTRICT GOLAGHAT

The Directorate of Archaeology, Assam ex-posed the stone temple plinth located atDeoparvat, Numaligarh in district Golaghatjointly under the direction by H.N. Dutta andRanjana Sharma. Systematic removal of the rel-ics of the mound 3m in height exposed thestone basement or adhisthana of a temple, laidupon on a stone platform measuring10.70x9.40x0.40m. The basement of the stonetemple exposed upon the stone platform is32.5m in diameter and 2.55m in height. Thebasement of the stone temple between the stoneplatform at bottom and the cella floor of thegarbhagriha atop is endowed with several se-ries of sculptures of human, animal and floraldesigns in the entire circumference, all sym-metrically arranged in a horizontal manner insuperb artistic finish. Stylistically, the groundplan of the temple has a circumferentialgarbhagriha with a short mukhamandapa.

The exposed ground plan of the temple atDeoparvat is unique and first of its kind inAssam.

Laid in circular ground plan upon whicha monolithic platform is built with a raised

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Mahabharata, Bhagavat purana and many suchother non-iconic art work as lotus, headhunting scene, rhinoceros, and other floralgeometrical carvings bear significant trace ofthe local art style developed at Deoparvat inAssam datable to c. 1100 C.E.

6. SCIENTIFIC CLEARANCE AT MADAN KAMDEV

ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE, DISTRICT KAMRUP

Madan Kamdev archaeological site issituated (920 30'N; 260 15'E) in North Guwahatinear Baihata Chariali at a distance of about35km from Guwahati city. The site has ruinsof thirteen stone temple plinths in east-westdirection. The main temple enshrines a figureof seated Siva and Parvati in alingana posture.

During scientific exposition of the stonetemple plinths at Madan Kamdevarchaeological site was taken up by H. N. Dutta,Director Assam State Archaeology. Twelvestone temple plinths have been exposed byremoving grass and weeds. Out of these, thework of six stone temple plinths have been setto their original layout by following methodsof systematic exposition and restoration as perthe original. All the stone components of thesix temple plinths lying scattered in and aroundhave been brought back and set to the plinthsas per the original.

The plinth 1 measuring 1.98x2.27x10m insouth eastern section was unearthed byremoving displaced stone boulders forexposition of the plinth. Its south-westernsection 1.85x0.68x50m was exposed byremoving soil from its surface. In west, betweenplinth 1 and 2 evidence of a brick floormeasuring 66x52x0.04m was exposed.Resetting of the plinth 1 measuring9.75x1.80x50m was done by maintainingoriginal alignment of the temple plinth. Theplinth 2 measures 1.96x2.44x28m. Thedisplaced stone sculptures have been removedand resetting of the plinth of garbhagriha of

the stone temple done measuring1.96x2.44x28m. Resetting of the mandapameasuring 3.50x3.26x28m was done as peroriginal. The plinth 3 measuring 6.60x29x60mwas exposed in west. The exposed northernpart of the temple plinth was also set toalignment and it measures 7.20x1.85x40m.Trees on the stone temple plinth 4 and displacedstone boulders were removed to expose theouter alignment. Displaced stone sculpturesof the east facing temple were removed and wasset in their proper alignment. It measures6.35x4.64x40m.

Displaced stone sculptures of temple 6were removed and resetting was done. Itmeasures 4.85x4.50x45m. The stone plinth 7was exposed by removing soil and displacedstone sculptures. The yonipitha of thegarbhagriha of the temple plinth was laid intothe original position along with its pranala.Theexposed stone temple plinth measures4.45x4.40x30cm. Further the stone templeplinth 8 measures 5.08x 4.82x0.10cm andstone temple plinth 9 measures4.75x3.42x0.12m, plinth 10 measures5.75x5.75x0.15m and stone temple plinth 11measures 15.20x10.50x30m. Plinth 12measures 16.10x10.5x30m were exposed.

Evidence of a brick floor measuring 4.70min length 2.70m in width exposed in northernside of the plinth with two brick courses.Besides another brick course was exposed insouth eastern corner measuring0.72x0.41x18m. Evidence of brick floor wasalso exposed in south-western corner. Itmeasures 2x1.65x0.17m. The exposition ofevidence of brick floor implies that each of thestone temple plinth is surrounded by a brickfloor which might be served as apron of thetemple as floor around the temple complex. Theruins of the stone temple plinths are datable to11th-12th century CE.

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BIHAR

7. EXCAVATION AT JUAFARDIH, DISTRICT

NALANDA

The Excavation Branch-III, Patna of theSurvey, under the direction of S.C.Saran, as-sisted by N.G. Nikoshey, Sujeet Nayan, JalajKumar Tiwari, Abdul Arif, Neetesh Saxena,O.P. Pandey, S.P. Gupta, M.K. Bramhachariand Dhananjay Kumar conducted excavationat Juafardih (25° 08'N; 85° 25'E) situatedabout 3km west of the ruins of Nalanda Uni-versity.

The mound roughly measured1.05x1.00m with a height of about 10msituated in the western side of the villageJuafardih was divided into grid pattern andaltogether thirty trenches were taken forexcavation. A preliminary study of the siterevealed the cultural sequence of the followingperiods (Pls. 3-4).

Period I : Chalcolithic

Period II : Northern Black Polished Ware(NBPW)

Period III : Post-NBPW (Sunga to Post-Gupta period) (Fig. 1)

No structural remains of Period I werefound. A separate horizon of this period wasnoticed only in the square ZA over the naturalsoil. The 52cm thick deposit contained

During exposition work, evidence ofstone temple plinths with beki, gajavyalas,yonipitha, and ceiling slab and stone templerelics were found at a distance of 200m innorthern side of the stone temple plinth 12 inMadan Kamdev Reserve Forest area. It needspreservation protection and further expositionof the temple ruins.

potsherds of Chalcolithic black and red ware,black slipped ware and red ware. Bowls, dishesand vases are the common shapes of this period.Due to limited scope of excavation, no antiquitywas found. Period II had a total deposit of10.61m including the height of mud stupa. Thetotal habitational deposit of Period II was 3.44m(excluding the packing of mud stupa). In thePeriod II at the NBPW level in the trenches, agood number of wattle and daub impressedburnt clay pieces have been encountered in theLayers 6, 7, and 8. It indicates the structuralactivities of the NBPW period. Someconsecutive floors with postholes are alsonoticed in the Trenches in the Layers 6, 7, 8 and9. In this period, ceramic industries marked withlustrous polished pottery popularly known asNBPW. The NBPW of this period are very finefabric with thin section. Other ceramicassemblages are black slipped ware, red slippedware, red ware and grey ware (Figs. 2-4).

It was observed that an area of about80x80m at Layer 5 was leveled and a 5cm to12cm of fine riverine sand was spread all overwhich most possibly represented the base of theearliest mud stupa in three successive phases.In the phase I, the mud stupa was erected on asolid circular base by piling up natural earthdug up from the surrounding area. Themaximum diameter of the tumulus was 9.80mwith a maximum height of 0.97m. Stupa wasfurther raised upto the height of 1.45m in thesecond phase and diameter of the stupa was alsoenlarged. In the phase III, the height of the stupawas further raised to 4.65m and the diameterof the tumulus was enlarged and measuringabout 63m during Period II. The mud stupa wasencased with brick masonry set mud mortarduring Period III (Pls. 5-6). The maximumwidth of the encasing was 6m enlarging thestupa to a diameter of 77m. The evidence ofpradakshinapatha around the stupa at groundlevel was also encountered during excavations.

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This additional pradakshinapatha was restingover a compact mud platform and was havingsix courses. The width of thepradakshinapatha was 7m. The secondpradakshinapatha was most possibly addedto the stupa to arrest possible erosion and allowdevotees to have circumambulation at a higherlevel. The remnants of third pradakshinapathawere also noticed at further height, much closerto the center of the stupa. This upper-mostpradakshinapatha was single coursed and waslaid over a compact mud platform having aheight of 0.60m with width of 3m. The bricksused in the encasing of mud stupa measured37x28x7/8cm, 36x27x7/8cm, 35x25x6cm.Mud was used as chief binding material,sometimes mixed with tiny potsherds as mortar(Pls. 7-8).

Period III is represented by 2.04m thickof red ware occupational deposit. The potteriesof this period are characterized by theoccurrence of red ware, dull red ware and redslipped ware. From Layer 1 to 5 the discoveredpotsherds have mixed in nature. A few shredsof black and red ware, huge amount of NBPW,and grey ware found at together (Figs. 5-8).

The excavation has yielded a totalnumber of six hundred eighty six antiquitiesincluding five hundred fifty four terracotta, fiftyfour stone, thirteen bone, seventeen copper,thirty seven iron, eight glass and a solitary silverobject. Terracotta objects include human,animal and snake figurines (Pls. 9-10), beadshopscotches, wheels, gamesman, toy discs,discs, crucible, dabber, net sinkers, etc.fragments of arrow heads, daggers, knives, axes,chisels, sickles, hoe made of iron were alsofound (Pls. 11-12). Among the copper objectsbangles, antimony rods, coins are noteworthy.Points, discs, wheel and bone made of combswere also discovered (Pls. 13-14). Beads ofsemi-precious stone (Pl. 15), quern, pestles,

sling balls, caskets and tool sharpeners are theother stone objects (Pl. 16). Gadhaiya silvercoin and inscribed hopscotch with Brahmiletters “MUGA” on obverse and “VA or MA”on reverse are the other noteworthy findings(Pl. 17).

A good quantity of palaeobotanicalsamples were collected by using flotationtechnique at Juafardih, under the guidance ofM.D. Kajale and S.S. Naik of the Departmentof Archaeology, Deccan College Post GraduateResearch Institute, Pune. The preliminaryreport gave a fair idea of the agriculturepractices during Period I and Period II. Theplant species identified were mainly cereals andpulses. The palaeobotanical evidences are asfollows: Wheat: Triticum spp. (Triticumvulgare/aestivum type), Rice: Oryza sp. (ofsativa Linn.) three morphotypes, Barley:Hordeum vulgare Linn, Moong Bean: Vignaradiate (L.) Wilcz., Common Pea: Pisumarvense Linn., Gram: Circer aretinum Linn.

On the basis of charcoal samplesanalysed by Birbal Sahni Institute ofPelaeobotany (BSIP), Lucknow the first, secondand third phases of mud stupa could safely bedated between circa 600-400 CE which restsover Layer 5 as the calibrated date for the samplecollected from Layer 6 has given a date of 1002CE (i.e. 2850+80 B.P.). It is clarified that nocharcoal either from the first or second phaseof mud stupa was found from the excavations.The date suggested for the Period III of stupaby BSIP is circa 100BCE to 100 CE. It mayhence be observed that the ancient site ofJuafardih was inhabited sometime duringChalcolithic period, which on the basis of radiocarbon dates as obtained from four samplescould be safely date between circa 1600-1200BCE. Significantly, the occupationallevels did not yield even a solitary sherd ofNBPW. Period II has a rich deposit of 10.60m,

8


has so far dated the beginning of NBPW as earlyas circa 1200BCE it is interesting to bring forththat there are not one or two but all-togetherfour C14 dates which have given early datesfor NBPW levels. It is further pointed out thatthese four dates have come from Layers 8,7and 6 which belong to middle phase of theNBPW of Period II. Unfortunately no charcoalsample could be collected from Layers 12, 11and 10 belonging to early phase of Period II.However, Layers 13, the uppermost deposit ofPeriod I, has provided a C14 date of 1354BCEit may thus be seen that the C14 dates of PeriodI and II are consistent and justifiably indicatethat the conventional date bracket for NBPWrequires a fresh review at least for the sites inMagadh region.(See Chart-I)

including the height of mud stupa (phases I, IIand III) i.e., 7.17m which predominantly yieldedblack and red, black slipped, grey, NBPW andred wares. BSIP on the basis of samplesobtained from Layers 8,7 and 6 (all belongingto middle phase) has suggested a long datebracket of 900BCE to 600BCE. Since theearliest stupa was raised over the habitationaldeposit of Layer 5 of Period II, its initialconstruction has reasonably been dated to about6th-5th century BCE the most outstandingcontribution of the excavation of Juafardih isthe early date for Period II (NBPW) which goesas early as circa 1200BCE, a fact which maysurprise many scholars. Although many havebeen thinking that dating NBPW levels inMagadh region as late as 600BCEconventionally, need to be re-examined but none

Sample No.Depth (C.M.)

Layer B. S. No. Age of the sample based onthe value of half life

4470#30yrs.

Calibrated age

3527, JFD-54.36 M

13 2705 3100 + 110 (B.P.) 1354 CE

3528, JFD-32.25-2.28 M

8 2706 3010 + 90 (B.P.) 1259 CE

3529, JFD-22.05 M

7 2707 3280 + 90 (B.P.) 1562 CE

3525, JFD-62.7-3.26 M

6 2703 2850 + 80 (B.P.) 1002 CE

3526, JFD-82.15 M

8 2704 2740 + 100 (B.P.) 857 CE

CHART - I

9


Plates 1-2

2Kanthamanenivarigudem: general view of the exposed structures, See p. 3

1

10


8. SCIENTIFIC CLEARANCE WORK OF RAJA

BALI-KA-GARH AT BALIRAJGARH, DISTRICT

MADHUBANI

Patna Circle of the Survey under theguidance of P.K.Mishra with the assistance ofB.Gartia carried out scientific clearance workof the site with the objective to examine thenature of corners of the fortification wall.Accordingly the work was started at the south-eastern corner of the site and extended towardsthe eastern arm of the fortification wall. As aresult the remains of wall at south-easterncorner has been exposed on the exterior side.It is made of burnt bricks and laid on mudmortar. Each course of bricks are arranged indiminishing order towards its core. Altogetherthe available courses of bricks are 25 innumber. At the lower part of the wall the bricksize is 47 x 24 x 7cm; whereas at the upperpart it is 48 x 22 x 6cm., and 34 x 24 x 8cm.This wall is found to be surmounted by a brickplatform with the remains of 12 courses ofbricks. The size of the bricks are 29 x 23 x 7cm and 40 x 20 x 8cm. The section of thisstructure is straight sided and its characteristicsuggests about probable existence of a watchtower. The extant height of the structuremeasures from the ground level as 4.15m.

9. SCIENTIFIC CLEARANCE WORK AT NALANDA,DISTRICT NALANDA

With an objective to remove theunwanted debris for ensuring clear visibilityof the temple at Sarai Mound, scientificclearance work has been conducted by PatnaCircle of the Survey under the guidance ofP.K.Mishra assisted by K.C. Srivastava andRadha Kisto. Site of the Sarai mound has beentaken up for operation. The area about1200sqm to a maximum depth of one m. hasbeen cleared so far. During the clearance,remnants of a brick wall having the width of

1.55m running east-west was exposed. Thebrick used in the wall are measuring 36 x 28 x6cm. In addition to this a bricks lined wellhaving external and internal dia. of 2.20m and1.05m respectively also brought to light.Mention may also be made of remains of fewplatforms and other minor structures whichwere encountered during the clearance work. Agood number of vases kept in situ and a drainrunning north-south indicate the working levelof the structure. The working level and thestructures are extending beyond the area ofoperation and are likely to continue further. Thepresent clearance work has revealed theevidence of two enclosure walls all around thetemple.

10. SCIENTIFIC CLEARANCE WORK AT RUINED

FORTRESS OF CHANKIGARH, CHANKI, DISTRICT

WEST CHAMPARAN

P.K. Mishra assisted by P.K. Mukherjiand Aftab Hussain of Patna Circle of the Surveyconducted scientific clearance work at RuinedFortress of Chankigarh. The huge mound seems"L" shaped. The longer arm being indicated bythe lofty main ridge, running east to west andshowing traces of massive brick structures atits sides. The shorter arm is a continuation ofthe main ridge from its eastern end towards thesouth where, after a short distance it turns tothe west in a gradual slope meeting with theground level. Hence, the present work wasinitiated with a view to know the nature ofstructure underneath it. Accordingly thestructure identified as remnants of a ramp ineast-west orientation has been brought intolight. The ramp was constructed of burnt bricksand bonded in mud mortar. It is interesting thatthe bricks used in the ramp were all square inshape and measure 32 x 32 x 7cm.

11


Fig.1: Juafardih: excavated section showing succesive periods. See p.6

12


Fig. 2: Juafardih: NBPW and othe associated pottery. See p.6

13


Fig.3: Juafardih: NBPW and other associated vases. See p.6

14


Fig.4: Juafardih: NBPW and other associated potteries. See p.6

15


Fig. 5: Juafardih: NBPWares. See p.7

16


Fig. 6: Juafardih: Black and red ware and grey ware. See p.7

17


Fig. 7: Juafardih: Black and red ware. See p.7

18


Fig. 8: Juafardih: Grey ware. See p.7

19


Plates 3-4

4Juafardih: 3 and 5, general view of tank and stupa mound before excavation. See p. 6

3

20


Plates 5-6

6Juafardih: 5 and 6, general view of stupa mound during excavation and rammed flooring, paved brick-bats

pradakshinapatha of stupa, Period III. See p. 6

5

21


Plates 7-8

8Juafardih: 7 and 8, brick paved pradakshinapatha of stupa and burnt-brick encasing wall of stupa Period III,

See p. 7

7

22


10Juafardih: 9 and 10, terracotta human head and other objects, Period III. See p. 7

9

Plates 9-10

23


12Juafardih: 11 and 12; iron objects, Period II and III. See p. 7

11

Plates 11-12

24


14Juafardih: 13, decorated bone comb, Period III and 14, bone points, Period II and III. See p. 7

13

Plates 13-14

25


Plates 15-16

16Juafardih: 15, semiprecious stone beads and 16, stone objects, Period II, and III. See p. 7

15

26


Juafardih: 17, inscribed hopscotch MUGA on obverse amd MA or VA on reverse. See p. 7

Plate 17

11. EXPLORATION IN DISTRICT NALANDA,SAHARSA AND MADHEPURA

Patna Circle of the Survey under the guid-ance of P. K. Mishra assisted by S. K. Ghosal,B. Gartia, Aftab Hussain, J. Bandyopadhyay and

K. K. Jha conducted exploration to assess thearchaeological significance of the sites. A listof explored sites with their cultural assemblageis as follows: (see Chart-II)

Tehsil Village/Site Nature of remains

Nalanda Jagdishpur(25° 8' N; 85° 27' E)

The mound locally called as Garhpar measuringabout 75x75m with a height of 5m represents el-evated portion at top four corners. It is tentativelyidentified as the remains of bastions. The potsherdscame into notice during the exploration include redware, black slipped ware and NBPW.

CHART-II

27


Saharsa Devna(25° 52' N; 86° 34' E)

Red ware pottery was brought to notice over anancient mound which measures 20m in radiusapproximately. The maximum height is about 3m.

Saharsa Kantho A temple dedicated to Lord Siva is standing on anancient mound. Few architectural members, red warepotsherds and remains of a terracotta ring well datedto circa 10th-11th century CE have been noticed.

Saharsa Chainpur Beautifully carved image of Visnu and Surya areinstalled in Nilakantha dham temple. These arecarved out in black basalt stone and may be dated to10th-11th century CE.

Saharsa Mahisi(25° 51' N; 86° 28' E)

The sculpture of Ugratara attended by Ekajata andNila Saraswati on either side has been found in thesanctum of the temple at Tarasthan. Besides, thefragments of stone sculptures like image of Buddhain reclining posture, image of Buddha inbhumisparsamudra and Siva-linga have beenfound. All the sculptures are carved out in blackbasalt stone and ascribable to 10th-11th century CE.

Saharsa Mahisi(25° 51' N; 86° 28'E)

The mound known as Mandan Mishra dham havingan area of 60x60m with a maximum deposit of aboutlm to 1.25m is strewn over with red ware pottery.According to local hearsays, it is the probable spotwhere the philosophical discussion between MandanMishra and guru Shankaracharya was taken place.

Saharsa Devna(25° 52' N; 86° 34' E)

Baneshwar temple enshrining one Siva-linga at thesanctum has been dated to 16th-17th century CE. Onits periphery, fragments of stone doorjamb and pillarshave also been observed. A stone pranala dated to4th-5th century CE has been noticed at Bandurgatemple near it.


28


Saharsa Bangaon(25° 52' N; 86° 31' E)

Two numbers of temple such as Bhagwatisthan andLaxmeshwarnath temple dedicated to goddess Kaliand Lord Siva respectively have been found. Theformer has a curvilinear spire while the latter one ispyramidal in shape. Both the temples may be dat-able to late medieval period.


Madhepura Singheswarshtan(25° 59' N; 86° 48' E)

The temple of Singheswarsthan is enshrined with aSiva-linga. The pyramidal spire is resting on anoctagonal base. The gateways and entrance of thesanctum are decorated with the depiction of foliageand various divine figures. On its stylistic ground,it may be datable to late medieval period.

CHHATTISGARH

12. SCIENTIFIC CLEARANCE WORK AT TIVARA

DEV VIHARA, SIRPUR, DISTRICT MAHASAMUND

Scientific clearance in front of the gatewayof Tivara deva monastery at the centrally pro-tected site of Sirpur was undertaken by A.K.Shrama and C.L.N. Shastry of the Raipir Circleof the Survey with the objective to expose theburied archaeological remains. During thecourse of scientific clearance remnants of astaircase measuring 7.60x4.00m constructed ofschist stone along with a stone pavement havebeen exposed. A flight of five steps leading tothe gate of the monastery from the exposedstone paved structure on eastern side has beennoticed. The flooring on the western part wasfound heavily damaged.

GOA

13. EXCAVATION AT CHURCH OF ST. AUGUST-INE, OLD GOA, DISTRICT NORTH GOA

In continuation of previous year’s excava-tion the Goa Circle of the Survey has carriedout further excavation at St. Augustine underthe direction of N. Taher assisted by AbhijitAmbekar and G. L. Gaikwad. This season’s ex-cavation was initiated with a working hypoth-esis that the ruins of the church complex situ-ated on the holy hill must have had a frontalapproach beneath the accumulated debris ofprevious year excavation within the St. Augus-tine complex. Hence the debris was removedfrom a corner in close proximity of the entranceto the convent along the boundary wall and ex-cavation was conducted with differential depthfrom 0.50m to 4.00m.

29


GUJARAT

As presumed, steps constructed in lateriteblocks were encountered running in east-westorientation having a width of approximately45cm. The next flight of steps continued after10m in a descending fashion following thecontour of the slope of the hill on which thecomplex is situated. The remaining stepsencountered were highly disturbed and out ofalignment keeping with the view that much ofthe building material was either auctioned offwhen the new capital was being constructed atPanaji or were later pilferaged from the site.However, the partial evidence has confirmed theassumption and accordingly an animatedconjectural view has been prepared drawingparallel from the remains at other sites in closevicinity i.e., Our Lady of the Mount and Crossof Miracles.

Patel, R. Meena, S. Meena, H.Seth, A. Hussain,K.P. Singh, S. Vyas, B. Varhat, A. Sarcar and A.Reddy. The mound at Kanmer is roughlysquarish (115m x 105m) on plan and suddenlyrises up to a height of about eight meters fromthe ground level (i.e., 20m above the mean sealevel). Large stone blocks and some stonealignments were visible on the eastern marginof the site, whereas the western and south-eastern slopes were littered with huge boulders.The mound has a shallow depression on top.

A few trenches were laid in the northeastern corner of the main mound to understandthe history nature of the fortification wall.Among these the outer one or addition wasexposed up to a length of 14.30m whereas theinner one up to a length of 10.80m wasexposed. However, the north-eastern corner hassurvived only up to a maximum height of 1.70m. The inner face or the original wall was madeof better dressed stones compared to the outerones. Both of them were raised right on thenatural soil (brown sandy clay). The total widthof wall was measured about 18m in the middlelevel. Similar addition was also identified inthe eastern arm of the fort, which join to theaddition of the northern arm at north easterncorner.

A few trenches were also laid in the northwestern corner to understand the nature ofbastion, if any, in the fort wall. In course of theexcavation the outer arm could be partiallyexposed up to a length of 10.20m and at thecorner (joining of northern and western arm)unfortunately only lower most coarse of theouter arm was found surviving. It was raisedright on the bed rock at a depth of 1.70m fromsurface (9.50m from datum point). Thewestern outer arm, oriented roughly (north tosouth), was exposed for a distance of 9.60m.These faces have survived up to a height of3.30m and form an obtuse angle. While cutting

14. EXCAVATION AT KANMER, DISTRICT

KACHCHH

In continuation of previous year’sexcavtion at Kanmer (23° 23'N; 70° 52'E)further excavation under the direction of J.S. Kharakwal and Y.S. Rawat and ToshikiOsada was taken up in order to understandthe nature and history of fort wall, the latephase of Harappan settlement or LateHarappan deposit, to enquire if there is anylower town to undertake site catchmentanalysis and to train young students in fieldarchaeology.

The various scholars both from India andJapan also participated in the excavation suchas D.P. Agrawal, M.D. Kajale, Anil Pokharia,Shahida Ansari, Manikant Shah, Pankaj Goyal,Takao Uno, K. Saito, H. Teramura, A. Uesugi,K. Miyahara, Y. Kondo, Sanjeev Kataria, L.C.

30


down the deposit against the fort wall lances ofsorted sand and rounded boulders were alsofound at the lower level. It was found that theinner face has survived up to a much higherlevel compared to the outer one or addition. Incase of northern arm the gap between additionand outer arm gradually decreases from westto east and the maximum gap was measuredabout 1.50m. On the other hand, the southernouter area was exposed up to a length of12.20m close to the south eastern corner. Herethe gap between the outer area and additionvaries from 80cm to 2.06m. This kind ofsituation in northern and outer arm leads us tothink if there was a slight change in orientation.Large dumping of ash, sometimes mixed withsoil and other garbage, was found all alongnorthern and eastern outer arm. It appeared thatthis garbage was thrown from top when peoplewere living on the upper level.

The eastern outer arm of the fort hassurvived much better than any other wall. Toconfirm the additions and nature of outer walland to confirm deposit outside the main mounda few trenches were selected on the easternslope. The outer arm was exposed just belowthe humus zone whereas the addition wasexposed at a depth of 1.60m from surface. Theouter arm was found made of better dressedlarge stone blocks compared to the addition.Like the northern slope a huge quantity of ashdumping was noticed in this area along theeastern wall. At the termination of the moundwas found a circular stone alignment of stonesat a depth of 40cm from surface. This alignment(diameter 3.40m) was discovered in the easternhalf of JJ20 and it was sealed by Layer 2 i.e.,Historic deposit. Along with the alignment wasfound rolled Harappan pottery.

Another cutting, close to the south easterncorner was undertaken to enquire if any externalbastion exists in the fort wall. It was found that

14 courses of addition have survived with a totalheight of 3.77m. It also rests on a very thickbed of brown clayey sand locally known as lilva.Perhaps this battering was a support to theoriginal wall. Against this face was found rolledLate Harppan material mixed with historicpottery. The historic pottery however graduallydisappeared at the lower level. It was noticedthat the south eastern corner of the fort wallhas been dug out by the villagers while diggingfor a well.

In the south eastern area, it was foundmore or less parallel to the inner arm (southernwall) of the fort and was erected 1.50m offthe wall. As many as three rooms of a structuralcomplex were partially exposed. They weresealed by dark greyish soil, which representsbreak between the Harappan and the Historicdeposit. One of these rooms yielded threesuccessive floor levels and a hearth. Also wasfound Ahar type white painted black and redware, Sorath Harappan elements. A flimsystructure located right on the fort wall yieldeda small bulbous red ware pot with a hoard ofsteatite beads (11,707).

Period I was mainly identified on the basisof bichrome and polychrome red ware, coarsered, cream slipped, red slipped and un-slippedexposed in a very small area in the first fieldseason. Many of the bichrome design patternsor shapes are identical to Anarta or Padriassemblage. With the presence of Harappanfossils in this assemblage and absence ofcharacteristic ‘S’ shaped or perforated jars,terracotta cakes, weights or beads of typicalHarappan types have tentatively identified thisphase as Early Harappan.

Period II, the site was represented by thefortification, structures associated with urbanHarappan pottery. This deposit has been furthersub-divided into KMR IIa and IIb on the basisof introduction of white painted black and red

31


ware and Sorath elements at the site. It has largenumber of minor objects.

Period III, the ceramic assemblagediscovered from the upper levels of theHarappan deposit has a very distinct feature.The entire assemblage on the whole appearsocherous compared to rest of the material. Ofcourse Harappan shapes continue but gradualchange in their shapes and sharp difference insurface treatment and decoration pattern isvisible. This deposit has been tentativelyidentified as Late Harappan.

This Period IV, historical deposit wasmarked by residential stone structures, redpolished ware, Rang Mahal type red ware,amphorae, large number of iron objects andBrahmi seal impressions (datable to the earlycenturies of the Christian Era).

Period V is represented by medievalremains at the site. A few medieval stonealignments, visible on the surface and belongingto the medieval phase, were identified on theperipheral region of the main mound. Althougha few fragments of medieval red ware werefound in Layers 2 and 3 in the central part(Trench Y30).

The faunal analysis was carried out by P.P.Joglekar and Pankaj Goyal of Deccan College,Pune. Though faunal remains were recoveredfrom almost all the trenches, they were notevenly distributed. In most of the trenches boneswere encrusted with soil, but they were able toidentify cut marks on bones and charred bonesin some cases.

They have identified several animal taxa,which include mammals, birds, fish, reptilesand molluscan species. Among the domesticanimals, cattle, buffalo, sheep, goat, pig andhorse were identified. More than a dozen wildanimals were identified in the collection,

including the nilgai, antelopes, deer, carnivoresand rodents.

In the Historic phase seven domesticmammals cattle, buffalo, goat, sheep, pig, dog,and the cat have been identified. Discovery ofcharred bones of buffaloes suggest that theymay have been consumed during this phase.Bones of wild-mammals include antelopes(Gcizellci bennetti, Antilope cervicciprci andTetracerus quadricornis), deer (Axis axis)and birds and reptiles were also identified.

In KMR Period III (Harappan phase)domestic animals predominate like othercultural phases at the site. Among the domesticanimals (cattle, buffalo, sheep and goat) thecattle and buffalo constitute a majority and manyof them bear cut marks or are chainedsuggesting that these were consumed. The wildanimals such as bovid, wild pig, antelopes, deer,carnivores and small mammals like hare androdents have been identified. However, in theMature Harappan phase 96% faunal remainsbelong to cattle and buffalo, followed by sheepand goat. Among the wild animals nilgai, four-horned antelope, a suidae species and theporcupine were identified.

Thus as many as twenty-five species wereidentified, out of which the domestic mammalswere represented by eight species (cattle,buffalo, sheep, goat, pig, dog, cat and horse)wild mammals were represented by 14 species(nilgai, wild pig, antelopes (blackbuck,chinkara and four-horned antelope), deer(sambar, chital, and mouse deer), a felidspecies, porcupine, hare and rodents (house ratand desert rat). Besides these, a few birds,reptiles, fish and shells were also identified.Evidence of charring, butchering and cut markshas been found on a large number of boneswhich indicate that these animals may have beenpart of their diet. Some of the bones of cattle/

32


HARYANA

Sarkar, Anjana Reddy, Neha Kothari, BratateeBarman, Vivek Dangi and Appu Singh. M. D.Kajale and S. K. Saraswat visited the site forpalaeobotanical studies. Parts of the districtsof Hanumangarh and Ganganagar of Rajasthanand Rohtak and Bhiwani of Haryana were ex-tensively and intensively surveyed. During thecourse of survey, twenty five sites particularlypre/early Harappan, mature Harappan and lateHarappan were visited. Most of the sites vis-ited by the team were already discovered ear-lier. However, detailed surface recording andcollection of systematic sampling was donein order to put these sites in proper chrono-logical order.

Besides, the sites of Girawad (Rohtakdistrict), Farmana (Rohtak district) andMitathal (Bhiwani district), were selected forexcavation with the following aims andobjectives:

To understand the spread and settlementpattern of the pre and early Harappan culturesin the Ghaggar basin, to reconstruct the ofholocene climatic sequence and study impactof climatic fluctuations on the origin anddevelopment of human cultures in the studyarea, to understand regional variations of theHarappan culture in the Ghaggar basin andstudy the role of the regional cultures in thedevelopment of the Harappan elements in thisregion, to study cultural process from the earlyto the late phases of the Harappan culture, andto study socio-economic organizations of theHarappans in this region.

To identify the linear pattern ofdistribution of archaeological sites in Ghaggarand Chautang river banks, different regionalcentres farming villages industrial site on thebasis of their locations, dimensions, durationof their occupation and to study ofsurrounding ecological conditions. During thecourse of exploration in Rohtak district, a

buffalo and sheep/goat were fire hardened andit is likely that they may have been used as tools.

In order to understand subsistence of theHarappans, Ami K. Pokhari of Birbal SahniInstitute of Palaeobotany, Lucknowpalaeobotanical remains at the site. He hasidentified remains of Jowar-millet (Sorghumbicolor), Pearl-millet (Pennisetum typhoides),sesame (Sesamum indicum), and horse-gram(Macrotyloma uniflorum). Remains of weedsand other wild taxa were also encounteredreflecting the ecological conditions and groundvegetation.

Among the important minor objectsHarappan weights, beads of terracotta, steatite,faience, carnelian, agate, terracotta cakes, beadblanks, blades of Rohri chert and local chertand agate, iron objects like nails, knifefragments and shell bangles were discovered.

15. EXPLORATION IN DISTRICT ANAND

Smt. Shubhra Pramanik assisted by ShriBipin Chandra explored the area mostly on thebanks of the sea shore in Khambhat taluk ofAnand district. Medieval step-well has beenlocated at Dnovaran (220 21'N; 720 40'E) andHistorical well and Medieval ruined temple atBadaipur (220 23'N; 720 46'E).

16. EXPLORATION IN THE GHAGGAR BASIN AND

EXCAVATIONS AT GIRAWAD, FARMANA AND

MITATHAL, IN DISTRICTS OF ROTHAK AND

BHIWANI

Exploration carried out in Haryana andRohtak under the direction of V. Shinde ofDeccan College in collaboration with M.M.Sharma of M.D. University, Rohtak assistedby Vinay Rao, V.G.Vishwas Rao, PramodShirvalkar, Amol Kulkarni, S. K. Salim, Amrita

33


large scale disturbance of sites was noticed;mention should be made of three sites, namelyGirawad, Farmana and Mitathal where thehabitation deposit was being lifted by the peoplefor various reasons. Rescue excavation workwas therefore undertaken immediately at thesesites.

The site of Girawad (280 58' 41"N; 760

28' 47"E), one of the important early Harappansites was selected for excavation mainly tosalvage the remains, which otherwise wouldhave been lost forever. The ancient site knownas Kheri lies roughly 3.5km to the east of thepresent village Girawad. The ancient site,circular on plan is an extensive early Harappansite spread over an area of roughly 8 hectares.A metal road between Girawad and SamarGopalpur runs through the site. The majorportion of the site lies on the northern side ofthe metal road indicating a number of featuresincluding a part of the mud platform, pits, largeburnt patches, brick attribution and even acomplete plan of couple of fire places. Mostof the features visible on the surface area arewell confined to the southern side of the metalroad. The team decided to undertake rescueexcavation in this part of the site. From thedatum point fortyone trenches measuring 5x5mwere laid. All the trenches were located on thenorthern side of the datum point. TheseTrenches have been given simple numericalnumbers starting from Trench 1 to 5, situatednear the datum point were not excavated simplybecause the features were not visible on thesurface. Trench 6, 7 and 8 are located on theEastern margin of the area. They are numberedfrom south to north. The trenches are alllocated to the western side of the mound.Some of the trenches in a series were notexcavated as they were located outside the area,where remains were visible on the surface.

Different features which were visible onthe surface of the site and are actually dug intoa solid mud platform. The mud platform wasvisible over an area of 50m (east-west) x 30m(north-south). All the features have beenexcavated belong to the earliest occupation ofthe site. The ceramic assemblage found hereappears to be earlier in date than that of Kunaland can be dated to around the beginning of4th millennium BCE. The pottery thoughdifferent from the later indicates early stage ofdevelopment as it is partly wheel made andpartly hand made unlike Kunal pottery, whichis fast wheel made. The outline of the featuresbecame visible immediately after scraping thearea selected for excavation. The featureswhich have been excavated in the designatedarea include circular and irregular oblongshallow pit dwellings with post-holes on theirperiphery, garbage and storage pits, smallcircular shallow depressions foraccommodating large jars, post-holes, full potssurvived in the form of their bases and fireplaces. The pit-dwellings formed differentcomplexes and each complex consisted offeatures like storage and garbage pits,sometimes storage jars and even shallow pitsidentified as bases of large round-based pots.In all sixty different features were excavatedand they were found to be associated withthirteen different pit- dwelling complexesidentified in the excavated area. Theidentification of the function of each featureis based on location, nature and contents. Thefollowing are the different complexes.

PIT-DWELLING COMPEX 1: (Feature 1, 4,5, 6, 37, 37A, 38, 38A and 38B) (orientation -10 slightly north east, south west) - Feature1 is a shallow pit dwelling to which wereassociated nos. 37, 38A (possibly garbage pit),37A (depression for holding saddle quern), 4(extension of pit-dwelling 1), 5 and 6 (storage

34


pits) and 38B (identified as a depression forholding round based water storage pot).

PIT- DWELLING COMPLEX 2: (Pit 7, 7A, 8,8A and 21) - Feature 7 is a pit- dwelling of thecomplex whereas other features of the complexinclude storage pits (2A, 7A, 8, 8A) and agarbage pit (2).

PIT-DWELLING COMPLEX 3: (Pit 3 and 9) -These two circular pits are forming one big pit-dwelling in the shape of English numeral ‘8’.The other features of this complex could notbe detected as they most probably lay to thenorth and north east area, which is unexcavated.

PIT-DWELLING COMPLEX 4: (Pit 11, 15,12, 13, 17 and 17A) - Features 11 was the mainpit-dwelling of this complex. The other featuresassociated with this could be identified asstorage pits (15, 17, 17A), a depression forholding a round base storage jar (12) andgarbage pit (13).

PIT-DWELLING COMPLEX 5: (Pit 14B, 14,14A, 14C and 40) - Feature 14B has beenidentified as a pit-dwelling of the complex. Theother features include depressions for holdinga round-base pot (14C and 14A), garbage pits(14 and 40) and a storage jar. The dwelling pitof the complex is small. It is quite likely thatthe open space available within this complexmay also have been used for carrying out lot ofdomestic activities.

PIT-DWELLING COMPLEX 6: (Pit 39, 19, 18and 14) - Feature 39 is identified as a pit-dwelling of the complex. Feature 19, 18 couldbe identified as storage pits and 14 as garbagepit.

PIT- DWELLING COMPLEX 7: (Pit 20, 20A,21, 16, 17B and 22) - Feature 20 and 22 couldbe pit-dwellings of this complex. Futures 17B,

20A and 21 could be storage pits, and16 mayhave been used for collecting dirty waterresulting from the cleaning of pit 22.

PIT-DWELLING COMPLEX 8: (Pit 42, 43) -Feature 42 is a pit-dwelling, whereas feature43 as storage pit of this complex.

PIT-DWELLING COMPLEX 9: (Pit 28, 29,31, 45, 44 and 33B) Features 28 and 29 havebeen the sunken dwellings of the complex.Some domestic activities were carried out inFeature 31 and 45 and 44 was a storage pit ofthe complex.

PIT-DWELLING COMPLEX 10: (Pit 27, 27A,27B, 32, 26, 25 and 26A) - Features 27, 25,26 and 32 could be identified as a pit-dwellingsof this complex and they were surrounded byFeatures 27A, 27B, (both identified as storage)and 26A (for carrying out some domesticactivities).

PIT-DWELLING COMPLEX 11: (Pit 35A, 35,34, 33A, 33B and 33V) Features 35A and 35could be the main dwelling pits of the complex.Feature 34, the garbage pit, 33A, the storagepit, 33 for domestic use and 33B, a base for around pot, located in the proximity of the mainpit-dwellings, could be associated with thiscomplex.

PIT-DWELLING COMPLEX 12: (Pit 36, 47,48) Only three features of this complex havebeen excavated. Feature 48, partially excavatedcould be the main pit-dwelling of this complex.This complex may belong to a potter as Feature36 is a pottery kiln of the complex. Feature 47may have been used for some domesticpurposes.

PIT- DWELLING COMPLEX 13: (Pit 46, 50,50A, 50B, 23) This complex consisted of a pit-

35


dwelling (46), storage pits (50, 50A and 50B),a fire pit (23) and a storage jar.

The fire pit (23) found associated with thiscomplex may have actually been used for acommunity cooking as it is large in size andappears to have been used for a lengthy period.The fire pit is circular on plan with a rectangularfire chamber. Inside the fire pit are found twovertically placed clay slabs meant for supportinga vessel.

There is one more fire pit (Feature 30)found near the Complex no. 9, which is evenbigger in size compared to Feature 23. It has ayoni like shape. It is circular on plan with anarrow but long fire chamber. Inside the fire-pit, almost in the centre is a large circular claystump. This stump also may have been usedfor community cooking.

The ceramic assemblage consisted oftypical pottery that is usually associated withthe Hakra culture. Three wares of this culturenamely clay applique, incised ware andchocolate slipped ware are found associatedwith this. Some of the common shapes includesmall to medium-size globular pots withslightly out-turn sides in all the three differentwares. The chocolate ware is devoid of anypainted decorations. The incised patterns foundon the incised comb ware include a group ofwavy lines, both vertical and horizontal. Anumber of loop-handled cups and smallglobular pots are associated with this ware. Theculture is characterized by the presence of microsteatite beads, beads of semi-precious stonesterracotta and a few bone beads.

The ancient site (290 02' 22"N; 760 18'021"E) that falls in the jurisdiction of threedifferent villages; Farmana, Seman and BhainiChandrapal (Bada Bahen) all following inMehem block of Rohtak district is locally

known as Darksh khera. Since major portion ofthe sites lies in the jurisdiction of Farmanavillage, it is also treated as a part of that village.

The site was selected for excavation mainlybecause of the presence of classical Harappanpottery, characteristic of an urban Harappan siteand the presence of early Harappan evidence. Acouple of Index Trenches at different placeswithin the site were selected for excavation. Thefirst index trench was laid on the highest pointof the site which is to the north of the datumpoint of the site. It is located 20m to the northand 5m to the west of the datum point. A secondtrench was located 10m further north from thefirst Index Trench and the third Index Trench 20mfurther north from the second Index Trench 10mwest of the 2nd Index Trench. The Trenches weregiven simple numbers starting from the trenchlocated at the highest point. Excavations couldnot be continued in the lower levels in Trench01 and 02 because of the discovery of brickstructures in them, whereas the team managedto reach to the natural soil in Trench 03. It waspossible to obtain a complete stratigraphy andcultural sequence in all these three Trenches ina stepped manner.

The total habitation deposit at the site is2m where 8 habitation layers were found. Onthe basis of the nature of the layer and the contentit appears that Layers (7), (7A) and (8) belongto the early Harappan phase (total thickness50cm). Layer (6) appears to be a transition fromearly to mature and the first five earlier Layersbelong to the mature Harappan period. This willhave to be confirmed by the study of the ceramicassemblage.

Three storages pots were discovered in thenorth and one small cylindrical storage pit atthe base of Layer (7) along the western sectionof the Trench 03. Two pots and a storage pit inthe section in a straight and one pot 1m to theeast of the western section and 1.25m to the

36


south of the northern section. It is 45cm to theeast of the storage pit. All the pots of red warewere partially visible and kept in a pit whosesurface was lined with clay and hardened byfiring.

Along the northern section was found anoblong pit with a few post-holes along itsperiphery (the major portion of the pit lies tothe north of the trench which is left undug) duginto the natural soil by the first occupants (earlyHarappans) of the site as it is sealed by the lastLayer (8). It is oriented 40° southwest-northeast. The pit is 3.20m long and excavatedto a width of 90cm towards its western end and10cm towards its eastern end. It has a depth of87cm. The sides are perfectly vertical and thebottom flat. Considering the presence ofpostholes and well-made sides and bottom, itappears to be a pit dwelling, exactly similar tothose found in the earliest levels at Kunal.

At the base of Layer (3) was encountered arectangular mud brick structure of the matureHarappan period, which is oriented 30° in thesoutheast-northwest direction. The structurefrom the inner side measures 3.60m (North-South) by 2.60m (east-west). All the walls aremade of mud-bricks. The average size of thebricks is 30x15x7.5cm in the ratio of 1:2:4.Inside the structure almost in the centre wasfound a typical Harappan steatite seal with thesymbol of water buffalo and a few Harappanletters engraved on its surface. The back sidehas a loop.

A large multi-roomed brick structurewhich is sealed by Layer (1) was exposed inTrench 01, 01A, 01A1 and 01B. The mainstructure is divided into two parts by a partitionwall. On the northeastern side of the mainstructure is a thick and large rectangularplatform. At a later stage, the thickness of theoriginal walls was broadened by adding morebrick courses on the outer side. The original

structure lies over an area of 6.20m long (fromouter edge to outer edge) and 4.20m broad. Thechamber located on the northern side has beennamed 2A and one on the southern side as 2B.The partition wall is 2.65m long (east-westdirection) and 50cm broad. The northern partof the structure termed as 2A is roughly squarishin plan measuring 3.05m (north-south) by2.80m (east-west) from the inner edge of thewalls. This is relatively a large room, which mayhave been used for dwelling purposes. Thesouthern room measures 2.80m (east-west) by1.20m (north-south), in the eastern end ofwhich is located a small bathroom made ofwedge-shaped burnt bricks. Two mudplatforms, one on the eastern side and the otheron the southern side were added to thisstructure sometime later.

The pottery associated with the earlyHarappan phase looks exactly similar to the onefound at the site of Girawad. The Harappanpottery found at the site looks close to theclassical Harappan pottery in terms of the fabricand shapes. The painted motifs, however, aremuch fewer compared to those found on theclassical Harappan pottery. Besides the typicalsquarish steatite seal with incised water buffalosymbol and letters, the discovery of a clay sealingembossed with a unicorn and Harappan letters,is a noteworthy find of this season. A largenumber of terracotta bangle fragments, a fewshell and faience bangle fragments, beads oflapis-lazuli, steatite, plain and also etchedcarnelian, agate, paste, shell and terracotta, a fewcopper fragments, bones tools, large number oftriangular terracotta cakes, mustika, grindingstones, etc. form the repertoire of the objectsfound in the excavation.

The site of Mitathal (28° 53' 3''N; 76° 10'08''E) is located roughly 12km to the south westof the district headquarters Bhiwani. The site isrepresented by 2 mounds separated by a narrow

37


gully. Excavation at Mitathal was initiatedmainly with a view to freshly understand thecultural sequence of the site and study culturalprocesses from early to late phases of theHarappan period. It was decided to dig one IndexTrench in the centre of the main mound, termedby the earlier excavator as a citadel mound. TheIndex Trench was located 20m away towardssouth from the datum point. This trench couldnot be excavated till the natural levels due towant of time. Only four layers were excavated.In the upper levels in Layer (2) was noticed acircular furnace. It is located almost in themiddle of the trench, 1.68m to the east of thewestern section, 1.23m to the north of thesouthern section. It is perfectly circular on planwith a diameter of 0.85m. It has a small openingof 20cm-22cm on the southern side. Thecircular wall of the furnace survived to amaximum height of 23cm is made of clay whichis burnt red due to its constant use. The averagethickness of the wall in 5cm. Inside the furnaceat the base and also on the sides are the remainsof slag most probably that of faienceproduction. The site of Mitathal was mostprobably a major centre of faience productionin this area as the surface of the mound is litteredwith fragments of faience articles mostlybangles and in the north west part of the othermound, termed as lower town, are seen on thesurface of remains of half a dozen, eithercircular or semicircular, squarish or rectangular

furnaces and a heap of faience slag, resultingfrom the production.

The excavation continued in the northernhalf of the trench in the lower levels. It wasstopped at a depth of 1.69m from the datumpoint. In the (north-west) quadrant at a depthof 1.59m was discovered a slightly oblong claybin. It is located 20cm to the east of westernsection and 28cm to the south of northernsection. It measures 1.05m (east-west) and88cm (north-south). It is 89cm deep. It is linedwith clay plaster which is 5cm thick. The innersurface of the clay bin is smoothened and theremains of rice in the clay lumps retrieved frominside clearly indicate its function as a storagebin. The excavation has yielded fragments offaience and terracotta bangles, beads ofcarnelian and steatite. The pottery from theexcavation is yet to be studied.

17. VILLAGE-TO-VILLAGE SURVEY OF

ANTIQUARIAN REMAINS IN DISTRICT BHIWANI

Sh. Ashish Kumar of Chandigarh Circleof Survey condected exploration of 73 villagesin Loharu tehsil. Altogether 73 villages wereexplored in Loharu tehsil (28° 75'N; 75° 45'E).Thirteen villages have been found withantiquarian remains. (see Chart-III)

Name of Village /Town

Tehsil Antiquarian / PotteryRemains

Period

Loharu Loharu Structure Medieval and colonial

Dhani RahimpurGignawBudheriPahariManfarct

-do- Pottery Medieval periodBrick and sculpturesPotteryPotteryPottery

-do--do--do--do-

Rajput periodMedieval periodMedieval periodMedieval period

CHART-III

38


JAMMU AND KASHMIR

Sohasara

Jhanjara SheoranGagarwas

Haweli

Iron nodules and potteryPottery

-do-

-do--do-

Copper plate

Late Medieval ofcolonial period1397 CE

Medieval periodMedieval period

Sohasara Haweli-do- Late Medieval ofcolonial period

Budhera

KharkhariBarahlu (Parvezpur)

Pharatia Tal

Pottery

PotteryPottery

Haweli

Loharu

-do--do-

-do-

Harappan and MedievalperiodMedieval periodMedieval periodLate Medieval orcolonial period

Name of Village /Town

Tehsil Antiquarian / PotteryRemains

Period

18. EXPLORATIONS IN DISTRICT ANANTANAG,JAMMU, KATHUA AND LEH

Umoh (33° 32'N; 75° 14'E; Topo Sheet No.43 0/2) is located in the tehsil Dora, on theleft side of the Srinagar-Jammu Highway 2kmWest from Verinag. Potsherds noticed duringthe course of exploration consist of red ware,black on red ware, red slip ware and glazedware. The shapes are mainly of bowl, basin,handi and storage jar etc. and belong toMedieval period 12th-16th century CE. Besides,the remains of a Mughal sarai in a dilapidatedcondition have also been noticed. The sarai isbuilt in lakhauri bricks with lime mortar.

Larkipora (33° 38'N; 75° 10.5'E; Topo SheetNo. 43 0/2) is located in the tehsil Dora, onthe right side of the Anantnag - Verinag road.Potsherds are noticed during the course ofexploration consist of red ware, dull red ware,red slip ware, black ware, gray ware and

stamped red ware. The shapes are mainly of dish,bowl, basin, storage jar etc. belongs to earlyhistoric period.

Lookbhawan (33° 38'N; 75° 11'E; Topo SheetNo. 43 Q/2) is located in the tehsil Dora,situated 12km from Anantnag on the right sideof the Anantnag - Verinag road. Remains of anarched structure made of brick with lime mortarwas noticed.

EXPLORATION IN DISTRICT JAMMU

Kot-Garhi (32° 52'N; 74° 41'E; Topo Sheet No.43 L/9) is located in the tehsil Akhnoor, on theleft side of the Jammu-Akhnoor-Pallanwalaroad, is about 38km from Jammu.

During the course of exploration are foundred ware, some are dull red ware, red slip ware.These shapes mainly consist of bowl, vase,handi, basin, dish and lamp etc. and belong topost-Gupta period i.e.7th-9th centuries CE. Otherimportant discoveries during exploration at thesite are a copper coin showing a standing male

39


figure probably of a king and on reverse withan animal most probably of a horse and afragment of carnelian bead.

Nad-Da-Khu (32° 52'N; 74° 39'E; Topo SheetNo. 43 L/9) located in the tehsil Akhnoor, onthe right side of the Jammu-Akhnoor-Pallanwala road, 40km from Jammu. Plenty ofpotsherds are noticed during the course ofexploration. The pottery mainly consist of redware and dull red ware. The shapes are of dish,bowl, basin, vase, handi and lamp etc. belongsto Early Medieval period i.e. 10th-12th centuryCE.

Manda (32° 52'N; 74° 42'E; Topo Sheet No.43 L/9) is located in the tehsil Akhnoor, on theleft side of the Jammu- Akhnoor-Pallanwalaroad 10km from Akhnoor. Plenty of potsherdsnoticed during the course of exploration consistof red ware and grey ware. The shapes are mainlyof bowl, basin, lamp, handi and dish, etc. andbelong to Early Historic period.

Lam (32° 52'N; 74° 38'E; Topo Sheet No. 43L/9) is located in the tehsil Akhnoor, on theright side of the Jammu-Akhnoor-Pallanwalaroad 59km from Jammu. Plenty of potsherdsnoticed during the course of exploration consistof red ware, dull red ware, red slip ware andblack painting on red ware. The shapes aremainly of dish, bowl, basin, handi and lamp,etc. belongs to post-Gupta period i.e., 7th-9th

century CE.

EXPLORATION IN DISTRICT KATHUA

Bhaiya (32° 27'N; 75° 16'E; Topo Sheet No.43 P/7) is located in the tehsil Hiranagar, onthe Jammu-Kathua highway, 56km fromJammu. Plenty of potsherds are noticed duringthe course of exploration, in one of the raingullies of the site. Pottery mainly red ware someare dull red ware, red slip ware and blackpainting on the red. The shapes mainly consistof dish, bowl, vase, basin, handi and lamp, etc.

The findings can be dated to post-Gupta periodi.e., 7th -9th century CE.

Satura (32° 27'N; 75° 17'E; Topo Sheet No.43 P/7) is located in the tehsil Hiranagar, onthe left side of the Jammu-Kathua highway,60km from Jammu. Plenty of potshards arenoticed during the course of exploration at thesite. Pottery mainly of red ware, some are dullred ware. The shapes consist of bowl, basin,vase, dish and lamp etc. Brunt bricks are alsofound on the surface, size is 37x22x7cm thefindings can be dated to post-Gupta period i.e.,7th- 9th century CE.

EXPLORATION IN DISTRICT LEH

Prakash Kumar, assisted by TseringWangchuk and B.R.Sharma of Srinagar Circleof the Survey was carried out exploration anddiscovered a pre-historic site at Nyar-mo (34°17'N; 76° 43'E; Topo Sheet No. 52 B/15) islocated in tehsil Khalsi. The site is situatedabout 15km from Khalsi on the left side of theSrinagar-Leh highway, on lower Ladakhtowards Batalik Road on the right bank at Nyar-mo stream which is a tributary of the Indusriver and it is about 115km from Leh. It lieson the ancient trade route between Leh to Purigand Skardu via Chorbat area was one of theimportant trade routes of Ladakh region in theancient times. A lower Palaeolithic tool, a handaxe is collected during course of explorationon the right bank of the Nyar-mo stream.

19. EXPLORATION IN DISTRICT EAST

SINGHBHUM

Ranchi Circle of the Survey under the di-rection of T. J. Baidya, assisted by N. K. Sinha,R. Dehuri, R. K. Raj and M. Ekka conductedexploration in and around the Ruam localityunder Ghatshila block.

JHARKHAND

40


MAHARASHTRA

20. EXCAVATION AT DAULATABAD FORT, DIS-TRICT AURANGABAD

In continuation of the previous year’s ex-cavation, the Aurangabad Circle of the Surveyhas carried out excavation at Daulatabad fort(19° 56' 39.64''N; 75° 13' 02.63''E) under thedirection of K. Veerabhadra Rao assisted byR. Krishnaiah, H. R. Desai, Manoj KumarKurmi, Shilpa Rangari, D. L. Sirdeshpande, V.R. Satbhai, A. K. Ture and S. A. Pandit. Theexcavation was carried out to the south andsouthwest corner of the Bharatmata temple andwas confined only in 7 trenches of upper twophases of the occupation deposits at the site.Evidences of medieval township within the fortsuch as house complexes along with mudfloors and lime plastered walls were found inthis area.

The previous excavations at Daulatabadsuggest that it was a flourishing settlementcovering a time span between 10th -18th centuryCE. The aim of the present season’s work wasto confirm the previous year’s findings. Theexcavation was also taken up to find out thestratigraphic and chronological relation of thesouthern portion of the Bharatmata temple tothe rest of the settlement.

The habitation mound with successiveconstructional activities covered with thick

vegetation rises to a maximum height of 4mfrom the surrounding plain. After removal ofvegetation cover from the entire mound,trenches were laid near the southwest cornerof the Bharatmata temple as well as on thewestern side in the same alignment to coverthe entire habitation area of the fort. The areaunder excavation forms the southeastern partof the fort where there is a gentle slope towardseast. Excavation was carried out in the TrenchYE4, YE5, YE6, YF4, YF5, YF6 and YG4following the grid plan that was laid out duringprevious season’s work.

The habitation deposit inside Daulatabadfort is divided into following periods on broadlines as Period I: Yadava, Period II: Sultanateand Period III: Mughal. The present excavationbrought to light a maximum deposit of 4mwhich comprised of Medieval and lateMedieval periods roughly assignable from 14th-17 th century CE comprising regime ofBahamani (1347-1527 CE), Nizamshahi(1490-1636 CE) and Mughal (1526-1707 CE)rulers. The entire deposit in this area is dividedinto three structural phases. The excavationwas mostly confined to upper two structuralphases i.e., phase II and phase III (Pl. 18) whichrevealed nearly fourteen structural remains.Phase III which is the last structural phase atthe site has revealed evidence of medievaltownship that includes house complexes builtof stone masonry having rammed mud floorsand mud plaster (Pls. 20-21). The houses aresmall and without proper foundation. At timesit has been observed that the houses are builtwith dressed stones that were probably takenfrom the structures of earlier phases (Pl. 19).The streets and lanes of the earlier phase wereencroached upon by irregular constructions.Remains of terracotta tiles suggest its use inthe roof of the houses. This phase alsowitnessed construction of a rectangular hall20x18m and rectangular 9x5m and almost

In course of exploration towards 2km eastof Ruam, on flat top of the small hill, a circularbrick structure was discovered. Apparently itlooks like either the portion of a stupa or acircular temple. Wedge shaped bricks are usedfor constructing of this structure. The otherbricks used for constructing this structuremeasures 38x26x7cm. It appears to be as ofpost-Gupta period.

41


square 5x4m shaped rooms with in situ potsand column capitals. Besides, an opencourtyard 20.5x8m having a bathroom2.5x2.5m (Pl. 22) on the western side isexposed to the North of the main hall. Anotherroom is located on the west, which also opensto the courtyard. There is a varanda withcolumns probably supporting beam of the roofhas also been exposed. The walls areconstructed of random rubble masonry ofvarying thickness between 0.40m and 0.75m.The structural remains of this phase showsmud plaster. A limited number of phase IIstructures could only be exposed due to thepresence of large number structures belongingto phase III. The phase II is represented by threemassive walls (average thickness 1.10m)found below the courtyard of a large structureof phase III. These walls are built of rubblemasonry also with the materials of phase I. Thestones were extensively reused forconstruction of structures in phase II. Thedressed stones along with carvings on thembelonging to the temples of early period werealso used in the masonry work. The use of limeplaster is also noticed in some structures.

The ceramic finds of this season arerepresented by red ware, red slipped ware, blackware, black slipped ware, glazed ware andChinese porcelain. The red ware is sturdy, coarsein section and often ill-fired. A dull variety ofred ware is also noticed in phase III. The shapesinclude bowls, vases, dishes, spouted vessels,storage jars and miniature pots. The red slippedware is less in number when compared to redware which is of medium fabric, well fired andrepresents mostly vases, dishes and smallvessels as table utensils. The black ware foundhere is mostly ill-fired with medium to thinsection. The prominent shapes noticed arevases, carinated handis, dishes, spoutedvessels, etc. A small quantity of ceramicfragments comprising small dishes and shallow

bowls that include glazed ware with and withoutdecorative patterns. A few sherds of porcelainware have Chinese characters and paintedoutside in blue colour belonging to the Mingand Ching dynasties datable to 15th-16th centuryCE. A shallow plate with ring base, paintedinside in blue colour depicting flowers, trees,deer, frog, etc. are also found. Mention mayalso be made of sturdy grey ware and dull redware with slip of medium fabric and red slippedware of medium to fine fabric. The shapesinclude shallow dish and bowl.

The important antiquities found includeone circular gold coin belonging to Devaraya II(1423 - 1446 CE) of Sangama dynasty (Pl. 23).This is identified as half Varaha or the Pratapavaraha. The obverse of the coin has the depictionof Ganesa seated in padmasana with hisconsort Shakti on left thigh, he is depicted withkaranda mukuta; holding noose in upper righthand, and snake in lower right, upper left isshown in abhayamudra while with lower lefthand embraces his consort. The consort isshown with folded hands and seated inlalitasana. The reverse of the coin has thedepiction of a legend in nagari in three linesruns as follows: “Sri Pra Ta Pa De Va Ra Ya”

Besides this important finding,numerous other antiquities in various materialsare reported from this excavation. The coppercoins issued by Islamic rulers of variousdynasties such as Tughluq and Mughal are alsorecovered (Pl. 24). Among the gold objects,fragmented ear rings, wires, foils and beads arenoteworthy. An ornamented silver ring, nosering, earrings, ear cleaner (Pl. 25) and earornaments, finger rings, bangle fragments,pendant, toothpick, rod clip, hook, lid, anantimony rod, chain, miniature bells and signetsare significant objects made in copper or bronze.Beads recovered from this season’s excavationdisplay good variety of material and shapes.Beads of agate, carnelian, crystal (Pls. 26-27),

42


pearl, glass, paste, ivory and bone are reported.Among these elongated beads with circularsection is the most common variety whiledrum shaped and cylindrical beads withcircular and hexagonal section also show theirpresence. Among terracotta beads, elongatedcylindrical beads with tapering ends, shortcylindrical beads having parallel edges withcircular and pentagonal section and shortcircular beads are the most common varieties.Other terracotta antiquities include animalfigurine, hopscotches, broken hookah andlamps in glazed and non-glazed variety. Glassbangle fragments in black, grey, blackish greenand very few in deep red colour are reported.Iron objects include nails, knives, rings, clips,needles, keys, arrow heads, hooks, wheel, chainetc. Buttons and inlay pieces made on semiprecious stones, stone balls (cannon balls) andsling balls are also some of the noteworthycollections. Besides, a fragmented sculptureidentified as of Mahisasurmardini, the upperhalf of which is broken has also been collected.The lower portion of this figure is shownwearing sari in alidha posture keeping left footupon a buffalo head and a trident with longshaft stabbing the demon.

21. EXCAVATION AT BHON, DISTRICT BULDANA

In continuation of previous year’sexcavation at Bhon, B. C. Deotare assisted bySatish Naik, Sunil Rokade, Gurudas Shete,Reshama Sawant of the Department ofArchaeology, Deccan College Post-Graduateand Research Institute, Pune conducted furtherexcavation at Bhon (200 55'N; 76039'E).Located about 30km north west of Shegaon, ataluka in place on Mumbai-Nagpur rail route.The present village is situated on the ancientmounds leaving partly undisturbed areas inwestern side yielding lot of structural remainsof pre-Satavahana period.

The devastating flood in middle Purnabasin last year has partly exposed new featuresin the form of brick structures at various placesnear the river bank and link channel at EarlyHistoric site of Bhon. Accordingly, excavationis undertaken initially at three localities wherebrick structures were partly exposed, two spotson mound VII and one at link channel abouthalf a kilometer north of present village, wherewe could locate 16th brick well on thepleistocene surface which got exposed due tosevere flood. Animal fossil bones wererecovered from this pleistocene horizon whichwill be subjected to fluorine analysis fordetermining their relative age. Initially it wasthought of reaching bottom of the well since itwas exposed in pleistocene surface but evendigging up to 4m bottom of the brick wellthereby supporting claim of drinking water wellrather than soak pit as earlier claimed could notbe reached. This area of link channel seems tobe a part of ancient habitation contemporary tomain occupation; may be a sort of satellitesettlement as indicated by brick well and also arusted copper coin similar shape and size foundat the main settlement of Bhon.

Mound VII located near river bank hasrevealed brick structural remains suggestive ofwater canal with meter high brick walls restedon a brick platform running about 100m fromthe river bank towards north. The ancient watercanal up to about 100m inland from the riverbank by trenching pits at specific interval wastraced. A main trench located 50m inside had abrick structure with square shaped chamber atthe centre constructed by 50x24x8cm bricks.This main square shape brick structure is of3x3m at top with 4m in depth; centrally locatedsquare chamber is of 1x1m at the surface with3.7m deep, it has got an opening on oppositesides which led to the exposed channel both sidesi.e. north and south. Further work is in progressbut preliminary observations and evidence of

43


structural remains suggest that this site is firstof its kind having an evidence of watermanagement during Early Historic period; andalso this will be the first evidence of liftirrigation in ancient time because the slope ofcanal is from river bank to inland.

The structural remains so far exposedin the form of the stupa, sixteen brick wells,ten ring wells, 100m water canal, brick wallsetc. indicates huge construction activity in mainoccupational as well as surrounding areas. Suchactivities together with a satellite settlement inlink channel prove that Bhon is one of the largestpre-Satavahana sites in Maharashtra, may be amajor regional centre of that time period on theancient trade route of Dakshinapatha.22. EXCAVATION AT JUNNAR, DISTRICT PUNE

Vasant Shinde and Shreekant Jadhav assistedby Bharat Dighe, Krishna Malap, ShreekantWalunj, Prabodh Shirvalkar, Amol Kulkarni,Amita Sarkar, Anjana Reddy and others ofDeccan College, Pune conducted excavationat Junnar (190 12" N; 730 53"E), one of the im-portant settlements of the Satavahana rulers inthe beginning of the Christian era. The site liesroughly 100km to the north of Pune, the dis-trict headquarters. It was aimed to study pre-Satavahana period at the site and to understandmore about the nature of the Satavahana periodoccupation, the work was mostly carried outon the ancient archaeological site.

In all five trenches of 5x5sqm were selectedfor excavation this year. These trenches, locatedat the foot of the slope have only Satavahanadeposit present as the later period deposit hasbeen washed away. The southeastern quadrantof Trench E14 was excavated below theSatavahana levels, but not yet reached to thenatural level. In all 16 layers were excavated inthis trench. Layers (7) to (14) belong to theSatavahana period, Layer (15) a transition andLayer (16) of the pre-Satavahana period. The

exact nature and characteristic features of thepre-Satavahana period are not yet clear as thearea excavated was very small and no substantialmaterial has been recovered so far.

The only noteworthy features discoveredare portions of walls of two structures, one ofthe later and one of the earliest phases of theSatavahana period. The wall of the later periodwas found in Trench C13 at the base of Layer(8) at a depth of 80cm from the surface. Thewall runs in north-south directions andexposed to a length of 5m. It further extendsinto Trench C12, which is not yet excavated.The wall is made of clay, lined on both sideswith burnt brick bats and clay lumps. Theaverage width of the wall is 1.10m and appearsto have belonged to a bigger structure. Theother wall was discovered in the southeasternquadrant of Trench E14 at a depth of 1.35mfrom the surface of the trench at the base ofLayer (13). The wall, very well made ofcomplete typical Satavahana burnt bricks (size32x28x7cm) runs in east-west direction. It isexposed to a length of 2.5m and is 90cmbroad. The wall extends both towards theeastern as well as western ends. It is survivedto a thickness of 40cm. The wall was built overa thick (55cm) foundation made of black clayand stones.

Besides typical Satavahana pottery and theRoman red polished ware, the most importantdiscovery is that of a black ware, which has agreen glaze on its surface. Small quantities ofgreen glazed pottery fragments excavated inWestern India may have arrived from the Persiangulf. The black ware has been described byHannestad in Salles as a special groupcharacterised by a pale yellow clay and a heavydark green glaze which decays into a darkbrownish-yellow. The black ware found atJunnar can be dated to the beginning of theChristian era. This is broadly in consonant with

44


Plates 18-19

19Daulatabad fort, Aurangabad: view excavated streets and lanes. See p. 40

18

45


Plates 20-21

21Daulatabad fort, Aurangabad: exposed structural remains Phase III. See p. 40

20

46


Plates 22-23

23Daulatabad fort, Aurangabad: 22, structural remains of Phase III and 23, gold coin of Devaraya II. See p. 41

22

47


25Daulatabad fort, Aurangabad: 24, copper coins and 25, silver ornaments. See p. 41

24

Plates 24-25

48


Plates 26-27

27Daulatabad fort, Aurangabad: semiprecious stone beads. See p. 41

26

49


the period of the black ware which has beenplaced from 2nd century BCE to 1st century CEin the Persian gulf region. The other objectsfound in the excavation include beads of glass,semiprecious stones, terracotta, shell, etc.,pendants of terracotta, glass and shell banglefragments and a few terracotta moulded humanfigurines. One of the female figurines foundhas a typical Indian face and Roman hair style.

23. EXCAVATION AT MORGAON, DISTRICT PUNE

Excavation of the Palaeolithic(Acheulian and microlithic) site of Morgaon(150 17'N; 740 18'E), district Pune, was carriedout jointly by Sheila Mishra and Sushama Deoof the Department of Archaeology, DeccanCollege, Pune assisted by Gurudas Shete,Reshma Sawant, Riza Abbas and RumanBannerjee.

The excavation was continued with theaims to obtain more artefacts from the gravellayer for which only a small number were foundin the earlier (2002-2004) excavation, todocument lithostratigraphy of the sedimentsexposed around Morgaon, to collect samplesfor laboratory analysis and palaeomagneticdating and to expose the microlithic bearinggravel and collects samples for further work.To achieve these aims a total of five trencheswere taken up. Trench MRG7-A was a 5x5mtrench laid out to the southeast of the previousyear’s trench on the divide between two gullies.The trench was located on the gully divide as itwas a less eroded area. Acheulian artefacts werepresent in the gully bed showing their presencein the sediments. The trench was excavated tobed rock level which was 2.39m below thesouthwest corner of the trench.

The topmost layer is gravel. In thisgravel the clasts are calcrete nodules. Crossbedding is seen, but there is a large amount ofclay in the matrix. This gravel is present in themiddle part of the trench. It is about 3m in width

and oriented in a northwest to southeastdirection. Where the gravel is absent there isblack fissured clay which is devoid of artefacts.Around 40 abraded microlithic artefacts werefound in this layer along with fragments ofostrich egg shell. Previously, ostrich egg shellfrom Morgaon had been dated to22,485+320BP (A 8846). The total absence ofmollusk shells from this gravel is interesting. Itmost probably indicates that the water flow thatdeposited the gravel was of such a short durationthat no water fauna could complete its life cycle.Which such arid conditions the human presencealso might be quite sporadic. Most of themicroliths in this gravel are abraded supportingthe idea that they are recycled from earlieroccupation of the area.

In the western side of the trench a seriesof lenses of sandy gravel are seen. These gravelshave a “reddish” colour due to the patina on thebasalt pebbles. They show cross stratification.Due to the patina on the pebbles, it was initiallyconsidered that this gravel belonged to the“Acheulian” period. However, a few microlithswere found in this gravel. These gravels are alsowithin the black fissured clay which continuesupto the surface and also contains the gravel withthe ostrich egg shell. The contrast in the lithiccomponents of the two gravels and theweathering seen on the basalt clasts must be dueto the re-working of the weathered Acheuliangravel. One abraded basalt flake was also foundin this unit.

In this trench Acheulian artefacts werefound in one horizon only. They occur as partof an armored gravel bar. This bar is firstexposed in the north eastern part of the trench.The top of the gravel has cobble size material.This is called an armored gravel bar and is typicalof arid zone streams where rainfall and streamdischarge are highly variable. The armored barforms when large material is brought by theriver in an unusually large flood. Subsequent

50


floods are not able to transport it so it remainsin the channel bed. The cobble horizon isoriented from north west to south east and dipsfrom the east where it is encountered at 50cmbelow the datum to the west where it isencountered at 1m below the surface. In theexcavation we followed this layer and exposedit before removing the artefacts from it. Onehundred seventyfive artefacts were found inthis cobble layer. We collected and countedthe non artefacts from this layer as well. Thenon artefacts were 826 in number. The totalnumber of artefacts and non artefacts is 1001,so that the artefacts comprise about 17.5% ofthe cobbles on the gravel bar. Thearchaeological assemblage contains a few veryabraded artefacts which might have beenbrought to the river bed along with the othercobbles. However, most of the artefacts showvery little abrasion and it is most likely thatthey were made on the bar itself, whosecobbles might have been exploited for makingtools.

After exposing the Acheulian horizon,digging was continued in the western half ofthe trench only, where bedrock was found at adepth of 2.39m. Below the cobble layer inwhich the artefacts the gravel is pebbly andsandy. The basalt clasts are well patinated.Angular chert nodules occur. No transportedcalcrete was observed. The gravel isdifferientially cemented. The top of the gravel,with its contact with the overlying clay is themost strongly cemented layer. The lowest partof the gravel shows more rounding and higheramount of chert nodules indicating slightlybetter discharges. One artefact was found in thelowest part of the gravel. The gravel rests onweathered compact basalt.

For collecting sediment samples forpalaeomagnetic dating following 2 Trencheswere dug viz., MRG7-C (180 16' 43.7"N; 740

13' 45.0"E) and Trench MRG7-D (180 16'

43.6"N; 740 13' 45.7" E). From these trenchesthe black fissured clay which is found belowthe main artefact horizon was exposed andsampled.

Two trenches were taken up to betterunderstand the context of the microliths (LatePleistocene) at Morgaon. The first trench to betaken up was named Trench MRG7-M (180 16'40.3"N; 740 55' 43.5"E). It is about 150m tothe South of Trench MRG7-A. A sandy pebblygravel with mollusk shells and microliths isexposed here. This gravel can be traced bothto the east and west for some hundreds ofmetres and so represents a distinct Karhapalaeochannel. Quarrying of this gravel hadprovided us with a ready made section. A trenchof 1x2m dimension was taken in this graveland it was dug to a depth of 1.35cm. The entiretrench was a single gravel layer, but cross bedsand a few layers with muddy matrix wereencountered. The frequency of microliths inthe gravel was not very high. Fifty microlithicartefacts were collected from the excavatedgravel sediment. Mollusk shells were abradedbivalves. No ostrich egg shell pieces were foundin this gravel. Previously, mollusks fromMorgaon were dated to 26,370±710 (BS1230). The previously dated samples werecollected from the surface and thought to belongto the same horizon. However, the excavationof these two trenches shows that the differentdates come from different horizons. The natureof the gravels is quite different. The gravel inTrench MRG7-M is a sandy pebbly gravel of aperennial stream in which bivalves which livewithin the water submerged gravel could live.Gravels dated to 26k year are also found on theNarmada river at Bhedaghat and Dharampuriwhere they have an unconformable relationshipto the underlying deposits. 25k year is globallyknown as a humid event. Most of themicrolithic artefacts probably belong to humanactivity at this time. The microliths from gravel

51


in Trench MRG7-M are minimally abraded incontrast to those from the gravel in TrenchMRG7-A associated with ostrich egg shell.

The second trench taken forunderstanding the microlithic context isTrench MRG7-B (18016' 29.7"N; 74019'30.1"E), on the southern bank of the Karhariver. A 4x4m trench was laid out. After 30cm, it was dug only in the western side as gravelwas only found in the western part. Later thetrench was extended on the eastern side.Artefacts were only found in the gravel. In theyellow brown sandy silt in the eastern sidealthough no artefacts were found a patch ofburned mud was found just below the surface.This appears to be some human activity. In thistrench ostrich egg shell was found on thesurface and in the uppermost layers. Below20cm only mollusk shells were found,confirming the stratigraphy implied by thedates. In Trench MRG7-B, 57 microliths werefound. The density of artefacts on the surfacewas much higher showing they accumulated bythe erosion of several metres of overlyingsediments.

This year’s excavation yielded anAcheulian assemblage in sealed geologicalcontext. This assemblage is comparable to thatof the previous excavation, also from a sealedgeological context. The palaeomagnetic studieswill help in dating the site. The smallexcavations into the microlith yielding gravelshave clarified their context and yieldedimportant palaeoenvironmental evidence.

24. EXPLORATIONS AT DAHANU-CHINCHANI,EARLY HISTORIC PORT AND THE INSCRIPTIONS

OF THE BUDDHIST CAVES IN WESTERN INDIA

Vishwas Gogte of Deccan CollegePost-Graduate and Research Institute, Punealong with the research-team comprisingShrikant Pradhan, Abhijit Dandekar, SachinJoshi, Shivendra Kadgaonkar and Suresh

Bombie conducted archaeological explorationsat Dahanu-Chinchani. Dahanu is located at adistance of 124km north of Mumbai on thenorth bank of the Dahanu creek. Dahanu, ataluka headquarters is densely populated town.Chinchani standing between the north bank ofthe Chinchani-Tarapur creek and the south bankof the Dahanu creek is about 13km south ofDahanu. Several localities of ancient habitationwere identified at Chinchani and nearby hamletssuch as Chandigaon, Asangaon and Tanashibelong in to different periods viz. Early Historic,the Early Medieval and the Late Medievalperiods.

Early Historic site at Chinchani (190 53'11.3"N; 720 41' 10.8"E) is in the Bhandar-Aaliarea. The present habitation is in thick coconut-betelnut plantations along the sea shore betweenChinchani-Tarapur and Chinchani-Varor creeks.Ringwells of the Early Historic period have beenfound by local farmers while constructinghouses and wells. Resistivity survey undertakenfor location analysis in one a ring-well wasfound about twenty years ago while digging fora well. Pottery was found sporadically scatteredin the plantation. The resistivity survey was donein a grid pattern using Wenner method. Fourmetal electrodes were inserted in the ground forrecording the resistances of the underlying soils.Buried archaeological deposits and structuresgive higher resistance values as compared to thesurrounding soils. Areas of high resistivity wereidentified for taking trenches. Three smallexploratory trenches (1x1m) were dug up toabout 2 to 3m depths where occurs hardenedsand/ beach rock locally known as karal. Thegeneral description of the trench is as follows:

Layer (1) is a thick compact dark brown clayeysilty soil with a lot of root activity. Thethickness is from 20 to 60cm in the westernsection. Layer (2) is similar to Layer (1) incomposition but has some white grainy material.Average thickness is 60cm. Both layers

52


contained a lot of potsherds. Layer (3) is formedby light brown sand containing some clay. Thislayer runs in undulating manner in the southernand northern sections and somewhat horizontalin the eastern and western sections. Its maximumthickness is 70cm in the north-western cornerand the thinnest, 5cm in the southern section.The number of potsherds decreased rapidlyfrom Layer (2) to Layer (3). Layer (4) is a thick,60cm even layer of white sand. No pottery wasfound in this and the underlying layers. Layer(5) consists of reddish sand of the averagethickness of 35cm. Layer (6) consists of beachrock of the average thickness of 20cm. Layer(7) is a very thin, 7cm layer of black sandy soil.Layer (8) is a 20cm thick layer of beach rock.

In the Layer (1) pottery was found butit was not densely populated. Layer (2) gave agood quantity of potsherds in clayey siltydeposit which was about 60cm thick. A layerof sand again occurred below this habitationaldeposit and then karal, the hardened sand orbeach rock. The beginning of the habitation atthis location thus, took place directly on thesand layer overlying the hardened sand. Sherdsof the black and red ware were found in profusequantities .which comprised more than seventypercent of the total number of potsherds. Theshapes of the black and red ware were mainlyof dishes and bowls with a small number ofconical bowls similar to the drinking cups ofthe Satavahana period. The pottery can bebroadly classified into course and fine varieties.Fine-grained mica could be seen in the finevariety of the black and red ware. This varietyof pottery could have been brought from theNorth India as it mineralogically matches withthe days from the Gangetic plain.

The pottery closely matches with theblack and red ware found at Nasik where it hasbeen securely dated to 500-200BCE. Otherantiquities were almost absent except for abroken stone muller, an arecanut clay bead and

a piece of opaque light brown glass bangle.Pottery of other periods was nearly absent exceptfor a couple of bases of the typical drinking cupsof the Satavahana period.

Dahanu-Chinchani was the closest port,about 103km to the major early historic site atNasik. It is therefore, not surprising that theblack and red ware from Nasik matches wellwith that from Chinchani. The ancient traderoute to Nasik could be traced as Dahanu-Chinchani to Kasa Khurd to Dengatichi met atthe base of the lower range of the Sahyadrimountains; then to Jawhar on the plateau of thelower range. The explorations at Jawhar havegiven evidence of large bricks and a fewpotsherds but it is difficult to assign a definiteperiod for these finds. From Jawhar onwards,the route follows the traverse along the mainmountain range up to Khodala. From this pointonwards starts an easy climb via Shri passtowards Nasik passing through Tringalwadi andPandu lena where rock cut caves have beenreported. It is to be noticed that near Tringalwadithe main mountain range of the Sahyadri hasthe lowest height which offers a relatively easyand convenient pass to the main land. Anothertrade route from Jawhar could be Jawhar-Mokhada-Khodala-Trimbakeswar -Mahiravani-Nasik.

Early Medieval site at Chandigaon issituated on what could have been the left bankof the Dahanu creek. Explorations inagricultural fields close to Chandigaon revealeda location (190 56' 05.4" N; 720 43' 08.7" E)where a brick structure made of large brickswas found by a farmer while digging a ditch forcompost. In contrast to the soils of Chinchani,the soils at Chandigaon are highly clayey almosttotally devoid of sand or silt. The surface of theagricultural field has become extremely hard anddeveloped large cracks. This is typical of soilscontaining montmorillonite as the clay mineral.Montmorillonite expands by absorbing water,

53


more than 15% of its weight which when driedcontracts into hard masses and develop hugecracks. It is difficult to recovery archaeologicalmaterial from such deposits in good conditionas the large hard lumps are required to be brokenby hammering with either stone or woodenhammer.

An exploratory trench (1x1m) was takenin this locality. After painstaking efforts,however, it was possible to recover from adeposit of about 70cm, the pottery belongingto the Silahar period (8th-12th century CE). Thisdeposit could be securely dated on the basis ofthe occurrence in this trench of the hatchedSgraffiato ware of the Persian origin. This wareis rare on the Indian archaeological sites exceptthat was recently found in the excavations atChaul and Sanjan. It also occurs on manycoastal sites of the Indian ocean such as Kilwa,Shanga and Manda on the east coast of Africa.No other antiquity was found in this trench. Theevidence of habitation of the earlier and thelater periods is also absent.

The copper plates (926-1053 CE)found at Chinchani belong to this phase ofhabitation. Reference to the ancient site ofSanjan occurs in these copper plates. It saysthat the Rastrakuta king Indra (926 CE) gaveadministrative control of Samyan (Sanjan)region to Madhumati of the Tajik race.Madhumati is the Sanskritized form ofMahmud. The copper plates further mentionthat Madhumati took control of all ports in theSanjan region. The port of Dahanu-Chinchani,which is only 27km south of Sanjan must havebeen controlled by Madhumati. The ten verseof the copper plate of Krishna III (939-67 CE)says that he conquered certain enemies evenwhen he was a crown prince. Among othernames, Parsikas (Parsi) and Tajjikas (Tajjik)are important in the context of the maritimeinteraction. This is perhaps the earliest welldated evidence of the Parsi community who

migrated from Persia and said to have arrivedand settled at Sanjan. Madhumati a Tajjikcould be from the present Tajjikistan, northof Iran. The trade between India and Persiacould be in a flourishing state from the timesof Madhumati as seen from the occurrenceof the hatched Sgraffiato ware from Persiafound in the excavations both at Sanjan andChandigaon. The satellite imageries clearlyshow that the site was right on bank of theDahanu creek in ancient times. The river hasnow moved away from the site by about 800mdue to siltation. The Dahanu creek is heavilysilted so much, so that only a narrow channelof the creek has now remained. The mouth ofthe creek has narrowed down due to depositionof sand bar across creek. If the phenomenon ofthe rise in the sea level during past 2000 yearsas observed at Chaul and Palshet is also appliedto this region it becomes clear that the siltcould not go in to the sea but got deposited inthe creek. It is therefore obvious that the siltbrought by the Dahanu river, particularlyduring the monsoon, has been getting depositedin the creek itself. It is feared that within a shortspan of about a decade the creek will becompletely filled with the silt.

At third location at the mouth of theChinchani-Varor creek, a habitational depositof 13th-15th century CE has been located (190

53' 58.8"N; 720 40' 56.6"E). It comprises themonochrome ware of blue, green and greyglazes and the Chinese blue-on-white pottery.This ware is commonly found on the coasts ofIndia and East Africa and in the coastal sites ofthe Persian gulf. Besides this, there are threePortuguese structures including a fairly well-preserved fort in Dahanu-Chinchani area.Although it was possible to locate the portactivity at Dahanu-Chinchani, further detailedsurvey is required for understanding the extentof habitation. Unlike the ancient settlement atChaul, which gave continual layers of

54


habitation from the Mauryan to the LateMedieval periods, the habitation of differentperiods at Dahanu-Chinchani was spread overa wider location. The habitation of the Mauryanperiod was found only in the Bhandar-Aali areaof Chinchani, the Early Medieval settlement waslocated at Chandigaon and the evidence of theLate Medieval habitation was found over awider area but mostly restricted to the mouthsof Chinchani-Tarapur and Chinchani-Varorcreeks

Dahanu-Chinchani region asDhenukakata occurs in many inscriptions in theBuddhist caves at Karle, Pitalkhora, Kahneriand Shelarwadi in the western Maharashtra. Itis in the context of donations given by thepeople from Dhenukakata for excavations ofthe caves and water cisterns. In all, the placename occurs in nineteen inscriptions at Karleand one each at Pitalkhora.

Kahneri and Shelarwadi although havebeen identified with Dharanikota in AndhraPradesh, it is difficult to imagine that the peoplefrom such a far off place would give donationsfor excavations of caves in the westernMaharashtra. Various other places have beenproposed for Dhenukakata; Dongri village nearVasai in Thane district Devghar near Karle andJunnar. However, Dhenukakata can be identifiedwith Dahanu on the following ground.

Ancient place names on the bank ofrivers end with the suffix, kata e.g., Karhatakaon the bank of river Krisha and Benakata onthe bank of river Vainganga. Similarly, a placeon the bank of Dahanuka (Dahanu) river couldbe Dahanukakata. The modern town of Dahanuis on the Dahanu river/creek. The most plausibletransliteration of Dahanukakata is Dhenukakata.Since the explorations have now revealed theexistence of the early historic and the latersettlements over a wider areas of Dahanu andChinchani close to the sea shore and along the

banks of the Dahanu river/creek, not onlyDahanu but the areas covering Dahanu-Chinchani taken together should be equatedwith Dhenukakata that occurs in theinscriptions of the caves in the Western India.

25. THE ABANDONED ANCIENT SETTLEMENT

NEAR LAITDUH VILLAGE, DISTRICT EAST

KHASI HILLS

The Art and Culture Department of StateGoverment has conducted exploration atLaitduh (250 20'N; 910 43'E) a small village ofabout 10km West of Cherrapunjee (Sohra).Adjacent to this village in the south is an aban-doned ancient fortified settlements of about onesqkm in area containing a number of ancientremains like number of Cromlechs, hewn stonevessels etc. The ancient Rangjyrteh village wasa place of trade center during the ancient timesof around the 15th-16th century CE. The inhab-itants of the hills and the plains of Sylhet(Bangladesh) had their trade transaction of vari-ous items.

26. BAITBARI ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE AND RE-MAINS, DISTRICT WEST GARO HILLS

Baitban (250 47''E; 900 05''N) site is situ-ated at a distance of about 80km west of Tura,the headquarters of the west Garo Hills dis-trict with countless number of archaeologicalmounds. During 1991 - 1992, the Pre-his-tory Branch, Nagpur of the Survey had con-ducted excavation mainly on four mounds andunearthed three structures viz., the stupa andthe two basements of the temples and a sec-tion of the fortification walls. Again a numberof mounds and revealed ruined structures maybe of temples along with tiles depicted godand goddess exposed by Government ofMeghalaya.

MEGHALAYA

55


ODISHA

27. EXCAVATION AT BARABATI FORT,CUTTACK, DISTRICT CUTTACK

In continuation of the previous year’s workthe Excavation Branch-IV, Bhubaneswar of theSurvey took up excavation under the directionof P. K. Trivedi, assisted by S. Khamari, P. K.Dikhit, M. K. Chauley, Mahendra Pal, S. K. Dey,B. B. Badamali, S. K. Khuntia, R. N. Sahoo, S.K. Bhoi, Ajaya Kumar Sasmal and B. Beheraat the north-eastern part of Barabati fort com-plex (Pl. 28). The main objective of the workwas to unveil the buried structures and corre-late them with the earlier excavated ones. Tothe north of previously excavated laterite com-plex the digging resumed (Pl. 29). The 4.30mthick deposit assignable to circa 14th-17th cen-tury CE was marked by two structural phases(Fig. 9). The structures were made of later-ite, khondalite and coarse sandstone and mud/lime mortar. Sporadic traces of plaster madeof lime, kankars and shells were noticed onthe surface of the walls.

A 3.9m wide and 12.25m long east westwall of phase-I running below the eastern armof the citadel was found. It has been robbedoff but at places retains as many as elevencourses. This wall in Trench ZD3 Qdt. 1 turnstowards south remains of which are scantilyrepresented in squares Trench ZD2, ZD1 andD1 (Pl. 30). Contiguous to the alreadyexcavated laterite citadel wall of phase-II (east-west) was found to be extended upto a distanceof 5.50m. in the same direction (Pl. 31). It is4m wide. To its northern end were added twolaterite squares the purpose of which couldnot be precisely ascertained (Pl. 32, Fig. 10).Its further extension towards the east joins thenorth-south citadel wall. This wall has beenalmost robbed off retaining only few traces intrenches that eventually connects with eastern

facet of northern citadel wall (Pl. 33, Fig. 10).Its extension towards the north is traceable onplan and partly embedded in the section lookingnorth. This too has been robbed off and itsnature could be determined through furtherexcavations (Pl. 34, Fig. 10). In this phasefrom Trench ZD2 Qdt.2 a skeleton of an animalbelonging to the equas family was found at adepth of 2m (Pl. 35).

Within the north-eastern corner of thefortification was exposed a floor rammed withkankars. Few terracotta tiles were alsorecovered from this area. The antiquitiesinclude a copper coin of East India Company(one quarter anna) dated 1835 CE (Pl. 36),broken sculptural and architectural fragmentsillustrating an apsaras (Pl. 37), a seatedgoddess (Pl. 38), gandharva, lion-head etc.The stone objects comprise censer, stone lamp,balls and fragments of pots while the terracottaobjects comprise of balls and fragments ofanimal figurines (Pl. 39) and the iron objectsbeing represented by an axe and a stylus (Pl.40). The pottery comprises of storage jars,spouted vessels (Pl. 41), lamps, pot stands,knobbed lids, miniature pots (Pl. 42), dishesand bowls, finial portion of a hookah and piecesof Chinese porcelain.

28. VILLAGE TO VILLAGE SURVEY OF ANTI-QUARIAN REMAINS IN THE MIDDLE BRAHMANI

VALLEY, DISTRICT DHENKANAL

Bhubaneswar Circle of the Survey under thedirection of D. N. Dimri assisted by N. K.Swain and D. N. Bhoi, resumed the explora-tion work under the scheme ‘Village-to-Vil-lage Survey of Antiquarian Remains’ in themiddle Brahmani valley (Pls. 43-44) withinthe limits of Hindol, Dhenkanal and Gondiatehsils of Dhenkanal district in central Odisha.A stretch of approximately 45km on the rightbank of river Brahmani from Baulpur toMandar was systematically surveyed. The sur-

56


Fig.

9: B

arab

ati f

ort,

Cut

tack

: Exc

avat

ed se

ctio

n lo

okin

g no

rth.

See

p. 5

5

57


Fig.

10: B

arab

ati f

ort,

Cut

tack

: pla

n of

exc

avat

ed st

ruct

ures

. See

p. 5

5

58


29Barabati fort, Cuttack: North eastern part of the fort complex (before and after excavation). See p. 55

28

Plates 28-29

59


Plate 30

Barabati fort, Cuttack: excavated extension of corridor wall (phase I). See p. 55

60


Plates 31-32

32Barabati fort, Cuttack: excavated extension of citadel wall and two laterite squares attached to the northen end

of citadel wall (phaseII). See p. 55

31

61


34Barabati fort, Cuttack: remains of north-south oriented eastern citadel wall (phase II). See p. 55

33

Plates 33-34

62


36Barabati fort, Cuttack: 35, skeletal remains of equas and 36, copper coin of East India Company. See p. 55

35

Plates 35-36

63


38Barabati fort, Cuttack: 37, apsaras and 38, a seated goddess. See p. 55

37

Plates 37-38

64


40Barabati fort, Cuttack: 39, animal figurines and 40, iron objects. See p. 55

39

Plates 51-52Plates 39-40

65


42Barabati fort, Cuttack: 41, storage jar and spouted vessel and 42, miniature pots. See p. 55

41

Plates 41-42

66


44Middle Brahmani Valley: view of pre-historic sites. See p. 55

43


67


Anlasahi (ANH)20° 46'N; 85° 39'E)

Dhenkanal 3km away from the right bankof river Brahmani. The site islocated on the northern slopeof a rocky knob of laterite de-posit. sal jungle and shrubs.

Neolithic: celt of dolerite

Asanbatia (ABT)(20° 42'N; 85° 39'E)

Dhenkanal 7km away from the right bankof the river Brahmani and onthe eastern bank of a seasonalnala locally called Badanala tothe north of the village. Rockyknob. Open mixed jungle andshrubs. Red soil of secondarylaterite deposit

Middle Palaeolithic: hand axesand scrapers of quartzite.Mesolithic: blade of jasper andscraper of quartz.Neolithic: celt, chisel anddebitages of dolerite.Hand made crude potteries ofdull red ware.

Ambanali (ABL)(200 41 'N; 85°43'E)

Right bank of river Brahmaniat a distance of 13km. The siteis located on the slope of theKapilas hill and Reserved For-est to the north-east of the vil-lage. Fairly dense mixedjungle. Red and yellowish soilmixed with kankars.

Mesolithic: fluted core of jas-per and blade of green chert.Neolithic: chisels, celts andring stones of dolerite.Iron Age: heaps of iron slagsalong with evidences of ironsmelting activities.

A n k a r a n t i p u r(ATR)(20° 43' N; 85° 33'E)

Hindol 5km away from the right bankof river Brahmani. The site islocated to the north-east of thevillage. Sal forest, Red andyellowish soil mixed withgravels and kankars.

Neolithic: celt and ring stoneof dolerite.

CHART-IV

Tehsil Geomorphology Nature of Remains

Dhenkanal

Village/Site

vey was extended further to the catchment ar-eas of the river and its tributaries up to a maxi-mum distance of about 10 to 15km. The modeof investigation was based mainly on locat-ing, recording and study of archaeologicalsites and antiquarian remains from the surfaceand the exposed section of the mounds, hill-ocks including the stratified deposits likegravel beds, cemented gravels, conglomerates

etc. in a systematic and scientific manner.During the exploration a total number of 143localities and villages were subjected to in-vestigation, out of which 70 localities yieldedantiquarian remains belonging from lowerpalaeolithic to medieval period. (see Chart-IV)

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Tehsil Geomorphology Nature of RemainsVillage/Site

Atinda (ATD)(20° 47'N; 85° 43'E)

Gondia 9km away from the right bankof river Brahmani. The site islocated on the slope of a smallhillock to the north-east ofRupabalia hill. Open mixedjungle and shrubs. Red soil ofsecondary laterite deposit.

Neolithic: celts of dolerite.Iron Age: iron slags and ironsmelting evidences.

Bandha Nuagan(BDN)(20° 43'N; 85° 42'E)

Dhenkanal Right bank of river Brahmaniat a distance of 10 km and leftbank of Deuljhar, a tributaryof Brahmani. The site is lo-cated to the north of the vil-lage. Greyish soil of alluvialdeposit.

Historical: remains of apanchayatana Siva templedatable to circa 8th-9th centuryCE.

Barada (BRD)(20° 43'N; 85° 32'E)

Dhenkanal 3km away from the right bankof the river Brahmani. The siteis located on the south west-ern slope of Patali parvat.Dense mixed jungle. Red soilmixed with boulders and grav-els. Site is disturbed due tocollection of boulders.

Neolithic: celt of basalt.

Barada (BRD)(20° 49'N; 85° 49'E)

Gondia Right bank of river Brahmaniat a distance of 5km and aclose proximity to a perennialstream, originating from thehill. The site is located on thesouthern slope of Aswakholaparvat within the Sarhangi re-served forest and to the north-east of the village. Densemixed jungle. Red soil of sec-ondary laterite deposit.

Neolithic: celt of dolerite.broken ring stone of quartzite.

Barahata (BRT)(20° 46'N; 85° 39'E)

Dhenkanal 4km away from the right bankof river Brahmani. The site islocated on the southern slopeof Rupabalia hill and reservedforest. Fairly dense mixedjungle. Yellowish and red soilof secondary laterite deposit.

Neolithic: unfinished celt ofdolerite.Iron Age: iron slags indicatingiron smelting evidences

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Bhojadeipur (BJR)(20° 44'N; 85° 33'E)

Hindol Just on the right bank of theriver Brahmani. Plain landswith alluvial deposits.

Mound with grey and redwares of Medieval period.

Biradia (BRD)(20° 40'N; 85° 43'E)

Dhenkanal Right bank of river Brahmaniat a distance of 14km.The siteis located on the north-west-ern foot hill of the Kapilashills and reserved forest to thesouth of the village. Fairlydense mixed jungle. Red soilof secondary laterite deposit.

Mesolithic: scrapper of jasperand point of quartz.Neolithic: celts of dolerite andunfinished ring stone ofquartzite.Iron Age: iron slags indicatingiron smelting activities.

Belatikiri (BTR)(20° 42'N; 85° 41'E)

Dhenkanal Right bank of the riverBrahmani at a distance of10km and to the north- east-ern proximity of a palaeo-channel. The site is located ona rocky knob to the south westof the village. Boulders of bigsize. Red soil of secondary lat-erite deposit.

Mesolithic: blades, scrappersand points of jasper, agate andquartz.Neolithic: chisel and celt ofdolerite.

Bhatakateni (BKT)(20° 47'N; 85° 39'E)

Dhenkanal Right bank of the riverBrahmani at a distance of3km. The site is located on thenorth-western slope ofRupabalia hill and reservedforest. Open mixed jungle. Redsoil of secondary laterite de-posit.

Neolithic: ring stone ofquartziteMedieval: ruins of a fortifiedsettlement of medieval periodlocally called Nuagada. Pot-tery of grey and red wares.

Bheji Bolua (BJL)(20° 47'N; 85° 41'E)

Gondia Right bank of the riverBrahmani at a distance of5km. The site is located on thenorthern slope of Rupabaliahill and the reserved forest.Dense mixed jungle. Red soilof secondary laterite deposit.

Neolithic: chisel, celt, ringstone and debitage of dolerite.Hand made crude pottery ofdull red ware.

Village/Site Tehsil Geomorphology Nature of Remains

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Birikhunti (BKT)(20° 45'N; 85° 43'E)

Gondia Right bank of river Brahmaniat a distance of 7km and closeproximity to a seasonal waterchannel. The site is located onthe northern slope of a hillock.Open mixed jungle andshrubs. Red soil of secondarylaterite deposit.

Neolithic: celt and debitage ofdolerite and unfinished ringstone of quartzite.

B i s w a n a t h p u r(BNR)(20° 43'N; 85° 46'E)

Gondia 16km away from the rightbank of the river Brahmani andon the close proximity of apalaeo-channel and to thenorth-west of the village.Open mixed jungle. Soil is redand yellowish mixed withkankars.

Lower Palaeolithic: handaxesand cleavers of quartzite.Mesolithic: blades, scrapersand points of jasper andquartz. Neolithic: celts of dol-erite. Iron age: iron slags in-cluding remains of iron smelt-ing activities.

Borapada (BPD)(20° 39'N; 85° 38'E)

Dhenkanal 10km away from the rightbank of the river Brahmani and3 km away from the right bankof Badajora, a tributary ofBramhani. The site is locatedon the foothill. Locality is sur-rounded by Megha hill andTigiria hill on either side.Dense mixed jungle mainly saland bamboo. Red soil of sec-ondary laterite deposit.

Neolithic: chisel of dolerite.

Chhanabolua(CBL)(20° 40'N; 85° 42'E)

Dhenkanal Right bank of the riverBrahmani at a distance of12km. The site is located tothe north of the village. Out-crop is a rocky knob coveredwith open shrubs. Red soil ofsecondary laterite deposit.

Mesolithic: fluted core,blades, trapezes, scrapers andpoints of quartz and jasper.Neolithic: celts and debitagesof dolerite.Iron Age: iron slags indicatingiron smelting activities.

Chandrasekharpur(CSR)(20° 43'N; 85° 43'E)

Dhenkanal Right bank of the riverBrahmani at a distance of11km.The site is located to thenorth of the village. The local-ity is having laterite depositsof red colour. Open shrubs.

Mesolithic: fluted cores of jas-per and quartz, blades, tri-angle, trapeze and point of jas-per.Neolithic: fragmentary ringstones of quartzite.

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Gahamakhunt i(GMT)(20° 39'N; 85° 39'E)

Dhenkanal 10km away from the rightbank of river Brahmani and1½km away from the rightbank of Badajora, a tributaryof Bramhani. The site is lo-cated on the south-easternfoot hill of Megha hill. Densemixed jungle mainly sal andbamboo. Laterite beds. Redsoil.

Lower Palaeolithic: handaxesof quartzite.Mesolithic: fluted core ofchert.Neolithic: ring stone anddebitage of dolerite.

Chhatia (CHT)(20° 46'N; 85° 42'E)

Dhenkanal 8km away from the right bankof river Brahmani and closeproximity to a palaeo-channel.The site is located on thesouth-eastern slope of theRupabalia hill and reservedforest. Open mixed junglemainly sal. Red soil of second-ary laterite deposit.

Lower Palaeolithic: handaxesand cleavers of quartzite.Mesolithic: blades of quartz.Neolithic: chisels, celts, unfin-ished ring stone and debitageof dolerite. Handmade crudepottery of dull red ware.Iron Age: iron slags indicatingiron smelting evidences.

Dalara (DLR)(20° 51'N; 85° 49'E)

Gondia 1km away from the right bankof river Brahmani. The villageis located on the north-easternslope of the Aswakholaparvat. The site is located onthe southern slope of a smalllaterite hillock to the north ofthe village. Dense mixedjungle. Laterite deposit mixedwith calcareous kankars andpebbles.

Mesolithic: blade, scrapperand point of jasper.Neolithic: celt and debitageof dolerite.

Derasingh (DRS)(20° 42'N; 85° 38'E)

Dhenkanal 6km away from the right bankof river Brahmani. The site islocated on the north-easternslope of a hill. Fairly densemixed jungle and shrubs.

Lower Palaeolithic: handaxesof quartzite.


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Gopalpur (GPR)(20° 52'N; 85° 46'E)

Gondia 1km away from the right bankof river Brahmani and on theleft bank of Debakundi nala, atributary of Bramhani. To thenorth-eastern proximity of thesite is a palaeo-channel. Thesite is located on the north-eastern slope of Aswakholaparvata and reserved forest.Dense mixed jungle mainlysal. Red soil of secondary lat-erite deposit.

Neolithic: chisels and celts ofdolerite. Broken ring stone ofquartzite.Hand made crude pottery ofred ware.

G o v i n d p u r(Tanlagarh) (TLG)(20° 38'N; 85° 39'E)

Dhenkanal 14km away from the rightbank of river Brahmani and onthe left bank of a perennialstream locally calledBadajoara, which is also atributary of Bramhani. The siteis located on the foot hill ofthe Patapuri hills and reservedforest and to the north-east ofthe village.

Historical: remains of a forti-fied settlement, locally called“Tanlagarh” datable to circa 5th

-6th century CE. Potteries ofred and grey wares.

Gu n d i ch ap ada(GCD)(20° 42'N; 85° 33'E)

Dhenkanal 6 km away from the right bankof river Brahmani. The site islocated on the north-westernslope of the Korian hill andreserve forest. Dense mixedjungle mainly sal. Red soil.

Neolithic: celt and ring stonefragment of dolerite.

H a l a d i g u n d i(HGD)(20° 43'N; 85° 37'E)

Dhenkanal 3½km away from the rightbank of river Brahmani andalso on the right bank of

Lower Palaeolithic: handaxesand a cleaver of quartzite.Neolithic: Chisels and a celtof dolerite.

Haladibari (HDR)(20° 43'N; 85° 34'E)

Dhenkanal 2½km away from the rightbank of river Brahmani. Thesite is located on the north-western slope ofSankaraduburi hill. Openmixed jungle and shrubs. Redsoil of secondary laterite de-posit.

Neolithic: chisels of dolerite.Hand made crude pottery ofdull red ware.

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J a m u c h a k a d a(JCD)(20° 42'N; 85° 28'E)

Hindol 8km away from the right bankof river Brahmani and on theright bank of Beganala, atributary of Bramhani. Mixedjungle mainly sal and shrubs.Red soil of secondary lateritedeposit mixed with kankarasand nodules.

Lower Palaeolithic: handaxesof quartzite.Neolithic: chisel and celt ofdolerite.

Jandapasi (JPS)(20° 43'N; 85° 45'E)

Gondia Right bank of the riverBrahmani at a distance of15km and western side of apalaeo-channel. The site islocated on the slope of a hill-ock to the north-west of thevillage. Open mixed jungle.Red soil of secondary later-ite deposit.

Mesolithic: blade of quartz.Neolithic: celts of dolerite.Broken ring stone of quartz-ite.Iron Age: iron slags indicatingiron smelting activities.

Jankhira (JKR)(20° 41'N; 85° 41'E)

Dhenkanal Right bank of the riverBrahmani at a distance of 9kmand closed proximity to a wa-ter channel. The site is locatedon the western foot hill of ahillock and to the south-westof the village. Fairly densemixed jungle mainly sal. Redsoil of secondary laterite de-posit.

Neolithic: chisel and celt ofdolerite.


Badajora, a tributary ofBramhani. The site is locatedon the south-western foot hillof Barakanya parvata. Densemixed jungle. Red soil con-taining yellowish patches.

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Jhili (JHL)(20° 44'N; 85° 46'E)

Gondia Right bank of the riverBrahmani at a distance of15km and on the right bank ofa palaeo-channel. The site islocated to the north-west ofthe village. Open mixedjungle. Red soil of secondarylaterite deposit.

Mesolithic: fluted core,scraper and blade of jasper.Neolithic: celt of dolerite.Broken ring stone of quartz-ite.Iron Age: large heaps of ironslags indicating iron smeltingactivities.

K a d u a m a d a(KMD)(20° 43'N; 85° 29'E)

Hindol Right bank of river Brahmaniat a distance of 6km and on theright bank of Beganala, atributary of Brahmani. The siteis located on the south-easternslope of a hill. Mixed junglemainly sal and open shrubs.Alluvium mixed withkankars, nodules and pebbles.

Lower Palaeolithic: handaxesof quartzite.

Kamalapur (KLR)(20° 49'N; 85° 51'E)

Gondia Right bank of river Brahmaniat a distance of 8km. The siteis located on the eastern slopeof Aswakhola parvat and re-served forest. Dense mixedjungle. Red soil of secondarylaterite deposit.

Mesolithic: blades and pointsof jasper.Neolithic: celts of dolerite.

Kandua (KDA)(20° 40'N; 85° 43'E)

Dhenkanal Right bank of river Brahmaniat a distance of 14km. The siteis located on the north-west-ern foothill of Kapilas hillsand reserve forest and to thesouth-east of the village.Fairly dense mixed jungle. Redsoil of secondary laterite de-posits.

Neolithic: ring stones ofquartzite, chisels of dolerite.

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K a n k a d a p a l a(KDL)(20° 41'N; 85° 37'E)

Dhenkanal 6km away from the right bankof river Brahmani. The site islocated on the western slopeof a hillock located to the eastof the village. Open shrubs.Red soil.

Lower Palaeolithic: hand axesof quartzite.

Kapilas (KLS)(20° 41'N; 85° 45'E)

Gondia Right bank of river Brahmaniat a distance of 16km and neara perennial stream originatingfrom the hill. The site is lo-cated on the slope of Kapilaswithin the reserve forestfronting the ChandrasekharJew temple. Fairly densemixed jungle, red soil of sec-ondary laterite deposit.

Neolithic: celt of dolerite.

Karamul (KML)(20° 52'N; 85° 45'E)

Gondia Just on the right bank of riverBrahmani and left bank ofDevakundinala, a tributary ofBrahmani. Situated on thenorthern slope of a hill. Local-ity is surrounded byAswakhola parvata on eitherside. A palaeo-channel to thesouth of the site. Dense mixedjungle. Red soil of secondarylaterite deposit.

Mesolithic: blades and pointsof jasper.Neolithic: chisels, celts andaxes of dolerite. Broken ringstones of quartzite.


K a n k a d a h a d(KKD)(20° 38'N; 85° 33'E)

Dhenkanal Right bank of river Brahmaniat a distance of 12km. the siteis located on the slope of thehill within Kankadahad re-serve forest to the south-westof the village. Fairly densemixed jungle. Yellowish soilmixed with kankars.

Lower Palaeolithic: handaxesand cleavers of quartzite.Mesolithic: blades and scrap-ers of quartz.Neolithic: celt of dolerite.

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K a t a k a m a d a(KMD)(20° 43'N; 85° 39'E)

Dhenkanal 7km away from the right bankof the river Brahmani and onthe eastern bank seasonalnala, locally called Badanala.The site is located on the northeastern foothill of Kandanaliparvata to the north-east ofthe village. Rocky knob of lat-erite deposit red soil.

Middle Palaeolithic: handaxe,scraper and point of quartzite.Mesolithic: blades and scrap-pers of quartz (Pls. 45-46)Neolithic: chisel and celt ofdolerite

Kateni ( KTN )(20° 49'N; 85° 48'E)

Gondia Right bank of river Brahmaniat a distance of 5km and closeproximity to a seasonal waterchannel originating from thehill. The site is located on thesouthern slope of Aswakholaparvata within Sarhangi re-served forest and to the north-west of the village. Densemixed jungle. Laterite depos-its containing calcareouskankars and gravels belowred soil.

Neolithic: chisels and celts ofdolerite.

K e n d u p a r h a(KPR)(20° 42'N; 85° 39'E)

Dhenkanal 7km away from the right bankof river Brahmani and on thewestern bank of a seasonalnala, locally called Badanala.The site is located on thenorth-eastern slope of theKandanali parvat to the northof the village. Fairly densemixed jungle. Red soil of sec-ondary laterite deposits.

Lower Palaeolithic: handaxesof quartzite.Mesolithic: blades of jasper.Neolithic: chisels, celts anddebitage of dolerite.

K e u t a b a r e n i(KBN)(20° 43'N; 5° 36'E)

Dhenkanal 2km away from the right bankof river Brahmani and on theleft bank of Badajora, a tribu-tary of Brahmani. The site islocated on the north-westernslope of a rocky knob. Red soilof secondary laterite deposit.

Neolithic: celt of dolerite.

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Krushnakumarpur(KMR)(20° 41'N; 85° 42'E)

Gondia Right bank of river Brahmaniat a distance of 5km and closeproximity to a seasonal waterchannel. The site is located onthe southern slope ofAswakhola parvata withinSarhangi reserve forest and tothe north-east of the village.Dense mixed jungle. Lateritedeposits containing calcare-ous kankars and gravels be-low a deposit of red morum.

Mesolithic: scrapers andblades of jasper.Neolithic: chisels, celts, ringstones and debitage of doler-ite.A Neolithic tool manufactur-ing primary site.

Kokeida (KKD)(20° 49'N; 85° 47'E)

Dhenkanal Right bank of river Brahmaniat a distance of 12km andclose proximity to perennialstream, originally fromKapilas hill ranges. Openshrubs. Red soils of second-ary laterite deposit.

Mesolithic: blades, scrapers,points, triangles, trapezes ofjasper and quartz.Neolithic: celt and debitage ofdolerite.

K u k u d a j h a r(KDR)(20° 39'N; 85° 39'E)

Dhenkanal 10km away from the rightbank of river Brahmani andclose proximity to a perennialstream. The site is located onthe north-eastern foothill of aMegha hill and reserved for-est. Dense mixed junglemainly sal and bamboo. Lat-erite beds. Red soil.

Neolithic: chisels of dolerite.


K h a l i b a n d h a(KBD)(20° 44'N; 85° 37'E)

Dhenkanal 2½km away from the rightbank of river Brahmani and tothe close proximity of apalaeo-channel. Mixed openjungle mainly sal. Red soil ofsecondary laterite deposit.

Mesolithic: fluted core, bladesand scrapper of jasper.Neolithic: celt and debitage ofdolerite.Handmade pottery of dull redware.Iron Age: iron slags indicatingiron smelting activities.

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Mahapada (MPD)(20° 47'N; 85° 42'E)

Gondia 7km away from the right bankof river Brahmani. The site islocated on the northern slopeof Rupabalia hill and reserveforest. Dense mixed jungle.Red soil of secondary later-ite deposit.

Neolithic: celts of dolerite.Iron Age: slags indicating ironsmelting evidences.

Majuri (MJR)(20° 38'N; 85° 34'E)

Dhenkanal Right bank of river Brahmaniat a distance of 12km. The siteis situated on the slope of thehill to the south-west of thevillage. Fairly dense mixedjungle. Light yellowish soilmixed with kankars.

Mesolithic: blade of greenchert, scraper, and points ofjasper.Neolithic: chisel and celt ofdolerite.

Meghatalabaheli(MBL)(Megha ReservedForest)(20° 39'N; 85° 38'E)

Dhenkanal 10km away from the rightbank of river Brahmani andclose proximity to a perennialstream. The site is located onthe western foothill of Meghahill within the reserve forest.Mixed dense jungle mainlysal and bamboo. Red and yel-lowish soil mixed withkankars.

Lower Palaeolithic: handaxesof quartziteMesolithic: blade of jasper.Scraper and points of quartz.Neolithic: chisels, celts, ringstones and debitages of doler-ite.Handmade crude potteries ofdull red ware.Neolithic tool manufacturingprimary site.

M u k u n d a p u r(MDR)(20° 50'N; 85° 51'E)

Right bank of river Brahmaniat a distance of 2½km and onthe southern side of a palaeo-channel. Situated on thenorth-western slope ofAswakhola parvat and re-serve forest and to the east ofthe village. Locality is sur-rounded by hillocks on eitherside. Dense mixed jungle.Red soil of secondary later-ite deposit.

Mesolithic: blade and point ofquartz. scraper of jasper.Neolithic: chisels and celts ofdolerite.

Gondia

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N u a n a g a n a(NGN)(20° 43'N; 85° 46'E)

Gondia Right bank of river Brahmaniat a distance of 15km. Situatedto the north-west of the vil-lage. Open mixed jungle. Yel-lowish soil mixed withkankars.

Mesolithic: blades, scrapersand points of jasper.Neolithic: celts of dolerite.Ring stones of quartzite.

Orasinga (OSG)(20° 51'N; 85° 50'E)

Gondia Right bank of river Brahmaniat a distance of 1km. Situatedon the north-eastern slope ofAswakhola parvata and re-serve forest. Locality is sur-rounded by hills on three sides.Dense mixed jungle. Red soilof secondary laterite deposit.

Mesolithic: blade, scraper andpoint of jasper.Neolithic: celts and fragmen-tary ring stone of dolerite.

Parikhoda (PKD)(20° 49'N; 85° 40'E)

Dhenkanal 7km away from the right bankof river Brahmani and on theeastern proximity of a waterchannel. Mixed jungle mainlysal and shrubs. Red soil ofsecondary laterite deposit.

Lower Palaeolithic: handaxesof quartziteMesolithic: blades and scrap-pers of quartz and jasper.Neolithic: shouldered celt,chisels, celt and broken ringstone of dolerite (Pls. 47-48).


Nagana (NGN)(20° 47'N; 85° 38'E)

Just on the right bank of riverBrahmani.

Historical: beautiful sculp-tures of four-armed sand stoneVarahi (64x32x22cm) seatedin lalitasana, four-armedstanding Ganesa (70x35x25cm) of chlorite, a Naga imageof khondalite and Navagrahapanel affixed into a well, alldatable to circa 10th-11th cen-tury CE.Late Medieval temple ofNaganathesvara.

Dhenkanal

Nathua (NTA)(20° 46'N; 85° 40'E)

5km away from the right bankof river Brahmani. The site islocated on the southern foothill of Rupabalia hill and tothe south of the village also.Open shrubs. Red soil of sec-ondary laterite deposit.

Neolithic: chisel and celts ofdolerite. ring stone fragmentsof quartzite. Hand made crudepottery of dull red ware.Iron Age: slags indicating ironsmelting evidences.

Dhenkanal

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Patia (Nagiapasi)(PTA)(20° 42'N; 85° 42'E)

Dhenkanal 12km away from the rightbank of river Brahmani. Thesite is located on the slope ofa rocky knob to the north-eastof the village. Red and yellow-ish soil mixed with kankars.Open shrubs.

Mesolithic: blade of greenchert and fluted core of chert.Neolithic: chisels, celts anddebitage of dolerite.

Siminai (SNI)(20° 43'N; 85° 33'E)

Gondia Right bank of river Brahmaniat a distance of 6km. Situatedon the southern foothill ofAswakhola parvata withinRaitala reserve forest and tothe north of the village. Densemixed jungle. Red soil of sec-ondary laterite deposit.

Mesolithic: blade and scraperof jasper.Neolithic: celt of dolerite.Ring stone of quartzite.Iron age: iron slags indicatingiron smelting activities.

Ranapasi (RPS)(20° 42'N; 85° 34'E)

Dhenkanal Right bank of river Brahmaniat a distance of 3km. Situatedon the western slope of the hill.Mixed jungle and shrubs. Redsoils over a layer of murammixed with boulders andpebbles.

Neolithic: celt and ring stoneof dolerite.

Rupabalia Re-served Forest(RRR)(20° 46'N; 85° 40'E)

Dhenkanal 5km away from the right bankof river Brahmani and on theclose proximity of palaeo-channels. The site is locatedon the horse shoe shaped val-ley on the southern side ofRupabalia hill bordering vil-lage Nathua. Fairly densemixed jungle mainly sal. Redsoil of secondary laterite de-posit.

Mesolithic: fluted core andblade of jasper.Neolithic: chisels, adzes, axes,celts, ring stones and debitageof dolerite (Pl. 50).Hand made crude potteries ofdull red ware.A neolithic tool manufactur-ing primary site.Iron Age: slags indicating ironsmelting evidences.

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Singha (SGH)(20° 48'N; 85° 47'E)

Gondia Right bank of river Brahmaniat a distance of 6km. Situatedon the southern slope ofAswakhola parvata and re-serve forest and to the north-east of the village. Densemixed jungle and shrubs. Redsoil of secondary laterite de-posit.

Mesolithic: blades, scrappersand points of jasper.Neolithic: chisels and celts ofdolerite. unfinished ring stoneof quartzite.

Sogarapasi (SGS)(20° 44'N; 85° 40'E)

Dhenkanal 6km away from the right bankof river Brahmani and on thewestern side of a palaeo-channel to the south of thevillage. Red soil of second-ary laterite deposit. Plain landsdevoid of any shrubs.

Lower Palaeolithic: handaxesof quartzite (Pl. 49 )Mesolithic: blade of agate.scraper, point, trapeze of jas-per.Neolithic: celt of dolerite.


Sankulei (SKL)(20° 43'N; 85° 35'E)

Dhenkanal 1km away from the right bankof river Brahmani and also theright bank of Badajora, atributary of Brahmani. The siteis located on the northernslope of a rocky knob.

Neolithic: celt of dolerite.Ring stone of quartzite.

Sarakhia (SRK)(20° 41'N; 85° 38'E)

Dhenkanal 8km away from the right bankof river Brahmani. The site islocated on the north-westernfoot hill of Megha hill. Openmixed jungle. Red soil of sec-ondary laterite deposit.

Neolithic: chisel, axe, celt andring stone of dolerite.

Sarakhia (SRK)(20° 41'N; 85° 38'E)

Hindol 5km away from the right bankof river Brahmani. The site islocated on the slope of a smallhillock called Dosandhiparvata. Open shrubs and salforest. Red soil of secondarylaterite deposit.

Neolithic: ring stone of dol-erite.

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Dhenkanal 10km away from the rightbank of river Brahmani andclose proximity to a perennialstream. The site is located onthe northern foot hill of Tigiriahill within the Megha reserveforest. Mixed dense jungle.Red soil of secondary morumdeposit.

Neolithic: chisels of dolerite.Ring stone of sand stone.

S u n d a r a k h a l(SKL)(20° 39'N; 85° 37'E)

S u n d a r a p a d a(SPD)(20° 46'N; 85° 38'E)

Dhenkanal 1km away from the right bankof river Brahmani and on theright bank of river Badajora, atributary of Brahmani. The siteis located on the south-west-ern slope of a small hillock.

Neolithic: celts of dolerite,unfinished ring stone ofquartzite.

Tarabha (TRB)(20° 44'N; 85° 37'E)

Dhenkanal 3km away from the right bankof river Brahmani and on theright bank of river Badajora, atributary of Brahmani. The siteis located on the northernslope of Barakanya parvata.Open mixed jungle andshrubs. Red soil of secondarylaterite deposit.

Neolithic: celt and debitage ofdolerite. Ring stone ofkhandolite.

Tavapal (TVL)(20° 46'N; 85° 38'E)

Dhenkanal 1km away from the right bankof river Brahmani and on theright bank of river Badajora, atributary of Brahmani. Culti-vable lands. Alluvial soils ofriver deposit.

Medieval: mound with greyand red wares of Medieval pe-riod

Tubinali (TNL)(20° 43'N; 85° 32'E)

Hindol 3km away from the right bankof river Brahmani. The site islocated on the south-westernslope of a hillock. Shrubs andsal forest. Red soil of second-ary laterite deposit.

Neolithic: celt and chisel ofdolerite.

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29. EXCAVATION AT KHAMESWARIPALI, DISTRICT

SUBARNAPUR

The ancient mound of Khameswaripali(20°50'18.5"N; 84°02'55.0"E) is located about5km south-west of Birmaharajpur town andabout 12km east of the district headquarters ofSubarnapur. Oriented north-west to south-eastalong the left bank of the river Mahanadi themound is roughly oblong-shaped on plan,measuring about 130x80m in length and width.The south-western face overlooking theMahanadi represents almost a vertical section,which rises to a height of about seven to elevenmeters from the normal water level of the river.The village occupies almost the entire surfacearea of the existing mound. Intensive modernagricultural activities, mainly towards thenorth-eastern and northern parts and housebuilding operations, besides seasonal floods,have already rendered serious damage to theancient settlement.

The site was brought to light in 1994-95and trial excavations were conducted during1996-97 under the joint direction of PradeepK. Behera and S. Pradhan, Department ofHistory, Sambalpur University.

The excavation resulted a metal-freeantecedent cultural phase characterised by theprofusion of white-painted BRW potterieshitherto unknown in any other excavated sitesin Odisha. The samples collected from the lowerlevel of sub-Period IA in KSP-I and the upperlevel of sub-Period IB in KSP-III have providedcalibrated radiocarbon dates as (IP-273) 1550± 60 BCE and (IP-307) 1065 ± 66 BCE,respectively. Further trial excavations wereconducted during the season 2006-07 todetermine the extent of Chalcolithic depositsat the site and to collect materials forradiocarbon dating under the direction ofPradeep K. Behera, Department of History,Sambalpur University. Four new Trenches, viz.

KSP-IY (measuring 2.5x2.0m), KSP-VI(measuring 2.5x2.0m), and KSP-VII(measuring 3.0x2.5m), were laid and TrenchKSP-V (measuring 3.0x2.5m), was takenalmost at the center of the mound. However,the 175cm thick habitation deposit in KSP-VIIand that of 88cm thick in KSP-VI yieldedcultural remains belonging to sub-Period IB,and Period II and III, traced during the 1996-97. Except a flat axe of iron from the depositof Period II in KSP-VII, all other materials,viz. potteries, bone tools, etc., recovered duringthis season’s excavation are similar incharacteristic features to those yielded earlier.The trial excavations conducted atKhameswaripali revealed that it is a multi-period site, represented by Chalcolithic (PeriodI), Iron Age (Period II) and Late phase of IronAge/Early Historic (Period III) habitationremains. On the basis of two availablecalibrated radiocarbon dates and comparativestudies of cultural material remains it may besaid that the Chalcolithic culture atKhameswaripali flourished between the secondhalf of the second millennium BCE and earlyfirst millennium BCE and gradually it wassucceeded by Iron-Age and Early Historiccultures. The early habitation area was confinedto the northwestern corner of the existingmound and much of this (>90%) area hasalready been washed away through seasonalfloods in the Mahanadi.

30. EXPLORATION IN THE DISTRICT SUBARNAPUR

D. N. Dimri assisted by K. P. Padhy, J. K.Patnaik, S. K. Kar, D. K. Lakhonde, R. Kumarof Bhubaneswar Circle of Survey carried outexploration in the foothill of Trikuta hill situ-ated in Birmaharajpur sub-division ofSubarnapur district and discovered a factorysite of mesolithic period. The tools includeblades, burins, points, lunates, fluted cores (Pl.51), debitage, etc. and the materials are mainlyof chert, jasper and agate (Pl. 52).

84


46Middle Brahmani Valley: stone tools. See p.76

45


85


48Middle Brahmani Valley: microliths and neolithic tools. See p. 79

47


86


50Middle Brahmani Valley: 49, neolithic tools; 50, ring stones and mace heads. See pp. 81-80

49


87


52Kotsamalai: 51, fluted cores and 52, microliths. See p. 83

51


88


31. EXPLORATION IN DISTRICT MAYURBHANJ

Bhubaneswar Circle of the Survey under thedirection of D. N. Dimri assisted by J. K.Patnaik, S. K. Kar, D. N. Bhoi, D. K. Lakhondeand R. Kumar re-explored the site Kuchai inMayurbhanj district and discovered onepalaeolithic handaxe along with neolithic adzesand chisels. The pottery of the site recoveredare crudely hand made red ware.

32. EXPLORATION IN DISTRICT FIROZPORE(FIROZPUR)

Akshat Kaushik of Chandigarh Circle of theSurvey explored 103villages in Firozpur dis-trict under village-to-village survey scheme.Out of which 15 villages yielded antiquarianremains. (see Chart-V)

Name of Village Tehsil Antiquarian remains Period

Barapovind

Zira

Burj British period

Pheruke (Feroke)

Kabar Bachha(Kabrabachha)Kamalgarh Kalan(Kamalgarh)

Kamal Wala (Kanwalwale)

Kassuana (Kassuwala)

Kassuana Ponchha Pir

Mallanwala (Mallawale)MansurdevaRode jalle Wala(Roddewala)Shahbux Bakar (Shahbukra)ShahidganjShekhwan Pind

Sodhiwala

Zira

Firojpur

Zira

Makhu (Zira)

Zira

Zira

Makhu (Zira)Zira

Makhu (Zira)

ZiraFirozpurZira

Zira

Zira

Ancient mound

Ancient mound

Zira

Palace

Ancient mound

Ancient mound

Ancient mound

WellBurj

Ancient mound

BurjAncient mound

Late Medieval period.

Historical period

Historical period

Late Medieval period

Historical period

Historical period

Early Historical periodLate Medieval period

British period

Historical periodBritish period

British period

Tomb (Paintings in blue,red and chocolate redcolour depicting thescenes from the legend HirRanja)Ancient mound

Ancient mound Historical period

Late Medieval period

Historical periodJain mandirSaraiGurudwara

British periodBritish period

PUNJAB

CHART-V

89


33. EXPLORATIONS IN DEEG AND KAMA TEHSILS,DISTRICT BHARATPUR

Jaipur Circle of the Survey under the guid-ance of C. B. Misra assisted by Shiv KumarBhagat, K. L. Saini, Vivek Nigam and R. P.

RAJASTHAN Mathur surveyed 51 villages of Deeg and Kamatehsils of Bharatpur district and found thirty vil-lages having remains of heritage buildings inthe form of temples, pavilions, ghats, palaces,kundas, garden, natural and artificial caves andancient archaeological sites. (see Chart-VI)

Name of Site Latitude & Longitude Nature of remains

Punchhari 27° 27' 23'' N; 77° 25'57'' E

Chhatris (one containing an inscription of1846 CE), temples and kundas of 19th-20th

century CE.

Kheda

Didawali

Tankoli

Guhana

Khoh

Adibadri

Jhiri Kedarnath

Lahsar

Boulkheda

Sunehra

27° 25' 33'' N; 77° 24'03'' E

27° 30' 16'' N; 77° 18'33'' E

27° 31' 13'' N; 77° 17'33'' E27° 32' 03'' N; 77° 17'11'' E

27° 31' 43'' N; 77° 15'09'' E27° 31' 03'' N; 77° 12'20'' E

27° 37' 14'' N; 77° 11'46'' E

27° 38' 34'' N; 77° 13'07'' E

27° 39' 11'' N; 77° 11'30'' E27° 39' 00'' N; 77° 20'15'' E

Early medieval remains

Chhatri (19th- 20th century CE)

Temple (19th- 20th century CE)

Kushana period site

Early and late medieval remains

Temple (19th-20th century CE)

Rock shelter and ekmukhi-linga of earlymedieval period

Mosque and haveli of late medieval pe-riod

Temple (19th-20th century CE)

Temple remains of late medieval period

CHART-VI

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34. EXCAVATIONS AT ASTOLI NALA, DISTRICT

BUNDI

The Acheulian site of Astoli (25° 25'N;75°34'E) is 7km to the west of district Bundi,was excavated jointly directed by Sheila Mishraof Deccan College and Riza Abbas of theIndian Rock Art Research Centre, Nashik,assisted by Sushama Deo, Shobha V, PrabodhShilwarkar and Tosha Bantha.

The Acheulian artefacts are found in aquartzite rubble deposit exposed by the Astolinala to the west of the village. The mainobjective of the excavation was to understandthe typo-technology and frequency of culturalmaterial belonging to the Acheulian traditionin these sediments and to document the natureof the rubble and understand its formation. TheAstoli nala drains an area of Vindhyan quartzitewhich outcrops to the north of Astoli. Thequartzite forms a ridge formed by dippingsandstone beds with the gentle slope towardsAstoli. This quartize hillslope is presently beingquarried for rubble and building stone andremoving the cover of weathered material.Acheulian artefacts and microliths are foundon this surface. The foot of the hillslope Astolinala exposes a 4 to 5m thick quartzite rubble.This rubble contains Acheulian tools but lacksany calcrete formation. A remnant of mediaevalmound overlies the rubble. Around halfkilometer from the hill slope, the ongoing roadconstruction has dug into the rubble deposit.The upper part of the rubble lacks calcrete buthas developed a red colour, while the base ofthe rubble has calcrete coatings an nodules inthe matrix. At this location (25° 25' 36.5" N;75° 34' 32.5"E), Trench AST-2-A measuring2x1.5m was laid out on top of the sectionexposed by the nala and excavated to the nalabed at a depth of 120cm. 472 artefacts wererecovered from this Trench AST-2-B (25° 25'35.7"N; 75° 34' 32.1"E) measuring 2x1.5m,was laid further downstream of the nala, in

the bed dug up to a depth of 178cm. About 700artifacts belonging to Acheulian tradition wererecovered from this trench.

35. EXPLORATION AND EXCAVATION OF ROCK-CUT CAVES, MALPURA, DISTRICT JHALAWAR

Rajendra Yadav of the Rajasthan State Ar-chaeology and Museums, has discovered agroup of five rock-cut caves at Malpura (75°48' N; 24° E), Rajasthan 2.5km south of Kolviand 14km north of Dag in tehsil Gangadhar. Thearea is an extension of Malwa plateau markedby several small lateritic hillocks and seasonalrivulets originated from the hilly slopes and fi-nally meet to river Kyasari which is flowingnear village Kolvi. A small hillock named asBhutadia is situated about 200m south of vil-lage Malpura revealed evidences of six rock-cut caves which are now in ruined condition(Fig.11).

The caves are excavated in the flat toppedlateritic formation on Bhutadia hill which aremodest in size. Out of six, four caves are mon-asteries, one is stupa-shaped shrine and one isleft incomplete. These monastic excavations aresmall and roughly square or rectangular on planentered through a small entrance. The monas-tic excavation of Cave 5 is the largest measur-ing 5x4.6m while the smallest Cave 3 mea-suring 2.33x2.87m is in size. The interior wallsof the caves are unfinished but plastered withmud mixed with cow dung, murram and hay.The Cave 4 is rectangular in shape measuring4x2.90m. The dilapidated Cave 1 is a stupa-shaped shrine is most important among them.Located on the northern edge of the hillock, itis carved from a large isolated lateritic hillockfrom internally and externally like a temple.Facing east, the shrine consists of a square sanc-tum and an anti-chamber on the axial plan withan entrance on the east. Outwardly, in elevationthe shrine has a moulded square platform withside projections on cardinal directions, an elon-

91


Fig.11: Malpura: Sketch-site plan of the caves and reconstructed front elevation and sectional-elevation ofCave 1 (stupa-shaped shrine). See p. 90

92


gated drum and hemispherical anda on the topof which is missing now. The elongated drumis separated from the anda by a set of a mould-ing, embellished with a large chaitya-windowon their cardinal points (Pl. 53). Here, the cen-tral medallion of chaitya is circular and plain,while similar chaitya-windows of stupa-shapedshrines of Kolvi Cave 2 and Binnayaga Cave14, depicts stupa in the centre of chaityas. Themissing portion of the shrine seems to be lowin height and partially structural. Perhaps, thecrowning harmika and chhatravali of theshrine might be made of perishable material likewood as suggested by the evidences from otherstupas in the neighbouring sites viz., Kolvi,Binnayaga, etc.

The sanctum is square on plan and it isplain inside with flat roof. A pedestal attachedto the rear wall (west) of the sanctum carries asquare recess in the centre for fixing a sculptureof Buddha (?). To the east of the sanctum awide passage connected to the anti-chambercalled as mandapa is having vaulted ceilingwith vallabhi type of roof. The wide entranceof the mandapa has a plain doorjamb and apilaster on either side crowned by chaityadormer (Pl. 54). The square platform andsuperstructure of the shrine is diagonallybroken and slides towards north while the roofof mandapa has fallen down inside the nave.Once, the stupa was externally and internallyplastered with fine lime only traces of whichare noticeable.

Conceptually, the rock-cut stupa-shaped shrine at Malpura is unique designhaving similarity with stupa-shaped shrines ofKolvi and Binnayaga and seems to beassociated with Buddhist pantheon but withoutany inscription and sculptural evidence. Thesestupa-shaped shrines with vallabhi type of roofseem to emulate from Brahmanical templeswhich is prevalent in northern India during the8th-9th century CE. On stylistic consideration,

the caves of Malpura may be assigned to circa8th-9th century CE.

36. EXPLORATION OF ANCIENT MOUND,KHANDAR, DISTRICT SAWAIMADHOPUR

Rajendra Yadav, of the Department ofArchaeology and Museums, Govt. of Rajasthanhas discovered an ancient mound at Khandar,district Sawaimadhopur. Khandar, the tehsilheadquarters is situated about 50km East of theSawaimadhopur. The mound is located withinthe suburb of Khandar on the northern slope ofthe hillock and presently the southern part ofthe mound is partly under occupation while onthe hill side (southern) is open. Several raingullies have been formed due to high gradientof the hillock exposing cultural deposits ofseveral centuries. The site has yielded a largenumber of red ware and associated grey waredatable to Kushana to Gupta periods. The mainidentifiable shapes, common in both red wareand grey ware are vases of different sizes andbasins. Several broken stone pestles are foundon the surface. There is an ancient ruined fortatop the hill, known as Khandar fort whichwitness the history of Early Medieval period tothe modern period. There are several ruinedtemples, mosques, palaces datable to earlymedieval period to 18th century CE.

37. EXCAVATION AT ISWAL, DISTRICT UDAIPUR

Department of Archaeology of Instituteof Rajasthan, Udaipur and Deccan College,Pune jointly excavated ancient site Iswal underdirections of Lalit Pandey and Basant Shindeassisted by Jagdish Meena, Chain Singh,Kulshekhar Vyas and Hemendra Choudhary andstudents of Janardan Rai Nagar RajasthanVidyapeeth University (Pls. 55-58).

Iswal village (24°44'N; 73°37'E) islocated about 20km north-west of Udaipur cityon the Udaipur-Jodhpur State Highway. Iswalis surrounded on the west, south and east by

93


the hills known as Mandaro, Ada Magra andKathriyeewani respectively. The ancient site,located to the north-west of the village is spreadover an area of one square kilometer.Comprising several iron slag mounds on theeastern site and habitation area on the westernside. The site is on the vicinity of iron oremining.

During the last four seasons excavationat Iswal, the site has provided the evidence ofiron metallurgical activities at industrial scalewith the evidence that the inhabitants at Iswalwere also engaged in glass production. Thus,the Iswal had gained the status ofpyrotechnological activities at industrial scale.Besides the metallurgical activities the site alsoprovides the evidence of habitation with theclose proximity of the industrial activity area.Because of it, the present season’s excavationwork was focused in the probable habitationarea. Therefore, the excavation team decidedto continue the excavation at the habitation areato know about the material culture.

To fulfill the above objectives two newTrench HB 19 and HB 20 were laid down andalso resumed the excavation in Trench HB 18of the fourth season i.e., 2005-2006. Beforethe commencement of actual excavation, theteam of the excavators cleaned the site. A coinof copper, a small brass bowl, a nail of ironand cowries recovered during the cleaning. Thenew Trench HB 19 and HB 20 divided into fourquadrants i.e., south-west, south-east, north-west and north-east and the separate lot ofnumbers given to the each quadrant for digging.During the previous season, the Trench HB 18had been dug only at the depth of 11.30m.Therefore, the excavation work resumed toexpand the excavation in Trench HB 19 and HB20 and to know the extension of stone wallswhich had been exposed during the previousseason to determine the structural plan. Theexcavation Trench HB 18, HB 19 and HB 20

provided the evidence of stone structures of thevarious phases. Broadly these structural phasesmay be divided into Early Historic, EarlyMedieval and Medieval phases. The structuresof Medieval phases were not distinctive becauseof the desertion of the site.

During the previous season the EarlyHistoric phase was divided into two sub-phasesphase I and phase II, but in the current season noremains of phase I could recover. In north-eastquadrant of Trench HB 18, two walls wereexposed. The surviving north-south wallmeasured 2.19m and the east-west wallmeasured 1.62m in length. The total coarse ofboth the walls were nine in number with asurviving height of 65cm. The floor level of thisincomplete structure was made of clay andkankar. The remains of the iron slag and ashwas also noticed. It appears that the earlyhabitants were primarily engaged in ironmetallurgical activities. The phase II A wasrestricted in last three layers (9) (10) and (11)only. The phase II A provides the evidence ofhabitational activities in abundance. During thecourse of excavation in south-east and north-east quadrant of Trench HB 18 two floor levelsnoticed out of which one floor level was madeof slag and clay. It was about 9cm thick and itwas at a depth of 11.85m. During the sieving ofthe soil, the remains of the charred bones wererecovered which proved the human activities.The another floor which was beneath the formerwas made of pebbles and it was about 20cmthick. A semicircular stone structure alsonoticed at this floor level which was 20cm inlength and it had a width of 15cm. It was full ofash. A saddle quern was recovered from thesurroundings of the semi-circular structure in(north-east) quadrant of the Trench HB 18. Itwas in close proximity of the western sectionof the (north-east) quadrant of Trench HB 18.A good number of charred bones also recoveredfrom the ash. It reflects that some kind of

94


cooking had been done there. A squarishstructure in (south-east) Trench HB 18 alsoexposed during the course of excavation. It wasmade of mud and was spread in (east-west) and(north-south) direction. Its (east-west) directionwas 75cm in length though its (north-south)direction had a length of 60cm. The central partof the structure was full of loose soil. Itsmeasurement was 16x30cm. A stone of25x21cm size was also exposed at its north-south direction. The upper surface of the wholearea was covered with a layer of red thick soil.A good amount of ash and charcoal alsorecovered from it. During the course ofexcavation it observed that the surroundingsof the squarish structure had been made quitecompact. All the four corners were coveredwith the bricks and pebbles. Thus it was spreadin an area of 82x53cm. On the basis of thecircumstantial evidence, it can be presumed thatthe squarish structure could be the forgingfurnace.

During the course of excavation, nostructural remains could be noticed in earlyhistoric phase IIB but the nature of the soilprovide the evidence of human activities. TheLayers (7) and (8) belong to this phase. Layer(8) on the top of Layer (9) is separated by acompact deposit of slag. The soil compositionof both the (7) and (8) layers are quite hard.The Layer (7) measured 28cm thick and itscolour was reddish-brown and shows certainkind of burning activity. A few broken brickbatsalso noticed from this layer. The Layer (8)measured 38cm thick and was sealed by auniform level of slag at the top. The thickness,colour variation within the layer and itshardness compels to presume that it would havebeen used as a floor level.

On the basis of the structural remains,early medieval phase has also been divided intotwo phases i.e., phase I and phase II. The Layers(4) to (6) belong to the phase I and the Layers

(1) to (3) belong to the phase II. The structuresof both the phases were spread in Trench HB18, HB 19 and HB 20. The structures of phaseI shows a clear distinction. Two phases offoundation walls provide the evidence thatphase I, again, exhibits two sub phases i.e.,phases IA and IB. The structural plan of phaseIB was spread in all the three Trench HB 18,HB 19 and HB 20. A gap of 1.20m was alsonoticed in the (east-west) wall of the (north-west) and (north-east) Trench HB 18. Probably,it was the entrance gate. The structure of phaseIA was also divided by brick wall. The brickwall was on the conjunction of Trench HB 19and HB 20. The partition wall was found in(south-east) and (north-east) Trench HB 19 in(north-south) direction. The Medieval phase hasbeen divided into two phases, Early Medievaland Medieval. The most of the pottery of EarlyMedieval phase are red ware. Again, the red warehas been divided into fine and coarse. The finered ware includes spouted vessels and thebowls with knife edged bowls. Especially thebowls are properly baked and fine variety ofclay has been used in them. In some sherds offine red ware beautiful floral designs have alsobeen marked. The coarse variety includesstorage jars and basins. The red ware ofmedieval phase is coarse and some of them ofhave white bands on their body parts. The fineand coarse both the varieties of grey ware havebeen found in Early Medieval phase also. Thefine variety of grey ware includes spoutedvessels. The spouted vessels in grey ware areburnished and the outer surface of the spouthas a pinkish red band. It is an unique pottery,which appears a distinctive regional feature ofthe site. The carinated handis are also the majorform in grey ware and they belong to the coarsevariety.

During the fifth season of excavationtotal eighty four antiquities recovered out ofwhich thirty nine broken glass bangles, nineteen

95


54Malpura: view of stupa-shaped shrine. See p. 92

53


96


56Iswal: 55, stamped red ware and grey ware; 56, exposed brick wall structure. See p.92

55


97


57


58Iswal: 57, hearth and burning activities; 58, exposed structure. See p. 92

98


SIKKIM

38. EXPLORATION IN DISTRICT EAST SIKKIM

Prehistory Branch of the Survey undertookexploration in East Sikkim district under thedirection of D. Bhengra, assisted by RajeevDwivedi, Gajanan Laxmanrao Katade and AnilKumar, K. M. Girhe, R. K. Dwivedi, N. K.Nimje and P. S. Pashine. Extensive explorationwas carried out in Tista river valley and itstributaries. Exploration yielded eight sitesnamely, Aho Basti (88°31'N; 27° 16'E),Radang Basti (88° 32'N; 27° 15'E), Bhusuk(88° 40'N; 27° 18'E), Ahoyantam (88° 36'N;27° 17'E), Pancheshamsing (88° 34'N; 27°15'E), Namchepong (88° 39'N; 27° 14'E),Lingdok (88° 35'N; 27° 23'E), Aho Site (88°37'N; 27° 16'E) with Neolithic tools (Pls. 59-61).

Neolithic tools from East Sikkim. See p. 98

Plates 51-52Plate 59

fragments of ivory bangles and eleven nails ofiron one intact rod two arrowheads and one axeof iron are major findings. All these findingsbelong to Early Medieval phase. A uniquefigurine of lord Ganesa is an importantdiscovery from the Early Historic phase. It ismade of schist and belongs to the Kushanaperiod.

In (south-east) and (north-east) quadrantof Trench HB 18 the excavators reached on thevirgin soil at a depth of 13.75m. The majorcomposition of the virgin soil is red ochre. Thelast Layer (11) measured 12cm which was restedon the virgin soil. The major content of theLayer (11) was slag and ash. Thus, it appearsthat the earliest inhabitants at Iswal were theblacksmiths and they had settled there for thepurpose of metallurgical activities. The materialculture of various levels prove that ironworking was the major activity of theinhabitants of the site.

99


61East Sikkim: 60, neolithic tools and 61, Tista river valley containing neolithic tools. See p. 98

60


100


6. Number is reffered to in the following pages as (n) only.

CHART-VII

LOCALITIES STUDIED IN DETAILS ARE GIVEN IN THE TABLE BELOW

Locality/Site Latitude/Longitude (GPS) Comments

Akkapuram 12° 58' 27" N; 79° 46' 00" E Section

Alapakkam-1 quarry 13° 15.788' N; 79° 54.633' E Acheulian within top 20cm of a lateriticgravel capping primary laterities.Artefacts (n)6=121 destroyed byquarrying

39. EXPLORATION IN DISTRICTS OF

CHINGLEPUT, PONNEN, MADURANTAKAM,SRIPERUMBUDUR , KANCHIPURAM AND

TIRUVALLUR

Explorations were undertaken by theSharma Centre for Heritage and Enviroment(SCHE), under the direction of Shanti Pappuand co-direction of Kumar Akhilesh, in the ba-sins of the rivers Arani, Kortallaiyar, Cooum,Adayar and Palar in Chingleput, Ponnen,Madurantakam, Sriperumbudur. The archaeol-ogy of the east coast of India forms a continuumranging from Tamilnadu to Bengal, in particu-lar as related to prehistoric sites in lateritic orferruginous sediments. In order to examine thearchaoelogy of coastal India, it is neccessaryto establish a clear database of the nature andcontext of these sites and to situate them withinthe framework of quateranry environmenatalchanges. An attempt was also made to recoversamples for obtaining chronometric dates andfor sedimentology, micropalaeontology andpollen/phytolith analysis in order to investigatepalaeoenvironments during the quaternary. Asignificant component included that of docu-menting the extent of destruction of archaeo-logical sites in this region, to devise strate-gies for salvage archaeology which is to beundertaken in the next field season.

Survey was also conducted by this sameteam in the district of Kanchipuram, Tiruvallurwith a focus on demarcating quaternarydeposits; e.g., laterites, ferricretes, alluvial andcolluvial deposits, marine, estuarine andAeolian deposits within the study region. Thiswas supplemented by satellite images providedby Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)/Regional Remote Sensing Service Center(RRSSC), Bangalore, for some regions studied.Survey forms consisted of recording more than30 variables related to the geo-coordinates ofthe site, it’s area, artefact density, geographicaland geomorphological context, culturesequence, stratigraphy, degree of integrity, etc.A database for the site was prepared and carefulcollection of lithics was made. The coordinatesprovided were taken at the centre of the areasurveyed. Digital photograph was alsoemployed and all data was entered into thecomputer for further processing. In thelaboratory, detailed studies of the lithics arebeing earned out to ascertain the cultural phaserepresented, the technology and nature ofcultural transitions through time and spatialvariability of assemblage structure within andbetween sites. Localities studied not onlyincluded archaeological sites but also sectionswhich had the potential for informing onquaternary stratigraphic sequences (see Chart-VII).

TAMILNADU

101



Amerumbedu-Locality 1

13° 24.170' N; 80° 00.449' E Acheulian artefacts embedded withinlateritic sediments. Artefacts (n)=74destroyed largely for cutting Kava-water channels and construction

AmmambakkamQuarry

13° 16.445' N; 79° 52.421' E Acheulian tools within upper part oflateritic gravel. Artefacts (n)=231destroyed by quarrying

Aryathur 13° 14' 10" N; 79° 51' 23" E Section

Between ParandurEri Madugu

12° 57.162' N; 79° 44.12' E Acheulian to Middle Palaeolithic ingravels. Artefacts (n)=13

Between Singalpadiand Akkamapuram

12° 56.637' N; 79° 46.108' E Middle Palaeolithic in lateritic shinglygravels. Artefacts (n)=7

Bommajikulam 13° 25.614' N; 79° 58.377' E Acheulian artefacts embedded withinlateritic duricrust. Artefacts (n)=61destroyed largely for quarrying forroad building

Bt. Alapakkam andSengupram,Mailapur reserveforest

13° 16.318' N; 79° 55.014' E Acheulian on surface of laterites.Artefacts (n)=87

Bt.Balakrishnapuramand Kannankotai

13° 24.075' N; 79° 38.333' E Acheulian from within the the upperhorizons of lateritic sediments andMiddle Palaeolithic on the surface.Artefacts (n)=40 destroyed largely forquarrying

Attantangal 13° 11.986' N; 80° 08.905' E Previously reported. Section studied

BetweenMaduramangalamand Singalpadi

12° 57.662' N; 79° 47.47' E Middle Palaeolithic in lateritic shinglygravels. Artefacts (n)= 13

Bt. G.R. KandigaiandAmridamangalam

13° 23.930' N; 80° 03.274' E Late Acheulian to Middle Palaeolithicartefacts on the surface of duricrust.Artefacts (n)=154 destroyed largely forquarrying/construction

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Bt. G.R. Kandigai andAmridamangalam

13° 23.930' N; 80° 03.274' E Late Acheulian to Middle Palaeolithicartefacts on the surface of duricrust.Artefacts (n)=154 destroyed largely forquarrying/construction

Bt. Injur-Ummipedu 13° 27.952' N; 80° 10.874' E Section

Bt. Motur andInjambakkam. Moturlocality 1

12° 54.035' N; 79° 42.911' E Late Palaeolithic on surface LatePalaeolithic on surface. Artefacts(n)=47

Bt. Palavakkam andKaradiputtur

13° 20.120' N; 79° 57.973' E Acheulian tools within lateriticsediments. Artefacts (n)=21 destroyedlargely for quarrying


Bt. Perumbakkam andGudapakkam

12° 30.894' N; 79° 48.219' E Section

Bt. Placepalavam andAllikulli

13° 16.485' N; 79° 46.658' E Acheulian on surface of colluvial gravelspreads. Artefacts (n)=28

Bt. Thervoy andKollanur

13° 22.417' N; 80° 00.468' E Acheulian to Middle Palaeolithic withinlateritic gravels. Artefacts (n)=43

Bt. Manellore(Manallur) andShankarnarayanapuram

13° 26.964' N; 80° 01.391' E Section

Bt.Vedal to Karai 12° 52.647' N; 79° 44. 560' E Late Palaeolithic on surface. Artefacts(n)=63

Btw. - Pallavada andPondavakkam

13° 28.464' N; 80° 00.575' E On the surface of duricrust overlyingprimary laterites artefacts are lateAcheulian to Late Palaeolithic (n)=139destroyed largely for quarrying

Btwn. Kilay andAppanayakankandigai

12° 59.366' N; 79° 54.847' E On surface of lateritic gravel: LatePalaeolithic. Artefacts (n)=111

Budur 13° 24.932' N; 79° 57.600' E Late Middle Palaeolithic artefactsembedded within duricrust. Artefacts(n)=151 destroyed largely for quarrying

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Damal locality 1 12° 52.844' N; 79° 36.066' E Destroyed for quarrying road building

Erumaivettipalayam 13°14.453' N; 80° 07.321' E Late Acheulian to Middle Palaeolithicon duricrust surface. Artefacts (n)=12destroyed by quarrying

G. R. Kandigai 13° 23.635' N; 80° 03.515' E Artefacts are late Acheulian to MiddlePalaeolithic on the surface of duricrust.Artefacts (n)=56 destroyed largely forquarrying

Gollapalayam 13° 15' 52" N; 79° 01' 00" E Section

Gollapalayam 13° 16.136' N; 79° 51.728' E Acheulian on surface of lateriticcolluvial gravels. Artefacts (n)=56

Gunipalavam colony 13° 17.502' N; 79° 49.847' E Acheulian on surface of lateriticcolluvial gravel. Artefacts (n)=84

Gunipalavam quarry 13° 16.706' N; 79° 50.360' E Acheulian within lateritic sediments.Artefacts (n)=150 destroyed byquarrying

Gurupuram complex 13° 14.925' N; 79° 57.379' E Acheulian artefacts within upperhorizons of a lateritic sediment, cappedby lateritic gravel lag with Late MiddlePalaeolithic artefacts. Artefacts (n)=337destroyed by quarrying

Irungattukottai 12° 59.244' N; 79° 58.686' E Section

Kalakalavada 13° 14.926' N; 79° 49.831' E Acheulian associated with colluvialgravels. Artefacts (n)=l00

Kambirajapuram 12° 45.000' N; 79° 47.765' E Late Acheulian to Middle Palaeolithicon surface. Artefacts (n)=53

Govindavadiagaramcomplex

12° 57 095' N; 79° 39.879' E Section

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Kanjipadi 13° 12' 00" N; 79° 48' 00" E Acheulian on surface of lateriticcolluvial gravels. Artefacts (n)=11

Karadiputtur 13° 21.933' N; 79° 57.450' E Acheulian from within lateriticsediments in quarry sections and lateMiddle Palaeolithic embedded within theduricrust. Artefacts (n)=l04 destroyedlargely for quarrying

Katpuli(Navalakuppam)

13° 16.299' N; 79° 56.565' E Acheulian artefacts on the surface of theduricrust. Artefacts (n)=103

LOCALITY/SITE Latitude/Longitude (GPS) Comments

Kambirajapuramcomplex

12° 45.000' N; 79° 47.765' E Middle to late Palaeolithic on surface.Artefacts (n)=53

Kammavaripalem 13° 15' 25" N; 79° 59' 05" E Section

Kattagudalur reserveforest

12° 27.450' N; 79° 47.015' E Middle to late Palaeolithic on surface.Artefacts (n)=132

Kilacheri (on roadbetweenPerambakkan andMappedu)

13° 02.075' N; 79° 50.806' E Middle Palaeolithic in lateritic shinglygravels. Artefacts (n)=10

Kilay complex 12° 59.027' N; 79° 56.042' E On surface of lateritic gravel. LatePalaeolithic artefacts (n)=121

Kirinayattam 13° 40' 06" N; 79° 46' 10" E Section

Koliyqlam -1 12° 32.160' N; 79° 48.802' E Section

Kondansarai 12° 58.323' N; 79° 35.207' E Late Palaeolithic and MiddlePalaeolithic on surface. Artefacts (n)=27

Kunjaram complex 13° 15.655' N; 79° 53.533' E Artefacts (Late Middle to latePalaeolithic) on surface of lateriticuplands. Artefacts (n)=l156 destroyedfor quarrying and construction of villagehouses, tanks, etc.

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Kunnam complex 12° 53.587' N; 79° 52.830' E On surface of lateritic gravel: LatePalaeolithic artefacts (n)=l14

Kunnankolatur 12° 35.928' N; 79° 52.829' E Section

Kunnavakkam hills 12° 50.456' N; 79° 54.784' E SectionKutchchur 1 13° 17.239' N; 79° 53.847' E On the surface of lateritic gravel:

Middle to late Palaeolithic: artefacts(n)=25 destroyed largely for quarrying

Malaivavaivavur 12° 33.716' N; 79° 53.476' E Section

Malayankulam 12° 42.243' N; 79° 47.957' E Middle to late Palaeolithic on surface.Artefacts (n)=l14

MallyakaranaiMadugi

12° 37.779' N; 79° 47.414' E Section

Manjankaranai 13° 16.094' N; 80° 06.847' E Previously reported. Section studied

Mannur 13° 01.054' N; 79° 57.561' E Late Palaeolithic on surface of lateritiesartefacts (n)=27 destroyed byconstruction of colleges

Melmaligaipattu 13° 17.333' N; 80° 00.162' E Acheulian artefacts within ferruginousgravels derived from Satyavedu artefacts(n)=98 destroyed by quarrying

Mettupalayamcomplex

13° 14. 075' N; 79° 49.627' E Acheulian within lateritic gravels.Artefacts (n)=107

Mettur toMettupalayam

13° 40' 06"-13° 45' 08"N;79° 49' 00"- 79° 47' 00"E

Section-Section

Mummadikuppam-Kottayur

12 59.504" N; 79 52.637"E Acheulian within lateritic sediments.Artefacts (n)=133 destroyed largely forquarrying

Nambakkam hill 13° 14.082' N; 79° 51.136' E Acheulian to Middle Palaeolithic onsurface of lateritic gravels in uplandoutliers of Allikulli hills. Artefacts(n)=159

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On the way toKattubanikandrigai

13° 16.299' N; 79° 56.565' E Section

Opasamudram 13° 29.311' N; 80° 09.664' E Section

Oragaddam 12° 50.402' N; 79° 56.093' E Section

Orattur-1 12° 29.436' N; 79° 47.610" E Middle to Late Palaeolithic on surface.Artefacts (n)=17


On the road betweenAlapakkam-Uttirampattu

12° 55.231' N; 79° 30.450' E Late Palaeolithic and MiddlePalaeolithic on surface. Artefacts (n)=9

Pallavada quarrysection

13° 28.337' N; 80° 01.509' E Late Acheulian to Middle Palaeolithicin the top 20cm of a lateritic gravelresting on a primary lateritic sequenceArtefacts (n)=53 destroyed largely forquarrying

Panapakkam 12° 51.523' N; 79° 58.152' E Section

Parandur 12° 56' 33" N; 79° 44' 20" E Section

Parikulam 13° 11' 00" N; 79° 52' 00" E Section

Peddeatapakkam 13° 29.294' N; 79° 58.773' E On the surface of duricrust overlyingprimary laterites. Artefacts are LateAcheulian to Middle PalaeolithicArtefacts (n)= 89 destroyed largely forquarrying

Pennallur 12° 59.127' N; 79° 58.834' E On surface of lateritic gravel: LatePalaeolithic on surface of lateriticgravel. Artefacts (n)=24 destroyedlargely for industrial construction

Perumbakkandigai 12° 23.665' N; 79° 49.879' E Section

Picchivakkam: depos-its of the Coom

13° 00.382' N; 79° 45.144' E Section

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Polivakkam 13° 03.899' N; 79° 54.938' E Middle Palaeolithic in lateritic shinglygravels. Artefacts (n)=25

Poongalum village 13° 28.959' N; 80° 10.737' E Section

Pungalum locality 2 13° 28.968' N; 80° 10.665' E Section

R. Kortallaiyarsection at anicut nearSimaveram

13° 15.754' N; 80° 15.240' E Section

R. Palar Pudur NorthBank

12° 51.513' N; 79° 30.630' E Section

Ramchandrapuram-complex

13° 26.556' N; 80° 12.971' E Late Acheulian to Middle Palaeolithicon surface of primary laterite artefact(n)=41 destroyed largely for quarrying

Ramnathapuramcomplex

13° 16.027' N; 79° 52.997' E Late Palaeolithic tools within a lateriticgrace. Acheulian embedded withinunderlying lateritic sediments. Artefacts(n)=220

Rangapuram 13° 13.186' N; 79° 51.943' E Middle Palaeolithic on surface oflateritic gravels in upland outliers ofAllikulli hills. Artefacts (n)=531

River Arani-section atKuppam

13° 21.800' N; 80° 15.464' E Section

River Arani: sectionat Lingapaiyanpettai

13° 20.585' N; 80° 13.364' E Section

Senrayanpalayamquarry

13° 14.453' N; 79° 50.274' E Acheulian within lateritic gravels.Artefacts (n)=57 destroyed by quarrying

Singadivakkamcomplex

12° 52.306' N; 79° 47.851' E Within fluvial gravels: MiddlePalaeolithic artefacts (n)=381 destroyedfor construction of factory

Sirunai quarry 12° 53. 849' N; 79° 38.318' E Late Palaeolithic on surface. Artefacts(n)=659

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SrinivasapuramKandrigai

13° 18.137' N; 79° 50.661' E Acheulian to Middle Palaeolithic onsurface of colluvial gravels. Artefacts(n)=29 destroyed by quarrying

Takkolam:confluence of theCooum andKortallayar

13° 01.236' N; 79° 44.176' E Section

Tammanur-1 12° 45.624' N; 79° 47.931' E Section

Todukadu section 12° 59.852' N; 79° 55.850' E On surface of lateritic gravel: LatePalaeolithic on surface of lateritic gravelArtefacts (n)=130

Ulandai 13° 00.365' N; 79° 54.084' E Late Palaeolithic on surface of lateriticgravels and few reworked Acheulian.Artefacts (n)=12 destroyed by quarrying

Vadamadurai 13° 17.505' N; 80° 02.138' E Previously reported. Section studied

Vedavakkam 12° 32.796' N; 79° 53.732' E Section

Veliyur 12° 55' 35" N; 79° 42' 00" E Section

Vendivakkam wellsection

12° 40.633' N; 79° 49.217' E Section

Virangivedu Madugu 13° 21. 711' N; 80° 12. 814' E Section

Yigavaripalayamcomplex

13° 26.347' N; 80° 04.668' E Late Acheulian to Middle Palaeolithic onsurface of primary laterites: Artefacts (n)=404destroyed largely for quarrying

Sittatur 12° 33.729' N; 79° 49.398' E Section

Situnjeri 13° 17.230' N; 79° 53.369' E Acheulian artefacts on surface inassociation with Satvavedu Fm. gravels.Artefacts (n)=51 destroyed by quarrying

Srikrishnapuram 13° 17' 03" N; 79° 00' 50" E Section

Srikrishnapuramgully

13° 17.136' N; 79° 51.399' E Acheulian within colluvial lateriticgravels. Artefacts (n)=37

Siruvallupettai 13° 23.780' N; 80° 4.656' E Late Palaeolithic to microlithic artefactsoccurring within a sandy lateritic depositresting on compact induratedferruginous silts. Artefacts (n)=453destroyed largely for quarrying

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As a result of these studies, a databaseof sites, stratigraphy and culture sequence isbeing constructed for northern Tamilnadu. Thequaternary geomorphological history of theregion, in relation to changing hominin landuse patterns could be focused on. As regardsthe Holocene a clear mapping of the palaeo-channels of the palaeo-palar could be achievedand field studies led to the sampling of thesedeposits for purposes of sedimentologicalstudies and for collecting Optically StimulatedLuminescence (OSL) and C14 samples forgeochronology. Aeolian deposits along theshores of the Pulicat lagoon and coast, couldbe sampled for the same purposes, in order tobuild up a sequence for Holocene sea levelchanges in the region. Sections noted at andsouth of the modem course of the RiverCooum, were identified as palaeo-channeldeposits. The horizon for the Acheulian variedgreatly. While sites such as Attirampakkam(Manamedu) yielded Acheulian withinArgillaceous deposits and lateritic gravels, asper our excavations, this was not so in otherregions. Acheulian occurs within the top 20-30cm of lateritic gravels (either cobbly-pebbly or sandy in nature), resting on pre-toearly Pleistocene lateritic profiles developed onsandstones or shales, etc. In most cases, lateAcheulian to middle palaeolithic tools areembedded within a lateritic lag gravel andembedded within the duricrust, which arecapped by archaeologically sterile reddish-brown indurated sands. Middle Palaeolithictools also occur on the surface of lateriticgravels, within fine sandy-pebbly lateriticgravels, non-ferruginous fluvial pebbly gravels,or on the surface of weathered granite‘murrum’. Numerous sites which may betermed as falling within a Late Palaeolithicphase were noted. These are characterized byan assemblage which is neither typically Upper

Palaeolithic blade-based, nor truly microlithic.Their relationship to the other assemblagesneeds to be ascertained.

A significant feature of this season’sfield work was the documentation of sites whichare being rapidly destroyed by quarrying forpurposes of road-building, lining of canals,construction, and industrial development andcultivation. Many of these sites could bedocumented and artefacts could be studied.However, in many cases, clear sections were notvisible and thus it is deemed essential that duringthe next season, test pits might be taken to studythese sites in detail before they disappearcompletely, destroying the last vestiges of thisregion’s prehistoric heritage.

40. EXCAVATION AT SALAVANKUPPAM, DISTRICT

KANCHIPURAM

The Chennai Circle of the Survey contin-ued the archaeological excavation atSalavankuppam (12°39’25"N; 80° 12’52"E) acoastal village in district Kanchipuram underthe direction of Sathyabhama Badhreenath as-sisted by G. Thirumoorthy, J. Kuppusamy, R.Manikam, H. Ragavendra and N. Muthusamywith a view to trace out the possible plan andelevation details of the buried structures of theruined Subramanya temple.

The removal of accumulated sand just130m from the coastal line of the Bay ofBengal, had revealed (2005-06) templeremains consisting of garbhagriha,ardhamandapa and mukhamandapa allenclosed by a cloister prakara. The excavationwork had yielded pottery, antiquities andinscribed pillars dating back to Pallava andearly-Pallava periods. Further excavation workwas continued with a view to trace out all thepossible structural remains of the templeespecially its complete plan and elevationdetails. The archaeological excavation work in

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an area of 70m (north-south) and 40m (east-west) had revealed the north oriented templeconsisting of garbhagriha, ardhamandapaand mukhamandapa enclosed by a cloisterprakara of 35.45m (north-south) and 18.30m(east-west) and mahamandapa, stoneplatforms and ring wells further north ofmahamandapa. The sanctum (garbhagrihaand ardhamandapa) is rectangular andmeasured 7.50m (east-west) and 8.00m (north-south). It is built with bricks. Thegarbhagriha’s brick walls measure 2.65mthickness on east and west, whereas itsthickness varies on south and north as theymeasure 2.75m and 3.35m respectively. Thegarbhagriha inner hollow portion 2.20m(east-west) and 2.00m (north-south). It has astrong brick foundation built upon four coursesof laterite blocks. The brick wall ofgarbhagriha has twentythree courses of brickto a height of 2.45m. The garbhagriha innerhollow portion was filled with rammed earthand it was provided with thin granite slabs atthe plinth level. The bricks of garbhagrihameasure 40x21x7cm.

The ardhamandapa is 2.30m. (north-south) and 3.50m (east-west) and it is raisedalong with garbhagriha on same foundationas a single unit. The walls of the sanctum werecovered with fine lime plaster which is wellpreserved on northern side only. The wall abovethe plinth of the ardhamandapa has brick coreveneered by granite cut stones. The sanctum isapproached by stone steps of width 1.4m onlateral sides of the ardhamandapa which havebeen subsequently made defunct by theconstruction of a stone ardhamandapa. Theextant mukhamandapa measures 9.10m(north-south) and 7.65m (east-west). It is builtwith cut stones and the core is filled with stonerubbles. It has a height of 2.00m. The mandapahas four sockets at the centre. The socketswhich are rectangular and measures 30x17cm

and they must have intended for ejection ofstone pillars.

The brick sanctum with mukhamandapaand the elliptical rock are covered by cloisterprakara 35.45m (north-south) and 18.30m(east-west). The walls are built with bricks ofthe same size of the sanctum. It has width of2.50m with the outer and inner veneer wallsmeasure 0.55m thickness. The core of theprakara is filled with brick bats and lime mortar.The walls were covered with fine limeplastering. Stone pillars are erected at a regularinterval of 3.30m. One of the pillars on southwestern corner has the inscription of theRashtrakuta king Krishna III (936-967 CE). Thewalls on northern sides which are adjacent tothe sanctum are less damaged as they measure amaximum height of 2.35m. The cloisterprakara on northern side is important as itexhibits the Tripatta kumuda moulding as itsbottom. The walls on the eastern side are leaningtowards western side which indicates thatdamage might have been caused by the tidalaction. Fine river sand was encountered at adepth of 3.65m.

A completely ruined mahamandapa hasbeen traced out just in front of mukhamandapabut outside the cloister mandapa probably of alater period. It measures 10.50m (north-south)and 7.80 (east-west) on an elevated area of about1.15m height. The stone pillars and small cutstones are arranged for wall like alignment onwest and northern sides are extant. One of thebroken pillars on northern side bears aninscription belongs to characters of 8th centuryCE. The mahamandapa is important as itcontains a unique stone spear 1.75m height. Arare cylindrical stone pillar 1.70m length 0.18mdiameter with flutings lies nearby. A rectangularstone platform was found 1.40m to the northwestern corner of ruined mahamandapa. It wasfound at a depth of 1.15m. It measure 1.50m

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(north-south) and 0.75m (east-west). The stoneplatform was lined with two course of bricksat its edges and it was sloping towards north.Another stone platform circular in shape wasencountered 2.60m to the east of the rectangularstone platform and at the same level. Thecircular stone which was having two portionsmeasures 1.25m diameter. A rectangular stoneslab (97x3x7cm) was found to have placed overthe circular stone slab. The circular stone slabwas also lined with two courses of brick at itsedges. Two terracotta ring wells wereencountered on the northern side of the templebut at different levels. One of the ring wellswas encountered on north-western corner of thetemple. A total number of four courses wereexposed. Each ring well measured 0.88mdiameter and a height of 0.20m. The otherterracotta ring well was found 5.25m to thenorth of ruined mahamandapa, but at a depthof just 1.15m. The ring well was small andmeasured 0.70m diameter. The top of the ringwell had circular ornamental motifs.

A fallen brick wall runs in (north-south)orientation was encountered at a depth of 1.00mon north western corner of the temple. It haswidth of about 0.60m. The bricks are laid withclayey earth as binding material. The wall runstowards north, to a length of 16.0m. The wallseems to have been displaced on the eastern side.At its southern end were found buried twonumbers of grinding stones in inverted position.These grinding stones are made of granite andsandstone respectively.

It is important to record the occurrenceof thick deposit pure lime paste on north-western corner of the mukhamandapa. An areaof 2.50x1.20m to a thickness of about 0.15mwas found to have pure lime paste along withterracotta ring well portions.

The excavation of the ruined temple hasalready revealed stone pillars with inscriptions

in grantha and Tamil belonging to Pallava,Rashtrakuta and Chola dynasties. Few moreinscriptions were discovered in this seasonincluding an inscription of Pallava KingNripatungavarman, a certain chieftain namedTirukin Kilavar and Chola Raja Raja I (985-1012 CE). The inscription of Pallava chieftainrecords the gift of 5 kalanju of gold towardssupply of oil for burning the perpetual lamps.

The excavation work has yieldedpottery, specially moulded bricks, roofing tiles,stucco figurines, terracotta lamps and figurines,copper objects belong to the period right fromearly historic times i.e., about 2nd-3rd centuryCE to c.13th century CE. Besides the potteryof red ware, red shipped ware, orange slippedware and course red ware, a Chinese Celadonware was also found. Bowls, shallow dishesand dish on stand were main pottery types.Storage vessels were also recovered. A fewbottom portions of conical jars were also found.Important terracotta objects include a solidterracotta figurine of Nandi (28cm length), twoterracotta object (spirally designed), 16cmwidth with a hoard of twenty six terracottavotive lamps with a small votive semipreciousstone Siva-linga, a copper spoon, speciallymoulded bricks such as bar bricks (18x6x6cm),brick with edging, curve bricks, and a brick(20x25x5cm) with chequred pattern areimportant. A few stucco figurine include headof a man and portions of lime plaster with floraldesigns, lime plaster covered with red ochreare also important. A few furnace pipes, copperslags and iron slags were also recovered duringexcavation.

41. EXCAVATION AT NEDUNKUR, DISTRICT

KARUR

A systematic excavation at Nedunkur 25kmfrom Karur (10º57'N; 77º57'E) inAravakurichi taluk of Karur district was car-ried out. During exploration in and around

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Nedunkur village megalithic appendages (Pl.62) viz., black and red ware sherds and ironobjects (Pl. 63) were collected from themound, called Nattam edu an important his-torical town as it is located on the ancientRajakesari highway, which connects both westand east coast of South India. This highway goesthrough the Palaghat pass and connects the im-portant-trading center of ancient period. Ex-cavation conducted in the habitational site aswell as in burial site yielded black and red waresherd, coarse red ware sherds, black waresherds and iron objects viz., knife, arrow headsand spear. More than fifty potsherds with var-ied forms of graffiti (Pl. 65) marks were un-earthed from the five trenches (named NDR)laid at Nedunkur. The occurrences of few urnsand Sarcophagus in broken condition were alsonoticed in the cairn circle type of burial.Nedunkur excavation has revealed the presenceof iron age culture i.e., 300BCE to 300 CE.

42. EXCAVATION AT MANGULAM, DISTRICT

MADURAI

Excavation at Mangulam Village 25kmfrom Madurai, (10°02'N; 78°17' E) known forearly Jaina caves and rock beds in the hillockcalled Ovamalai was conducted under the di-rection of Sitharam Gurumurthi, PrincipalCommissioner of Archaeology assisted by C.Santhalingam and Thiru. S. Selvaraj andDharmapuri N. Marxia Gandhi. In order totrace the early habitation excavation was con-ducted under the direction of four trenches(MKM) were laid accordingly. The firsttrenches laid near Meenakshipuram at the foothills of Ovamalai. Potteries viz., black and redware sherds, coarse red ware sherds, pieces ofquartz stones, small sling stone and a coppercoin (at 15cm depth) of Pandya period werecollected from the trench. A circular coin dat-able to13th-14th century CE found with twofish symbols in the obverse side. Trenches laid

on the terrace of Jaina cave exposed the floor-ing of a rectangular chamber and brick wall,made of eleven courses of bricks. The size ofthe bricks are 35x18x6cm and the clay mortarhas been used as binding material. Fourth trenchexposed a small structure in pedestal form,which may be assigned to Sangam period. Ironnails (Pl. 64), grooved tiles with holes handmade coarse red ware sherds were also col-lected from this trench. Excavation has ex-posed the presence of two cultural periods viz.,Early Historic and Medieval period. On thebasis of the antiquities it can be ascertained thatthis village has been inhabited since 300BCE.

43. EXCAVATION AT SEMBIAN KANDIYUR, DIS-TRICT NAGAPATTINAM

Exploration of the site of Sembian Kandiyur(11º06'N; 79º34'E ) was conducted by theTamilnadu State Department of Archaeology,under the guidance of Sitharam Gurumurthi as-sisted by S. Vasanthi, S. Selvaraj, P.Gouthamaputhiran and G. Muthuswamy un-earthed antiquities pertaining to Megalithic pe-riod. Totally four trenches were laid at the po-tential sites named as Trench SKR-I to SKR-IV(Pls. 66-67). Excavation unearthed potteriesviz. black and red ware, black ware, red slippedware and coarse red ware in good numbers. Bigand small pots, lids and plate and thirteen graf-fiti marks were observed on the potteris col-lected at Sembian Kandiyur. Iron objects viz.nails, knives, hip-hops made of terracotta andstones were also recovered from the trenches.Besides this, occurrences of eight urns in a rowwere also exposed during excavation, in TrenchSKR-II. A celt commonly found in the urn buri-als in Tamilnadu also unearthed from the TrenchSKR-III. On the basis of antiquities, it is ascer-tained that Sembian Kandiyur was inhabited bythe Iron age people 2000BCE.

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63Nedunkur: 62, cist burial; 63, iron objects. See p. 112

62


114


65Mangulam: 64, iron nails; Nedunkur: 65, graffiti potsherds. See p.112

64


115



Sembian Kandiyur: small celt and pot with graffiti. See p. 112

44. EXPLORATION/VILLAGE TO VILLAGE SUR-VEY, TALUK GINGEE, DISTRIC THANJAVUR

Under Exploration village to village sur-vey in the Gingee taluk of Villupuram district,

Arun Malik of Chennai Circle of the Surveyexplored the following sites (see Chart-VIII).

Village/Site Latitude & Longitude Cultural assemblage

Alumpundi 79° 15' 30.2" N; 120 14'15.2"E Temple site (Siva-linga in open field)

Bhardantangai 79°20' 23.9" N; 12°14'24.0"E Ruined Pilliyar Kovil (Ganesa temple)

Devadanampatti-I 79° 20' 46.4" N; 12° 1 T03.2"E Megalithic site, early historic site andruined Siva temple

Devadanampatti-II 79° 18' 06.2" N; 120 10'23.7"E Megalithic site, rock shelter withpaintings of later period

Nailanpllai Pettai 79°15' 25.5" N; 12°10'11.3"E Early Medieval site

CHART-VIII

116


45. EXPLORATION IN TALUK TIRUVAIYARU,DISTRICT THANJAVUR

In the course of exploration under villageto village survey scheme in the Tiruvaiyarutaluk of Thanjavur district, C. R. Gayathri of

Chennai Circle of the Survey, noticed the fol-lowing antiquarian remains(see Chart-IX).


Odiyathur 79° 21' 40.7" N; 12° 12'08.2"E Early Historical site and inscription

Pakkam 79° 16' 21.1" N; 12° 1 T52.1"E Megalithic and ruined Siva temple ofearly Medieval period

Palavalan 79° 16' 11.6" N; 12° 07'57.4"E Ruined Siva temple (Eswareshwaratemple) and ruined fortress of foot hill

Perungapur 79° 22' 01.6" N; 12° 13'39.0"E Early Historical site

Puttagram 79 °15' 30.4" N; 12° 12'53.5"E Loose sculpture of late Medievalperiod

Ramarajan Pettai 79°16' 28.4" N; 12° 08'39.1"E Medieval inscription on a boulder inthe field

Sattavari 79° 16' 01.3" N; 12° 09'50.3"E Pre-historic rock shelter with paintings,early medieval site, loose sculptures ofMahishasuramardini and Saptamatrikas

Semmedu Ruined Siva temple Chola period

Tadagam 79° 15' 39.8" N; 120 09'04.2"E Loose sculpture of Lord Visnu andGanesa of Medieval period

79° 16' 51.2" N; 12°14'17.10022"E


78°54'40.0" N; 10°50' 29.0"E Medieval temple ruins

Early historical site, early Cholatemple, brick mandapam

Medieval temple and habitational site

78° 58'00" N; 10° 49' 00"E

78° 58' 03" N; 10° 49 ' 04"E

CHART-IX

Agarapatti

Arcadu

Kachchamangalam

117



78°54'40.0" N; 10°50' 29.0"E Medieval temple ruins

Early historical site, early Cholatemple, brick mandapam

Medieval temple and habitational site

Medieval ruined temple and loosesculptures

Temple ruins, inscription and potsherds

Early Chola temple, sculptures andinscriptions

Early Historical site, Medieval temple,Siva-linga and Nandi in open field

Early Chola temple with inscription,loose sculptures, few red warepotsherdsMound with red ware and black warepotsherds, loose sculptures

Medieval chhattram

Temple ruins with inscription (Cholaperiod) loose sculptures and potsherdsof red ware

Early Historical site, Jaina image andSiva-linga in open field

Old sluice with inscription

78° 58'00" N; 10° 49' 00"E

78° 58' 03" N; 10° 49 ' 04"E

78° 58 '44" N; 10° 52' 08"E

78° 59' 45"N; 10° 52' 08"E

78° 54" 42" N; 10° 48 '43.6"E

78° 56' 15" N; 10° 58' 27"E

78° 55'35" N; 10° 50' 50"E

78° 56'39" N; 10 °50' 52" E

78° 57' 50" N; 10°52' 21"E

78° 55'39" N; 10° 50' 00"E

78 °58'11" N; 10° 49' 01"E

78° 53'04" N; 10° 49' 01"E

Agarapatti

Arcadu

Kachchamangalam

Kuttur

Maharajapuram

Marneri

Nattamangalam

Nemam

Palamaraneri

Pavamangalam

Rajagiri (liiangadu)

Sembiyankalari

Tiruchchadaivalandai

Tiruppaiyur 78° 59'14" N; 10° 52' 64"E Early Historical site, ruined Cholatemple and potsherds

Tirukattupalli

Vanarangudi

Vittalapuram

78° 57'33" N; 10° 51' 26"E

78° 58' 27" N; 10° 53' 03"E

78 0 58' 30 N; 10° 16' 07"E

Early Chola temple with inscription,loose sculptures of Chola period

Temple ruins (Chola period), loosesculptures and potsherds

Medieval mound with potsherds

118


68Sembian Kandiyur: 67, exposed urns; Mechittamur: 68, western section of MCR-3. See pp. 112-120

67


119


70Melchittamur: 69, terracotta human figurine and 70, shell bangles. See p.120

69


120


UTTARAKHAND

47. EXPLORATION IN DISTRICTS OF ALMORA,DEHRADUN, PITHARGARH AND UDHAM SINGH

NAGAR

Dheradun Circle of the Survey underdirection of S. Jamal Hassan assisted by M.S.Chauhan, Neeraj Verma, Manoj Saxena andRajeev Pandey carried out exploration indistrict Almora, Dheradun, Pithargarh andUdham Singh Nagar. The details are as follows:

A miniature stone shrine dedicated to Siva,locally known as Vakramundeshwar is locatedon the right bank of river Ramganga onChaukhutia Masi road in Almora. It is trirathaon plan and consists of a garbhagriha andardhamandapa. The square garbhagriha ispreceded by the ardhamandapa supported withtwo pillars. The vedibandha, jangha andsikhara are devoid of any ornamentation exceptbhumiamlakas on the sikhara. Thegarbhagriha enshrines a Siva-linga in thecentre. The group of miniature shrines locallyknown as Rampaduka temples are located invillage Masi, Chaukhutia on the right bank ofriver Ramganga. These temples have terracetype sikhara arranged in a linear pattern.Stylistically these shrines can be assigned tocirca 14th-15th century CE. The temple ofNaithana devi dedicated goddess Durga islocated on the Naithana devi hills near thevillage Naubara, Block Bhikyasain, tehsil

46. EXCAVATION AT MELCHITTAMUR, DISTRICT

VILLUPURAM

Melchittamur (79035' N, 12016' E) the head-quarters of the Digambara Jaina sect inTamilnadu, lies 17km west of Tindivanam and12km East of Gingee in Villupuram district. In2006, two trenches, viz., MCR-1 and MCR-2,measuring 6x5m and 3x3m respectively werelaid out at a distance of about 300m and 28meast of the local Parsvanatha temple. Excava-tions revealed a habitational deposit of onemeter thick, divisible into two cultural periods,Period I and Period II, commencing from theearly centuries of the Christian era down to me-dieval times (circa 1st century CE to 9th cen-tury CE). Further, A. Ekambaranathan of De-partment of Ancient History and Archaeology,University of Madras assisted by the P. D.Balaji, P. Jayakumar, J. Soundararajan, and M.Seran resumed excavation MCR-3 measuring6x5m was laid to the east of MCR-1 accord-ingly. Excavation at the site revealed ahabitational deposit to a thickness of about1.9m (Pl. 68), divisible into two cultural peri-ods, Period I and Period II, commencing fromthe early centuries of the Christian era down tomedieval times (circa 4th century CE to 13th

century CE). Period I was represented by blackware, black and red ware and red slipped ware.These potteries are not of fine varieties. Be-sides, terracotta objects like head figurines (Pl.69), ear ornaments, seals, gamesman, andspindle whorl, shell objects like bangle (Pl. 70)and beads, and semiprecious stone beads, etc.,were found in the first period. Among these thehead figurines depicting different hair dressedreserves special mention. Besides, remains ofanimal bones were also collected in this level.On the basis of potteries and associated mate-rials this period is tentatively dated to 4th cen-tury CE to 6th century CE. The Period II wasmarked by the survival of black ware, black andred ware and red slipped ware of inferior qual-

ity. Apart from this, more number of coarse redware sherds was also noticed in this level. An-tiquities like hopscotches, glass beads andbangles were found in large number. Presenceof a copper coin more likely assignable to me-dieval period deserves special mention. On thebasis of the potteries and associated materialthis period is tentatively dated to 6th century CEto 13th century CE..

121


Dwarahat. It consists of a garbhagriha,antarala, and a circumambulatory passagesupported by heavy square pillars. The templeis simple devoid of any ornamentation on theouter or inner walls. On the basis ofarchitectural style, it can be placed to circa 18th

century CE. The fortress known as Gorkhagarhi is situated at about 200m to the north-south direction of Naithana devi temple. Theplan of this fortress measures 20x15m and canbe approached from western side. It issurrounded by a 2m deep kuchcha moat. Asper record it was built by the Gorkhas between1790 to 1815 CE.

In a floor of burnt bricks with bricks mea-suring 30x22x5.5cm and 32x22x6cm in sizehas been found in the vicinity of Gaurishankartemple at Lakhanpur, Bazpur in Udham SinghNagar. This structure is assignable to post-Gupta period. The Nadia Dham (Nadia Khaata)temple is located in a dense forest and about5km west of Tanda and 26km east of Bazpurin Rudrapur. Below the level of modern templeof Nadia dham mandir shows that the an-cient remains which are buried underneath.Only six courses of burnt bricks could be no-ticed, the size of the bricks measures28x20x5cm.

Three terraces on the hill slope have beennoticed near the village Gorilkot that lies about5km north-east of district Pithargarh. On thetop, the remains of an ancient structure on themiddle terrace a modern temple and on the low-est terrace a rock on which cup marks have beenfound of which three are in east-west and fourare in north-south orientation. The cup marksare 12cm to 20cm in diameter and varies indepth from 20cm to 40cm. The edges of thecup marks are slightly tapered, narrowingdownwards. These cup marks might have beenused for grinding purpose. The objects foundinclude the broken piece of quern, sharpening

stone and perforated stones along with a fewred ware sherds.

The remains of Nalapani fort is found onNalapani hill, about 10km north-east of the dis-trict headquarters Dehradun. The fort is sig-nificant as it was one among the Bawangarhi.e., fiftytwo forts of Kedarkhanda (ancientname of Garhwal). Stretching around 5km, thefort is buried inside the earth over which and adense forest is grown. The remains of rubblemasonry wall of the fort and chambers existat the site. In the battle of Nalapani the sitewas destroyed by the Britishers in 1814 CE.and the Gorkha General Balbhadra Thapa alongwith his army left the site.

The village Nimga is situated about 25kmsouth-east of Tiuni, a sub-division headquartersof district Dehradun. A fortress has been locatedon the spur of the hill just opposite to the villageNigma. The rubble masonry fort is surroundedby a fortification wall. It consists of four tofive chambers and water bodies inside thefortress. On the basis of architectural designsit can be assigned to late medieval period.

The Naula i.e., water spring is situated nearKerad village and about 27km south-east ofsub-division headquarter Tiuni. The Naula isrectangular on plan, decorated with theminiature shrines embedded on the walls. Theseshrines are dedicated to different gods andgoddesses as the images of Seshasayi Visnu,Surya, Ganesa and Mahishasuramardini aredepicted there and can be assigned to circa 10th-12th century CE.

The remains of a fortress are found nearthe village, Hanol near Partad which is about24km south-east of Tiuni a sub-division head-quarters in the district Dehradun. The remainscomprise the evidence of the fortress includ-ing residential structures, fortification wall andflight of steps, etc.

122


Bachaoli Buzurg Fragmentary pieces of stone sculptures of Medieval periodBachaoli Khurd A medieval stone sculpture of HanumanBanguan Factory site of microliths, stone images of Anjani-mata, Hanuman

and a sati-patta of late Medieval periodBarataghat Ancient mound comprising B and RW, BSW, NBPW, RW,

fragment of stone temple and sculptures of Medieval period

Barethi Fragments of stone temple and sculptures stone sculptures ofHanuman, sati-patta and Anjani-mata of late Medieval period

Bargarh An image of Hanuman of late Medival periodBari Sarmau Remains of stone temple and an image of Hanuman of Medieval

period

Baruasagar Fragments of Medieval stone temple and sculpture of Ganesa,late Medieval baoli (stepped well )

UTTAR PRADESH and its minor tributaries in the above men-tioned development blocks. The explorationrevealed pre-historic sites, mounds, temples,stone sculptures, forts, baolis (stepped well)and other archaeological remains from the fol-lowing villages (see Chart-X).

VILLAGE CULTURAL ASSEMBLAGE

BARAGAON DEVELOPMENT BLOCK

Achharu ka khirak Microliths

Ambavay Remains of stone temple and Siva-linga of Medieval periodand brick built temple of late Medieval period

Ari An image of Hanuman and argha of Medieval period

48. EXPLORATION AT JHANSI, DISTRICT JHANSI

Suresh Kumar Dubey of Regional Archaeo-logical Unit, Jhansi of U.P. State ArchaeologyDepartment undertook village-to-village explo-ration of development blocks Babina andBaragaon of Jhansi district under the directionof Rakesh Tewari, Director, U.P. State Archae-ology and explored 196 villages and their ham-lets as well as valleys of the river Betwa, Pahunj

CHART-X

123



Benhata Microliths

Bhagvantpura Late Medieval garhi and reservoir

Birguan A stone sculpture of Hanuman of Medieval period and a moundand baoli of late Medieval period

Burha Khera Microliths, mound, iron-slag and late Medieval baoli

Chandara A stone sculpture of Hanuman of Medieval period

Chhapra A grand baoli and ruined palace of late Medieval period

Chiplaota Seven kolhus and two sati-patta of late Medieval period

Digara A well preserved garhi of late Medieval period

Damrauni Stone built two temples, sahasra Siva-linga, image of Hanumanand fragmentary pieces of stone images of medieval period, garhiand brick built temple of late Medieval period

Futera Microliths, mound, remains of stone temple and an image ofAnjani-mata of late Medieval period

Ganai khurd Remains of stone temple and baoli (stepped well) of late Medievalperiod

Gangawali Fragmentary pieces of stone sculptures of Medieval period

Garhmau Microliths, a medieval mound, reservoir and kolhu

Goramachhiya Remains of stone temple, Siva-linga of Medieval period and latemedieval brick built temple

Grassland A baoli of late Medieval period

Harpura Fragments of stone temple and sculptures of Medieval period; animage of Anjani-mata and a reservoir of late Medieval period

Hastanapur A baoli of late Medieval period

Isagarh Church and buildings of British period

Jagannathpuri Fragmentary pieces of stone sculptures of Medieval period and astone image of Hanuman of late Medieval period.

Jaravon Ancient mound, fragmentary pieces of stone sculptures, Siva-linga of Medieval period and a garhi, palace, sati-patta, vir-patta of late Medieval period

124


Parivara Late Medieval baoliPichhor Remains of Medieval stone temple

Pohara A sati-patta of late Medieval periodRampura A stone paved reservoir and a stone image of Hanuman of late

Medieval periodRaonija Stone sculptures of Siva, panch-tap Parvati, Siva-linga,

fragment of Visnu and remains of stone temples of earlyMedieval period and medieval mound

Singarra Fragementry pieces of stone images and Siva-linga of Medievalperiod

Talaitha kalan Vir-patta of late Medieval period

Tanda Natural rock-shelter, Siva-linga and fragmentary piece of Visnuof Medieval period


Konchha-Bhanwar Remains of an ancient mound comprising B&RW, BSW and RW,stone images of Visnu, Ganesa, Nandi, panch-mukhi Siva-linga,and fragmentary pieces of stone images of Medieval period. Abaoli and palace of late Medieval period

Kolva Microliths, iron-slag and late Medieval sati-pattaKot Fragmentary pieces of stone sculptures of medieval period and

a garhi and kolhu of late Medieval periodMadora Microliths, a grand well, rectangular building, sati-patta and a

baoli of late Medieval periodMustara Remains of stone temple and an stone image of Hanuman of

Medieval periodPadari A grand well, baoli and structural remains of late Medieval period

Pailguan Remains of stone temple of Medieval period stone image ofHanuman and a sati-patta of late Medieval period

Palar Remains of stone temple and Siva-linga of Medieval periodand an image of Anjani-mata of late Medieval period

Pali Stone image of Hanuman of late Medieval period

Parichha Stone sculpture of Ganesa and other unidentified sculptures ofearly Medieval period

125



Tanki (Banguan)

Tankori Brick built temple of late Medieval periodTendol Rock-cut Siva-linga, vir-patta and sati-patta of late Medieval

periodTilaitha khurd Microliths and late Medieval sati-patta

Urena Medieval stone sculptures of Uma-Mahesh and Hanuman

BABINA DEVELOPMENT BLOCK


Amarpur Fragmentary pieces of stone images, Anjani-mata Hanuman, Siva-Parvati and a baoli of late Medieval period

Athondana Ruins of medieval temple and sculpture of Anjani-mataBabina Microliths, fragments of stone temple and sculptures, resevoir,

remains of garhi and baoli, Siva-linga of Medieval period

Bachhauni A sati-patta, argha and Nandi of late Medieval periodBadora Fragements of medieval stone temple and sculptures, a baoli, ruins

of a garhi and stone image of Hanuman of late Medieval period

Baghaora Microliths

Baichpur Stone image of Hanuman, Anjani-mata, reservoir of late Medievalperiod

Microliths

Bajna Remains stone temple baoli and garhi of late Medieval period

Ballora Brick temple of late Medieval periodBarua Temple fragment and mutilated stone sculptures of Medieval

periodBasai Late Medieval brick templeBharari Remains of stone temple of Medieval periodBhojla Late Medieval baoliBijouli A stone temple of Medieval period, reservoir, images of

Hanuman, Anjani-mata, ruined garhi, palace and sati-patta oflate Medieval period

Budpura Medieval stone temple

Burha An image of Hanuman of Medieval period

126


Khailar Remains of stone temple and fragmentary pieces of stonesculptures, and a mound of Medieval period, images of Hanumanand Anjani-mata, a baoli, sati-patta, buck built temple and garhiof late Medieval period

Khajaraha Fragmentary pieces of stone sculptures of Medieval period, stoneimages of Hanuman, Anjani-mata and a baoli of late Medievalperiod

Khanri A baoli, sati-patta and vir-patta of late Medieval periodKhera Naya Fragmentary pieces of unidentified stone images and a mound of

Medieval period

Kilchuwara Reservoir and brick built baoli of late Medieval periodKotkhera Medieval mound


Dhikauli A medieval mound, stone images of Ganesa, Siva-linga andbroken image of Visnu

Dagarwaha A stone image of Harihar of c. 9th century CE and fragmentarypieces of stone images; a garhi of Medieval period

Domagor Fragmentary pieces of stone sculpture of Medieval periodDongari Temple and stone images of late Medieval periodGagoni Saiva image of Medieval periodGarhiyagaon A Siva-linga, fragmentary pieces of stone sculptures and remains

of stone temples of Medieval periodGevara Fragmentary pieces of stone sculpture of Medieval periodGhisoli A mound and stone image of Medieval periodGurha A baoli of late Medieval periodGuvavali Medieval stone temple and late Medieval garhi and baoliHansari Fragmentary pieces of stone images of Medieval periodHirapur Stone image of Hanuman of Medieval periodImliya Stone images of Ganesa, Hanuman and Siva-linga of late

Medieval periodKanchanpura Remains of medieval stone temple and sculpturesKarari Ruins of a garhi and fragmentary pieces of stone sculptures of

Medieval period

Chamaraua Stone sculptures of Visnu and fragmentary pieces of stonesculptures of Medieval period

Chhatpur Late Medieval baoli

127



Koti Remains of stone temple and an image of Hanuman of Medievalperiod

Lahar Stone temple and sculpture of Hanuman of Medieval periodMankuan Fragments of stone temple and sculptures of Medieval period

and late Medieval image of HanumanManpur Stone sculpture of Hanuman of late Medieval periodMath Temple of late Medieval periodMathurapura Medieval stone sculpture Siva-Parvati, Ganesa Anjani-mata of

Medieval period and a baoli of late Medieval periodNohara Fragements of stone temple and sculptures of Medieval period,

stone image of Hanuman, vir-patta Anjani-mata and a baoli oflate Medieval period

Pali Pahari Remains of stone temple of Medieval period, stone image of Anjani-mata, Nandi, Siva-linga, and baoli of late Medieval period

Palinda Temple, stone image of Hanuman and sati-patta of late Medievalperiod

Parasai Ruins of a garhi of late Medieval periodParvai Fragmentary pieces of stone, sculptures of Hanuman and other

unidentified sculpturesPathari Medieval moundPunaoli Remains of stone temple, fragmentary pieces of stone sculptures,

garhi, a baoli and stone image of Hanuman of late Medievalperiod

Pura Fragmentary pieces of stone sculptures and image of Hanumanof Medieval period

Rajapur Ruins of a garhi of late Medieval periodRaksa Fragmentary pieces of stone sculptures and remains of a garhi

of late Medieval periodRasoi Fragmentary pieces of stone sculptures of Medieval periodSafa Medieval stone sculptures of Visnu, Siva-linga and image of

Hanuman of Medieval period and a baoli of late Medieval periodSainyar Brick built temple of late Medieval periodSatu (Silaiyan) Microliths

Sijwaha Remains of stone temple and sculptures of Medieval period anda baoli of late Medieval period

128


7 Kone Maniharpur A well of late Medieval period

CHART-XI


Simaravari Late Medieval image of Hanuman and a baoli

Simardha Medieval temples, kolhus and baoli of late Medieval periodSimraha Fragmentary pieces of stone sculpture of Medieval period

Simaria Fragments of stone temple and sculptures of Medieval period, alate Medieval image of Anjani-mata

Sukuvan Medieval stone sculpture of Hanuman

Thakurpura Fragments of stone temple and sculptures, late Medieval garhiand brick temple

Ugaria A stone image of Durga of late Medieval period

49. EXPLORATION IN DISTRICT AZAMGARH

Under the scheme of village-to-village sur-vey work Anil Tiwari of Patna Circle of theSurvey has explored twenty two villages inLalganj tehsil. A Siva temple of 150-200 yearsold village Rampur Kathatwan enshrines a lingain the sanctum has been noticed. The templeis surrounded by a pillared verandah. The ap-proximate height of the temple is 12m. Be-sides this some dull red ware sherds scatteredover the agricultural land has also been found.

Sl. No. Block Village/Site Nature of remains

1 Kone Lakhanpur Mound of loose sculpture of Vishnu (Me-dieval period)

2 Vash A sand stone kolhu (late Medieval period)

3 -do- Saripatti Well and kolhu (late Medieval)

-do-

4 -do- Cheksari Loose sculptures of Ganesa, Parvati, Siva-Parvati, Nandi, Sun god and ruind of temple(Medieval to late Medieval)

5 -do- Pakha Sculpture of Hindu deity (late Medieval)

6 -do- Akodi Kolhu and Hanuman sculpture (late Medi-eval)

50. EXPLORATION IN MIRZAPUR, DISTRICT

MIRZAPUR

Shri Manoj Kumar Dwevedi, U.P. State Ar-chaeology conducted village to village explo-ration of seventy five villages of Kone PahariDevelopment Blocks in district Mirzapur (seeChart-XI).

129



8 -do- Gohani Red ware, grey ware, buff ware (Medievalperiod), bangle pieces of iron nail,terracotta bead, iron ring, sling ball ofterracotta and broken head of sculpture ofHindu deity (Medieval period), kolhu (lateMedieval)

9 -do- Pakka A sculpture of Hanuman (late Medieval)

10 -do- Tilthi Loose sculptures of Hindu deity (Medievalperiod)

11 -do- Majhgawa Sculptures of Siva, Ganesa, Visnu, sthanakSiva, chaturmukhi Siva-linga, sati stone,singhviyal and ruins of temple (Medievalto late Medieval period)

12 -do- Damodarpatti Loose sculpture of Hanuman, Parvati,Ganesa, Sun god, Nandi (broken) late Me-dieval period

13 -do- Husainipur Red ware of late Medieval period and uni-dentified brahmanical sculpture

14 -do- Mahagipur Loose sculptures of Ram, Sun god, SivaVisnu, Ganesa, Ganga, Bhairava, Hanuman,Parvati Nandi (late Medieval period)

15 -do- MajhalipattiMaihalipatti

Late Medieval brahmanical sculptures

16 -do- Karerua Red ware, red polished ware, dull red ware,micaceous ware (Sunga to Kushana period),terracotta skin rubber, sprinkler, spouted pot,miniature pot, dish, fragment pieces of bigjar surahi. Animal figurines and one bladeletalso recovered from the same site. Ruins oftemple and loose brahmnical sculpture ofMedieval period.

17 -do- Gobarahan A brahmanical sculpture (Medieval period)

18 -do- Anurudhapur Brahmanical sculpture of Medieval period

19 -do- Jagapatti A kolhu of late Medieval period20 -do- Dhavrahara Inscribed stone pillar inscription is not clear.

Another brahmanical sculpture of late Me-dieval period

130


26 -do- Mujehara Kalan Sculptures of Uma-Mahesvara, Hanumanand another brahmanical sculpture (Medi-eval period)

27 -do- Mujeharakhurda Ruins of temple (Medieval period )

28 -do- Akabarpatti Two sandstone kolhu (late Medieval pe-riod)

29 -do- Pachevara The mound containing red ware, dull redware, grey ware, minature skin-rubber,bangle piece of lac, iron nail, stone bead,etc. of Sunga to Mediaeval period.

30 -do- Navadia Red ware baoli of late Medieval period


21 Kone Pakhvaiya Sculpture of Hanuman, Ganesa, Devi (lateMedieval period)

22 -do- Gadgedi Sculptures of vishnu, Hanuman, Ganesa,Kubra, Uma-Mahesvara and sati-patta ofMedieval to late Medieval period.

23 -do- Maladharpur Late Medieval brahmanical sculptures24 -do- Chilha Sculptures of Bhairava, Parvati, Brahma,

Nandi, Narshinga, Uma-Maheswer, Laksmi,Sun god, Visnu, Ganesa, Hanuman, Kali (lateMedieval period)

25 -do- Bhogaon Ruins of temple (10th-11th century CE)Decorated pillars of temple, loose sculpturesof Siva, Siva-linga also measures height 98& dia 58cm (Medieval period), Visnu,Durga, Parvati, Ganesa, Uma-Mahesvara,Nri-Varaha, Nandi, Siva-linga,Dwarpalaka,Vishnu Lakshmi (19th centuryCE).

Red ware, buff ware, dull redware, greyware. Some fragmentary any pieces of vasesand pots, bangle piece of lac from same site(Medieval period).

131


31 Kone Chidlikh Medieval brahmanical sculpture.

32 -do- Migradham Loose sculptures of Sun god, Hanuman,Parvati, Bhairava, Nandi (Medieval to lateMedieval period)

33 -do- Digurpatti Late brahmanical sculptures

34 -do- Dalapatti Medieval brahmanical sculptures

35 -do- Bhatevara Medieval brahmanical sculptures

36 -do- Madanpatti Medieval brahmanical sculptures andbunglow built of lakhauri bricks

37 -do- Maksudan patty Lose sculptures of Ram, Lakshman, SriKrishna, Hanuman, Bhairava, Nandi andParvati assignable to Medieval period.

38 -do- Kamasin Medieval brahmanical sculptures andKolhus


39 -do- Khulwa Mound yielding Medieval pottery,terracottawheel, stone sculptures of Medieval

40 -do- Jagish patti Late Medieval brahamanical stone sculpture,well of lakhauri brick size 20x11x4cm,kolhu.

41 -do- Bhuleypur Remains of temple and kolhu of Medievalperiod

42 -do- Mavaiya Sculptures of Ganesa, Visnu, Hanuman,Nandi (Medieval period)

43 -do- Harsighpur Medieval to brahmanical stone sculptures

44 -do- Devaparva Panel of musician, Hanuman, Siva-linga ofMedieval period

45 -do- Valliparva Medieval brahmanical sculptures

46 -do- Kolhua shah Door jamb of temple and loose sculpturesof Medieval period

132


56 -do- Sikadi Sculptures of Hanuman, Sun god, Ganesa,Uma-Mahesvara, Nandi and Ekmukhi- Siva-linga of Medieval period inside temple.

57 -do- malaika pura Remains of Medieval period and kolhus ofMedieval

58 -do- Aksavli A stone kolhus of Medieval period59 -do- gadainala A sand stone pillar60 -do- vallukapura A stone kolhus of Medieval period.

61 -do- Balak ka pura Brahmanical sculpture of Medieval period62 -do- Rasavra Baoli of lakhauri brick (22x12x40)cm

63 -do- Ranichaukia Stone kolhus of Medieval period

54 Pahari Chatahan Red ware, red sliped ware (Historical pe-riod), brahmanical sculptures of Medievalperiod.

55 -do- Dharmdeva Kolhus of Medieval period


49 -do- Chandel dadiya Brahmanical sculptures and Kolhu of Me-dieval period

50 -do- Rampur Ruins of temple and loose sculptures ofGanesa, Lakshmi, Parvati, Sun god, Siva-Nandi and kolhu of Medieval period.

51 -do- Porjagir mujehara Brahmanical sculptures and kolhu of Me-dieval period.

52 -do- Purjagir mavaiya Loose brahmanical sculptures of and kolhuof Medieval period

53 -do- Jagdishpur Brahmanical sculpture and two kolhusbearing nagari inscription (Medieval pe-riod.)

47 Kone Gahiya Brahmanical stone sculptures of Medievalperiod

48 -do- Pradhan dadiya A Visnu sculpture of Medieval period

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64 Kone Javsara Temple and sculptures and loose sulpture(Medieval period )

65 -do- Bedavli Red ware, brahmanical sculpture and pillarof Medieval period.

66 -do- Kakrahan Brahmanical sculpture and stone kolhus ofMedieval period.

67 -do- Chauhan patti Brahamanical sculptures and singhviyal ofMedieval period.

68 -do- Chauhan patti Three kolhus of Medieval period.69 -do- Bhusraul Loose sculpture of brahmanical deity (Me-

dieval period)70 -do- Kanaura Brahmanical sculptures and kolhus of Me-

dieval period.71 -do- Bhagesar Baoli of Medieval period

72 -do- Pidapur Decorated kolhus of Medieval period

73 -do- Katopur Decorated kolhus of Medieval period

74 -do- Devahi Loose sculpures of Surya, Nandi and Genesastone kolhus bearing nagari Inscription ofMedieval period.

WEST BENGAL

51. EXCAVATIONS AT BALUPUR, DISTRICT

MALDA

Excavation was carried out by Arun K. Nag,co-directed by Sheena Panja assisted by MalayK. Sain of the Department of Ancient IndianHistory Culture and Archaeology, Visva at thesite of Balupur( 250 03'N; 880 03' E) in Maldadistrict for the third season. Eleven trencheswere taken this season in the eastern, southernand north-eastern parts of the site. Four cul-tural levels were identified based on stratigra-phy and pottery types. Multidisciplinary geo-archaeological work was also carried out tounderstand the palaeo-pluvial system and the

formation of an archaeological site in an allu-vial setting. The first cultural phase representthe pre-early medieval period stretching from5th-7th century CE from the nature of pottery.The sediment is a sticky clay almostpedogenised formation, indicating a sort of sta-bility in the initial phase of this alluvial site.The is a red and bright ware. Shapes includelarge bowls and vases. The next phase is theEarly Medieval phase (8th-12th century CE)with characteristic dull red ware having shapeslike large bowls with corrugated sides and jarsand dishes. The next phase, termed intermedi-ate medieval (12th-13th century CE) from thepottery types in this strata are pit ridden withevidence of organic decomposition of the pot-tery, artifacts are all in a semi-fresh condition.The last phase which belongs to the late Me-

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dieval period (13th-16th century CE) which ispresent in almost every trench is full of pitswith pottery and bones. This is probably a col-luvial deposit. Pottery types include red, blackand grey wares with shapes like bowls, jars,and dishes.

The overall pottery recovered covers ahuge range from orange wares, grey wares andred wares. Besides there are few black waresand glazed wares. Antiquities were numerousincluding a small sculpture of Uma-Mahesvaraas well as organic remains like bones. Charcoalsamples, sand, iron artifacts, bones have beensent for C14, OSL, fluorine-phosphate andAccelerator Mass Spectrometry (AMS) dating.Soil samples have been sent for textural andchemical analyses. The cultural remains indicatethe occupation are entirely in the late Medievalperiod. The early medieval habitation seemsto be concentrate in the southern part of thearea excavated this season. A geo-archaeological study conducted shows that thesite was a buried floodplain settlement of themeandering system of the Kalindri which isbeing hypothized was a part of the Ganga itself.

52. EXCAVATION AT BANGARH, DISTRICT

SOUTH DINAJPUR

S. C. Saran, assisted by N. G. Nikoshey,Sujeet Nayan, Jalaj Kumar Tiwari, Abdul Arif,Neetesh Saxena, O. P. Pandey, S. P. Gupta, M.K. Brahmchari and Dhananjay Kumar of theExcavation Branch-III, Patna of the Survey,carried out excavation at the mound in Bangarh(250 34'74''N; 840 54'30''E) which is situatedon the left bank of Punarbhaba river a tributaryof the Ganga river. It is located about 75kmnorth-east of Malda town in the south Dinajpurdistrict Bangarh ruins is about 1.5km towardsnorth from Gangarampur bus stop by amotorable road. It is situated about 350kmnorth to Kolkata and is about 300km south ofSiligudi. Balurghat is about 35km west from

Bangarh, is the district head quarter of SouthDinajpur. Bangarh is referred as Devikot,Kotivarsha, Banapura, Sonitpura in Sanskrit andPrakrit literature in early and medieval period.

The excavation area was divided into gridpattern and altogether ten quadrants of threesquares each measuring 10x10m taken up fordigging. Due to heavy rains excavation workwas suddenly stopped and brick structuresexposed belong to only early medieval period.In the Trench B1 a massive wall was found,having the width about 1.60cm with its fouroffsets and each offset having 6 to 7 courses.The wall was raised by using of various sizesof brick i.e. 14x14x4.5cm, 15x15x5cm. Thetotal height of the wall is about 200cm lengthof the wall about 12m and it’s shape looks likeas alphabet ‘Z’. The same wall is also traced inthe Qdt. II of the Trench A1 and it is runningfrom east to west respectively in the Qdt. II ofthe Trench A1 and it is running from east towest respectively in the Qdt. III, IV and I of theTrench B1 also in Qdt. III and II of the TrenchA1 in the northern part of the wall four basesof square shape pillars made of bricks traced ina same alignment at a distance of 1m. Two otherbases of pillars also traced in the Qdt. II of theTrench B1 (Pls. 71-72). In the Qdt. I of theTrench B1 a floor was found at the depth 35cmfrom the ground level, made of brick bats andgiven a protective layer by plastering with jellyof ‘surkhi chunna’ contemporary to first offsetof the wall. Some other brick structures alsofound in all four Qdt. of the Trench C1, butthat all Qdt. are not fully exposed due tocontinuous heavy rain fall in the end of thesecond week of this month. Only 3-4 coursesof the above structure are exposed. In the Qdt.II some bricks structure exposed, areconstructed by the moulded and diamond cutbricks. A good number of terracotta tiles, stonepieces and fragment of architectural membercollected from the Trench A1 and B1 which

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might be used to maintained the superstructure. Few shreds of Sultanat glazed ware,red ware sherds are encountered during theexcavation. Iron nails, terracotta plaques andfew stone breads were the main antiquitiesrecovered from the excavation.

53. EXCAVATION AT TILPI, DISTRICT SOUTH 24PARGANAS

The Directorate of Archaeology and Mu-seums, Govt. of West Bengal, conducted ex-cavation at Tentultala, Mollapara (Plot .960)and Kachharidanga, Masjidpara (Plot 884 and995) at Tilpi, under Chandaneswar GramPanchayat, Police Station Joynagar, sub-divi-sion Baruipur and district South 24 Parganasunder the direction of Amal Roy. The villagefalls under the geocoordinate (220 14'4.5''N;880 33' 52.49''E). The excavation at Tilpi dur-ing the last season established the fact that thesite was under occupation during the early his-toric period i.e., from 2nd century BCE to 3rd

century CE as revealed through the study ofthe successive deposits, excavated antiquities(also collected antiquities from the villagersand the local museums) and the potteries. Themain objectives of the present excavation wasto know the settlement pattern, residentialstructures and the causes of abandonment ofthe site till the mediaeval period. To fulfil theobjectives, a series of trenches of 6.00x6.00meach at Mollapara and Shekhpara were laid and2 of such trenches dug upto the natural soil.Tilpi I i.e., Mollapara and B1 and YB1 at TilpiII i.e., Masjidpara also called Kachharidanga /Shekhpara (Fig. 12, Pl. 73).

The excavation in all these trenches didnot yield any brick-structure, though severalbrick-structures are occasionally being exposedthrough sporadic diggings by the villagers forexcavating tanks and wells. The area underdigging operation yielded mud walls and mud-floors. A large number of terracotta roof-tiles

with or without perforation indicate that thedwelling houses built with mud-walls and tiled-roof with the help of bamboo or wooden posts(supported by post-holes in Trench YB1). Theseries of hearths, iron slags, flakes, semipreciousstones, etc. indicate that the operation area wasoccupied by the common people, morespeciously the worker group. A large numberof antiquities and huge potteries are evidentlysubstantiate the fact that the site was occupiedunder thick population. The people were wellacquainted with the technology of copper,bronze, iron, bead-making, preparing of ivoryand bone objects, ceramics of different varietiesand the terracotta figures and plaques. Duringthe previous year’s excavation the natural soilwas traced in Trench XC1 and diggingcontinued through 7 successive layers ofdepositions. The Layer 7 was denoted as naturalsoil. This year the Trench ZD3 was consideredfor deep-digging to touch the natural soil forconfirmation of the cultural sequence of thesite and obtained the same as recorded earlier.The sequence of the site is confirmed i.e.,from the Sunga to the pre-Gupta period.Though the sporadic occurrences of NBPwares and the single-beaded yakshi figures(hand-made and through mould) indicate theMauryan legacies, yet the present excavationat Tilpi cannot substantially prove the culturalphase belong to the Mauryan period. This maybe established through further excavation andextensive exploratory survey.

The sequence of the site throughstratifications may be framed in the followingway viz., Layers (5) and (6) may be assignedto the Sunga-Kushana phase (2nd century BCEto 1st century CE) under Period I; Layers (3)and (4) may be assigned to the later Kushanaphase (1st century CE to 2nd century CE) underPeriod II; Layers (1) and (2) may be assignedto the pre-Gupta phase (2nd to 3rd century CE)under Period III. Layer (7) is denoted as natural

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soil as it did not yield any artifacts and devoidof human activities. It is sticky clay and blackin colour with full of organic material,contains with charcoal type materials.Theremaining root-part of the ‘sundari’ tree, acommon phenomenon of Sundarvana region,has been traced and recorded in this deposit.This deposit was covered with the yellowishalluvium soil (riverine deposit), compact innature, which is denoted as a part of the naturalsoil, over which the occupation of the siteoccurred and flourished with all characteristicsof an urban settlement, including the traderelations with other places through the riverPiyali, (a tributary of the Matla) and the Bayof Bengal. This is corroborated with thematerials, recovered through the excavation,like copper, bronze and its alloys, iron,semiprecious stones (carnelian, chalcedony,agate) rouletted wares, etc. The study of thedepositions indicate that the area was coveredwith the mangrove forest and was destroyedwith the fire activities through natural processand subsequently it was flooded with the long-term fluvial activities with thick alluviumdeposit in the region.The soil under thepurview of Period III is characterised with thenature of salinity and water-bornedsedimentations.The site was abandoned since 3rd

century CE due to submergence under waterand after long time, during the nawabs ofBengal, the site was occupied again and now itis a flourished thickly populated village withagricultural practices. A large number ofantiquities have been found through excavationat Tilpi. Among the antiquities, terracottasealing, terracotta figures and plaques likeyakshi, human figures, horse, ram, elephant,monkey, lotus medallion; copper coins (bothsquare and circular); beads of terracotta,semiprecious stones, copper and glass; copperpoints; ivory and bone points (Pl. 74); ivoryobject like musical instrument(?) (Pl.75);

terracotta toy-cart including wheel; terracottadabber; iron objects with slags; terracottaballs; terracotta and glass bangles, terracottaballs and other house-hold objects of daily use.

Huge quantity of potsherds have beenrecovered through excavations at Tilpi. Redwares including dull-red, buff red and ill-firedare predominant varieties of the ceramicassemblage. Grey wares including dark-grey andgrey with red patches are common varieties.Among the other varieties, black-slipped waresand black and red wares are also available atthe site.The stamped-designs on the red and onthe grey wares are commonly available. A fewpieces of rouletted wares and NBPW have alsobeen collected from the site through excavation.A grey sherd with the grafitti-mark likeBrahmi ‘ka’ is an interesting finding of thisyear.Two grey sherds have been found with afigure of human and the mouth of a bird,deserves special mention,which was drawnwith incised lines.Various incised designes andstamps on the sherds have been recorded, viz.floral design, mat-impressed-design, leaf-pattern-design, impressions with solar-designs, dotted lines and oblique lines, designswith knife-tip-impressions, lotus-petal-impressions, etc. A circular dish like medallionwith the design of full-blown lotus (red ware)is interesting. The common shapes are vase,vessel, storage jar, bowl with round-base, flat-base and ring-base, deep-bowl, carinated-vase,fry-pan, spouted-vase, sprinkler-type vase,amphora-type long-naked jar, tumbler-typecylindrical pot, etc. The miniature pot, bowlswith round base, dishes with high neck andstamped designs on the inner surface, arepredominantly grey in colour. Most of thepotteries are well-fired, wheel-made and areof well-levigated clay, though the hand-madepotteries with coarse-grained fabric are alsoavailable, though the number is restricted. TheNBPW and the black-slipped sherds are too

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72Bangarh, South Dinajpur: 71, view of the brick structures and 72, view of the brick structures (B1 Qdt. III). See

p. 134

71


138


Fig. 12

Excavation at Tilpi: Bone points. See p. 135

Plate 73

Fig. 12: Tilpi: bowl, miniature pot and vessels. See p. 135

139


75Tilpi: 74, cast coins and other metal objects and 75, general view of the excavated trenches. See p. 136

74


140


limited to draw the shapes, though the fabricand the body-sherds are indicative of miniaturepots.

54. EXCAVATION AT MOGHALMARI, DANTAN,DISTRIC WEST-MIDNAPUR

The Department of Archaeology,University of Calcutta resumed the excavationat Moghalmari after a gap of two years. Theexcavation was directed by Asok Datta assistedby Rupendra Kumar Chattopadhyay,Bishnupriya Basak, Durga Basu, Rajat Sanyal,Sharmila Saha, Mummun Mandal, SharmistaBhattacharyya, Tanmoy Gantait, Subhasis Paul,Shubhendu Mukherjee, Dulal Sen, SantoshSharma and Sanjoy Mandal.

Altogether twentyone trenchesmeasuring 6x6m were taken up for excavationcovering a total area of 75 square meter. Thetrenches were excavated to different levels. Ofthe twenty one trenches, eight were in thewestern part of the mound while twelvetrenches were laid out in the eastern part of themound and one more trench was taken up inMGM3 to know the cultural sequence of thesite. However, the basic objective of this yearexcavation is to trace the complete alignmentof tri-ratha plan of the structure exposedpartially in the western part of the moundthrough last year’s excavation. Besides findingthe entrance of the monastic complex in theeastern part of the mound is also another majorbasic objective. Naturally, excavations wereundertaken in Trench XA, C, D, E, H, I, J and Kseries trenches to trace the alignment of tri-ratha plan of a small monastic complexmeasuring 22x22m in the western part of themound. In the eastern side of the mound anextensively stucco decorated wall runningnorth-south in K series trenches was discovered.The entire wall excavated to a depth of 3.75mwas found plastered with stucco/lime overexquisitely decorated bricks. The major area of

decoration was confined between 50cm and118cm below surface level in K7. The wailcontinued along K6 and K5 towards north withthe decorated stucco panel continuing with auniform range in depth and thickness. This wellpossibly formed the outermost wall of theeastern temple of the monastery, as it appearsfrom a comparative study of the excavatedmonastic sites in eastern India.

The excavation of MGM1 confirmed theearlier indications beyond doubt. Theexcavations have further revealed the existenceof a pre-Pala monastic establishment havingdifferent structural phases, the earlier onerepresenting a large monastery with a frontaltemple complex (Fig.13).

The outer wall of the temple, having itsbrick rammed external platform at a depth of3.75m below surface represents possibly themost extensive architectural stucco artdecoration in the whole of the delta. Plasteredwith thin lime and/stucco and constructed witha variety of plain and decorated bricks set inmud mortar, the structure at Moghalmari isdefinitely parallel to those found at Nalanda,Karnasuvarna and other pre-Pala monasticestablishments of eastern India. A large number(22 types) of foliated and geometric motifs onbricks have been recorded from excavation.Moghalmari possibly exhibits the largestmonastic site so far discovered in West Bengal.It’s Buddhist character is established by thediscovery of a stone image of Buddha inbhumisparsa pose from a stratified context inTrench C6 at a depth of 96cm below surface.

Excavations at MGM3, which isprimarily a habitation area contemporary toMGM1 have yielded some important evidencesof which the assemblage related to iron smeltingactivity. Artefacts include a large number ofiron objects found in association with hugedeposits of charcoal at different depths. But the

141


Fig.

13:

Mag

halm

ari s

ectio

n. S

ee p

. 140

142


most notable discovery of MGM3 is aterracotta seal matrix found at a depth of 1.96mthe excavation in this trench continued upto adepth of 3.80m which is again divisible intosix layers of different thickness, from surfacelevel containing four indistinct incuses, eachbearing the name of a person at least two ofwhich can be read probably as “Srivarma”. Thescript represents the eastern variety of post-Gupta Brahmi datable to the 7th-8th century CE.

The excavations at Moghalmari thusrevealed that the site was in continuousoccupation since black and red ware culture(the excavation of 2003-04 has revealed1.45m deposit of BRW culture in MGM2)with a break and afterwards the settlementreappeared in early medieval period. The siterepresents a unique character of having oneof the few sites where both religious and non-religious habitations can be demarcated on thebasis of archaeological materials and natureof settlement character.

143

EPIGRAPHY

SANSKRITIC AND DRAVIDIC INSCRIPTIONS1

II. EPIGRAPHY

ANDHRA PRADESH

1. MAHAMEKHAVAHANA INSCRIPTION,GUNTUPALLI, DISTRICT WEST GODAVARI

This fragmentary pillar inscription wasbrought to light during the Guntupalli excava-tions conducted by the Hyderabad Circle ofthe Survey. It is in Prakrit language and Brahmicharacters of the 2nd century CE. It belongs tothe king “Siri sada” of Mahamekhavahana dy-nasty of Kalinga. It records the grant of amandapa (where the inscription is found en-graved in question) by one Chula-Goma.

2. PRAKRIT INSCRIPTION, GUNTUPALLI, DIS-TRICT WEST GODAVARI

This stone inscription brought to light dur-ing the excavations conducted by the HyderabadCircle of the Survey and is now preserved intheir store-house at Guntupalli. It is in Prakritlanguage and Brahmi characters of the 2nd-3rd

century CE. It records the gift of the (sculp-tured panel of) dharmachakra to the arya-samgha at Mahanagaparvata by the gahapati(house-holder) Nigatana alongwith his wifeBabha and daughter.

3. EASTERN CHALUKYA COPPER-PLATE IN-SCRIPTION, GUNTUR, DISTRICT GUNTUR

This copper-plate is preserved in the A.P.State Archaeology Museum in Guntur, in San-skrit language and Telugu-Kannada script of

the 9th century CE. It belongs to the easternChalukyan king Rajamahendra (Ammaraja II)and the charter recounts the genealogy of therulers of this dynasty fromKubjavishnuvardhana to Rajamahendra. It reg-isters a gift of land to Rajasarma, a childhoodfriend of Chalukya Bhima (father of AmmarajaII), a resident of Kunduru village. The abovegift was made by the king for his own wealthand prosperity on the auspicious occasion (ofthe commencement of) Uttarayana.

4. KALYANA CHALUKYA INSCRIPTION,MALLAM, DISTRICT KARIMNAGAR

This Kannada inscription is found on aloose slab in the village. It belongs to theKalyana Chalukya king Bhulokamalla(Somesvara III) and it is dated in saka 1047(1124 CE). It records the gift of some land tothe god Parsvanatha for the worship, offeringsand also repairs, etc. at Gangapura byBammisetti of Mannakere.

5. IKSHVAKU INSCRIPTION, GUMMADIDURRU,DISTRICT KRISHNA

This pillar inscription was found at the ex-cavated site in Gummadidurru, Nandigamataluk. It is in Prakrit and Sanskrit languagesand Brahmi characters. The record belongs tothe Ikshvaku king Ehuvala Chamtamula andwas issued in his 10th regnal year (305 CE). Itrecords the construction of a chaitya at Udagiri-mahavihara by the Dopam Baraka of

1. Information from: 1-5 and 8, K. Munirathnam of Epigraphy Branch, Mysore; 9, 11-16, 18-25, S.Rajavelu and 10 and 17, K. Karuppaiah of Epigraphy Branch, Chennai; and 6-7 and 26, Jai Prakash,Epigraphy Branch, Lucknow of the Survey.

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TAMILNADU

Khamudakula family, a resident of Madda-Kadapara village, alongwith his wife Jadika andhis children viz., Dopa, Akasa, Chamula andUkhasa and also other members viz.,Phalikamodiya, Chulamodiya, Gharesu,Duyadammodiya, Buchadiya and Kadiya.

JHARKHAND

6. EARLY NAGARI INSCRIPTION, GHORANEGI,DISTRICT SARAIKELA KHARASAWAN

The inscription is engraved on a stone slabkept in the Siva temple locally called JayadaSiva mandir. This inscription in early Nagaricharacters and corrupt Sanskrit language is dat-able to about the 9th century CE. It records theconstruction of a temple (devakula) (obviouslyat Ghoranegi where the inscribed stone has beenfound) by a person named Pavra who was theson of Gremnaka. The name of the deity forwhom Pavra constructed the shrine is not clear.

MADHYA PRADESH

7. NAGARI INSCRIPTION, CHANDERI, DISTRICT

ASOKANAGAR

This inscription engraved on a stone slabis preserved in the Archaeological Museum(Simhapur palace). This inscription is inNagari characters and corrupt Sanskrit lan-guage and dated [Vikrama] 1544 (1487 CE).It records the construction of a step-well(vapa) probably by Dai Phula, a benevolentwoman, during the time of Sher Khan, Gover-nor of Chanderi and MaharajadhirajaGhiyasuddin and it refers to Chanderi-gadh-durga. The sutradhara was Jasaraja and thewriter was Prayagadasa, son of Chadenadasa.

ODISHA

This single copper-plate inscription is foundin the village Patlinga, now preserved in theSub-collectors office at Athagarh in Cuttackdistrict. It is in Sanskrit language and Nagariscript. The record belongs to the Bhaumakaraqueen Dandi Mahadevi, and it is dated inBhauma year 190 (926 CE). It records the giftof the village Tadata to BhattaputraDaddananda, a learned brahmana of Kasyapa-gotra.

8. BHAUMAKARA COPPER-PLATE, PATLINGA,DISTRICT CUTTACK

9. COPPER-PLATE INSCRIPTION, DISTRICT

CHETTIKULAM

This copper plate is in the possession ofSekhar Pandaram, the trustee ofDhandayudapanisvami temple at Chettikulamin Kunnam taluk of Perambalur district. It is asingle plate charter written on both sides inTamil language and characters of the 18th cen-tury CE. The inscription is dated in Saka 1696(1774 CE). It refers to the grant (pattayam)made for undertaking renovation (tiruppani),construction of a madalayam and a flower gar-den, by a group of people belonging to anjujatipanjalattar and 74 aganattar at the temple ofthe Lord Arumugasamiyar at Vadapaliyangiri inChettikulam. The above work was executed asper the command of the god conveyed in thedream of one Subrahmanyapandaram, the sonof Pallattandipandaram. It further states thatthe people belonging to the idangai group un-dertook to maintain the grant (deed) by collect-ing a toll from the people on the occasion ofTalai-Kattu and marriage.

10. RASHTRAKUTA INSCRIPTION,IDAICHCHERUVU, DISTRICT CUDDALORE

This inscription, engraved on both sides ofa slab is set up in a field of Idaicheruvar to theright side of Ayyanar temple at Idaichcheruvu.It is in Tamil language and characters of the 10th

145

EPIGRAPHY

century CE. It is dated in the 23rd regnal yearof Kannaradevar, who is identified with theRashtrakuta king Krishna III. The record refersto the purchase of land by a person Moorthi-Tayan, a resident of Vayalur-Padi in Ugalur-kkurram from the Urar of Siruvayilur inPorasappadi, apparently for the purpose ofmaintaining the lake (eripatti).

11. PANDYA INSCRIPTION, MANGALAMKOMPU,DISTRICT DINDIGAL

This stone slab inscription with the figureof a tiger is found in the coffee estate of thehilly village Mangalamkompu in theKodaikkanal range. It is in Tamil language andcharacters. It is dated in the 10th regnal year.(1247 CE) of the Pandya king Kulasekhara. Itmentions the name of a refugee centre, knownas Cheyadaikkalanallur which was situated inParpa-nadu. Symbols like the sun, the moon,lamp-posts and a pitcher are depicted in the in-scription.

12. HOYSALA INSCRIPTION, AYALUR, DISTRICT

ERODE

This Tamil inscription is found engravedon either side of a stone slab planted in a fieldin the village, belongs to the Hoysala kingViravallaldevar and dated in the cyclic yearpramadi. On Palaeographical grounds it is as-signable to the 13th century CE. It records thegift of the village Ayiriyur in Kuruppu-nadu,with exemption of taxes, to the Visnu templeknown as Tirivikrama Vinnagaram atNambiyur.

13. VIJAYANAGARA INSCRIPTION, KARAPPADI,DISTRICT ERODE

This stone slab inscription is copied fromthe village Karappadi in Gobichettipalayamtaluk of Erode district. It is in Tamil languageand characters. It is dated in the Saka 1352,saruvari, cyclic year, corresponding to 1430

CE which is, however, irregular, as the saidcyclic year actually occurred in Saka 1342 i.e.,ten years earlier (1420 CE). It records the giftof the village Karagappadi in Alukkarkuli, situ-ated in Kanjikkuval-nadu to theTiruvenkatamudaiyar temple of the village inKanchikkuvalnadu as tiruvidaiyattam by thelocal chiefs, Kungumaraya udaiyar,Kamanarasa udaiyar and the Kaniyalar of theAlukkukkuli village.

14. PALLAVA INSCRIPTION, SIRUVAKKAM, DIS-TRICT KANCHIPURAM

This inscription is found engraved on astone slab lying in a ruined Vinayaka temple ofthe village Siruvakkam in Kanchipuram talukof the same district. This inscription is in Tamillanguage and characters of the 7th century CE.It records that the temple (devakulam) belongedto or was constructed by the kingMahendravarman’s great physician. This is oneof the earliest Tamil inscriptions of the periodof Mahendravarman (I), the Pallava king, and itgives the most important information about hisroyal physician and erection of a devakulam,probably a structural temple. The nameMahendrapottarasar is mentioned in yet anotherinscription at Vallam rock-cut cave temple be-longing to the same king, near Chengleput town.

15. PALLAVA LABEL INSCRIPTION,KANCHIPURAM, DISTRICT KANCHIPURAM

This inscription is engraved in one of thesub-shrines in the inner wall of the enclosure(outer prakara) of Kailasanatha temple. Dueto peeling of the painted layer of the frescowalls, this label inscription is exposed. It is inSanskrit language and written in PallavaGrantha characters of the 8th century CE. Itrecords the epithets of the Pallava kingRajasimha, as Atyantakamah and Avanalanta.

16. LABEL INSCRIPTIONS, TIRUPPULIVANAM,

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DISTRICT KANCHIPURAM

A few label inscriptions in Tamil languageand characters are found engraved on the pil-lars in cloistered hall of the first prakara ofthe siva temple in the village. Each pillar recordsthe names of Saiva saints (Nayanmaras) suchas Enatinatan, Apputiyatikal, Nampikatanampi,Manakkanjar, Thirunilakanta-pperunkusavan,etc. On palaeographical grounds these inscrip-tions are assignable to the 10th century CE. TheSaivacharya names have been already noticedalong with the sculptural representations atDarasuram (A.R.Ep. 1915, no. 2).

17. CHOLA INSCRIPTION, VARAGUPADI, DIS-TRICT PERAMBALUR

This inscription engraved on a stone slaberected in front of the Mandaveli Ayyanar templeis written Tamil language and characters of the12th century CE. The name of the king is ad-dressed as Tribhuvana Viradevar (KulottungaChola III). Dated in the 15th regnal year (1193CE.) of the king, it records the construction ofa temple and the installation of the images ofthe deities Ayyanar [T]errikkuttar andNarashimar therein by a certain Paluvurudaiyan-san-korran, a potter hailing from Valanattu-Tandalai of Karikalakanna-valanadu.

18. TAMIL INSCRIPTION, PINNANKUDI, DIS-TRICT PUDUKKOTTAI

This inscription in Tamil language and char-acters is found engraved on the door-jamb of aSiva temple in the village. It records the gift ofa door-jamb (tirunilaikal) to the temple byPonnalvan Alvan. On Palaeographical groundsthis inscription may be assigned to the 12th cen-tury CE.

19. SLUICE STONE INSCRIPTION,SATYAMANGALAM, DISTRICT PUDUKKOTTAI

This sluice stone inscription in Tamil lan-

guage and characters, is copied near a lakenamely Alankulam madai in the above villageand it records the setting up of a sluice stone(manavalakkal) in the lake by MalaiTirupperuman alias Mudikondacholanadalvanof the village. On palaeographical grounds thisinscription may be assigned to the 12th centuryCE.

20. PANDYA COPPER-PLATE INSCRIPTION,TIRUCHCHENKODU, DISTRICT SALEM

This copper plate inscription is under thepossession of a coin collector atTiruchchenkodu. The original find-spot of thecopper-plate is not known. The first plate ismissing and the remaining three plates are in-tact. The script employed in this copper-plateis Vatteluttu of the 8th century CE and the lan-guage is Tamil. It belongs to the Pandya ruler,Ter maran i.e., Arikesari ParankusaMaravarman, dated in his 36th regnal year (cor-responding to 836 CE). It begins with thegeneology of the Pandya kings and refers to thegift of the village Ilayanputtur as brahmadayato a brahmana Narayanabhatta Somayaji ofBharadwaja-gotra who was well-versed insastra, tarka, vedanta, siddhanta and purana.The gifted village was previously in the pos-session of Kampalai marava (warrior ofKampalai) in Asi-nadu. The village was cap-tured by the Pandya king and the lands in thevillage were reclaimed before it was given tothe donee. The gifted village was exempted fromtaxes.

21. EARLY TAMIL-BRAHMI INSCRIPTION,TATAPPATTI, DISTRICT TENI

This Tamil inscription in early Tamil-Brahmi characters assignable to the 3rd Cen-tury BCE, on palaeographical grounds, is foundengraved on a menhir in the midst of the mega-lithic cluster in the village. The beginning por-tion of the inscription is lost. It reads ‘nadion

147

EPIGRAPHY

pakal paliyi kal’ meaning this stone is erectedfor a servant (adi on) (the name of the servantand his lord are lost).

22. TWO LABEL INSCRIPTIONS,TIRUCHCHIRAPPALLI , DISTRICT

TIRUCHCHIRAPPALLI

There are a number of single line label in-scriptions found engraved on the pillars of thelower rock-cut temple at Tiruchchirappalli re-ferring to various names of the sculptors. Thetwo inscriptions reviewed here are in Tamil lan-guage and characters of the 9th century CE. Oneof the inscriptions refers to the names of thesculptors as Chola kula tilaka peruntachchanand another one as Tenantinal, who were prob-ably responsible for some carvings in the rock-cut temple.

23. PALLAVA INSCRIPTION, VADATORASALUR,DISTRICT VILUPPURAM

This inscription engraved on a stone slabfound lying in front of the Perumal temple, iswritten in Tamil language and characters of the9th century CE. Dated in the 3rd regnal year ofthe Pallava king Nandi Vikrama paruman (843CE). It refers to the gift of a lamp to be burntbefore the god Mahadevar by one Annariyan,the son of Vijay Araiyan of Mulappatti. Theabove gift was made at the instance ofMadevadigal.

24. CHOLA INSCRIPTION, VADATORASALUR,DISTRICT VILUPPURAM

This inscription in Tamil language and char-acters of the 10th century CE and is engravedon a stone slab lying near a well in theMariamman temple. It is dated in the 3rd regnalyear of the Chola king Parakesarivarman (910CE), who may be identified with Parantaka I.It records the gift of 96 sheep by oneSiddhavadavan, a chieftain of Miladu to the godMahadevar of Adittach-chaturvedimangalam, a

brahmadeya in Palur-kurram in Miladu.

25. TWO MISCELLANEOUS INSCRIPTIONS,PALLAGACHCHERY, DISTRICT VILUPPURAM

The first inscription engraved on thekumuda portion of the south wall ofSivaramesvaramudaiya temple, is written inTamil language and characters of the 13th - 14th

century CE. It records the construction ofKumudappadai (an adhishthana moulding ofthe temple) by one Manikkam, the brother ofSenavudaiyar, son of Panniyavattiyar belongingto a group called ponparappina-Nayanar-Mudaligal.

The second one is an undated inscription,engraved on the south wall of the central shrineof Tiruviramesvaramudaiya-nayanar temple, iswritten in Tamil language and characters of the13th-14th century CE. It records the gift of 4000kuli of land as tax free devadana and another2000 kuli of land as tax free tiruvidaiyattam tothe gods Tiruviramesvara-mudaiya-nayanar andChitrameli vinnagarapperumal for providingfood offerings and conducting other sacredservices in the temple.

UTTAR PRADESH

26. SATI INSCRIPTION, TETA, DISTRICT

LALITPUR

This inscription engraved in Nagari char-acters and corrupt Sanskrit language is datedin [Vikrama] 1526 (1469 CE). The record be-longs to the reign of the king Mahmud Shah(of Khalji dynasty) and records the perfor-mance of sati and mentions Chanderi-desa.

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ARABIC AND PERSIAN INSCRIPTION2

2. Information from G.S. Khwaja, Director (Epigraphy)I/C, Arabic and Persian Inscriptions, EpigraphyBranch of the Survey, Nagpur.

DELHI

27. MUGHAL INSCRIPTION, NEW DELHI

This important Persian record comes froma marble slab fixed in the northern wall of thetomb of celebrated Persian poet Hadrat AmirKhusrau within the dargah of Hadrat Nizam-ud-din Auliya, New Delhi. The text mentionsthat the tomb was built in the reign of the Em-peror Nuru’d-Din Muhammad JahangirBadshah Ghazi (Pl. 76). Another record in Per-sian verse from the walls of the same tombmentions the construction of the tomb by TahirMuhammad son of Sultan Ali Sabzwari in AH1014 (1605-06 CE). The verses composed aby the builder himself are of high degree andcontain eulogy of Hadrat Amir Khusrau.

MADHYA PRADESH

28. MISCELLANEOUS EPIGRAPH, AHMADABAD

IN BHOPAL, DISTRICT BHOPAL

This epitaph in Persian prose mentions thedemise of Maulana Diya-ud-din FaruqiNaqshbandi, disciple of Maulana Abul-laith,who was spiritual successor to famoustheologist and Saint Hadrat Shah Wali-ullah.The date of demise recorded is AH 1251,Muharram 6 (1835 CE, May 4) in the text in-scribed by Ain-ud-din.

29. INSCRIPTIONS OF NAWABS OF BHOPAL,FATEHGARH FORT, DISTRICT BHOPAL

This bilingual record from the headstone ofthe grave of Nawab Dost Muhammad Khanmentions the date of birth of the Nawab in AH1087 (1676-77 CE) and also that of his deathin AH 1153 (1740 CE) at Bhopal. The Nawabhas been mentioned in the text as the founderof the state (Riyasat) of Bhopal. Another epi-taph from the same place registers in Persianprose the demise of Fathu Begum, the wife ofNawab Dost Muhammad Khan. It is inscribedby Sami-ud-din.

30. PERSIAN EPIGRAPHS, BHOPAL, DISTRICT

BHOPAL

This Persian epigraph from the tomb ofNazir-ud-daula, in a graveyard called Bada-Bagh, contains in a chronogram the date of deathof Nazir-ud-Daula, a famous physician, in theyear AH 1235 (1819 CE).

31. MISCELLANEOUS INSCRIPTIONS, HARDA,DISTRICT HARDA

One epitaph from the local graveyard men-tions in metrical Persian the death of AhmadAbbas Bilgrami (i.e. of Bilgram in Hardoi dis-trict of Uttar Pradesh) on AH 1310 Rabi II, 7(1892 CE, October 29). Another epitaph fromthe same place registers the death of a lady, whois mentioned as the sister of Sayyid Ali NaqiBeg, in AH 1311, Dhilqada (1893 CE, Septem-ber).

32. TRILINGUAL INSCRIPTION, SEHORE, DIS-TRICT SEHORE

149

EPIGRAPHY

This interesting record in three languagesi.e. English, Hindi and Urdu mentions the erec-tion of a gate by Seth Hansraj and Amar Singhthe two sons of Seth Baini Prashad in com-memoration of Jubilee of Her Majesty the Em-press of India in 1889 CE. Also mentions that asarai (i.e. inn) was also rebuilt in the same year.

MAHARASHTRA

33. FRAGMENTARY EPIGRAPH, AURANGABAD,DISTRICT AURANGABAD

A historically important epigraph of thetime of Tughluq Sultans was copied from aloose and fragmentary slab found in the storeof town hall, Aurangabad. This slab registersthe construction of a pleasure house by AmirQutlugh Malik Safdar, the deputy commandant(naib kotwal) of the fort of Deogir (i.e.Daulatabad) during the time (governorship) ofMalik-ush-Sharq Saif-ud-Din, in AH 733(1333-34 CE). It is an important record ofTughluq period, so far as its date is concernedbut as its beginning part is lost, the name of theruling monarch could not be ascertained. Onthe circumstantial evidences it can be assignedto Sultan Muhammad Tughluq who reignedduring this period and had shifted his capitalfrom Delhi to Deogir (Daulatabad). The naskhstyle of calligraphy employed for the execu-tion is conforming to the style that of TughluqSultans (Pl. 77).

UTTAR PRADESH

by Tabib. The builder has been mentioned asthe brother of Wali Muhammad and son ofAhmad, the mimar (i.e. mason). Two epigraphshave been copied from a mosque in the dargahof Shah Mujib. These epigraphs in Persian verseassign the construction of this mosque to AghaJan, probably a concubine, the work of whichstarted in AH 1293 (1876-77 CE) and wascompleted after one year i.e. in 1294 (1877-78 CE). The text and the chronograms of thedates have been composed by Najaf. One morerecord from the dargah of Shah Mujib men-tions in Urdu verses the construction of a gateand a naqqar-khana (drum-house) by Allah YarKhan in AH 1295 (1878 CE). The composerof the text is Najaf, mentioned above.

35. MUGHAL INSCRIPTION, KANNAUJ, DIS-TRICT KANNAUJ

This important inscription coming from thefaçade of an inn called sarai Mir records theconstruction of a sarai during the time of Em-peror Aurangzeb in AH 1094 (1682-83 CE).The place-name has been mentioned asMuhammadabad which is a reference to renam-ing of Kannauj during the medieval period.

34. MISCELLANEOUS INSCRIPTION,FARRUKHABAD

One construction record from Tinkunimasjid, in the city, mentions in metrical Per-sian the erection of a mosque by a pious manSadullah in AH 1279 (1862-63 CE). The textand the chronogram for its date is composed

150


Fragmentary epigraph of Tughluq period dated AH 733 (1333-34 CE) from Aurangabad. See p. 148


151

EPIGRAPHY

Epigraph of Emperor Jahangir from the Tomb of Hadrat Amir Khusrau, New Delhi. See p. 149


152


III. NUMISMATICS AND TREASURE TROVE

PUNJAB

1. SILVER COINS, DISTRICT FATEHGARH SAHIB

Seventy five silver coins were collectedfrom Shri Parampal Singh, Ex-Sarpanch andChairman of Market Committee, Chanarthalthrough Senior Superintendent of Police,Fatehgarh Sahib.

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OTHER IMPORTANT DISCOVERIES

IV. OTHER IMPORTANT DISCOVERIES

KARNATAKA

3. SCIENTIFIC CLEARANCE OF

KEERTIHARAYANA TEMPLE, DISTRICT TALAKED

After the collapse of srivimana of thetemple on 24th November 2000, the temple hasbeen dismantled up to the pada-moulding af-ter detailed documentation. Trial excavation hasbeen taken up for the study of foundation, na-ture of filling, habitation on below the founda-tion and in the neighborhood of the monumentetc. In all four trenches were laid in east, westand south adjacent to the pada-moulding ofthe temple. In Trench I (6.00x6.00m), a yagaor homakunda was found nearly 2m towardsthe eastern mukhamandapa at a depth of 0.30m parallel to the working level of the first jagati

JHARKHAND

brick platform measuring 6x6m and consistsof two constructional phases. This platform isenclosed within a 64cm wide enclosure wall,providing a 1.40m wide pradakshinapatha allaround the square platform. The entrance isprovided from the east in the shape of semi-circle (chandrashila) type. The evidence ofthree steps were also noticed attached with theeastern portion of the platform. The brick sizesused for construction of this temple are36x23x7cm, 37x24x7cm, 35x21x6cm and36x23x6cm. Further, in the eastern bank of thetank, a bathing ghat was exposed, made of brickon edge, measurs 6.28x1.70m (Pl. 79).Theremains of another brick temple was exposedtowards further east of the bathing ghat wherein a sanctum, measuring 2.32x1.23m with aSiva-linga, in situ, was noticed.

The remains of another temple wasexposed on the south-east of the tank,constructed of laterite stone blocks and trirathain plan (Pl. 80). A model of small temple instone was also collected from the site (Pl. 81).

JAMMU AND KASHMIR

1. BRONZE OBJECTS AT ZURHAMA, DISTRICT

KUPWARA

On the receipt of specific informationfrom G. H. Hassan Malik of Zurhama villageabout 13km from District headquarters,M.S.Zahid, Ehsan-Ul-haq, Gh.Rasool andMushtaq Ahmad Bhat of Archaeology, Archivesand Museums, Jammu and Kashmir visitedancient spot and conducted a trial dig of thesite. During the trial dig, besides potteryfragments, a magnificent bronze sculptureswere recovered from upper layer of the ancientsite of Zurhama, district Kupwara. Four headedfour armed Vishnu riding on garuda with fourfemale attendants, two each on either sides. TheVishnu is holding principal objects in itsdifferent hands. The entire figure is shownstanding on lotus designed pedestal, (size23x13cm). Four armed Vishnu with its consortVaishnavi shown seated on a pedestal holdingthe principal objects. The Vaishnavi is seatedon the left thigh of his consort (size 12x6cm).Vaishnavi seated cross legged on a lotus designpedestal (size 27x15cm).

This is the first type of Archaeologicaldiscovery from Kupwara side of the valley.

2. TEMPLE REMAINS, BENISAGAR, DISTRICT

WEST SINGHBHUM

Ranchi Circle of the Survey carried outscientific clearance at the protected site,Benisagar in the district West Singhbhum underthe supervision of T.J. Baidya assisted by N.K.Sinha, R. Dehuri, R. K. Raj and M. Ekka,exposed the remains of a brick temple on thesmall island located in centre of Benisagar tank(Pl. 78). The exposed temple is in the form of

154


(plinth) course. In the north eastern corner ofthe upā na of the eastern mukhamandapa,evidences of ritualistic deposits like ash, shellsand charcoal were found. Standing to a heightof 1.90m, the hōmakunda is uniquely shapedlike a yōni-pītha with the pranā la facing tonorth as envisaged in Mayā mata text (Pls. 82-83). In addition, the evidences of a sacrificialpavilion built for the ritual are also seen in theform of post holes surrounding the fire altar, asseen in the sections. Built in six courses of brickand measuring 2.40x1.50m, the sacrificial altarappears to have had a cow dung-mud plastercoat as an act of purity and insulation. Thecircular fire pit measured 0.20m in diameter,and had been found filled with river sand as abase for the fire altar. The excavation furtherbelow revealed the disturbed habitation depositof the Ganga-Chola period (9th-11th centuryCE). In Trench II, portion of a brick built wallwith drainage system towards south of Gangaperiod (9th-11th century CE) has been foundindicating the possible existence of a structurebelow the Hoysala (12th century CE) levels. This is supported by the finding of a finelyexecuted sculpture of Visnu-Madhava (withoutany mutilation) exhibiting Ganga-Chola stylisticfeatures. The work in Trench II, laid in theregion covering garbhagriha, antarā la andwestern aisle of mahā mandapa, was initiatedat the level of the pā da-moulding of thedismantled temple and was excavated up to adepth of nearly 2.50m. The longitudinal trenchof 6.50x3.00m, laid bare three distinct layersthe first, starting from the top, compact clayeysoil mixed with brick bats, pot sherds, pebblesimmediately below the floor slabs as the corefilling; the second layer representing river sandalternating with smaller stone nodules andboulders once again as core filling; the thirdlayer was of loose river sand mixed with hugeboulders the concentration of which was more

in the region of sanctum. This loose nature ofstrata posed a problem of retaining a verticalsection. A depth of nearly 2m has been achievedwith great difficulty and the work wassuspended after proper record (Pls. 84-85).Excavation in Trench IV (3.00x3.00m), on thewestern side outside the garbhagriha of thetemple has revealed structural activity of theGanga-Chola (9th-11th century CE) period in theform of disturbed brick structures.

4. NEOLITHIC AXE FROM MAMPALLIKUNNAM

NEAR CHATHANNUR, DISTRICT KOLLAM

During a recent archaeological explorationaround Mampallikunnam area near ChathannurKaramcode P. Rajendran and Balakrishnanfound rolled neolithic axe in a paddy field atthe foot of a laterite hillock. P. Rajendran and aUniversity Grants Commission (UGC) re-searcher, Deptt. of History, Kerala Universityat Kariavattom proved it as a well finished stoneaxe of the neolithic cultures. Similar implementswere earlier reported from other sites. Accord-ing to Rajendran the neolithic evidences inKerala, found from all the three physiographicalzones indicate that the region was well inhab-ited by the neolithic people during the late Ho-locene period. The present find fromMampallikunnam is the second evidence nextto the one from Mantrothuruth discovered byRajendran in 1989 from Kollam district. Theimplement measures 15x8x5cm in length,breadth and thickness respectively. The tool hasa wide slightiy convex working edge at the dis-tal end and it retains pointed proximal end. Theimplement has an oval cross section and bilat-eral symmetry and is made by flaking, pecking,and grinding.5. MESOLITHIC IMPLEMENTS FROM

MURIKKATTUKUDIYL GOVERNMENT TRIBAL

SCHOOL COMPOUND, DISTRICT IDUKKI

During an archaeological exploration in and

KERALA

155


79Benisagar: exposed bricks temple and with Siva-linga during scientific clearance. See p. 153

78


156


81Benisagar: 80, exposed brick structure along with stone structure during scientific clearance; 81,

replica of temple. See p. 153

80


157


83Keertinarayana temple, Talakad: Trial trench,homakunda. See p. 154

82


158


85Keertinarayana temple, Talakad: 84, Trial trench, Ganga period brick structure; 85, Nature of

foundation deposit, garbhagriha. See p. 154

84


159


MANIPUR

7. SECONDARY URN BURIAL SITE,KHANGABOK, DISTRICT THOUBAL

State Archaeology, Govt. of Manipurreported the discovery of an Urn burial site.The site yielded bones, ancient bell-metal coins,bronze rings, iron objects, pots and bowls.

RAJASTHAN

Rajendra Yadav, Exploration and ExcavationOfficer of the Department of Archaeology andMuseums, Govt. of Rajasthan has discovered aBuddha image at Nilkantha situated (27° 15'N; 76° 21' E) about 10km away from Tehla and45km south-southwest of district Alwar in tehsilThanagazi. Nilkantha or Paranagar was the capi-tal of Badagujar Rajputs who were ruling in9th-10th century CE as a feudatory chief ofPratiharas of Kannauj branch. The Buddha im-age found seems to be the only independent Bud-dha image reported from Rajasthan so far. Thestanding image of Buddha carved on pinkish-buff sandstone measuring 109x54x31cm in size.Buddha is standing in samapada with right handis in abhayamudra and left is in half bend po-sition holding chivara. He is flanked byPadmapani and Chakrapani, standing on eitherside near the leg. Buddha is shown with curlyhair and long ears touching to the shoulder. Bothhands and face of the Buddha are slightly muti-lated. Stylistically, it is datable to 9th -10th cen-tury CE.

around Uppinangadi near the Periyar river ba-sin in Idukki district, mesolithic implementsmade of quartz have been discovered fromwithin the laterite clay in the tribal school com-pound at Murikkatukudi by P. Rajendran, UGCresearcher in the Deptt. of History, Kerala Uni-versity at Kariavattom. The artifacts consist ofpoints, lunates, scrapers, blades, borers, bladecores, flakes, etc. Both milky and crystal quartzwhich are locally available in pebble forms inthe river bed were used by the Mesolithic peopleto prepare the implements. Their typology andmorphology amply prove the technological ex-pertise on the quartz raw material by the stoneage people who inhabited in this part of thecountry.6. NEOLITHIC STONE AXE FROM PALARUVI,DISTRICT KOLLAM

J.S. Deepu, UGC researcher in the Deptt. ofHistory, Kerala University at Kariavattom, inKollam district has discovered a brokenneolithic stone axe from the down stream awayfrom the Palaruvi water fall on the pebble bedin the highland region. The tool is made of gran-ite rock and it is a broken piece retaining thedistal half end of the tool. The cutting edge ofthe tool is very much blunted definitely due toextensive use. It is for the first time a neolithicaxe has been discovered from the higher reachesof the Kallada river basin.

TAMILNADU

9. DISCOVERY OF BRONZE IDOLS, AIRVATESWARATEMPLE, DARASURAM, DISTRICT THANJAVUR

During the current year, the work ofconservation of the dilapidated out of plumbcorridor on the northwest corner ofAirvateswara temple, Darasuram, districtThanjavur, thirteen bronze idols and one bronzebowl were unearthed from a depth varying from1-2m. The type of bronze idols show that theyare of utsavamurti meant for carrying aroundduring occasions. The bronze idols includesTirujnanasambandar, Ganesa, Parvati, Siva,Manikkavachakar, Nataraja and a bronze cashbox. The idols are typically of the later Cholaperiod assigned to c. 12th century CE. Thebronze idols are made on solid casting and areintact without much damage. These bronzeswere photo documented.

8. BUDDHA IMAGE AT NILKANTHA, DISTRICT

ALWAR

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The present report incorporates thework done on the subject of at Birbal SahaniInstitute of Palaeobotany, Lucknow, during2006-07; on the botanical remains recoveredfrom the excavations at ancient Lahuradewa,District Sant Kabirnagar and ancientSanchankot/Ramkot, district Unnao, UttarPradesh.1

V. PALAEOBOTANICAL AND POLLEN ANALYTICALINVESTIGATIONS

UTTAR PRADESH

1. LAHURADEWA, DISTRICT SANT KABIRNAGAR

(26°46'N; 82°50'30"E)

Analyzed archaeobotanical samples from anearly lake-side settlement datable to c. 4000-3200 yrs BP (chalcolithic). The evidence re-vealed an advanced state of agriculture. Thefinds include the remains of Oryza sativa(rice), Triticum aestivum (bread wheat), Triti-cum sphaerococcum (dwarf wheat), Hordeumvulgare (hulled barley), Sorghum bicolor(jowari millet), Lens culinaris (lentil), Pisumarvense (field pea), Cicer arietinum (chickpea), Lathyrus sativus (grass-pea),Macrotyloma uniflorum (horse gram), Vignaradiata (green gram), Vigna aconitifolia (mothbean), Trigonella foenum-graecum (fenugreek)and Gossypium arboreum/ herbaceum (cot-ton). Associated with these crop remains as anadmixture, the remains of the seeds and fruitsof weeds and other wild taxa have also beenidentified as Vicia sativa, Setaria glauca,Oryza rufipogon, Chenopodium album,

Grewia asiatica, Ziziphus nummularia andspecies of Polygonum, Cleome and Melilotus.

2. SANCHANKOT/RAMKOT, DISTRICT UNNAO,(26°S9'10"N; 80°19'150"E)

Morphological investigation of seed andfruit remains samples carried out from culturalhorizon of PGW, NBPW, Sunga and Kushanaperiods (approx. 1000BCE to 300 CE) to buildup plant economy practiced by the ancient set-tlers and the ecological conditions in this re-gion of Ganga plain in the past. The site exhib-its ancient plant economy comprising of thefield-crop finds belong to cereals viz., barley(Hordeum vulgare), rice (Oryza sativa), sawan(Echinochloa crus-galli), kodo millet(Paspalum scrobiculatum); pulses-lentil (Lensculinaris), pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan),khesari/grass pea (Lathyrus sativus), field pea(Pisum), green gram (Vigna radiata), blackgram (Vigna mungo), horse gram/kulthi(Macrotyloma uniflorum), aconite/bean (Vignaaconitifolia); seeds of oil yielding plant- field(Brassica juncea), jujube (Ziziphus sp.) andLeguminous fruiting pod; seeds of silk-cotton(Salmalia malabarica) fibre.

Nearly thirty types of weeds and wildtaxa have been recovered, belonging to wildgrasses viz., Andropogon sp. (blue stem grass),Dactyloctenium aegyptium (crow foot grass),Eleusine indica (goose grass), Panicum sp.(panicum grass), Poa sp. (blue or meadow

1. Contributed by Chanchala Srivastava of the Birbal Sahani Institute of Palaeobotany, Lucknow

161

EXPLORATION AND EXCAVATIONS

grass); sedges viz., Cyperus sp. (flat sedge),Elaeocharis sp. (spikerush sedge), Fimbristyliswith three species (fimbristylis sedge), Scirpussp. (bulrush), Scleria ciliata; other finds areof Desmodium gangeticum (clover/savivan),Indigofera sp. (indigo), Indigofera hirsuta(hairy indigo), Medicago sp. (blue alfalfa),Melilotus alba (sweet clover, safed senjhi),Asphodelus tenuifolius (piazi), Verbascumthapsus (mullein), Vicia sativa (commonvetch), Amaranthus sp. (pigweed),Chenopodium album (white goose-foot,bathua), Commelina behghalensis (day-flowerfaint), Trianthema portulacastrum (lalsabuni),Solanum sp. (night-shade); Polygonumbarbatum, Rumex dentatus (labbibi, khat-palak), Sida sp., and some Convolvulaceae

member. Dactyloctenium aegyptium and all thesedges, Commelina benghalensis, Trianthemaportulacastrum may have been the weeds insummer group crops like rice; whereasIndigofera hirsuta, Melilotus alba, Viciasativa, Amaranthus sp., Chenopodium albumrepresent the weed components in winter cropslike wheat and barley in the ancient agricultureat the site. Verbascum thapsus (mullein) is anoccasional member along water channelswhereas Polygonum barbatum and Rumexdentatus represent moist and swampy localitiesin the surrounding of ancient habitationaldeposits.

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VI. MUSEUMS

1. ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM, AIHOLE

Polychrome translides showing views ofmajor conservation works attended to theChalukyan monuments at Aihole, Badami andPattadakal are prepared and exhibited with suit-ably designed boxes around the valley model.Newly prepared texts and illustrations highlight-ing pre and proto-history, epigraphy and newdiscoveries including excavation are displayedappropriately in showcases. The front (west fac-ing) wall surface of the museum is plasteredwith rough granular mortar and colour washedto match with the ambience. Reserve collec-tion is reorganized by providing MS anglewelded with heavy gauge MS sheets. The sculp-tures kept along the museum building are dis-played over masonry pedestals in an organizedmanner aesthetically pleasant open-air gallery.Teak wood shutters are provided to the doorsand windows of the office building. Solar elec-trical fittings and street lights are provided tothe office and surroundings of the museum asan additional security measure.

2. ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM, BADAMI

Newly prepared text and illustrations high-lighting the human evolution, pre and proto-history, epigraphy and new discoveries includ-ing excavation, conservation and quarry site aredisplayed appropriately in the well-designedshowcases. Extended labels are provided tosome more important exhibits. The reserve col-lection room is upgraded by adding MS ironframes fitted with MS sheets and the collectionis re-arranged. Solar street lights are fixed inthe museum premises for additional security.Chhajjas are provided to the doors and win-dows to avoid rainwater splashing in to the of-fice.

3. ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM, BIJAPUR

The wooden showcases including salecounter are polished to give a better aestheticlook. The damaged veneering of the pedestalsin Gallery 3 exclusively exhibiting Persian,Kannada and Sanskrit inscriptions are providedwith fresh veneering, using quality decolamsheet of suitable colour. The stone head of aroyal person (generally identified as AliyaRamaraya, the Vijayanagara king, who was be-headed in the decisive battle of Rakkasatangadi)lying in the reserve collection is now displayedin a suitably designed wooden pedestal. Godrejglass door almirahs are acquired for preservingthe manuscripts in the reserve collection. MSiron collapsible gate is fixed on the interior ofthe main entrance of the museum as an addi-tional security measure. The damaged cablefrom electric pole to the main switchboard ischanged to ensure continuous power supply.Solar home lights are fixed in the galleries asan additional measure of safety and security.Some more visitors’ benches are provided inthe galleries for the use of tourists.

4. ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM, BODHGAYA

Gallery 2 of the museum is extended fur-ther by removing the partition wall of the adja-cent room. In the gallery wall showcases onsunmica veneered wall have been provided. Ef-fective signages of the museums are fixed atprominent places of the museum. Four num-bers of culture notice boards (CNB), two eachon flex and MS sheet were prepared. Both theflex boards are fixed in the museum gallerywhile that of MS sheet are installed near thebooking counter. In addition to this a flex boarddepicting the details of railing pillars has alsobeen installed to provide information to thevisitors. A masonry structure (kiosk) with

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MUSEUMS

arched facade for installation of water coolerhas been constructed in the garden of museumpremises. It is provided with glazed tiles andfloor tiles.

5. ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM, DHOLAVIRA

Site museum at Dholavira was inauguratedon 23rd March, 2007 and thrown open to pub-lic. The museum houses antiquities retrievedfrom the excavations and also surface findingsfrom Dholavira.

6. ASSAM STATE MUSEUM, GUWAHATI

Ever since its inception, the directorate hasinitiated a concerted drive for its variousprogrammes and it served more varied and everexpanding audience.

The year also witnessed the opening offive new galleries namely, pre-history andproto-history gallery, bronze sculptures andgallery on coins, epigraphy and sculpturesgallery, textile gallery and manuscript gallery,etc. The improvement and reorganization ofthese galleries was done under the departmentof Culture, Govt. of India’s Scheme-‘Modernization of Museum programme’ andthe work was executed by the Indian Museum,Kolkata. Through these galleries, it wasintended to provide the public to see the originalart objects of Indus vallery civilization in thepre-history and proto-history gallery. Kushanacoins, punch-mark coins, sultanate coins andcoins of different dynasties of Assam are inview in the gallery on coins. Copper plates andstone inscription from the time of Varmanadynasty, Salasthambha dynasty, Pala dynasty toAhom period are exhibited in the epigraphygallery. It informs about the socio-politicalbackground of this state and the inscriptionsare also important for providing informationabout the development of Assamese scripts.Original illustrated manuscript paintings ofAssam and splendor of textiles are on display

in the manuscript gallery and in the textilegallery respectively.

The setting up of new galleries withimproved display technique at the districtmuseum, Nagaon plus the extension of theNilima Barua folk art museum building atGauripur in the Dhubri district are almostcompleted. It may be added that Nilima Baruaof Gauripur, the art collector of Assam collectedexquisite specimens of ornaments, textiles,terracotta, folk art and paintings etc. After herdeath, a major portion of her collection washanded over to the Directorate of Museums,Assam by her family member for setting up ofa folk art museum at Gauripur. The museumhas a rich collection of more than 1000exquisite exhibits of folk art and crafts, textilesand ornaments. Vivid picture of art and socialtradition, folk beliefs and motifs, aestheticassimilation and cultural influences in thewestern part of the state.

7. ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM, GWALIOR

Twenty masonry pedestals were prepared inthe lawn area in front of the museum building.Sculptures were shifted from the jail buildingto display on them. Gallery 4 was repainted withan eye appealing colour. All the worn out la-bels were replaced and a new bilingual boardwas provided at the entrance of the museumgiving details of the history and antiquities ofthe area and the museum.

8. SALARJUNG MUSEUM, HYDERABAD

The museum has organised temporary ex-hibitions on various occasions under differentbanners like Sree Rama, Bharat Ratna Dr. B.R.Ambedkar, Museum Heritage, Islamic Heritage,Hyderabad – ‘A Photo Journey’, ‘Melody ofMother and Moppet’, ‘Galleries of DewanDeodi’, ‘Sikh Heritage’, ‘Mouled-E-Kaaba’,‘India’s Freedom Struggle’, ‘Culture and Heri-tage of India’, ‘Historical Monuments’, ‘Ma-

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hatma Gandhi -Father of the Nation’, ‘Ivory andParchment Manuscripts’, World Mythology,Budding Artists (Art Creations of School Chil-dren), Towards Crysalis, Museum Acquisitions,Dreams of an Inhabitant Moghul, Culture andHeritage of India (Mobile van exhibition), 58th

Republic Day, Manuscripts Heritage and ImameHussain -The greatest Martyr.

Besides, museum organized monthlylectures in collaboration with Historical Societyof Hyderabad, and special lectures were alsoarranged during the time of Salar Jung’s birthdayfunction and on visit of museum experts fromIndia and abroad. Lectures that were deliveredduring the period are on “defence technology”(with special reference to the forts of Deccan),“Hyderabad then and now”, “Deccan Jewellery”,“Bagalkot - A Cultural Museum”, “Preventionof Kidney Diseases”, “TranscendentalMeditation”, “Indonesia - Special reference toBorabadur and Prambanan”, “RecentArchaeological Discoveries”, “Contribution ofCoins to Indian History”, “Twin Cities BonaluFestival - a Historical Perspective”, “East WorldTrade of Mughal India and Indian Law forWomen”.

Various workshops were also organizedthat included preventive and curativeconservation of manuscripts and conservationof manuscripts as part of National Mission ofManuscripts, and conservation and restorationof art objects. Training programmes were alsoorganised on manuscripts and conservation.Besides, a training programme was organisedfor the teachers under museum awarenessscheme. An advanced course inManuscriptology was conducted as part ofNational Mission for Manuscripts unit in themuseum.

9. ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM, JAGESHWAR

Carved wooden door frame of traditional

style of the region is placed at the main entranceof the museum. Ornamental railing of cast ironis provided in the front side of the boundarywall in place of barbed wire fencing. The con-struction of toilet block with modern facilitieshas been provided. The work of false ceilingand false wall with carpeting on the floor hasbeen completed after removing the partitionwall of reserved collection and the AssistantArchaeologist’s office. In the process of re-or-ganization work of galleries, eleven sculptureswith wooden pedestals have been shifted to thisnewly created Gallery 3 from Gallery 1 and de-fused lights are also provided to the gallery.Translides of the monuments are displayed ingalleries and central hall.

10. ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM, KANGRA

The collection of coins in the museum, areboth displayed and kept in reserve collection.These thirty coins belonging to Khalji dynastyand are datable to circa 16th-17th century CE.These were photo-documented.

11. ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM, KHAJURAHO

Construction of the new museum buildinghas been completed. Fifteen sculptures weresent to the “Festival of India” named as TEJASat Brussels and SACH exhibition in China.

12. MATTANCHERRY PALACE MUSEUM, KOCHI

The museum has been taken up for majorreorganization. The proposal includes (i) exten-sion of galleries, (ii) shifting of office from thegalleries to the ground floor which will paveway for circular movement of visitors aroundthe galleries, (iii) improving lighting arrange-ments, (iv) reorganization of galleries, chronol-ogy wise and (v) provision of proper signage,etc. The long hall where temporary exhibitionsare generally conducted has been taken up inthe first phase, where in the Kerala history gal-lery is being organized.

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13. ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM, KONARK

The photo documentation of museum ob-jects displayed in the galleries was taken up.The work has also been completed. Attractivelaminated colour blow ups of Odishan monu-ments and some rare photographs, drawings ofSun Temple, Konark were also prepared anddisplayed on the walls of corridor of the mu-seum for the benefit of visitors and scholars.Brochures in Hindi, English and Odia werealso printed for free distribution to the visi-tors, scholars and V.I.Ps. The existing toiletblocks were renovated for the convenience ofvisitors. The roof of the museum building hasbeen repaired by way of laying PCC to arrestthe seepage of rain water. Besides, the museumbuilding and its corridor were facelifted by wayproviding plastic paint with weather coat.Proper lighting arrangement was made insideand out side the museum complex in view ofthe safety and security. Besides, a generatorset along with accessories was also installedto meet the emergency during power cut.

14. ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM, NALANDA

Three pedestals in Gallery 1 and one in themain hall have been modernized by way of re-placing old and damaged board with freshsunmica laminated boards. With a view to high-light the images, the background has been pro-vided with a contrast border. The damaged andheavy false ceiling of gypsum has been replacedby a light weight, accoustical ceiling in the mainhall of the museum. Four number of graniteslabs depicting the text (two Hindi and two En-glish) with highlights of Nalanda, museum havebeen placed at prominent points within the pre-mises. Attractive brass name plate signage (bothHindi and English) have been provided on ei-ther sides of the entrance of the museum build-ing. With a view to check sound pollution, twogensets (10 KVA and 3.5 KVA) have been pro-vided with accoustical canopy. Deep bore well

with submersible pump has been provided toensure sufficient water supply within the pre-mises for convenience of the visitors. Amulticolour informative brochure entitled“Grandeur of Nalanda- as described in stone in-scriptions preserved in Nalanda Museum” hasbeen brought out. World museum day was ob-served in a meaningful way involving students,teachers and local people.

15. ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM, LOTHAL

Colour wash has been provided on the ex-ternal part of the museum building. Proper light-ing arrangements were done in all galleries andshowcases. Pedestals and exhaust fans providedin all galleries. Anti-termite treatment has beencarried out in the museum.

16. HAZARDUARI PALACE MUSEUM ,MURSHIDABAD

Renovation of thirty numbers of old antiquefurniture including repairing and polishing hasbeen completed. Repairing and colouring of sev-enty five number wooden frames of paintings,litho paintings as per original have been com-pleted. Further the farmans and maps have beenlisted for better upkeepment. Besides, prepara-tion of labels, charts, direction boards, etc. havebeen fixed in different galleries of the museum.An international standard toilet blocks for la-dies and gents has been constructed.

17. ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM, RATNAGIRI

The accessioning and documentationwork of the antiquities of reserve collection havebeen taken up along with their packing and stor-ing. For the safety and security as well as beau-tification of the museum, proper lighting hasbeen provided in front of the museum building.The damaged termite affected main woodendoor has been replaced by the aesthetically de-signed metal and glass door. To keep a closevigil eye over the displayed antiquities as well

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as the movement of the staffs and visitors in thegalleries, the existing CCTV monitor has beenshifted to the office room of Assistant Archae-ologist. Repair to the roof of museum buildinghas been taken up through CPWD and the workis in progress.

18. ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM, SANCHI

New wooden pedestals were provided to thesculptures in place of damaged and termite in-fected pedestals. Besides, all the galleries werepainted with an eye appealing colour.

19. ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM, SARNATH

The antiquities both major as well as minorare lying haphazardly in the reserve collectionwhich are giving a shabby look and inconve-niences to the scholars and students. In view oferadication of the problem said antiquities arekept in a lucid manner, the bigger objects werekept on the shelves and wrapped with cotton andplaced in the wooden boxes. Remarking of theobjects have been done where rubbing of oldmarkings were observed. Photo documentationof almost two thousand five hundred antiquitieshas been completed. Replicas of selected antiq-uities have been prepared by way of mouldingand casting in plaster of Paris and are kept forsale in the departmental publication sales counter.

20. ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM , SRI

SURYAPAHAR

All the antiquities of the site museum havebeen accessioned and displayed antiquities aredocumented. The galleries have been reorganizedand provided with false ceilings. The galleriesare also illuminated properly to highlight theexhibits.

21. ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM, VAISHALI

Vertical blinds have been provided to thedoors and windows of the museum building.CNB both in Hindi and English made of granite

stone with the depiction of the history and mainexhibits of the museum are installed at con-spicuous places for imparting information tothe visitors. The false ceiling of the museumgalleries are repaired and repainted to increaseits aesthetic quality.

22. ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM, VELHA GOA

The showcase displaying the Chinese ceram-ics of the medieval period was upgraded by de-picting fragments of Azulejos (tiles) which weremended and fixed at the St. Augustine complex.To facilitate the traveling exhibition titled ‘Heri-tage Trail’, the period images as sketched by thegeographer Lopez Mendes in his book “An In-dia Portugueza Vol I, II (1986)” were enlargedand framed. A showcase has been fabricated andsuitably displayed in the key gallery with thephotographs displaying the complete process oftransplantation of Mahadeva temple from Kurdito its present location near the Salaulim damabout 17km away from its original location.

The old damaged pedestals in the portraitgallery were replaced with new steam beachveneer to match the ambience. Some woodenframes which were badly damaged got repairedand some replaced. The wooden model of theship Sao Gabriel was given anti-termitetreatment by fumigation (bubble technique). Thewooden partition of the office was replaced bycanfor design boards including concealedwiring. The missing wooden balustrade (railing)leading to the first floor was fabricated and fixedto facilitate movement of visitors. Handrail ofnon-corrosive steel along with an emergencygate was provided at the entrance to regulatethe visitors (Pls. 86-87).

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87Archaeological Museum, Velha, Goa: providing wooden railing. See p. 166

86


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VII. ARCHITECTURAL SURVEY

The Temple Survey Project (Southern Re-gion) of the Survey took up the exploration ofstructural temples of imperial Rashtrakutas’ asa part of a long term project that was initiatedsince 2002-03 by L.S. Rao. Subsequently, theproject continued under the direction of K.T.Narasimhan and completed in all respects dur-ing 2006-07.

This project was aimed to highlight theimperial Rashtrakutas’ contribution in the fieldof art and architecture. This work covered from8th to 1st half of 10th century CE when theRashtrakutas’ were ruling Karnataka, part ofMaharashtra, Andhra Pradesh and Tamilnadu.Keeping this in view, sixty one temples weretaken up for field study, which are situated inthe states of Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka andTamilnadu and architectural details werecollected during survey and critically studied.Some temples which are located in remotevillages having no direct access to go there werealso taken into account for this project work.

In the first phase of this project, templesin the district of Bagalkot in Karnataka weretaken up for field study, where a quite numberof temples were constructed at Aihole, Hallur,Pattadakal, Bachhenagudda and Badami.Besides, temples at Ron in Gadag district wereinspected (Fig. 13, Pls. 89-90).

During the second phase of this ongoingproject, structural temples of imperialRashtrakutas’ in Andhra Pradesh were taken upfor critical study. The Rashtrakuta temples builtin Nandikotkur taluk of Kurnool district wereinspected (Fig. 14)

In Tamilnadu for the first time theRashtrakuta influence in a Pallava temple wasnoticed. Therefore, the Sundara VaradaPerumal temple at Uttiramerur inKanchipurram district was studied. Necessarytechnical notes, drawings and photographs havebeen made for this project. In Tamilnadu, someRashtrakuta influence was noticed inRanganatha temple at Erukkampet andCholesvara temple at Melpadi in Velloredistrict. These temples were also criticallystudied and included in this project.

Down the century, they built manystructural temples with special features of theirown. Such temples were built in Aihole, Hallur,Pattadakal, Badami and other places inKarnataka; few temples in Vengi region ofAndhra Pradesh, in the Tondainadu ofTamilnadu. The current project will speak thecontribution of Imperial Rashtrakutas to theIndian art and architecture by throwing light onmany lesser known and unknown templessituated in the states of Maharashtra, Karnataka,Andhra Pradesh, Tamilnadu and Pondicherry.

SOUTHERN REGION

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ARCHITECTURAL SURVEY

170


89Aihole: general view of Jaderagudi from north east. See p. 168

88


171

PRESERVATION OF MONUMENTS

VIII. PRESERVATION OF MONUMENTS

1. BIBI-KA-MAQBARA, AURANGABAD, DIS-TRICT AURANGABAD

The decayed and pulverised lime plaster ofseveral layers on the southern and eastern highenclosure wall around Bibi-ka-Maqbara, con-structed with brick and basalt set in lime mor-tar was removed and re-plastered in lime mor-tar (Pls. 90-91). The brick-on-edge pathwaywithin the charbagh in Bibi-ka-Maqbara isdamaged at several locations. The damagedbrick-on-edge pathway on the eastern periph-ery adjoining the eastern enclosure wall on itsinterior side and immediately to the southwestof eastern baradari is also extensively dam-aged. This damaged portion of the pathway wasremoved and laid with fresh bricks followingthe existing design pattern. The accumulated siltin the ancient wells and tanks in around themaqbara were de-silted. Besides, the work ofproviding an iron grill fencing on angle ironposts over a dwarf wall around the parking arealocated to the south-southwest of Bibi-ka-Maqbara has been started, and the work is inprogress.2. AURANGABAD CAVES, AURANGABAD, DIS-TRICT AURANGABAD

The approach pathway leading to Cave no.5 of Western Group (Cave 1-5) has been dam-aged due to collapse of overhanging rock massthat was used for visitors’ movement. Keep-ing in view, the problem of collapsing of theoverhang rock masses, an alternate pathwaypassing over a small stream in front of the caves

MOUNMENTS OF NATIONAL IMPORTANCE

MAHARASHTRA

AURANGABAD CIRCLE has now been provided so that one can directlyreach Cave 2. This work of providing the al-ternate pathway and the construction of a pe-destrian footbridge over the stream is inprogress. Likewise, the existing stepped path-way leading to Cave 10-12 of Eastern Group(Cave 6-11) was diverted due to the danger ofweak overhanging rock mass. This alternatepathway runs in front of Cave 9 and leading toCave 10-12. The work of pathway is in progresswhich is provided with basalt stone flooring andparapet wall with basalt stone coping. The doorsand windows have been provided to the caveswith galvanised iron crimped wire mesh in teakwood frame to prevent the entry of bats.3. AJANTA CAVES, AJANTA, DISTRICT

AURANGABAD

The pathway provided for the visitor move-ment from the entrance of Cave 16 to the for-est gate is being repaired by removing the ex-isting damaged concrete and in its place freshcement concrete has been provided. The basal-tic rock formation at Ajanta has several voidsand overhangs at many locations; some ofwhich are directly above the caves. These cavi-ties are filled in with debris that retains waterand gradually let out the moisture and wateraffecting the caves. One such long and continu-ous cavity is noticed at the top of Cave 1-6 thathas resulted seepage in the ceiling of rear aisleof Cave 1. As a trial basis, a portion of thecavity has been filled up with uncoursed rubblemasonry set with cement mortar and plasteringthe exterior surface including finishing as rocktexture above Cave 1 and provided with properdrainage for water. The archaeological area onthe top of Ajanta caves was provided with fenc-

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ing using iron angle post with glavanised ironchain link to stop unauthorised access from thetop of the caves. In order to prevent the entryof bats into the painted caves, crimped meshdoors and windows have been provided to allthe openings in Cave 4 to 8, 11 to 15, 19 to 28and 30.4. ELLORA CAVES, ELLORA, DISTRICT

AURANGABAD

With a view to connect each and every cavefor easy movement of visitors through the un-dulating terrain, a pedestrian pathway toppedwith roughly dressed basalt stone slabs is be-ing provided. The work of providing stonepaved pathway up to Cave 27 is completed (Pls.92-93), whereas the pathway from Caves 19to 34 is in progress. In order to make the path-way continuous and stable, retaining walls andsmall culverts are also being provided. A re-taining wall has been constructed in uncoursedrubble masonry between nala near Cave 23 andCave 25 including the work of fixing stoneslabs over the pathway over a cement concretebed. The archaeological area at Ellora caveshas been provided with glavanised iron chainlink fencing on iron angle posts. The work ofproviding galvanised iron pipe railing aroundthe kunds as a safety barricade has also beentaken up. The archaeological area in front ofthe caves was fenced with mild steel grill overa dwarf wall interspersed with square basaltposts which have been taken up in continua-tion of previous year’s work. Besides, the workof providing mild steel grill fencing over themasonry wall of the office of ConservationAssistant to Cave 34 has been completed. Theroad signages in cut stone have been providedon the pathway leading to the caves.5. DAULATABAD FORT, DAULATABAD, DISTRICT

AURANGABAD

The work of removal of decayed plaster ofChand minar and re-plastering it with freshlime plaster has been taken up as per the origi-

nal shade and colour (Pls. 94-95). The dam-aged lime concrete over the floor of Hathi tankwas removed and re-laid with fresh concrete.After dismantling the dislodged stones from thesteps of main entrance of the tank, these havebeen reset as per original alignment. The rock-cut moat located to the west of Rang Mahalwas taken up for desilting and removal of de-bris which has been completed. In continuationof previous year’s work of reconstruction offallen moat wall to the west side of Rang Mahalis in progress. The fallen staircase leading tofirst floor of Rang Mahal has been recon-structed. The antiquities discovered from theDaulatabad excavations have been displayed atthe entrance gate of Aam khaas building.6. PITALKHORA CAVES, PITALKHORA, DISTRICT

AURANGABAD

The construction of glavanised iron piperailing fixed with angle iron posts all along thesteps leading to Pitalkhora caves has been takenup.7. MALLIKARJUNA TEMPLE, GHOTAN, DISTRICT

AURANGABAD

The fallen portion of retaining wall on thenorth and northwest corner of Nagar khana hasbeen reconstructed keeping in conformity withthe existing wall. The work of erection ofglavanised iron chain link fencing over the dwarfcompound wall is in progress.8. RAJE LAKHOJI JADHAV SAMADHI,SINDHKHEDRAJA, DISTRICT BULDHANA

The protected area around the monumenthas been provided with galvanised iron chainlink fencing on iron angle post over a dwarfmasonry wall.9. LONAR GROUP OF TEMPLES, LONAR, DIS-TRICT BULDHANA

In continuation of previous year’s work ofreplacing the broken beams and chhajjas withnew stones of similar sizes has been carried out

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91Bibi-ka-Maqbara, Aurangabad: 90, before; 91, after replacement of plaster of eastern enclosure wall, See p.171

90


174


93Ellora caves, Aurangabad: 92, before; 93, after laying of the stones slab pathway. See p. 172

92


175


94

95

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176



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177


99Daityasudana temple, Lonar: 98, before; 99, after replacement of broken beams. See p. 178

98


178


in Garuda mandir near Daityasudana temple.The work of water tightening the roof by lay-ing fresh brick jelly concrete has been com-pleted at Garuda mandir. At the Daityasudanatemple, the broken beams were replaced withnew stone beams of the same texture and thepipes which were obstructing inside the templewere removed (Pls. 96-99).10. BALLARSHA FORT, BALLARSHA, DISTRICT

CHANDRAPUR

The missing veneering stones of the fortwall near the main entrance are being providedwith new stones of similar size and nature af-ter providing a suitable foundation. The topportion of the wall is being provided with limeconcrete to check water seepage.11. GROUP OF TEMPLES, BALSANE, DISTRICT

DHULE

Galvanised iron chain link fencing on ironangle posts erected over the masonry dwarfwall, and an iron gate have been provided atthe entrance.12. SEVEN MOHAMMEDAN TOMBS, THALNER,DISTRICT DHULE

The protected area of the group of monu-ments is provided with galvanised iron chainlink fencing on iron angle posts over a dwarfwall. Besides, an iron gate has been providedon the approach road.13. MARKANDADEO GROUP OF TEMPLES,MARKANDA, DISTRICT GARHCHIROLI

In continuation of previous year’s work, thebulged out stone blocks from the west sideprakara wall of Dasavatara shrine was dis-mantled and reconstructed from inner and outersides using the same stones after strengtheningthe foundation. The work of providing mildsteel grill fencing with iron angle frames is pro-vided over a masonry dwarf wall to stop thethorough fare.

14. MODAI TEMPLE, WAGHALI, DISTRICT

JALGAON

A stone masonry retaining wall has beenconstructed on southern side of the temple tostop erosion from the river side.15. PATNADEVI TEMPLE, PATNA, DISTRICT

JALGAON

An apron has been provided around thetemple with stone slab over a cement concretebed to prevent seepage of water into the foun-dation. Apart from this work, galvanised ironchain link fencing on iron angle posts has beenprovided over the dwarf masonry. The construc-tion of causeway with hume pipe has been com-pleted.16. SANGAMESHWAR TEMPLE, SANGAMESHWAR,DISTRICT JALGAON

The construction of stone masonry wall forplinth protection is in progress.17. CHANGDEO TEMPLE, CHANGDEO, DISTRICT

JALGAON

The old and decayed plaster from the wallsof the inner portion of the temple has been re-moved carefully and re-plastered with lime mor-tar, and finally provided with a finishing layeron the top.

KARNATAKA

BANGALORE CIRCLE

18. FORT, DEVANAHALLI, DISTRICT BANGALORE

The disturbed, out of plumb and fallen por-tion of the fort wall on the western side has beenreconstructed with available stones and the corefilled with lime mortar mixed with brick bats(Pls. 100-101).

19. VITTALA TEMPLE, VENKATAPURAM, DIS-TRICT BELLARY

179


Debris accumulated along the enclosure wallat north-east was cleared to expose the plinthportion. The out of plumb and over hanging ar-chitectural members in the north-eastern sideof the enclosure wall has been dismantled, docu-mented and reconstructed to its original posi-tion and alignment.

20. ZANANA ENCLOSURE, KAMALAPURAM,DISTRICT BELLARY

The out of plumb prakara wall in the north-eastern side of the zanana enclosure has beendismantled and reconstructed with availablestone as per the original.

21. KRISHNA TEMPLE, KRISHNAPURAM, DIS-TRICT BELLARY

The out of plumb, dislodged and disturbedsteps of lokapavani tank has been dismantled.The tank filled with silt and rolled boulderswere removed. The flight of steps has been re-stored as per the original (Pls.102-103).

22. DOUBLE STORIED MANDAPA,VENKATAPURAM, DISTRICT BELLARY

The out of plumb, dislodged and over hang-ing architectural members were carefully dis-mantled after removing the decayed and weath-ered proof course over the mandapa withproper documentation (Pls. 104-105).

23. VISNU TEMPLE III, VENKATAPURAM, DIS-TRICT BELLARY

The out of plumb, over hanging architec-tural members of the main entrance and enclo-sure wall were dismantled and restored as perthe original.

24. ACHYUTARAYA TEMPLE, VENKATAPURAM,DISTRICT BELLARY

The out of plumb pillars, beams and overhanging roof members of the kitchen (paka-shala) has been dismantled and restored as per

the original by using available stone members.

25. SHRINE DANNAIKA ENCLOSURE,KAMALAPURAM, DISTRICT BELLARY

The out of plumb fortification wall at northwest has been dismantled after proper documen-tation and reconstructed in its original position.During the clearance of the debris accumulatedover to a depth of 2.80m, a shrine with a sanc-tum and a mandapa was exposed outside therestored enclosure wall. From its features, theshrine appears to be contemporaneous to thepalace of Vira Harihara (1376-1399 CE).

26. ACHYUTARAYA TEMPLE, VENKATAPURAM

(HAMPI), DISTRICT BELLARY

During the course of scientific clearanceof the dried up and silted pushkarini in theAchyutaraya temple complex, various architec-tural members such as veneer stones, pillarunits of the surrounding cloister mandapas andother members were retrieved. Accumulateddebris was cleared to expose the ancient work-ing level. The out of plumb and collapsed flightof steps of the tank and the cloister aroundwas restored as per the original using the avail-able members.

27. KRISHNA TEMPLE, HAMPI, DISTRICT

BELLARY

The out of plumb, over hanging architec-tural members of the roof of the mandapas inthe Krishna temple bazaar consisting of ceil-ing stones, beams, capitals, pillars and stepsnearer to the temple were dismantled and re-constructed as per the original.

28. DANNAIKA ENCLOSURE, KAMALAPURAM,DISTRICT BELLARY

The debris accumulated in the enclosurewas cleared to expose the ancient working leveland the fallen and out of plumb enclosure wall

180


was set to plumb by retrieving and reusing thecollapsed members.

29. LOTUS MAHAL, KAMALAPURAM, DISTRICT

BELLARY

The debris accumulated along the enclosurewall was cleared to expose the ancient workinglevel and the fallen and out of plumb south-eastern and eastern enclosure walls were re-stored as per original by retrieving and reusingthe collapsed members.

30. RUINED TANK (PUSHKARINI), EAST OF

PATTABHIRAMA TEMPLE, KAMALAPURAM, DIS-TRICT BELLARY

The out of plumb, overhanging architecturalmembers of the out of plumb cloister mandapasof the lokapavani pushkarini consisting ofbeams, capitals, pillars and veneering membersof the steps of the tank were dismantled andstacked for reconstruction.

31. RAGHUNATHA SWAMY TEMPLE,MALYAVANTHA HILL, VENKATAPURAM, DIS-TRICT BELLARY

The original working level and buried plinthof the temple was exposed by clearing the de-bris accumulated and a plinth protection coursewas provided all around the main temple.

32. RAMESVARA TEMPLE, NARASAMANGALA,DISTRICT CHAMARAJANAGAR

The dilapidated Saptamatrika shrine wascompletely dismantled up to the foundation andafter relaying the foundation in size stone ma-sonry, the structure was rebuilt using the samepillars, beams and roof slabs. Provided freshstones wherever is missing. The sculptures ofSaptamatrikas were repositioned as per the origi-nal over their respective pedestals (Pls. 106-107).

33. BHOGANANDISHWARA TEMPLE, NANDI

HILLS, DISTRICT CHIKKABALLAPUR

The damaged and deteriorated brick limeconcrete over the mahadvaramandapa andother sub-shrines were removed and was pro-vided with fresh weather proof course.

34. RAMESVARA TEMPLE, NARASAMANGALA,DISTRICT CHAMARAJANAGAR

The dilapidated Saptamatrika shrine was dis-mantled after documentation and the sculptureshave been shifted to the main temple for secu-rity.

35. FORTRESS AND TEMPLE ON THE HILL,CHITRADURGA, DISTRICT CHITRADURGA

A platform in front of Ekanatheshvari templehas been restored. The fallen fort wall was re-constructed and the top surface has been watertightened in the northern side of the fortifica-tion. The missing portion of the retaining wallof the moat has been reconstructed in betweenthe third and fourth gateways. Earth work exca-vation has been carried out inside the moat forcollecting the stone members and leveling theundulated areas in between the third and fourthfortifications.

36. INSCRIPTION AND JATINGI RAMESVARA

TEMPLE, (RAMESVARA HILL), SIDDAPURA, DIS-TRICT CHITRADURGA

The disturbed and dilapidated steps of thehillock leading to the temple were restored asper the original.

37. ASOKAN INSCRIPTION, BRAHMAGIRI, DIS-TRICT CHITRADURGA

The protected area was provided with barbedwire fencing for protection of the inscribed boul-der.

38. FORT, CHITRADURGA , DISTRICT

CHITRADURGA

181


The missing portion of the retaining wallwas constructed as per the original and the moattowards the northern side near Kamanabagiluwas provided with pitching. Pathways were pro-vided and minor landscaping was done atMaddubisuvakallu and other localities. An en-croachment prevention wall has been con-structed towards north-northeast of the outerfort. The fort wall (north) has been recon-structed and the top surface has been water-tightened (Pls. 108-109).

39. KALLESWARA SWAMI TEMPLE, BAGALI,DISTRICT DAVANAGERE

Repairs were carried out to the tank bundon the southern side of the temple. During thecourse, the buried portion of the sub-shrine likeVeerabhadreswara was exposed. Many architec-tural units used for constructing the tank bundwere carefully retrieved and used for reconstruc-tion after documenting them.

40. FORT, CHENNAGIRI, DISTRICT DAVANAGERE

The fallen and disturbed portions of the fortwall on the east and south sides have been re-stored.

41. MUSAFIRKHANA AND HONDA,SANTEBENNUR, DISTRICT DAVANAGERE

The protected area was provided with barbedwire fencing for developing landscape garden.

42. KALLESWARA SWAMI TEMPLE, BAGALI,DISTRICT DAVANAGERE

The damaged and out of plumb revetmentwall of tank bund, which had bulged out andburied the sub-shrines, was reconstructed andthe shrines exposed. A landscape garden was laidwithin the protected limits (Pls. 110-111).

43. MALIKARJUNA TEMPLE, KURUVATTI, DIS-TRICT DAVANAGERE

The damaged stucco figures on the gopurawas restored and a fresh weather proof coursewas provided over the roof of the temple.

44. PARSVANATHA BASTI, HALEBID, DISTRICT

HASSAN

The out of plumb and collapsed stone ve-neering of the wall of the temple on the west-ern and southern sides was reset to plumb withsuitable core filling in brick and lime concrete.

45. HOYSALESVARA TEMPLE, HALEBID, DIS-TRICT HASSAN

The dead lime concrete over the leaky roofof the twin temple has been removed and watertightened by providing a fresh course of surkhimixed with lime mortar (Pls. 112-113).

46. AMMAN SHRINE KESHAVA TEMPLE, BELUR,DISTRICT HASSAN

Fresh weather proof course was providedto the leaky roof of the shrine after careful re-moval of the damaged and deteriorated brickand lime concrete.

47. SADASIVA TEMPLE, NUGGEHALLI, DISTRICT

HASSAN

The disturbed, fallen and out of plumb en-closure wall has been dismantled after properdocumentation and restored as per the originalusing available stones.

48. INSCRIPTIONS, SRAVANABELGOLA, DISTRICT

HASSAN

Toughened glass covers mounted on a topedged silicon base frame was provided to someof the important inscriptions engraved on theparent rocky surfaces of Chandragiri andVindhyagiri hills for protecting the inscriptionsfrom weathering. Suitable requisite cultural textnearby the inscriptions was also provided.

49. RAMALINGESVARA TEMPLES, AVANI, DIS-

182


TRICT KOLAR

The leaky roof was provided with a freshweather proof course in lime concrete and plas-tered. The stains over the stone surface werecleaned and stucco figures on the gopura wereconsolidated.

50. KOLARAMMA TEMPLE, KOLAR, DISTRICT

KOLAR

Fresh weather proof course in lime concretewas provided to the roof and the parapetwas re-plastered besides carrying out repairs tothe stucco figures of the vimā na

51. SOMESVARA TEMPLE, KOLAR, DISTRICT

KOLAR

Fresh weather proof course in lime concretewas provided to the roof and the parapet wasre-plastered.

52. LAKSHMINARASIHMASWAMY TEMPLE,MAREHALLI, DISTRICT MANDYA

A compound wall has been constructedaround the temple complex.

53. SAUMYAKESHAVA TEMPLE, NAGAMANGALA,DISTRICT MANDYA

The decayed wooden members inside themahadwaragopura have been replaced.

54. PANCHAKUTA BASTI, KARNBADAHALLI,DISTRICT MANDYA

The damaged and bulged out walls of theShā ntinatha basadi of the Panchakū ta basadicomplex have been dismantled after documen-tation.

55. SRI SRIKANTESHVARA TEMPLE,NANJANGUD, DISTRICT MYSORE

The exterior wall of the ugrā na (store-room) was provided with fresh veneer stones

wherever missing. The vimā na over the sub-shrines of Tā ndavēswara, Nā rā yana and utsava-mūrtis were applied with a weather-proof paintcoat. The sunken flooring slabs in the kitchenwere removed and re-laid with proper gradientto drain out the rain water.

56. VAIDYESHWARA TEMPLE, TALKAD, DIS-TRICT MYSORE

The undulated stone flooring in the court-yard of the temple was removed and relayed withproper gradient to drain out the rain water. Freshflooring was provided on the western side ofthe temple with suitable kerb-stone to avoid lat-eral movement and shifting of the sand below.

57. TRIPURANTESVARA TEMPLE, BELLGAVI, DIS-TRICT SHIMOGA

The dismantled and out of plumb entrancemandapa and garbhagriha of the temple hasbeen restored as per the original (Pls. 114-115).

58. FORTRESS AND RENUKA TEMPLE,CHANDRAGUTTI, DISTRICT SHIMOGA

The out of plumb fortification wall on theslope of the hill towards the south eastern sideof the temple has been reconstructed. The an-cient steps near Sula Beerappa shrine were re-laid as per the original.

59. TEMPLES AND INSCRIPTIONS, UDRI, DIS-TRICT SOUTH KANARA

The entire monument was dismantled afterremoving the heavy growth of tree roots andother vegetation after proper documentation andreconstructed the same after strengthening thefoundation. A retaining wall on northern sideof the Ishwara temple has been constructed toarrest the soil erosion and to prevent damagesto the monument (Pls. 116-117).

60. FORT, KAVALEDURGA, DISTRICT SHIMOGA

183


The thick rank vegetation grown in the pal-ace area has been cleared and various struc-tures of the palace of 16th-17th centuries CE,like court-yard, bath room, toilet blocks,kitchen with a five burner stone oven in situ,worship room, backyard along with a steppedtank and fresh water well, etc., were exposed.The work also laid bare harvesting, storage fa-cility and optimum utilization of rain waterthrough a network of tanks, wells and channelssupplying water to the kitchen, bath rooms,toilet blocks, etc. Remains of the royal plea-sure garden with provision of erecting a swingsupported by pillars were also exposed. Thesunken and damaged ancient stone balustradepathway from the first gate to third gate hasbeen re-laid. The fallen fortification near thepalace site has been reconstructed as per origi-nal. The disturbed, out of plumb fort walls ofthe second and third fortifications have beenreconstructed as per original (Pls. 118-119).

61. SHIVAPPA NAIK’S FORT, NAGAR, DISTRICT

SHIMOGA

The fallen fortification near durbar hall hasbeen reconstructed as per original (Pls. 120-121).

62. TRIPURANTESVARA TEMPLE, BALLIGAVI,DISTRICT SHIMOGA

The out of plumb and sunken entrancemandapa of the temple has been dismantled andreconstructed its original after strengthening ofthe plinth. The cracked beams and roof slabs ofthe same mandapa has been mended by usingsuitable non-corrosive stainless dowels and re-set as per the original.

63. TEMPLES AND INSCRIPTIONS, KUPPAGADDE,DISTRICT SHIMOGA

A wall has been constructed on northern sideof Iswara temple to prevent soil erosion. Plinthprotection course has been provided around

Rameshwara temple and Jaina basadi. A dwarfwall has been constructed around theParswanā tha basadi and crimped wire meshfencing has been provided.

64. KAITABHESVARA TEMPLE, KUBATTUR

(KOTIPURA), DISTRICT SHIMOGA

A compound wall has been constructed withlateritic stone around the temple complex onwest, north and part of the southern sides.

65. PARSVANATHA BASADI, KUBATTUR

(KOTIPURA), DISTRICT SHIMOGA

Plinth protection course has been providedaround the Parsvanatha basadi besides con-structing a dwarf wall with crimped mesh fenc-ing around the basadi.

66. RAMESHWARA TEMPLE, KUBATTUR, DIS-TRICT SHIMOGA

Plinth protection course has been providedaround the temple.

67. JAMALABAD FORT, NADA AND LAILA, DIS-TRICT SOUTH CANARA

The out of plumb watch tower has been dis-mantled and restored with available stones fol-lowed by the proper documentation.

68. CHATURMUKHA BASADI, KARKAL, DIS-TRICT UDUPI

The dead concrete over the roof of theChaturmukha basadi has been removed andfresh weather proof course of lime concrete hasbeen provided to arrest leakages.

69. ANANTHAPADMANABHA TEMPLE, KARKAL,DISTRICT UDUPI

Fenced the archaeological area with crimpedmesh over a dwarf wall around the temple andthe fallen prakara wall has been restored asper original.

184


101Fort, Devanahalli: 100, before; 101, after conservation. See p.178

100


185


103Krishna temple, Krishnapuram: 102, before; 103, after conservation. See p. 179

102


186


104

10

5D

oubl

e st

orie

d m

anda

pa, V

enka

tapu

ra: 1

04,

befo

re; 1

05, a

fter c

onse

rvat

ion.

See

p. 1

79


187


107Rameshwara temple, Narasamangala: 106, before; 107, after conservation. See p. 180

106


188


109Fort wall, Chitradurga: 108,before; 109, after conservation, See p. 181

108


189


111Kalleswara temple, Bagali: 110, before; 111, after conservation, See p.181

110


190


113Hoysaleshwara temple, Halebid: 112, before; 113, after conservation. See p. 181

112


191


115Tripurantesvara temple, Belligavi: 114, before; 115, after conservation. See p. 182

114


192


117Temple and inscription, Udri: 116; before: 117, after conservation. See p.182

116


193


119Fort, Kavaledurga: 118, before; 119, after Conservation. See p. 183

118


194


121Fort, Nagar: 120, before; 121, after Conservation. See p. 183

120


195


MADHYA PRADESH

BHOPAL CIRCLE

71. SIVA TEMPLE, AMARKANTAKA, DISTRICT

ANUPPUR

As the foundation of the temple has sub-sided, the platform is damaged which was takenup for restoration. Stone apron has been pro-vided around the temple to avoid further waterstagnation in the surrounding area that wascausing dampness inside the temple and alsothe cause for deterioration of the structure.

72. PATALESWAR TEMPLE, AMARKANTAKA,DISTRICT ANUPPUR

For the safety and security, a dwarf wall hasbeen provided around the temple.

73. TEMPLE GROUP 6, KADWAHA, DISTRICT

ASHOK NAGAR

In continuation of previous year’s work,Temple Group 6 was taken up for restorationas the architectural members of thegarbhagriha and the mandapa portion weredisplaced. Detail documentation of the entiretemple was carried out before dismantling thestructure. Before re-erecting the temple struc-ture, foundation trench was dug up to a depthof about 2m and raft foundation was providedto sustain any given load of the superstructure.During the period under report, re-erection ofthe temple up to the ceiling level has been com-pleted.

74. SHAHZADI-KA-ROJA, CHANDERI, DISTRICT

ASHOK NAGAR

Restoration of chhajja stones of groundfloor and first floor with pointing and watertightening was carried out (Pls. 122-123). Si-multaneously the pathway leading to the struc-

ture was paved with flag stone flooring.

75. NAVKHANDA MAHAL, CHANDERI, DISTRICT

ASHOK NAGAR

Restoration of the bastion located at thesouth-east corner has been completed. Duringthe course of restoration of the foundation,coarse rubble stones have been utilized, whereasfor the veneering purpose random rubble stoneshave been used. Besides, re-erection of pillars,repairing of chhajja and beams, etc are inprogress inside the Navkhanda mahal. Resto-ration of the damaged fort wall near the KhiljiMosque has also been taken up.

76. KOSHAK MAHAL, CHANDERI, DISTRICT

ASHOK NAGAR

For the safety and security of the KoshakMahal, a dwarf compound wall has been pro-vided around the protected limit of the monu-ment.

77. BADAL MAHAL, CHANDERI, DISTRICT

ASHOK NAGAR

For the safety and security of the temple adwarf compound wall has been provided aroundthe protected limit of the monument.

78. LANJI FORT, LANJI, DISTRICT BALAGHAT

The fort wall has been strengthened by do-ing underpinning and pointing which was dam-aged at several places.

79. ATER FORT, ATER, DISTRICT BHIND

The settled debris in the palace complex hasbeen removed to bring back the aesthetic lookof the fort. Besides, restoration of the fort wallin random rubble masonry has been carried out.To strengthen the structure, recess pointing andunderpinning works have been carried out invarious structures located within the fort. Limeconcrete flooring with brick jelly aggregate has

196


been provided at Rani Mahal and Raja Mahal.Apart from it, recently unearthed structures nearRanivas chowk have been conserved.

80. PALACE COMPLEX, BURHANPUR, DISTRICT

BURHANPUR

Restoration of arches, re-erection of col-umns, flooring and restoration of various di-lapidated structures with random rubble andbrick masonry has been provided. Lime con-crete roof was provided to six rooms. Scien-tific clearance around the water tank has re-vealed a charbagh pattern garden alongsidemany water fountains. All the water fountainshave been revived to its originality includingthe tank and a garden has been developed toenhance the beauty of the palace complex.

81. RAJA–KI-CHHATRI, BURHANPUR, DIS-TRICT BURHANPUR

Eight domes excluding the central one ofRaja-ki-chhatri have been restored with brickmasonry. Missing veneering stones have alsobeen replaced during the course of restoration.

82. ASIRGARH FORT, ASIRGARH, DISTRICT

BURHANPUR

Lime concrete has been provided over theplatform and the roof of the Idgah. Besides,grill fencing around the monument has beenprovided for its safety and security.

83. TOMB OF SHAH SHUJA, BURHANPUR, DIS-TRICT BURHANPUR

To strengthen the dome portion underpin-ning was undertaken. Restoration of stonestructures has also been carried out.

84. AHUKHANA, BURHANPUR, DISTRICT

BURHANPUR

In continuation of previous year’s work, ex-cavation of the water channel which was con-

necting the pleasure pavilion and the tomb ofMumtaz Mahal has been completed. Conserva-tion of the unearthed tank is in progress. A gatehas been installed at the entrance to the pro-tected complex.

85. TOMB OF NADIR SHAH, BURHANPUR, DIS-TRICT BURHANPUR

The tomb and the compound wall of themonument have been restored with stone andbrick masonry to make it more presentable.

86. SHAH NAWAZ KHAN'S TOMB, BURHANPUR,DISTRICT BURHANPUR

For the safety and security of the monument,its compound wall has been repaired and fixedwith grill fencing.

87. GOND FORT, DEOGARH, DISTRICT

CHHINDWARA

The decayed and pulverized lime plastermeasuring between 20 and 40mm. in thicknesshas been removed from the wall surface and inits place a new layer of plaster has been pro-vided. Random rubble masonry works alongwith pointing at Hammam Ghar, Kachhari,Badal Mahal, Hati kham and at various loca-tions of the fort were undertaken. Simulta-neously, grouting and underpinning were alsocarried out to fill up the voids and cracks tostrengthen the structures.

88. WESTERN GROUP OF TEMPLES,KHAJURAHO, DISTRICT CHHATARPUR

To check the ingress of rain water into thetemple structures of Western Group,watertightening and pointing works have beencarried out. Approach pathways leading to allshrines have been repaired. Cleaning of Chopratank and Shiv Sagar lake has been carried out.Besides, a compound wall has been under con-struction around the newly acquired land.

197


89. PARSVANATHA TEMPLE, KHAJURAHO,DISTRICT CHHATARPUR

Resetting of the platform of Parsvanathatemple with ashlar block masonry and plain flagstone was undertaken. The approach path fromthe entrance has been paved with stone flooring.

90. JAL MAHAL, MANDU, DISTRICT DHAR

Random rubble masonry work has beencarried out at the northern side of the outer wallof Munj talab and simultaneously debris has alsobeen cleared from the surroundings.

91. DAI-KA-MAHAL, MANDU, DISTRICT DHAR

Random rubble masonry work includingdebris clearance was carried out at variouslocation of the monument.

92. HOSHANG SHAH’S TOMB, MANDU,DISTRICT DHAR

Scientific clearance was carried out tounearth buried structures and enhance theaesthetic look of the monument.

93. MALIK MUGHITH’S MOSQUE, MANDU,DISTRICT DHAR

Random rubble masonry with recesspointing was done to the outer walls and plinthof the mosque, and lime concrete was providedon the northern and southern side of theverandah.

94. PANCHMATA TEMPLE, GOPALPUR, DISTRICT

JABALPUR

Under the civil deposit work,restoration of Panchmata temple was taken up.As part of this work, excavation was carried outbelow the masonry wall for providing ashlarstone masonry foundation. Besides, the floorof the platform has been filled up with hardmurrum and boulders, and the flooring top is

done with 10cm thick chisel dressed stone. Allbroken chhajja, merlon and parapet stones fromthe outer wall of verandah roof were taken outand new architectural members were fixed inplace of the missing and broken members.Besides, the dwarf compound wall has beenmounted with MS grill railings. In addition,landscaping of the area has been done.

95. VISHNU VARAHA TEMPLE, PANAGAR,DISTRICT JABALPUR

The work of chiseling and dressing ofashlar stones were undertaken for therestoration of the temple platform.

96. CHOUBIS AVATAR TEMPLE, MANDHATA,DISTRICT KHANDWA

Under the Narmada Sagar pariyojana,the transplantation of Choubis Avatar templeat Mandhata was taken up. Complete drawingand photo documentation work was carried outbefore initiating the transplantation work of thistemple that consists of a square garbhagrihaand a pillared mandapa. In continuation of theprevious year’s work, dismantling block byblock and re-construction of the temple on araft foundation at the new site which is 5kmaway from its original place has been completed(Pls. 124-127).

97. CHOUBARA DERA, UN, DISTRICT

KHARGONE

Structural repairs were undertaken bothat Choubara Dera 1 and 2. At Choubara Dera2, the worn out and uneven platform has beenrepaired and reset as per original. Besides,matching stones were procured from the nearbyquarry and the work of dressing stones, carvingand designing were also carried out at the sitethat were meant for subsequent structural repairwork.

198


98. GROUP OF TEMPLES, BATESHWAR, DISTRICT

MORENA

In continuation of previous year’s workdebris clearance in between the two stepped tankhas revealed remains of ten mandapikatemples. Six temples out of ten, numbered asTemple 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 and 17 located onthe south of Tank-2 were documented andlowered down after detailed documentation.Platform portion of all the temples wereprovided with ashlar masonry work. Brokenarchitectural members were mended withstainless steel rod diameter of 10mm. Duringthe restoration work almost 20% newarchitectural members have been utilized atmissing places or in place of brokenarchitectural members. Stone slabs of 4 to 6inches thick were provided over the platformof Temple 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7. Restoration ofstepped Tank-2 located on east of the garhi wasalso completed (Pls.128-129). Newarchitectural members such as pillars, beams,roof slabs have been prepared to fix these atthe places where these are missing.

Temple 110 located on the east ofstepped Tank-1 was completely entangled by abanyan tree. The whole temple was in a ruinedstate of preservation. Roots had penetrateddeeply into the structure. Initially, the tree wasremoved and the entire complex was clearedfrom debris. After detailed documentation thetemple was lowered down. The structure wasthen re-erected after providing a sound base(Pls. 130-133).

Works at the mandapa andgarbhagriha portion of Dhonda math havebeen undertaken. Based on evidences stonepavement was provided to the existing pathwaybetween the pillar gate and Temple 7. In additionto this, for the safety and security of themonument complex a dwarf boundary wall

mounted with mild steel grill has been providedto a height of about 5ft from the ground levelaround the monument.

99. SIVA TEMPLE, BHOJPUR, DISTRICT RAISEN

The construction of 11th century templeof Raja Bhoja’s time was incomplete as noticedfrom the remnants of a ramp on its eastern side.Perhaps, the ceiling of the temple was open tosky resulting percolation of water into thestructure which might have been responsible forthe structural weakness of the temple. Themissing veneering stones on the exterior of wallshad exposed the core that has contributed largelyfor the structural deterioration. Keeping this inview missing veneering stones of varying sizesi.e. 0.55-0.80x0.40x0.35-0.55m with matchingstones have been provided on the exterior wallsurfaces of northern, southern and western sideof the temple. Broken members were mendedwith steel rods of 2 inches in diameter withepoxy, lead and adhesive.

The open ceiling has been covered witha fibre moulded architectural member, matchingwith the designs of the original ceiling member(Pls. 134-135). This has not only stopped waterpercolation into the temple but also reduced theunnecessary weight on the top of the temple,which could have damaged the entire structure.The gap portion between the wall and the templesuperstructure through which rainwater waspouring inside was covered by placing slantingstone slabs according to the available evidences(Pls. 136-137). Apart from this on the right side(north) of the temple entrance a large monolithof 3.52x1.40x0.80m in size and weighing about15 tons has been placed at the missing place.The huge monolith with the help of chain pullywas raised to a height of about 6m from theplatform level of the temple and was placedwithin the given space (Pls. 138-139).

d

199


123Shahjadi-ka-Roja, Chanderi: 122, before; 123, after restoration of chhajja of ground floor and first floor. See p.

195

122


200


125Choubis Avatar temple, Mandhata: 124, before; 125, during shifting to the new site. See p. 197

124


201


127Choubis Avatar temple, Mandhata: 126, during; 127, after completion of the transplantation work. See p. 197

126


202


129Group of Temples, Bateshwar: 128, view of the temple complex; 129, before restoration of Tank-2, See p. 198

128


203


131Group of Temples, Bateshwar: 130, after restoration of Tank-2; 131, Temple 110, before conservation. See p.198

130


204


133Group of Temple 110, Bateshwar: ==132, during and 133, after conservation. See p. 198

132


205


135Siva Temple, Bhojpur: 134, general view showing the dilapidated condition and 135, open ceiling of the

temple. See p. 198

134


206


137Siva Temple, Bhojpur: 136, before restoration of slanting slabs at the top of the temple and 137, after

providing fibre moulded ceiling. See p. 198

136


207


139Siva temple, Bhojpur: 138, view showing the missing member on the right side (north) of temple

entrance and 139, after restoration of slanting slabs at the top of the temple. See p.198

138


208


141Stupa, Sanchi: 140, during; 141, after recess pointing and grouting work. See p. 209

140


209


100. GROUP OF BUDDHIST MONUMENTS,SANCHI, DISTRICT RAISEN

Tree trunk and roots had got into thecrevices of the middle part of the harmikaportion of stupa and also the binding materialhas become dead. Therefore recess pointingalong with grouting was carried out to concealthe gaps. Following the traditional method, thelime concrete mixture that was prepared byadding bel, gur, menthi and urad dal, etc. wasapplied for conservation. All those pocketswhere water stagnation was noticed during therainy season have been sealed with speciallyprepared mortar. All the weep-holes have beencleaned properly to drain out the percolatedwater. The cement mortar used for mending therailings of the pradakshinapatha has beenremoved and now mended with epoxy and stonedust (Pls. 140-141). Simultaneously, structuralrestoration was carried out at Stupa 2 and 3 tocheck the ingress of rain water into thestructure. Apart from it, a lush green garden hasbeen developed around the great Stupa.

101. RAISEN FORT, RAISEN, DISTRICT RAISEN

Resetting of stone beams, pillars,replacement of missing roof slabs in additionto other random rubble masonry works andrecess pointing were carried out at the BadalMahal. Simultaneously random rubble masonryworks with recess pointing was also carried outat the Purani Kachari.

102. FORT, DHAMONI, DISTRICT SAGAR

Structural repair in the form of randomrubble masonry and pointing work has beencarried out at the main gate of the fort. At RaniMahal after removal of the dead and decayedlime plaster, its wall surfaces were re-plasteredwith traditionally prepared lime mortar. Besides,10mm thick lime concrete roof has beenprovided to the structure. To retain the remnants

of original plaster, edging work was carried out.In addition to this, coping was done over theruined walls of Rani Mahal to prevent it fromfurther damages.

103. GARHPEHRA FORT, GARHPEHRA,DISTRICT SAGAR

Restoration work at Shish Mahal andDangi Mahal has been carried out. At ShishMahal on the ground and first floor the deadlime concrete flooring of 10cm thick wasremoved and re-laid with new flooring of limeconcrete comprising of lime, surkhi, sand andbrick metal. Over lime concrete base four inchesthick flag stone flooring has been provided.Besides, various walls of Shish Mahal were re-plastered and the compound wall was restored.An iron gate has been installed at the entranceto have better control over the monument area.

104. SIVA TEMPLE, BHUMRA, DISTRICT SATNA

A dwarf compound wall mounted withMS grill fencing has been provided around themonument for its safety and security.

105. SIVA TEMPLE AND MONASTERY,CHANDREH, DISTRICT SIDHI

A dwarf wall mounted with MS grillfencing has been provided around the monumentfor its safety and security.

ODISHA

BHUBANESWAR CIRCLE

106. BHRINGESVARA TEMPLE, BAJRAKOT,DISTRICT ANGUL

The dilapidated pillared mandapa hasbeen taken up for repair. The out of plumbpillars were removed and replaced again as perthe original. The damaged floors was repairedand roof of mandapa was provided with

210


asbestos sheet over wooden frame for theconvenient of the devotees. The restorations ofthe prakara wall and sub-shrines have also beentaken up by utilising the available originalstones laying within the complex. The work isin progress.

107. CHAUSATH YOGINI TEMPLE, RANIPUR-JHARIAL, DISTRICT BOLANGIR

There were several cracks on the circularwall and the joints were open at various placesand also seepage of rain water noticed whichresulted rusting of iron dowels and led toexfoliation of stones. The old iron grills affixedto prevent damage of the statues has alsobecome rusted. The open cracks were sealed byway of pointing, sealing the joints, grouting andrusted iron grills have been repaired andreplaced to protect from theft and humanvandalism. Besides, three miniature shrines nearthe main temple were also repaired.

108. NILAMADHAVA AND SIDDHESVARA

TEMPLES, GANDHARADI, DISTRICT BOUDH

The fallen architectural members of firstfloor of both the temples have been re-fixedwith combined lime mortars as per the original.The works have been completed. The watertightening to the main structures has also beentaken up by way of pointing, sealing the joints,grouting and replacing the damaged stones withnew ones as per the original. The restoration ofmissing and damaged platform and the steps ofthe main entrance have been attended by the wayof replacing the damaged stone blocks withoriginal fallen stones available at the site (Pls.142-143).

109. MAHIMAMANI TEMPLE, RAGADI,DISTRICT CUTTACK

The re-plastering work of boundary wallhas been completed after restoring the missingportion. Sandstone flooring in side antarala and

jagamohana has been attended. To prevent theentry of the bats/birds expanded wire mesh withwooden frame has been provided in thejagamohana.

110. KEDARESVARA MAHADEVA TEMPLE,CHOUDWAR FORT, DISTRICT CUTTACK

In continuation of previous year’s work,the restoration work of the jagamohana hasbeen undertaken initially. The originalarchitectural members were placed layer by layeras per the original over the original availablewall of jagamohana in pidha form, six layersof pidha stone have been provided and theremaining are to be provided during theconservation of the main temple. The repairwork of the main temple was also taken up byway of removing the huge laterite stone blocksplaced over the broken architectural membersand replaced the broken members with the newones. All the huge stone blocks have been takenout to ground very carefully through a ramp andthe work of replacement of the broken beamsare in progress. On completion of this, stoneblocks will be placed back in their originalplaces. The work is in progress. Besides, themain entrance of top portion of the prakara wallwas also repaired during the period under review(Pls. 144-147).

111. EXCAVATED REMAINS, BODHI, CHOUDWAR

FORT, DISTRICT CUTTACK

In continuation of previous year’s workthe excavated remains at Badhi were repairedby way of pointing, sealing the joints, resettingthe architectural members on their originalplaces with traditional lime mortar. During thecourse of conservation, remains of a templedatable to c. 14th century CE and contemporaryto Kedareswar Temple have been brought tolight (Pls. 148-149 ).

112. BARABATI FORT, CUTTACK, DISTRICT

CUTTACK

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In continuation with the previous year’swork, the work of providing stone pavedapproach pathway has been taken up by way oflaying dressed khondalite sandstone blocksmatching with the structure. The work is inprogress. The repairing of the excavatedremains has also been taken up by way ofsealing the joints, refixing the loosearchitectural members in their original places.The work has been completed. The roof of themain gate of the fort has been watertightenedby way of pointing, joint sealing and groutingwith traditional combined lime mortar as perthe original. The monument has also beenprovided with limited illumination. A parkingarea has also been developed in front of thedargha. The work of construction of toiletblock for convenience of the visitors has beentaken up through CPWD and the work isnearing completion.

113. EXCAVATED BUDDHIST SITE, LALITAGIRI,DISTRICT CUTTACK

The area completely covered withunwanted vegetation was cleaned near thechaityagriha and repairing of the structureshas also been taken up in a phased manner byusing the available bricks at the site, traditionallime mortar and surkhi as per the original.

114. CHANDRASEKHARA JEW TEMPLE,KAPILAS, DISTRICT DHENKANAL

Retaining walls have been repaired byway of pointing, sealing the joints, andreplacing the damaged stones. Restoration ofancient steps leading to hill top has also beentaken up by way of replacing the damagedstones by new ones. Besides, pointing of maintemple and repair to the apron around it hasalso been attended.

115. KANAKESVARA MAHADEVA TEMPLE, KUALO,DISTRICT DHENKANAL

The restoration work of the sunken floorwas taken up by way of relaying the old stoneblocks available at the site on a sand cushionwith traditional lime mortar. Besides, the workof construction of boundary wall within theprotected area has also been taken up by way ofproviding dwarf wall with iron grill. The workis also in progress.

116. ANNAKOTISVARA MAHADEVA TEMPLE,LATADEIPUR, DISTRICT DHENKANAL

The rusted iron beam has been replaced,open joints of main temple have been sealedand approach pathway have been provided andundulated surface within the temple complexhas also been made uniform and presentable.

117. ASOKAN ROCK EDICT, JAUGADA,DISTRICT GANJAM

In continuation with the previous year’swork the fencing work of the protected limithas been completed.

118. MINOR SHRINES OF TRILOCHANESVARA

TEMPLE COMPLEX, DISTRICT JAJPUR

Restoration work of the minor shrinenear to the main entrance was taken up. Thetemple full of vegetation, most of thearchitectural members were out of plumb andfew of them fell down. The vegetation wasremoved first; all architectural members weredocumented and taken out very carefully. Theresetting of architectural members was attendedand all stone blocks were placed again at theiroriginal locations/positions and the work hasbeen successfully completed.

119. EXCAVATED BUDDHIST SITE, RATNAGIRI,DISTRICT JAJPUR

The cells of Monastery 1 were repairedby using the available bricks with traditionallime mortar (Pls.150-151). Top of the wallwas made watertightening by way of pointing,

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sealing the joints with the traditional limemortar. The work of providing approach pathway around the protected limit for smoothmovement of visitors is completed. The workof providing approach pathway connectingindividual monument within the protected areahas also been resumed. The work is in progress.Monastery 2 was also attended and all cellswere conserved by way of pointing, sealing thejoints, replacing the decayed bricks withtraditional lime mortar as per the original andtop of wall was made watertightened (Pls. 152-153).

120. EXCAVATED SITE, UDAYAGIRI 2, DISTRICT

JAJPUR

In continuation of previous year’s workthe restoration of the enclosure wall was takenup to prevent further erosion of the soil. Thewall collapsed at several places was restoredby the available brick in traditional lime mortar.Simultaneously, the excavated remains withinthe enclosure were also repaired (Pls. 154-155).

121. JAGANNATHA TEMPLE, JAJPUR, DISTRICT

JAJPUR

Water seepage of the main temple wasattended first by grouting and sealing the jointswith traditional lime mortar. The damagedwooden doors have been repaired. Theboundary wall has also been conserved. Beingthe temple is under worship, the interior wasoriginally lime washed. Therefore, on demandof the local people, lime coating was providedto make it a presentable condition.

122. VARAHANATHA TEMPLE, JAJPUR,DISTRICT JAJPUR

The conservation work of the templecomplex has been taken up by way of uprootingthe vegetations from the structure, removingthe unwanted silt deposit accumulated by the

flood. The damaged wooden doors have gotrepaired. The renovation work of rosagharawas taken up by way of replacing the decayedstone. The work is in progress.

123. ASURGARH FORT, ASURGARH, DISTRICT

KALAHANDI

The work of providing retaining wallhas been taken up to prevent the erosion due toflood water and the work is in progress.

124. KHANDAGIRI AND UDAYAGIRI CAVES,BHUBANESWAR, DISTRICT KHORDHA

In continuation with the previous year’swork the steps leading to Caves at Khandagirihave been repaired by way of replacing thedamaged ones with new ones, pointing andsealing the joints in traditional lime mortar. Theentrances of the caves have been provided withacrylic sheets in stainless steel frame. The stonefloor in front of the Hathi Gumpha Cave hasbeen repaired. The work of mounting light andsound at Rani Gumpha Cave being executedpresently by India Tourism DevelopmentCorporation is in final stage of completion andwill be inaugurated shortly, the show will bemanaged and maintained by ITDC.

125. LINGARAJA TEMPLE, BHUBANESWAR,DISTRICT KHORDHA

In continuation of previous year’swork, the repair work was initiated on the maindeul. The open joints were sealed and madewatertightened, by way of pointing and groutingand simultaneously scaffolding provided in thepast was removed. The natamandapa andbhogamandapa were also attended by wayremoving the dead lime concrete plaster andrelayed with traditional compact lime mortarwith surkhi as per the original and the workhas been completed. Interior of the temple wasalso in shabby condition. Expanded netsprovided on the ceiling to prevent bats was also

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repaired, wooden doors were repaired andpainted and proper lighting arrangements weremade. The partially buried miniature shrine onthe right of Parvati Temple was exposedcompletely and all the structures built withinthat particular area were repaired and madepresentable. Another temple just right of thenorth gate was also in dilapidated condition andmost of the stone members of amalaka felldown. There were several cracks on the bodyof this temple and some stone members wereout of plumb. The amalaka was repaired andits missing stones were replaced with limemortar matching to the original. Out of plumbstone members taken out and were re-set againas per the original, the temple was madecompletely water-tightened by way of pointing,sealing the joints and grouting. Besides, someother shrines were also repaired. The work oflaying stone flooring in front of the rosagharawas also attended and the work is in progress(Pls. 156-159).

126. RAMESVARA TEMPLE, BHUBANESWAR,DISTRICT KHORDHA

The repair and restoration work of thisholy tank was taken up. There is always soilerosion from all around which ultimatelysettled on the bottom of the tank. Therefore, ithas become necessary to provide the retainingwall all around to prevent further erosion. Thework for providing retaining wall already takenup and most of work has been completed.Besides, missing and eroded landings of the tankhave also been repaired as per the original. Therepair to the steps is still in progress (Pls. 160-161).

127. SAHASRALINGA TANK, BHUBANESWAR,DISTRICT KHORDHA

The repair work of Sahasralinga Tankwas taken up by way of removing the vegetationgrowth from the entire area. Some additional

construction which came up in recent times hasbeen removed. The wall of the tank and shrineswas stabilized by way of sealing the joints andpointing with traditional mortar. The copingstones wherever missing, were also restored andprovided as per original (Pls. 162-163).

128. PAPANASINI TANK COMPLEX,BHUBANESWAR, DISTRICT KHORDHA

The damaged floor to the north of thePapanasini tank around the MakaresvaraTemple was taken for restoration by way ofproviding new dressed stone blocks matchingthe original with a recess, pointing. Therepairing of steps and walls have also been takenup and all works are in progress. The restorationwork of the compound wall was taken up;missing portions were recreated with new oneas per original. The damaged and sunken floorof the temple was also repaired and thesurrounding was made presentable.

129. BHASKARESVARA TEMPLE, BHUBANESWAR,DISTRICT KHORDHA

In continuation of previous year’s work,the repair of the stone paved floor around thetemple has been completed. The incompletefencing work has also been completed and thework of providing approach pathway is inprogress.

130. MUKTESVARA TEMPLE, BHUBANESWAR,DISTRICT KHORDHA

In continuation of previous year’s workthe temple has been provided with minimuminterior and exterior illumination for easyaccess to visitors.

131. SIDDHESVARA TEMPLE, BHUBANESWAR

DISTRICT KHORDHA

In order to restrict the entry of the batsand pigeons inside the temple, expanded metalnet has been provided in the jagamohana and

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main deul. Besides, some light arrangement hasalso been made in the interior of the temple.

132. RAJARANI TEMPLE, BHUBANESWAR,DISTRICT KHORDHA

Minimum illumination both interior andexterior of the temple has been provided.Besides the work of renovation and up-gradation of existing toilet blocks has beentaken up and the work is in progress.

133. ASOKAN ROCK EDICT, DHAULI, DISTRICT

KHORDHA

The entrance of the area has been facelifted by way of replacing the damaged lateritestone blocks and lying out with the dressed sandstone blocks for the easy movement of thevisitors. Old signage removed and new ones arebeing provided. The work is in progress.

134. JAMBESVARA TEMPLE, BHUBANESWAR,DISTRICT KHORDHA

Repair to the sikhara has been taken upby way of pointing, sealing the joints, groutingwith traditional combined lime mortar. Thedislodged members have been taken out and re-fixed again as per the original. The work is inprogress.

135. ANCIENT SITE, SISUPALGARH,BHUBANESWAR, DISTRICT KHORDHA

Repairs to the excavated structure wastaken up by way of uprooting the vegetation,removing the debris, pointing, sealing the jointswith traditional lime mortar. The decayedstones have also been replaced. The work is stillin progress.

136. ANCIENT SITE, HARIPURGARH, DISTRICT

MAYURBHANJ

The repair work of Rasikarai Templewas resumed by way of restoring the missingpart with the dressed bricks and traditional lime

mortar as per the original. Pointing and jointsealing of the entire brick structure was alsocompleted. The platform on which the templestands was also repaired by way of pointing andsealing the joints. Repair to Jagannatha templewas also attended. All vegetations were removed.The missing portion has been repaired up to thechala portion and above and the work is inprogress.

137. SRI JAGANNATHA TEMPLE, PURI, DISTRICT

PURI

In continuation of previous year’s work,repair to garbhagriha was taken up duringRathayatra from 28th June to 9th July, 2006,when the presiding deities were shifted to SriGundicha temple. The damaged stone slabs ofthree steps leading to garbhagriha werereplaced with new ones. Besides, minor repairswere also attended as suggested by the technicalcommittee. The rusted iron beams of LakshmiTemple have been replaced. The roof of thetemple has also been consolidated withtraditional combined lime concrete to protectseepage of rain water. Repair to the floorinside the temple complex has been taken upby way of laying dressed new khondalite stoneblocks with lime mortar matching with theoriginal. Repair of Meghanada prachira wastaken up by way of pointing, sealing the joint,grouting with the traditional lime mortar. Thedecayed stones have also been replaced withnew ones as per the original. Repair to thewestern side of kurmibedha has also beentaken up by way of pointing, sealing the jointand grouting with traditional lime mortar. Thedamaged and decayed stones have also beenreplaced. As per the advice of the TechnicalCommittee, the repair work of khapuri andamalaka were attended. Besides, several othershrines within the temple complex have alsobeen attended for their conservation.

138. SUN TEMPLE, KONARK, DISTRICT PURI

215


143Nilamadhava and Siddhesvara temples, Gandharradi: 142, before; 143, after conservation. See p. 210

142


216


145Kedaresvara Mahadeva temple, Choudwar fort: 144, before and 145, after conservation of

Jagamohana. See p. 210

144


217


147Kedaresvara Mahadeva temple, Choudwar fort: 146, before and 147, after conservation of

Jagamohana. See p.210

146


218


149Excavated remains, Bodhi, Choudwar fort: 148, during and 149, after conservation. See p. 210

148


219


151Excavated Buddhist site, Ratnagiri: 150, during and 151, after conservation of Monastery 1. See

p. 221

150


220


153Excavated Buddhist site, Ratnagiri: 152, before and 153, after conservation of Monastery 2, See

p. 221

152


221


155Excavated site, Udayagiri 2: 154, before and 155, after conservation. See p. 221

154


222


157Lingaraj Temple, Bhubaneswar: 156, during and 157, after conservation. See p. 213

156


223


159Lingaraj Temple complex, Bhubaneswar: 158, during and 159, after conservation of sub-shrines.

See p. 213

158


224


161Ancient tank, Ramesvara Temple complex, Bhubaneswar: 160, before and 161, after conserva-

tion of tank. See p. 213

160


225


163Sahashralinga tank, Bhubaneswar: 162, before and 163, after conservation. See p. 213

162


226


165Sun Temple, Konark: 164, before and 165, after laying sandstone flooring. See p. 228

164


227


167Sun Temple complex, Konark: 166, before and 167, after conservation of Vaishnavite brick

temple. See p. 228

166


228


In continuation of previous year’s work,repair to the floor of the temple was continuedon the southern side of the main temple. Thearchitectural members fallen from the maintemple were shifted to the platform afterrepaired. Brass railings have been providedaround the main temple to protect it fromvandalism (Pls. 164-165). The Vaishnavitebrick temple on the rear side of the main templehas been restored by way of pointing, sealingthe joints with traditional mortar and replacingthe decayed bricks. Besides, pointing of the maintemple has also been taken up (Pls. 166-167).Hitherto, the unattended kitchen area was takenup for conservation and all unwanted debris hasbeen removed. While attending the above work,the series of hearths made of laterite stoneblocks have been brought to light, which furtherthrew new light and enhanced through sandclearance, the importance of history of Konark.The conservation work of this area is inprogress. The illumination of the pathway inouter and also inner side of prakara wall hasbeen provided for easy access to the temple.

139. VARAHI TEMPLE, CHAURASI, DISTRICT

PURI

The main temple was watertightened byway of pointing, sealing the joints and groutingwith the traditional combined lime mortar. Thework has been completed.

HARYANA

CHANDIGARH CIRCLE

The wall inside has been exposed. Thelime concreting in floors has been completedalongwith the work of plastering of cells. Grillfencing over dwarf wall has been completed.

142. ANCIENT SITE, AGROHA, DISTRICT HISSAR

An apron in lime surkhi mortar aroundexposed structures has been provided besidespointing and resetting of special brick masonry.This work has been completed while the earthwork for pathway is in progress.

143. PRITHVIRAJ CHAUHAN’S FORT, HANSI,DISTRICT HISSAR

The stitching of cracks, grouting andwater tightening and tile brick masonry workof drain and wall has been completed. The workof fortification wall for removal of debris is inprogress.

144. GUJRI MAHAL, HISSAR, DISTRICT HISSAR

The random rubble stone masonry fordwarf wall has been done. The mild steel grillhas been provided. The galvanised iron piperailing has been fixed and work completed.

145. FEROZSHAH PALACE, HISSAR, DISTRICT

HISSAR

The lime concreting is in progress in thecells and random rubble stone masonrycompleted, pointing of random rubble stonemasonry in the ratio of 1:1:2 is in progress.The grill gates are being fixed in position.Exposing of structures of fort wall is inprogress.

146. BRICK TEMPLE, KALAYAT, DISTRICT

KAITHAL

The western wall has been raised withlime surkhi mortar. The east side ghat wasexposed by way of removal of debris, earth,etc. reinforced cement concrete was providedin the foundation of plinth of the wall and

140. SURAJ KUND, LEKAR PUR, DISTRICT

FARIDABAD

Taking out of damaged, dislodgedstone work and resetting of the same has beencompleted.

141. BAOLI GHAS ALI SHAH, FARRUKHNAGAR,DISTRICT GURGAON

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lakhauri brick work provided in lime surkhimortar in the ratio of 1:1:3. The work is inprogress. The removal of deposit in the pondis also in progress.

147. GATEWAY OF GHARAUNDA SARAI (OLD

MUGHAL), GHARAUNDA, DISTRICT KARNAL

The restoration work of flooring havebeen taken up and completed. Tile brickmasonry for boundary wall, fixing of grill hasbeen done. Lakhauri bricks of missing patches,arches and concreting and tile brick terracingover roof has been done. Lime and surkhiplaster on ceiling and arches has been done. Therestoration work, brick masonry, plastering onceiling, concreting and tile brick terracing is inprogress.

148. HARSH-KA-TILA, THANESAR, DISTRICT

KURUKSHETRA

Earth work in excavation, dwarf walland brick on edge on pathway has been done.The concreting brick masonry of dwarf wall isin progress.

149. KARAN-KA-TILA, THANESAR, DISTRICT

KURUKSHETRA

Clearance of earth on boundary wall,for concreting work has been completed. Grillfencing over boundary wall has been done.Brick masonry and fencing work is in progress.

150. SHEIKH CHILLI’S TOMB, THANESAR,DISTRICT KURUKSHETRA

Red sandstone, dasa flooring andrestoration work has been completed. Theunderpinning work with brick masonry andpointing has been completed.

151. JAL MAHAL, NARNAUL, DISTRICT

MAHENDRAGARH

Restoration work with lime cement mortar,pointing and concreting has been completed.

152. KABULI BAGH MOSQUE, PANIPAT,DISTRICT PANIPAT

Restoration work with lime cementmortar, pointing and concreting is in progress.The lakhauri brick masonry work has been takenup and work is in progress.

153. KALA AMB, PANIPAT, DISTRICT PANIPAT

Concreting work of pathway is in progress.

154. KHWAJA KHIZIR’S TOMB, SONEPAT,DISTRICT SONEPAT

Restoration work on boundary wall andcourtyard with tile brick masonry is in progress.

PUNJAB

155. RAM BAGH GATE, AMRITSAR, DISTRICT

AMRITSAR

Dismantling of marble chips flooringand skirting, concreting and fixing of red sandslab flooring has been completed.

156. BHATINDA FORT, BHATINDA, DISTRICT

BHATINDA

The work of underpinning, restorationof missing / damaged / disturbed brick masonryof ancient structure, pointing, concreting andtile brick terracing has been completed. Thework of providing of support pillars and fixingof grill gate are in progress. Taking out of looseand decayed brick masonry of fort wallconcreting, tile brick on edge is in progress.

157. ANCIENT SITE, SANGHOL, DISTRICT

FATEHGARH SAHEB

Removal of old sunken floor and takingout of damaged / cracked lakhauri brickmasonry and underpinning and restoration oflakhauri / tile brick masonry has been takenup and is in progress.

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TAMILNADU

CHENNAI CIRCLE

completed. Fixing of earthen ware tile is inprogress. The lime surkhi plaster 25m andlaying of floor is also in progress. This workwas undertaken under Civil Deposit work.

163. CHOR GUMBAD, NARNAUL, DISTRICT

NARNAUL

The dwarf wall all around the Gumbadhas been completed besides railing. Flooringin the passage and dismantling of dislodged outof plumb RR stone masonry on eastern side hasbeen completed. The work is in progress. Thework was attended under Civil Deposit Work.

158. ANARKALI BARADARI, BATALA, DISTRICT

GURDASPUR

Restoration / underpinning of steps oftank, pointing of the steps concreting, tilebricks terracing has been taken up and is inprogress. Taking out and removal of old sunkenfloor, damaged cracked /lakhauri brickmasonry work has been taken up and is inprogress.

159. NURMAHAL SARAI, NURMAHAL, DISTRICT

JALANDHAR

Underpinning and restoration ofdamaged, dislodged and missing brick masonryof structure, providing concreting, tile brickterracing has been completed. Removal andscraping of cement plaster taking out andremoval of sunken floor lakhauri /countrybrick masonry work has been taken up and isin progress.

160. DAKHNI SARAI, DAKHNI, DISTRICT

JALANDHAR

Removal of old sunken flooring, takingout of damaged /cracked lakhauri brickmasonry and underpinning and restoration oflakhauri /tile brick masonry has been takenup and is in progress.

161. NALAGARH KOTHI, ROPAR, DISTRICT

ROPAR

The concreting and brick masonry workis in progress.

162. JAHAJ KOTFAI, HISSAR, DISTRICT HISSAR

The underpinning of lakhauri tiles/brick work in patches has been done. Theplaster work of museum hall has beencompleted. The earthen ware tiles for varandahhas been partly done. The restoration of tilebrick masonry to the rooms has beencompleted. Stitching of cracks has been

164. ST. MARY'S CHURCH, FORT ST. GEORGE,CHENNAI

The damaged stained glass panels werestrengthened and a few of the missing ones werereplaced as per the original. The work of remov-ing dead plasters of inner walls and re-plaster-ing the same was completed.

165. CLIVE BUILDING, FORT ST. GEORGE,CHENNAI

The damaged Madras terrace roof andthe floor of Temple Survey office and that ofdeep shed and store room was conserved.

166. RAMPART WALL, FORT ST. GEORGE,CHENNAI

The work of water tightening the terraceof northern side of rampart wall and Wallaja gatewas completed. The fallen portions of rampartwall were conserved as per old clues.

167. FORT MUSEUM, FORT ST. GEORGE,CHENNAI

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The work of removing the damagedplastering and re-plastering the 10th gallery wascompleted.

168. DHENUPURISVARA TEMPLE,MADAMBAKKAM, CHENNAI

The sunken stone flooring of themandapa and area near dwajasthamba wasremoved and re-laid.

169. SUGRISVARA TEMPLE,SIRCARPERIYAPALAYAM, DISTRICT ERODE

The work of constructing a brickprakara wall as per old available clues wascarried out after strengthening the existing stonebase wall. The conservation work atnandimandapa was also completed.

170. GROUP OF MONUMENTS,MAMALLAPURAM, DISTRICT KANCHIPURAM

Fencing of the hillock monuments wascontinued near the Pidari and Valayankuttairathas to prevent encroachments.

171. SHORE TEMPLE, MAMALLAPURAM ,DISTRICT KACHIPURAM

The fencing around the shore temple wascompleted on the southern side.

172. VAIKUNTAPERUMAL TEMPLE,KANCHIPURAM, DISTRICT KANCHIPURAM

The outer periphery of the temple waslandscaped and an approach pathway wasprovided.

173. NARASMIHASWAMY TEMPLE, NAMAKKAL,DISTRICT NAMAKKAL

The accretionary building in the front ofthe temple was removed. Visitor’s amenitiesshed in the south west corner has been provided.

174. HILL FORT AT NAMAKKAL, DISTRICT

NAMAKKAL

The work of water tightening the roofof the mukhamandapa of Varadarajaswamytemple (inside the fort) was completed. Thedamaged outer veneer stone wall of the templewas removed and conserved as per original.Hand railing over the rock surface was provided.

175. BRIHADISVARA TEMPLE,GANGAIKONDACHOLA PURAM, DISTRICT

PERAMBALUR

Watertightening of the terrace of thecloister prakara and the flooring of the corridorwas completed.The prakara wall on the northwestern side was conserved.

176. SIKKANATHASWAMY TEMPLE,KUDUMIYANMALAI, DISTRICT PUDUKKOTTAI

Watertightening of one thousandpillared mandapa on southern side wasundertaken and is in progress.

177. ROCK-CUT SIVA TEMPLE, NARTHAMALAI,DISTRICT PUDUKKOTTAI

The damaged prakara wall on thewestern and southern sides was conserved asper original. Watertightening of the terrace ofardhamandapa, front pillared mandapa andnorthwest sub shrines and re-erection of thepillars of open pillared mandapa werecompleted.

178. BHUMISVARA TEMPLE, SEVALUR, DISTRICT

PUDUKKOTTAI

The leaky terrace was conserved bywatertightening the same. Conservation ofmukhamandapa and front open pillaredmandapa was completed.

179. AGATHISVARA TEMPLE, VELLANUR,DISTRICT PUDUKOTTAI

The work of conserving the walls ofgarbhagriha, ardhamandapa and

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mukhamandapa on the northern side is inprogress. The leaky roof of front pillared,ardhamandapa and madapali (kitchen) are inthe process of being conserved.

180. FORT TIRUMAYAM, TIRUMAYAM, DISTRICT

PUDUKKOTTAI

The damaged and fallen fort wall wasconserved with available old clues.

181. FORT AND TEMPLE ON THE HILL,CHINNAKAVANDANUR, DISTRICT SALEM

The work of dismantling the damagedbastion wall and reconstruction of the same withavailable old stones was completed. The workof removing damaged revetment wall andreconstructing the same in the eastern side ofthe lower temple tank was completed. The workof laying stone pathway between bastion walland first gate and the work of providing chainfencing in front of the fort entrance over thedwarf wall was completed.

182. FORT, ATTUR, DISTRICT SALEM

The core of the bastion on northern sidewas strengthened and conserved earth work wascarried out around the mahal building to exposethe original level of the structure. Constructionof RR revetment wall on the southern side ofthe inner fort near by mahal building to avoidthe sledging of earth was completed.

183. SRI BRIHADISVARA TEMPLE, THANJAVUR,DISTRICT THANJAVUR

The damaged terrace of Keralanthakangopura was water tightened after strengtheningthe stucco figures. The old accretionary templecar shed inside the temple was dismantled and atemporary car shed is being constructed outsidethe premises of the temple.

184. AIRAVATESVARA TEMPLE, DARASURAM,DISTRICT THANJAVUR

The damaged cloister mandapa in thenorthwest corner was conserved as per original.While strengthening the foundation fourteenbronzes of late Chola period were found. Thework of conserving the sunken veneer stone wallof cloister prakara on the northern side is inprogress.

185. FORT AND RAMPART, VELLORE, DISTRICT

VELLORE

The rampart wall was watertightened onthe northern and western sides. The damagedmoat wall on northern side of the fort was takenup for conservation after proper documentation.Where as the moat wall on the southern sideand eastern sides were watertightened. InBadhusha Mahal and Begum Mahal brickpedestal were made for rearranging thesculptures.

186. BRAHMAPURISWARA TEMPLE,BRAHMADESAM, DISTRICT VILLUPURAM

The leaky roofs of the natya mandapaand the mukhamandapa were watertightened.Earth work was carried out in front of maingopura to expose the original plinth level. Thesunken veneers of the prakara wall on thenorthern side and outer sub shrines wereconserved as per the original.

187. PATALESWARA TEMPLE, BRAHAMADESAM,DISTRICT VILLUPURAM

The damaged weathering course, sunkenceilings slabs, beams, pillar capitals, pillars andveneers of the madapalli (kitchen) are beingconserved after proper documentation.

188. FORT GINGEE, GINGEE, DISTRICT

VILLUPURAM

The breached fort walls on the easternside of Rajagiri, western side of Krishnagiri andnear Vellore gate was conserved. The bastionwall on the eastern side of the Rajagiri fort was

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UTTARAKHAND

DEHRADUN CIRCLEalso conserved. Watertightening of the vimanaof the Siva and Amman shrines and structuralrepairs to the mandapas of the same werecarried out.

189. PONDICHERRY GATE, GINGEE, DISTRICT

VILLUPURAM

The damaged parapet wall was properlyconserved and the broken ceiling slabs, beams,pillars capitals, pillars, chhajja portions weremended. The accretionary stone masonry wallwas dismantled to expose the original gatewayon the northern side of the entrance.

190. APATHSAHAYESWARA TEMPLE,SENDAMANGALAM, DISTRICT VILLUPURAM

The cloister mandapa in the north eastand south east and adhistana mouldings whichhad fallen were conserved.

191. VARADHARAJAPERUMAL TEMPLE,THIRUBHUVANAI, PONDICHERRY

Watertightening the terrace of mainshrine vimana, Amman shrine vimana, Andalshrine vimana and Alwar shrine vimana werecarried out.

192. NITISVARASWAMY TEMPLE, SRIMUSHNAM,PONDICHERRY

Conservation of the inner prakarawall on the northern side along with cloistermandapa; exposing the original plinth of theprakara wall on the southern and westernsides and removal of accretionary wall inmadapalli (kitchen) were completed.

PONDICHERRY

193. JAGESHWAR TEMPLE (PHULAI GUNTH),DISTRICT ALMORA

The dislodged and badly weatheredeleven miniature shrines were dismantled andreset as per the original with the help ofcombination materials. Cast iron gate of doubleleaf in ornamented design with gate along withpillars has been provided. Ramp withcomfortable steps of staircase for wheel chairshas been provided for differently able and oldpersons after dismantling the old staircase ofthe main entrance. The restoration work ofBhairava temple is in progress.

194. SUN TEMPLE, KATARMAL, DISTRICT

ALMORA

The weathered and out of plumb fourminiature shrines of the complex weredismantled and reset as per the original withthe help of old and new stones afterstrengthening the foundation. The veneeringstone of mandapa of the Sun Temple wasdismantled and fresh stones were providedwherever necessary in lime mortar. The resettingwork of ashlar stone masonry of southeastcorner of the main shrine has been completedup to the missing griva while the covered partof the jagati has been exposed. The dismantlingwork of sukanasika is in progress (Pls. 168-169).

195. MRITUNJAYA TEMPLE, DWARAHAT,DISTRICT ALMORA

Dismantling and resetting of Bhairavatemple and providing of veneer stones to thesmall shrine of Mritunjaya group is in progress.Laying of patal flooring in front of mandapais also in progress.

234


196. MANIYAN GROUP OF TEMPLES, DWARAHAT,DISTRICT ALMORA

Providing of dwarf wall with mild steelrailing around the protected area is in progress.

197. GUJARDEO TEMPLE, DWARAHAT,DISTRICT ALMORA

Providing of dwarf wall with mild steelrailing around the protected area and laying ofpatal stone pathway from main entrance to theshrine is in progress.

198. GROUP OF TEMPLES, BAIJNATH, DISTRICT

BAGESHWAR

Random rubble stone masonry wall andmild steel railing towards riverside near thebridge has been completed. Random rubblestone masonry of side wall, staircase and rampfor wheel chairs including mild steel pipe fixedwith stone pillars has been provided afterdemolishing the badly damaged staircase.Temporary tin shed of deodar wood frame, withplywood sheet for store has been completed.Coarse rubble stone masonry wall of low heightwere constructed around the newly constructedshed with patal flooring around temporary storehas been completed beside electrification workof the store.

199. BALESHWAR GROUP OF TEMPLES,CHAMPAWAT, DISTRICT CHAMPAWAT

Searching and collecting of ornamentalmembers which are buried near Baleshwartemple and placing them to their originalposition are in progress. The out of plumbsouthern part of Baleshwar temple has beendismantled and re-setting work with ashlar stonemasonry is in progress. Wire mesh painted jalihas been provided to the wooden canopy ofNaula.

200. KOTWALI CHABUTRA, CHAMPAWAT,DISTRICT CHAMPAWAT

Ashlar stone masonry work ofmouldings of the platform has been dismantledand reset as per the original, with the help ofcombination materials. The apron around theplatform has been restored and slightly widened.

201. ANCIENT GROUP OF TEMPLES, ADIBADRI,DISTRICT CHAMOLI

The unauthorized reinforced cementconcrete gate constructed by the armyauthorities was demolished and a newornamented cast iron railing has been provided.Patal roof of char-chala style has been providedto the temple committee room.

202. CHANDPUR GARHI, CHAMOLI, DISTRICT

CHAMOLI

In continuation of previous year’s work,exposing of buried structures andsimultaneously conservation works werecarried out with the help of combinationmaterials as per the original. During this year,clearance work resumed to right side of thesecond enclosure wall towards eastern slopeand found a series of cells in a row. The exposedstructures of the previous year were restored.A small portion of the outer enclosure walltowards modern pathways was also restoredwith combination materials. Wooden door oftraditional style with channel gate was providedto the main entrance of the Kali temple of thefort.

203. RUDRANATH TEMPLE, GOPESHWAR,DISTRICT CHAMOLI

The conservation work of Rawal niwashas been completed beside the provision ofwooden railing to the inner verandah of theupper storey as per the original. Random rubblestone masonry work of dwarf wall, mild steelrailing work, renovation of existingbhogshala, course rubble stone masonry workwith slate stone on the back side of courtyard,

235


fixing of double leaf mild steel gate at thecourtyard and flooring of courtyard with slatestone of Rawal Niwas have been completed.

204. KALINGA MONUMENT, KARANPUR, DIS-TRICT DEHRADUN

Cast iron railing of period design has beenprovided towards northern side of the com-pound along with dwarf wall with mild steelrailing at the back side of the terrace garden(lower compound). Iron gate and the front rail-ing has been replaced by period design gate andrailing. The entrance of the memorial com-pound has been widened to get the better viewof the monument. A small store room has beenconstructed just below the newly constructedstaircase with mild steel railing for the supportof steps. Mild steel railing has been providedto the sub-circle office verandah in view of bet-ter security.

205. ROCK EDICT OF ASOKA, KALSI, DISTRICT

DEHRADUN

Mild steel gate in the pattern of Buddhistsuchi with fine dressed stone pillars with lioncapital designs has been fixed. Steps and ramphave been provided at the main entrance of thecompound in place of old stair case for thedifferently able persons. Coarse rubble stonemasonry boundary wall with mild steel railingtowards Amla road is in progress. Cabin forwheel chair has been constructed near toiletblock for differently able and old persons.

206. TEMPLE AND IMAGES IN ITS VICINITY AT

LAKHAMANDAL, DISTRICT DEHRADUN

The damaged and decayed woodenmembers of both temples of the compoundincluding planks and rafters were dismantledand replaced with new one as per the original.The broken and damaged slates of the roof werealso replaced with new ones. Buried structuresof temple complex under accumulated debris

have been exposed and remains of old shrinesand also plan of the most ancient shrine havebeen located. The badly damaged structure ofbhogshala has been totally renovated andconverted into a sculpture shed. A fewmasterpieces of the sculptures were alsodisplayed on wooden pedestal. Channel gateshave been provided to the eastern temple andnewly constructed sculpture shed (Pls. 170-171).

207. TEMPLE SACRED TO MAHASU, HANOL,DISTRICT DEHRADUN

In continuation of previous year’swork, the construction of dwarf wall with mildsteel railing around the protected area and alsothe inner enclosure wall of the main templehave been completed. The repairing work ofbhogshala has been completed by dismantlingall the partition walls of the upper storey andprovided laminated wooden flooring to thehall. All the selected sculptures with woodenpedestals were displayed in the hall and mildsteel grill were also provided to the front andside verandah of the structure for bettersecurity. Channel gate has been provided to themain entrance of the newly constructedsculpture shed.

208. OLD CEMETERY , SHEKHPURI AND

GANESHPUR, DISTRICT HARIDWAR

Brick work in composite mortar wascarried out on the damaged part of the boundarywall, graves and obelisk inside the cemetery.Salt affected damaged part of graves and obeliskwas raked out and repaired by brickwork andplastering. The badly damaged partition wallbetween living and dead area was completelydemolished and a new dwarf wall with cast ironrailing of period design was constructed in viewof security. Cast iron gate has been provided atthe entrance of the living grave yard. Designedwall has been constructed at the right side of

236


169Sun temple at Katarmal: 168, before and 169, during conservation. See p.233

168


237


171Siva temple, Lakhamandal: 170, before and 171, after exposing Miniature shrines. See p. 235

170


238


173Excavated site, Govishana: 172, before and 173, after conservation. See p. 239

172


239


the cemetery to demarcate the staff quarter andstore etc. Chain fencing has been provided tothe front lawn of the monument.

209. REMAINS OF A FEW OLD TEMPLES AND AN

INSCRIBED MASONRY WELL, GANGOLIHAT,DISTRICT PITHORAGARH

Random rubble stone masonry wallalong with mild steel railing has been providedwith double leaf mild steel gate at the entranceof the Naula. The work of watertightening andplastering of the floor to the roof of Naulacomplex has been completed.

210. EXCAVATED SITE, DRONASAGAR

GOVISHANA, DISTRICT UDHAM SINGH NAGAR

The remaining brick on edge pathwayfrom the main entrance to the Gupta templecomplex has been completed. The work ofunderpinning, pointing and water tighteningwere undertaken to the badly damaged portionof the excavated structure particularly westernand north-western side that belongs to Guptaperiod. While removing the baulk andaccumulated debris from the existing structure,a few antiquities and pottery, etc. wererecovered (Pls. 172-173).

KARNATAKA

DHARWAD CIRCLE

original. Random rubble masonry compoundwall is raised and veneered with dressedsandstone blocks and core is filled in limemortar. The dislodged and out of plumb ancientsouthwestern gateway of the fort including thepillars, lintels and capitals are dismantled forresetting.

213. DURGA TEMPLE COMPLEX, AIHOLE,DISTRICT BAGALKOT

The pathways leading to the Durga andLadkhan temples are provided with dressedsandstone paving (Pls. 174-175). The plinthprotection course of sandstone slabs isprovided around the temple. Solar street lightsare provided along the periphery of the areaaround Durga temple as an additional securitymeasure.

214. FORTIFICATION AROUND DURGA TEMPLE,AIHOLE, DISTRICT BAGALKOT

A portion of the damaged and dislodgedfortification wall dismantled earlier is resetusing original stone blocks and providing newdressed ones wherever necessary. The core isfilled with boulders and gravel.

215. GALAGANATHA GROUP OF TEMPLES,AIHOLE, DISTRICT BAGALKOT

The missing architectural members likelintels and doorjambs were prepared andprovided to complete the elevation of the shrine.Dressed sandstone paving is provided aroundthe temple to avoid stagnation of rain water.

216. HUCCHIMALLI TEMPLE, AIHOLE,DISTRICT BAGALKOT

Dressed sandstone slab paving over acement concrete bed is laid around themonument and ancient well. The parapet of theancient well is dismantled and reconstructed asper original. The dry stone rubble masonry wallon the western periphery of the temple is

211. AMBIGER GUDI, AIHOLE, DISTRICT

BAGALKOT

The sub-shrine dismantled earlier is recon-structed using original members and newdressed lintels were provided wherever requiredas per original.

212. BASAVANNA ARALI BASAPPA TEMPLE,AIHOLE, DISTRICT BAGALKOT

The sub-shrine dismantled earlier isreconstructed using new stone members as per

240


dismantled, reconstructed and veneered withstone slabs to match with the ancient ambience(Pls. 178-179).

217. HUCHAPPAYYA TEMPLE, AIHOLE, DISTRICT

BAGALKOT

The temple is provided with lightningconductor.

218. JYOTIRLINGA GROUP OF TEMPLES,AIHOLE, DISTRICT BAGALKOT

Vegetation growth in the ancientstepped well in the complex is cleared and de-silting work is taken up. The fallen debris andthe architectural members of the out of plumbinner veneering of the tank, which had cavedin, are carefully removed and stacked for reuse(Pls. 180-181). The work of restoration usingavailable architectural members and dressingof new members for replacing the damaged onesis in progress.

219. MALLIKARJUNA GROUP OF TEMPLES,AIHOLE, DISTRICT BAGALKOT

The wall along the entrance and onsouthern side is reconstructed using dressedsandstone blocks after laying proper foundationand cement concrete bed. Stone apron isprovided over cement concrete bed in betweenthe monument and the ancient mandapa. Theundulated dry rubble-stone wall of the ancientdrainage is dismantled for reconstruction.

220. RAMALINGA TEMPLE, AIHOLE, DISTRICT

BAGALKOT

The missing stone members of thesikhara are provided with new ones followingthe original designs. Dressed sandstone slabsare paved over a bed of cement concrete aroundthe temple.

221. TARABASAPPA TEMPLE, AIHOLE,DISTRICT BAGALKOT

The undulated area around the templeis leveled by filling earth. Missing membersof the ancient tank are provided with newdressed ones (Pls. 182-183).

222. VENIARGUDI COMPLEX, AIHOLE, DISTRICT

BAGALKOT

The out of plumb sub-shrine in thecomplex is dismantled and reset by providingnew stone beams with necessary carvings andmouldings. Rubble masonry compound wallveneered with dressed sandstone blocks isconstructed. The ancient well is provided witha low parapet wall.

223. YOGI NARAYANA TEMPLE AND SUBSIDIARY

SHRINES, AIHOLE, DISTRICT BAGALKOT

The earlier dismantled mandapa of thesub-shrine in the complex is reset by supplyingmissing architectural members like dressedlintels, pillar bases and other units (Pls. 184-185).

224. FORT WALL AND TEMPLES, BADAMI,DISTRICT BAGALKOT

The breached and missing portion of thewall of the northern fort is reconstructed usingavailable members and supplying new dressedsandstone blocks. The undulated pathway isrendered even and paved with sandstone slabs.

225. GROUP OF TEMPLES ON THE NORTHERN

SIDE OF LAKE, BADAMI, DISTRICT BAGALKOT

The dislodged and damaged flight ofsteps of the lake are removed and reset as peroriginal. The area between the lake and gardenis paved with dressed sandstone slabs over aplain cement concrete bed. Crimped wire meshfencing is provided over the dwarf compoundwall for additional safety and to avoid entry ofcattle.

226. MALEGITTI SIVALAYA AND KAPPE ARABHATTA

INSCRIPTION, BADAMI, DISTRICT BAGALKOT

241


Rubble masonry compound wallveneered with dressed sandstones isconstructed all along the periphery of theprotected premises. Crimped wire mesh isprovided over it to avoid encroachments andmisuse of the area.

227. PALLAVA INSCRIPTION, BADAMI, DISTRICT

BAGALKOT

Breached and missing portion of thefortification wall near the inscription isreconstructed using new dressed stone blocks.The uneven steps are dismantled and reset asper original.

228. RAMESHVARA TEMPLE, BEVOOR,DISTRICT BAGALKOT

The dismantled portion of the temple isreconstructed after consolidating thefoundation by providing cement concrete bed.

229. TANK WITH COLONNADES AT

BANASHANKARI TEMPLE, CHOLACHAGUDDA,DISTRICT BAGALKOT

The out of plumb wall towards thenorthern side of the sub-shrine is dismantledand reconstructed.

230. JAINA TEMPLE (MELAGUDI), HALLUR,DISTRICT BAGALKOT

The compound wall is provided withdressed sandstone coping.

231. JAINA TEMPLE, PATTADAKAL, DISTRICT

BAGALKOT

The roof of the reconstructed temple isduly watertightened with lime coba. To avoidstagnation of rainwater around the temple, anapron is provided using sandstone slabs over aconcrete-bed.

232. MALLIKARJUNA TEMPLE, PATTADAKAL,DISTRICT BAGALKOT

Missing portion of mukha-mandapa onthe southern side of the temple is reconstructedby adding new sandstone members likeadishithana mouldings, pillars, beams andchhajjas prepared as per the original.

233. KAMALA BASTI, BELGAUM, DISTRICT

BELGAUM

A dwarf-veneering wall is constructedin sandstone slabs along the periphery of theprotected premises.

234. SUVARNESWARA TEMPLE, HALSHI,DISTRICT BELGAUM

The missing roof slabs of the sabha-mandapa are provided afresh and joints arepointed. The front mandapa is reconstructedby erecting pillars, beams, capitals and lintelsand the core is filled using rubble and gravel.

235. CHIKKALESHWARA TEMPLE, KONNUR,DISTRICT BELGAUM

The dismantled portion of the temple isreconstructed and the roof is dulywatertightened.

236. GROUP OF DOLMENS, KONNUR, DISTRICT

BELGAUM

The protected area is fenced by risingrandom rubble stone dwarf-wall and fixing mildsteel grill over it.

237. HAZARAT KHALILULLA SHAH’S TOMB,ASHTUR, DISTRICT BIDAR

The work of de-plastering and re-plastering of the entire wall surface of themonument with lime mortar is completed. Trap-stone merlon is constructed over the compoundwall.

238. NIZAM ADALAT, AVVAL TALUK, DISTRICT

BIDAR

242


The dead lime plaster on the roof ofmonument is removed and re-plastered afterproviding asbestos cement sheet.

239. GAGAN MAHAL, BIDAR, DISTRICT BIDAR

A parapet wall is constructed in trapstone masonry. The interior and exteriorsurfaces of the monument are re-plastered.

240. RANGIN MAHAL, BIDAR, DISTRICT BIDAR

The dead lime plaster is raked out andre-plastered including redoing of the stuccocarvings to a height of more than 15m. The roofis watertightened using coba.

241. ROYAL HAMAM, BIDAR, DISTRICT BIDAR

The interior surface is applied with oilbound distemper and the dome windows areapplied with enamel paints. The wooden ceilingis varnished to avoid further decay.

242. SOLA KHAMBHA MOSQUE, BIDAR,DISTRICT BIDAR

The dead lime plasters of the domes arere-plastered on the exterior surface. Theflooring is re-laid and finished with lime mortar.The walls are replastered and applied with oilbound distemper (Pls. 186-187).

243. TARKASH MAHAL, BIDAR, DISTRICT

BIDAR

The decayed and dead plaster on thewalls is removed and re-plastered with limemortar. The roof is watertightened. Fallenarches and parapet wall are reconstructed usingtrap-stone, and the interior and exterior portionof monument is re-plastered.

244. AIN-UL-MULK’S TOMB, AINAPUR,DISTRICT BIJAPUR

The missing portion of the ancientdilapidated platform is reconstructed using newtrap-stone blocks with four line dressing (Pls.188-189).

245. ALI-KI-ROUZA, BIJAPUR, DISTRICT

BIJAPUR

The compound wall along periphery isprovided with mild steel grills after plastering.The missing peripheral stones are re-fixed withnew ones matching to the existing parapet.

246. ASAR MAHAL, BIJAPUR, DISTRICT

BIJAPUR

The debris inside the water tank in frontof Mahal is cleared.

247. GAGAN MAHAL, BIJAPUR, DISTRICT

BIJAPUR

The interior surface of the massive wallsof the Mahal is plastered retaining the originalstucco ornamentation. The cracks developedover the wall are grouted. The exterior jointsare pointed and plastered with lime mortar. Thedamaged flooring is re-laid in lime concrete.

248. GOL GUMBAZ, BIJAPUR, DISTRICT

BIJAPUR

The height of the existing compoundwall on the eastern side is raised in uncoursedrubble masonry and mild steel grill is fixed overit to avoid trespassing. The breached portion offortification wall is reconstructed in coarserubble masonry. The old and damaged plasterof dalans is de-plastered and re-plastered in limemortar and applied with distemper.Electrification and wood works like fixing door,arch and window etc. are done for re-using thedalans. Running masonry pedestal isconstructed for display of architecturalmembers. Flight of steps is provided to theplatform in front of the museum entrance.Concrete flooring is laid for parking area. Treeguards are constructed around the trees inuncoursed rubble stone masonry and mild steelgrill is fixed around the picnic spot. Regularwater supply is ensured by constructing watertank, providing taps and motor.

243


249. MALIK-E-MAIDAN CANNON, BIJAPUR,DISTRICT BIJAPUR

Stone masonry compound wall isconstructed and mild steel grills are fixed overit. The fallen and out of plumb fortification wallis dismantled and reconstructed using trap-stone blocks including core filling.

250. SANGEET AND NARI MAHAL, BIJAPUR,DISTRICT BIJAPUR

The fallen and breached fort wall isreconstructed and plastered in fresh limemortar. The inner fort wall is plastered with limemortar and the height of the enclosure wall ofthe Nari Mahal is raised.

251. WATER PAVILLION, KUMATGI, DISTRICT

BIJAPUR

The dead lime plaster of exterior wallsof the water pavilion is removed and re-plastered with lime mortar and coated withweather poof emulsion.

252. SHANKARA-LINGA TEMPLE, NIMBAL,DISTRICT BIJAPUR

The area in front and around themonument is laid with stone pavement overcement concrete bed with sufficient gradient forfree flow of rain water.

253. MUSKIN BHAVI, LAKKUNDI, DISTRICT

GADAG

The undulated area around themonument is leveled and green lawn isdeveloped.

254. GREAT MOSQUE, GULBARGA, DISTRICT

GULBARGA

The decayed and dead plaster over theroof surface and domes of the monument areraked out and re-plastered in lime mortar asper original. The stucco work on the dome and

mihrab are re-done following the original andcoated with enamel paint (Pls. 190-191).

255. HAFTH GUMBAZ, GULBARGA, DISTRICT

GULBARGA

The decayed and dead plaster on theexterior surface of the tombs of Firozshah andGhiyasuddin in the complex is removed and re-plastered in fresh lime mortar includingmending of stucco works on the eastern wall.The damaged architectural members,ornamental merlons, kanguras and friezes aremended and re-plastered as per original. A newmild steel grill gate is provided to avoidtrespassing.

256. KALMESHWARA TEMPLE, BALAMBID,DISTRICT HAVERI

Dwarf compound wall is raised inrubble masonry over a cement concrete bedand veneered with dressed schist stone slabsand mild steel grill is fixed over it. Dressedstone apron is laid around the temple over acement concrete bed.

257. TARAKESWARA TEMPLE, HANGAL,DISTRICT HAVERI

The leaky roof is rendered watertight byapplying lime mortar.

258. SOMESHWARA TEMPLE, HARLAHALLI,DISTRICT HAVERI

Dressed schist-stone apron is laid overa concrete base on the western side of the temple.The undulated area is leveled and mild steelangle and barbed wire fencing is fixed alongthe approach road.

259. SIDDHESWARA TEMPLE, HAVERI, DISTRICT

HAVERI

The moss and lichen grown over the walland super structure are cleaned. The height ofthe existing compound wall is raised and

244


175Durga Temple, Aihole: 174, before and 175, after providing dressed sandstone pathway. See p. 239

174


245


177Ladkhan Temple, Aihole: 176, before and 177, after providing dressed sand stone pathway. See p.

176


246


179Huchchimalli Temple, Aihole: 178, before and 179, after conservation. See p. 240

178


247


181Jyotirlinga group of Temples, Aihole: 180, before and 181, after cleaning and de-silting of Tank. See

p. 240

180


248


183Tarabasappa Temple, Aihole: 182, before and 183, after restoration of the ancient Tank. See p. 240

182


249


185Yogi Narayana Temple and subsidiary shrines, Aihole: 184, before and 185 after re-setting of archi-

tectural members. See p. 242

184


250


187Sola khambha mosque, Bidar: 186, before and 187, after replastering. See p. 242

186


251


189Ain-ul-Mulk’s tomb, Ainapur: 188, before and 189, after reconstruction of ancient platform. See

p. 242

188


252


191Great mosque, Gulbarga: 190, before and 191, after the repairing of stucco work. See p. 243

190


253


193Fort, Mirjan: 192, before and 193, after reconstruction of the northern side fort wall. See p. 254

192


254


GOA

GOA CIRCLE

veneered with schist stone slabs on the westernside and an mild steel grill gate is fixed.

260. SARVESWARA TEMPLE, NAREGAL, DISTRICT

HAVERI

Dressed schist stone slab apron is laidaround the temple and a dwarf compound wallis raised in random rubble masonry.

261. MADHUKESHWARA TEMPLE, BANAVASI,DISTRICT UTTARA KANNADA

Dressed granite stone flooring over aconcrete bed is laid on the west, east and north-east sides of the monument. The sunken andundulated steps on the east of Mahadeva templeare dismantled and reset. The dead plaster overthe stone masonry of the sculpture gallery isremoved and re-plastered. The damaged mildsteel grills are replaced by new ones.

262. NARASIMHA TEMPLE, BHATKAL,DISTRICT UTTARA KANNADA

Dressed schist stone apron is providedaround the temple.

263. PARSVANATHA BASTI, BHATKAL, DISTRICT

UTTARA KANNADA

Dressed schist stone apron is providedaround the basti.

264. GROUP OF MONUMENTS, BILGI, DISTRICT

UTTARA KANNADA

The existing mild steel grill over thecompound is removed and re-fixed after raisingthe height of the compound wall using schiststone slabs. Synthetic enamel paint was appliedto the grill and mild steel angles to avoidrusting.

265. RATNATRAYA BASTI, BILGI, DISTRICT

UTTARA KANNADA

Dressed schist stone slab apron isprovided over a concrete bed around the basti.

266. VIRUPAKSHA TEMPLE, BILGI, DISTRICT

UTTARA KANNADA

Dressed schist stone slab apron isprovided over a concrete bed around the temple.

267. CHANDRANATHA BASADI, HADUVALLI,DISTRICT UTTARA KANNADA

The laterite masonry compound wall isprovided with a concrete coping. Chain linkmesh welded to mild steel angle is fixed over itand painted neatly to prevent rusting. Dressedschist stone flooring and curbing stones areprovided around the monument.

268. FORT, MIRJAN, DISTRICT UTTARA

KANNADA

The debris accumulated outside the fortwall is cleared to expose the working level andburried portion of the structure. The out ofplumb and dislodged portion of the northern fortis dismantled and reconstructed as per original(Pls. 192-193).

269. LAXMI NARASIMHA TEMPLE, MOOD-BHATKAL, DISTRICT UTTARA KANNADA

Schist stone apron is provided aroundthe temple over a concrete base.

270. SHANTAPPA NAIKA TIRUMALA NARAYANA

TEMPLE, MOOD BHATKAL, DISTRICT UTTARA

KANNADA

Schist stone apron is provided around the templeover a concrete base to avoid seepage of rainwater.

271. SAFA MASJID, PONDA, GOA

To enhance the ambience of the site thenala that dissected the site was lined withlaterite block and covered with concrete slabs

255


In continuation of in situ conservationadopted at the site, watertightening and fillingup of joints was done and the 1/3rd freestanding bell tower was further consolidated byadopting a laterite pack technique i.e. lateritenodules were ground, mixed with red/blackoxide and lime and the paste was superimposedon the exfoliated surface maintaining the erodedprofile. This has resulted in preventing furtherdisintegration of the exposed laterite. Thistechnique has been perfected after trial testingat the site and subsequently the whole towerwill be suitably treated on the external surface.

276. BASILICA OF BOM JESUS, OLD GOA,DISTRICT NORTH GOA

The false ceiling in the church had rottenin several places and damaged. Therefore, itwas removed and refixed, and painted as perthe existing evidence. The quadrangle was whitewashed as per routine.

277. SE’ CATHEDRAL, OLD GOA, DISTRICT

NORTH GOA

Conservation was under taken at theCathedral by replacing the old electric fixtures,rewiring and partially illuminating the interiorvault. The damaged windows were repaired andsome were replaced as per the existing design.The floor of the platform in front wasstrengthened by pointing of the joints and theexterior was colour washed. The damaged anddead plaster of the bell tower was removed andreplastered.

278. CHURCH OF ST. CATHERINE, OLD GOA,DISTRICT NORTH GOA

The out of plumb compound wall wasdismantled and reconstructed, and the roots ofthe vegetation were removed.

279. UPPER FORT, AGUADA, CANDOLIM,DISTRICT NORTH GOA

and camouflaged by filling the earth and layinggrass.

272. CHURCH OF ST. CAJETAN, OLD GOA,DISTRICT NORTH GOA

Based on old photographic records themissing balustrades (railings) between the twobell towers of the monument were provided tomatch the original and restore the balance ofthe front facade. New iron-gate with cattle trapwas also fixed at the entrance near the com-pound wall (Pls. 194-195).

273. CHURCH OF ST. FRANCIS OF ASSISI, OLD

GOA, DISTRICT NORTH GOA

Adopting the concept of preventivemaintenance to stop the wear and tear due toconstant trampling of the tombstone on thefloor of the church, wooden ramps of marineply have been provided. This also facilitatedeasy movement of the visitor. The sacristywhich was under the custody of the churchauthorities was replastered as the plaster hadcompletely peeled off due to seepage of waterand capillary action. The roof above the sacristywas relaid with galvanised iron sheets, woodenrafters and Mangalore tiles to prevent ingressof water during the monsoon. The whole areawas colour washed matching to original.

274. CHURCH OF OUR LADY OF ROSARY, OLD

GOA, DISTRICT NORTH GOA

To prevent ingress of water duringmonsoon the roof of the church was laid withGI sheets and broken Mangalore tiles werereplaced. For the easy movement of visitors,pathway was laid with laterite along with edgestone and portion of the old pathway that wastraced got cleared and consolidated.

275. CHURCH OF ST. AUGUSTINE, OLD GOA,DISTRICT NORTH GOA

256


195Church of St. Cajetan, Old Goa: 194, before and 195, after providing of balustrades. See p. 255

194


257


ASSAM

GUWAHATI CIRCLE

284. SIVADOL, NEGHERITING , DISTRICT

GOLAGHAT

Damaged portion of the drain leadingfrom garbhagriha to outside the temple hasbeen repaired and the cracks on thegarbhagriha have been stitched andconsolidated by pressure grouting.

285. KAMESWAR TEMPLE, HAJO, DISTRICT

KAMRUP

Brick-on-edge apron around the templehas been provided and construction of dwarfwall with chain link fencing is in progress.

286. KEDAR TEMPLE, HAJO, DISTRICT

KAMRUP

Pointing to the main vimana of thetemple after raking out the decayed pointing hasbeen completed. Re-flooring of the damagedfloors of ardhamandapa and mahamandapawith kota stones and watertightening of theardhamandapa and plastering of the outersurface as per original has been completed (Pls.196-197).

287. HAYAGRIVA MADHAVA TEMPLE, HAJO,DISTRICT KAMRUP

The leaky terrace and roofs of mandapa,ardhamandapa and antarala of the templehave been watertightened and consolidated bypressure grouting. The external and internal wallsurfaces have been cleaned and joints of thestone masonry walls are neatly pointed and voidsof the walls are properly filled and consolidatedby pressure grouting. The vertical cracks of theentrance doorway to the mandapa are alsoconsolidated by applying the combinationmortar. The eastern gateway of the temple hasalso been attended. Restoration of ancient andundulated stone steps leading to the temple andfirst phase of the construction of ramp fordisable persons has been completed.

The chapel within the fortress wasfurther consolidated by resetting of the lateritefloor and repaired the doors and windows. Apathway was laid that was strengthened withchequered tiles and side retaining wallconstructed for easy and safe access of thevisitor to the toilet outside the fortress.

280. ANCIENT ROCK-CUT CAVES, JOGIGHOPA,DISTRICT BONGAIGAON

Construction of approach pathway fromCave 1 to 5 including surface drainage facilityand construction of low height stone masonrywall on both sides of the pathway to preventsoil erosion are in progress.

281. CACHARI RUINS, KHASPUR, DISTRICT

CACHAR

The ancient enclosure wall has beenrestored with special size bricks and limemortar and construction of a dwarf wall withmild steel railing over it in order to keep theprotected areas free from encroachment is inprogress.

282. REMAINS AT BHISMAKNAGAR,BHISMAKNAGAR, DISTRICT DEBANG VALLEY

Thick vegetation inside the monument hasbeen removed and the ancient wall has beenrestored with special size bricks and combina-tion mortar.

283. MONOLITHS, KASOMARI PATHAR,DISTRICT GOLAGHAT

Vegetation clearance at the site hasbeen carried out and painting of the mild steelgrill over the dwarf wall has been completed.

258


MANIPUR

Raking out the decayed joints of thestone masonry and pointing of the same withlime mortar is in progress.

294. VISNUDOL, JOYSAGAR, DISTRICT

SIVASAGAR

Vegetation clearance inside themonument has been carried out and themonument is made moss and lichen free.

295. AHOM RAJA’S PALACE, GARHGAON,DISTRICT SIVASAGAR

Vegetation growth inside the monumenthas been removed and the monument hasbecome moss and lichen free.

296. THE MOUND AND RUINS OF THE STONE

TEMPLE, DAHAPARBATIA, DISTRICT SONITPUR

The vegetation growth inside themonument has been removed.

297. MASONRY REMAINS OF BAMUNI HILLS,TEZPUR, DISTRICT SONITPUR

The vegetation and scientific clearancein the site has been undertaken. Brick-on-edgeapproach pathway has been provided in the frontside of the monument and the damaged portionsof the approach pathway have been repaired. Theunfinished building for Sub Circle office hasbeen renovated with new verandah covered withmild steel grill, water tank and the damageddoors are replaced with new one.

298. TEMPLE OF BISHNU, BISHNUPUR, DISTRICT

BISHNUPUR

Vegetation clearance of the monumenthas been carried out and the mild steel grillover the dwarf wall painted. Plastering of innerside of the boundary wall is in progress.

Construction of toilet block for the visitors hasalso been completed.

288. DEVIDOL , GAURISAGAR, DISTRICT

SIVASAGAR

The decayed joints of the stone masonryof the main temple have been raked out andpointing of the same is in progress. Removal ofdamaged apron and relaying of new apron aroundthe monument is also in progress.

289. GROUP OF FOUR MAIDAMS, CHARAIDEO,DISTRICT SIVASAGAR

Earth cutting for construction of guardwall on both sides of the excavated maidam tocheck soil erosion is in progress and constructionof compound wall in the front side of theprotected area of the maidam has beencompleted.

290. GHANASHYAM’S HOUSE, JOYSAGAR,DISTRICT SIVASAGAR

The vegetation growth inside themonument has been removed. The exteriorsurface of the monument has been made mossand lichen free.

291. KARENGHAR (TALATALGHAR) OF THE AHOM

KINGS, JOYSAGAR, DISTRICT SIVASAGAR

Moss and lichen have been removed fromthe surface of the monument. Restoration of thedamaged ancient compound wall around thepalace is in progress. Construction of the toiletblock and drinking water facility for the touristshas been completed.

292. RANGHAR PAVILION, JOYSAGAR, DISTRICT

SIVASAGAR

The vegetation growth and moss andlichen have been removed from the monument.

293. SIVADOL, SIVASAGAR, DISTRICT SIVASAGAR

259


299. SHRI RADHA DAMUDOR TEMPLE AT

WANGKHEI ANGON LEIKAI, DISTRICT IMPHAL-EAST

The work of providing steel clamps inthree tiers all around the temple to preventfurther movement of the structure was taken upby State Archaeology, Govt. of Manipur.

300. KRISHNA TEMPLE, BRAHAMAPUR GURU

ARIBAM LEIKAI, DISTRICT IMPHAL EAST

State Archaeology, Govt. of Manipurremoved decayed lime-concrete from the chala-roof of the temple and repaired the damagedportion with fresh lime concrete and water-tightening was also done.

301. STONE MEMORIAL OF U-MAW-THODUR-BREW, NARTIANG, DISTRICT JAINTIA HILL

Construction of random rubble stonemasonry boundary wall with mild steel grillfencing over it is in progress.

302. REMAINS OF A FORT (DIMAPUR RUINS),DIMAPUR, DISTRICT DIMAPUR

Thick vegetation growth inside themonument has been removed.

303. SCULPTURES AND ROCK-CUT RELIEFS OF

THE UNAKOTI TIRTHA, DISTRICT NORTH

TRIPURA

In order to reduce soil erosion,construction of stone masonry retaining walland providing of reinforced cement concrete

hand railing for easy approach to visitors are inprogress. Work for drinking water facility forthe tourists is also in progress.

304. ANCIENT MOUND CALLED SHYAM SUNDAR

TILA, JOLAIBARI, DISTRICT SOUTH TRIPURA

Brick-on-edge apron around theexcavated structure has been provided and brickpaved flooring in the missing and damagedareas with the help of combination mortar havebeen completed. Fixation of mild steel grill overthe dwarf wall has also been completed.

305. BHUBANESWARI TEMPLE, RAJNAGAR,DISTRICT SOUTH TRIPURA

Painting of the mild steel grill over thedwarf wall has been completed.

306. TEMPLE OF CHATURDASA DEVATA,RADHAKISHORPUR, DISTRICT SOUTH TRIPURA

The vegetation growth inside themonument has been removed.

307. ANCIENT REMAINS, BOXANAGAR, DISTRICT

WEST TRIPURA

Conservation of the excavated stupaincluding raking out the joints and pointing ofthe same neatly, setting of missing bricks withcombination mortar and watertightening havebeen completed. Construction of boundary wallwith pillars including construction of dwarfwall and fixing of mild steel grill over it havebeen completed. The undulated and lowlandareas have also been leveled (Pls. 198-199).

NAGALAND

TRIPURA

MEGHALAYA

ANDHRA PRADESH

HYDERABAD CIRCLE

308. HILL FORT AT RAYADURG, DISTRICT

ANANTAPUR

Pointing was done to the walls, roof of thehorse stable and walls of the MadhavarayaSwamy temple and Rama temple. Desilting has

260


197Kedar temple, Hajo: 196, during and 197, after watertightening and plastering of

ardhamandapa. See p.257

196


261


199Ancient remains, Boxanagar: 198, before and 199, after conservation. See p.259

198


262


The stone veneering of walls of firstfloor of garbhagriha and flooring was laidwith dressed khondalite stones. After removalof cement flooring and plaster from the wallsof the outer side of garbhagriha, recesspointing was done. The damaged cementflooring mixed with pebbles of cloistermandapa and kalyanamandapa was replacedwith dressed khondalite stones over cementconcrete bed and further in the joints recesspointing was done. The damaged Madras terraceroof of gudamandapam of Sri KasiVisweswara Temple was removed and re-laidwith new teak wood rafters, terrace bricks onedge and covered by pressed tiles over brick jellyconcrete on top. The damaged stucco plasterover the brick sikharas of Sri Kasi VisweswaraTemple was removed and suitably replastered.The Somavarapu mandapam, eastern andwestern gopurams, entrance mandapas werelaid with pressed tiles and watertightened (Pls.204-205).

314. SRI KUMARA RAMA BHIMESWARA

TEMPLE AT SAMALKOT, DISTRICT EAST

GODAVARI

The dead lime concrete over the roof of100 pillared mandapa was removed andprovided with two layers of country make flattiles and pointed. The random rubble wall ofthe eastern side platform (bathing ghat) wasraised. The dead lime brick jelly concrete overthe terrace of the cloister mandapa wasremoved, the original roof stone slabs arethoroughly cleaned, joints filled and brick jellylime concrete was laid.

315. MAHASTUPA AT AMARAVATI, DISTRICT

GUNTUR

Laying of pradakshinapatha withancient size bricks around the stupa iscompleted.

been done to the big tank. Besides, the affectedroof slabs and capitals, beams and bulged wallsof horse stable was removed and strengthened(Pls. 200-201).

309. LOWER FORT, CHANDRAGIRI, DISTRICT

CHITTOOR

Reconstructed the fallen portion ofBastion 4 and 8 by using cyclopean stones inthe same manner as existing surrounding of fortwall and refilled the washed out rampart usinggravel and boulders layer by layer.Reconstructed the fallen portions of adjoiningfort walls to third gate mandapa usingcyclopean stones in the same manner as existingsurrounding fort wall and refilled the washedout rampart using gravel and boulders layer bylayer. Mended main structural beam and columncapital of third gate mandapa that were cracked(Pls. 202-203).

310. VENKATESWARA VISNU TEMPLE, SRINIVASA

MANGAPURAM, DISTRICT CHITTOOR

The damaged leak roof of the maintemple is treated with lime brick jellyconcrete and also got watertightened.

311. SUBRAMANYA TEMPLE, VISNU TEMPLE AND

SIVA TEMPLE AT LOWER FORT, CHANDRAGIRI,DISTRICT CHITTOOR

Dwarf wall with diamond fencing wasdone to Subramanya temple, Visnu temple andSiva temple.

312. LOWER FORT, GURRAMKONDA, DISTRICT

CHITTOOR

The fallen portion of Bastion 1 and 8was reconstructed using cyclopean masonry inthe same manner as existing surrounding fortwall and the washed out rampart was refilledwith gravel layer by layer.

313. SRI BHIMESWARA SWAMY TEMPLE AT

DRAKSHARAMA, DISTRICT EAST GODAVARI

263


316. AMPHI THEATRE AT ANUPU, DISTRICT

GUNTUR

The fallen dry stone masonry wall wasremoved, fallen breach of stone masonry wasreconstructed, the missing steps around thestadium were restored with suitable cudduppahstone slabs and restoration was done by meansof filling the pockets wherever the bricks weremissing with special size bricks in lime mortar.Stone revetment was provided on southern sideof the Hariti temple.

317. SRI KAPOTESWARA SWAMY TEMPLE,CHEJERLA, DISTRICT GUNTUR

The deteriorated lime plaster wasremoved and relaid with a uniform thickness.This plaster was prepared with grinded limeand sand, and adding gallnut, jaggery and toningthe shade by mixing required colour pigmentto match the original. Besides, pointing to thedwarf wall around the ancient Koneru wascarried out.

318. SRI RAMALINGESWARA SWAMY TEMPLE

AT PONDUGULA, DISTRICT GUNTUR

As part of the restoration of the damagedtemple, rank vegetation is removed anddocumentation of the temple was completed.

319. STUPA AT BHATTIPROLU, DISTRICT GUNTUR

320. GOLCONDA FORT, GOLCONDA, DISTRICT

HYDERABAD

The fallen and accumulated debrisaround Bhagmati palace in Rani Mahalcomplex is cleared resulting in exposing thewalls, steps and platforms.

321. FORT AND BUILDINGS AT SIDDAVATAM

FORT, SIDDAVATAM, DISTRICT KADAPA

The breaches at west and north side ofthe fort were reconstructed with available

stones and the core in between walls was filledwith brick bats.

322. SRI KODANDARAMA SWAMY TEMPLE AT

VONTIMITTA, DISTRICT KADAPA

The bulged out walls on either sides ofeastern gopura steps were removed afterdocumentation and then reconstructed. Thebeams, capitals, roof slabs of kitchen room, weredressed where ever necessary and recess pointingto the stone joints was done in lime mortar withmatching colour. The kitchen rooms and outercore of the walls reconstructed with availablestones. Either side of walls and steps wereconserved.

323. ARMOURY HALL OF BANDAR FORT AT

MACHILIPATNAM, DISTRICT KRISHNA

Damaged and collapsed ceiling ofarmoury hall was restored by providing bestMadras terrace roof with brick on edge in limeover wooden rafters in two rows, over whichtwo courses of flat tiles were provided andpointing was done to prevent any waterpercolation.

324. RUINED MAHASTUPA AT GHANTASALA,DISTRICT KRISHNA

The accumulated debris on top of themound was removed. The brick structures suchas brick spokes and the pradakshinapatha wereexposed and thus relief is given to the structure.

325. SRI UMAMAHESWARA SWAMY TEMPLE,YAGANTI, DISTRICT KURNOOL

The missing wooden rafters wereprovided in fallen IV the tala at the mainentrance to gopuram and provided with brick-jelly concrete in lime mortar. Cudduppah slabflooring and pointing was done in front of thegopuram. The inner faces of rajagopura wasconserved by removing loose and dead limemortar from the joints of inner face brick

264


masonry and pointing was carried out in limemortar. The dead and pulverized lime plasterfrom the outer surfaces like off-sets/ miniatures/designs was removed and conserved the missingportions of loose pockets in lime mortar byusing special size bricks.

326. SRI SUBRAHMANYA SWAMY TEMPLE,NANDAVARAM, DISTRICT KURNOOL

Watertightening was done to the roofsof shrines by providing brick jellyconcrete in lime mortar and clay pressed tileson the top. The base of the temples wasconserved by filling the loose pockets withunderpinning.

327. ADONI FORT, ADONI, DISTRICT KURNOOL

The debris in and around the thirtypillared mandapa was removed and the hiddenbasal mouldings were exposed. The roof ofmandapa was watertightened and fallen parapetwall around mandapa was reconstructed.Reconstruction of fallen breach of masonry wall(prakara) was done by retrieving old stonesfrom the debris and by providing brick core inlime mortar. The missing granite stone slabsof the floor of mandapa were restored andpointing was done.

328. ABDUL WAHAB KHAN TOMB AT

KURNOOL, DISTRICT KURNOOL

The accumulated debris on the southernside of the complex from the cellars at the riverbed below Hawa Mahal was removed and madethe cellars visible.

329. NAVABRAHMA GROUP OF TEMPLES,ALAMPUR, DISTRICT MAHABUBNAGAR

The damaged roofs of temples of ArkaBrahma, Kumara Brahma, Bala Brahma, mainmandapa, Garuda and Swarga Brahma templeswere watertightened by providing brick jellyconcrete in lime mortar and clay pressed tiles.

Pointing to the sikharas, outer faces, insidewalls of garbhagriha and inner side wall facesof temples was attended. Temple type doors wereprovided to Nava Brahma group of templesexcept Taraka Brahma temple.

330. SRI VEERABHADRA SWAMY TEMPLE AT

MOTUPALLI, DISTRICT PRAKASAM

Reconstruction of dismantled frontmandapa has been taken up after detaildocumentation and the work is in progress.

331. RAMALINGESWARA GROUP OF TEMPLES,SATYAVOLU, DISTRICT PRAKASAM

The damaged stone flooring in frontmandapa has been removed and re-laid withsuitable stone slabs (Pls. 208-209).

332. KRISHNA TEMPLE AT UDAYAGIRI, DISTRICT

PSR NELLORE

The accumulated silt mixed with big sizeboulders in the tank has been removed anddesilted. The disturbed and sunken stone stepsaround the tank has been removed and reset afterstrengthening the same as per the original.

333. THOUSAND PILLARED TEMPLE AT

HANAMKONDA, DISTRICT WARANGAL

As part of conservation ofkalyanamandapam project, afterdocumentation of all components, thearchitectural members of kalyanamandapamwere removed and stocked near PadmakshiTemple.

334. SRI RAMAPPA TEMPLE AT PALAMPET,DISTRICT WARANGAL

The damaged stone pakasala (templekitchen) was dismantled and reconstructed withavailable old stones to maximum extent afterstrengthening the foundation. Resetting ofpakasala was done as per original afterstrengthening the foundation and the brokenbeams were mended with epoxy

265


201Hill fort, Rayadurg: 200, before and 201, after conservation of Rama Temple. See p. 262

200


266


203Lower fort, Chandragiri: 202, before and 203, after conservation of bastion 8. See p. 262

202


267


205Sri Kasi Visweswara temple, Draksharama: 204. before and 205, afetr conservation. See p. 262

204


268


207Stupa at Bhattiprolu: 206, before and 207, after reconstruction of drum wall. See p. 263

206


269


209Sri Ramalingeswaraswamy Temple, Sathyavolu: 208, before and 209, after flooring conservation of

mahamandapa. See p. 264

208


270


RAJASTHAN

JAIPUR CIRCLE Strengthening of foundation in cementconcrete and RR masonry is completed.

340. BHATNER FORT, BHATNER, DISTRICT

HANUMANGARH

Restoration work of bastions has beendone.

341. JAISALMER FORT, DISTRICT JAISALMER

Dismantled the out of plumb wall andrestoration of the same as per original iscompleted (Pls. 212-213).

342. LAXMI-NARAYAN TEMPLE, AMBER, DISTRICT

JAIPUR

The restoration work of broken chhajjasis done and provided with new ones wherevermissing.

343. ANCIENT TEMPLE, CHANDRABHAGA,JHALARAPATAN, DISTRICT JHALAWAR

Work of recess pointing of the baori hasbeen done.

344. BUDDHIST CAVES AT HATHIAGOR,DISTRICT JHALAWAR

Restoration work of steps is done andlaying of pathway over a concrete bed iscompleted.

345. RANTHAMBHOR FORT, DISTRICT SAWAI

MADHOPUR

Restoration work of fortification wallbetween Badal Mahal and Delhi gate anddismantling and reconstruction of Hamir Palaceis completed.

346. GHATS WITH INSCRIPTIONS, PAVILIONS

AND TORANAS AT NAVCHOWKI, DISTRICT

RAJSAMAND

335. SIVA TEMPLE, NEELKANTH, DISTRICT

ALWAR

Compound wall of Navgaza Temple isconstructed in random rubble stone masonryand fixing of grill over it is completed.

336. ANCIENT SITE AT BHANGARH, DISTRICT

ALWAR

Removal of fallen debris from Mahalcomplex near fortification wall is completed.

337. SIVA TEMPLE AND RUINS AT ARTHUNA,DISTRICT BANSWARA

Restoration of garbhagriha, sikhara,exterior part and flooring of the ChaushathYogini Temple is completed. Restoration workof platform of Jaina Temple and pathway workis also completed (Pls. 210-211).

338. CHAURASI KHAMBA TEMPLE AT KAMAN,DISTRICT BHARATPUR

Resetting of corner chhajja is doneand provided with new one wherever missing.Construction of a sculpture shed in randomrubble stone masonry was completed.

339. CHITTAURGARH FORT, DISTRICT

CHITTAURGARGH

Restoration work of fortification wall,Hathiya baori and ruined structures iscompleted. Random rubble stone masonry workis done at Suraj pole gate and Gora BadalMahal.

340. HARSHATMATA TEMPLE, ABHANERI,DISTRICT DAUSA

271


211Arthuna Siva temple and ruins (Chausath Yogini temple), Arthuna: 210, before and 211, after conservation. See p.

270

210


272


213Jaisalmer Fort: 212, before and 213, after conservation of pitching wall. See p. 270

212


273


215Harshnath temple, Sikar: 214, before and 215, after conservation. See p. 275

214


274


Restoration work of ghats, pavilionsand adjoining structures is completed and mildsteel grill is provided wherever required.

347. KUMBHALGARH FORT, DISTRICT

RAJASAMAND

Pathway between water bodies,Mamadev Temple and Bawan Deori wasprovided.

348. HARSHNATH TEMPLE, SIKAR, DISTRICT

SIKAR

Dismantled the damaged wall ofsanctum and mandapa was restored as peroriginal (Pls. 214-215).

349. KALA PAHAR TEMPLE AT TODA RAISINGH,DISTRICT TONK

Restoration of fortification wall andburj is completed.

WEST BENGAL

KOLKATA CIRCLE

posts and repairs to wooden door at the entranceto the minar have been completed.

353. SHRINE AND MOSQUE KNOWN AS DARGAH

OF ZAFAR KHAN GAZI, TRIBENI, DISTRICT

HUGLI

Pointing to brick joints of walls,removal of damaged floor and relaying in freshlime concrete have been undertaken.

354. GROUP OF TEMPLES KNOWN AS

BRINDABAN CHANDRA’S MATH, GUPTIPARA,DISTRICT HUGLI

Pointing to open brick joints of wallshas been carried out.

355. HANSESVARI AND VASUDEV TEMPLES,BANSBERIA, DISTRICT HUGLI

Carefully taking out damaged old plasterand replastering in lime mortar followed by limewash as per original has been completed.

356. KOCH BIHAR PALACE, KOCH BIHAR,DISTRICT KOCH BIHAR

Raking out brick joints of parapet walls,removing old cement mortar and repointing tothe joints in lime mortar to improvebreathability of the structure and also to bringit back to its original texture, removal of oldpulverised plaster and replastering in lime sandmortar as per original, carefully taking outdamaged lime concrete from the roof andrelaying fresh lime concrete matching with theadjoining roof surface, repairs to doors andwindows fitted to the wall gaps around thecentral dome with due replacement of damagedwooden members, broken glass panes, rustednets, etc have been undertaken.

357. OLD BUILDING OF THE ASIATIC SOCIETY,PARK STREET, KOLKATA

Upgrading the old pathways within thepremises and repairs to damaged part of roof

350. ANCIENT MOUND, BHARATPUR, DISTRICT

BARDDHAMAN

Fencing the protected area byconstructing dwarf brick-masonry wall allaround and fixing mild steel grill atop the wallto prevent entry of unwanted elements to themound have been completed.351. MURALI MOHAN TEMPLE, BISHNUPUR,DISTRICT BANKURA

Repairs to barbed wire fencing, fixinga cattle proof gate at entrance and arrangementof drinking water facility at the site have beencompleted.

352. MINAR, PANDUA, DISTRICT HUGLI

Pointing to brick joints of walls ofmosque, providing apron, painting to fencing

275


by removing later additions and relaying in freshlime concrete as per original have beenundertaken.

358. CURRENCY BUILDING , DALHOUSIE

SQUARE, KOLKATA

Uprooting trees from walls and roof,clearing rubbish from the premises to improveaccessibility to all corners of the building fortaking up major conservation works have beencompleted.

359. VICTORIA MEMORIAL HALL, KOLKATA

Stripping off pulverized old plaster andreplastering in composite lime mortar tointerior wall surfaces, removal of decayed limeconcrete from roof and resurfacing with freshlime concrete, pointing to open stone joints ofwalls and renewing stone lining to interior wallsurfaces after carefully taking out the damagedstones and strengthening to cores of walls inappropriate lime mortar to parapet walls, cornertower and roof of northern wing of VictoriaMemorial Hall have been undertaken was underCivil Deposit Scheme.

360. ADINA MASJID, PANDUA, DISTRICT

MALDAH

Repairs to brick masonry wall and pillarson southern side by underpinning brick workwith special size bricks in composite lime mor-tar as per original, pointing to open stone jointsof southern walls and pillars, laying an apronalong the outer periphery of the southern wallto prevent dampness have been completed (Pls.216-217).

361. BARADUARI MASJID OR THE GREAT

GOLDEN MOSQUE, GAUR, DISTRICT MALDAH

Repairs and restoration to badlydamaged portions of ornamental brick-masonryat both outer and inner surfaces of mainentrance gate, improving the existing apron all

around the outer periphery of main mosquewalls, repairs to damaged floor by removing olddamaged lime concrete and relaying fresh limeconcrete mixed with traditional adhesives, anti-corrosive painting to cattle proof gates andfencing posts have been carried out.

362. CHAMKATTI MASJID, GAUR, DISTRICT

MALDAH

Restoration of missing and badlydamaged portions of brick masonry in limesurkhi mortar to front wall, roof cornice andinner wall surfaces, pointing to brick joints offront wall surface after removal of loose oldmortar and cleaning, raking, and applying anti-corrosive painting to grills, gates and fencingposts, etc. have been completed.

363. EXCAVATED SITE NEAR BAISGAZI WALL,GAUR, DISTRICT MALDAH

Cleaning, levelling and dressing the siteand its surroundings for better stability,restoration of missing portions of ancient brickwalls have been undertaken.

364. LOTTAN MASJID , GAUR, DISTRICT

MALDAH

Underpining brick work to decayedinterior wall surfaces, repairs to the exteriorwall surfaces by restoring ornamentalbrickwork in lime surkhi mortar as per original,pointing to open brick joints of walls, paintingto grills, gates and fencing posts have beencompleted.

365. TANTIPARA MASJID, GAUR, DISTRICT

MALDAH

Underpinning brick work to decayedportions of walls, restoration of missingportions of ornamental brick-masonry ofexterior wall surfaces, stitching cracks to brick-masonry walls and arches have been completed.

276


366. HAZARDUARI PALACE AND IMAMBARA

TOGETHER WITH ADJACENT AREA, KILLA

NIZAMAT, DISTRICT MURSHIDABAD

Repairs to roof by careful removal ofdamaged lime concrete and relaying fresh limeconcrete as per original, replacement ofdamaged wooden beams and bargahs by newones, renewing clay burnt tiles in traditionallime surkhi mortar and pointing to open tilejoints, careful removal of pulverised old plasterfrom walls, replastering in composite limemortar and finishing the internal wall surfacesby lime punning as per original, renewingexisting old and damaged electrical wirings,carefully taking out damaged lime concretefloor, relaying in new lime concrete and finishingtop as per original, repairs to old and damageddoors and windows with necessary replacementof parts by new ones wherever necessary,upgradation and improving the existing oldtoilet blocks to international standard, erectinggrill fencing around the gardens of palace areaas per existing old pattern have been completed.

367. IMAMBARA, KILLA NIZAMAT, DISTRICT

MURSHIDABAD

Relaying of collapsed and badlydamaged portions of roof on the west wingfollowed by necessary replacement of damagedwooden members by new ones, renewing twolayers clay burnt tiles in lime surkhi mortar andrelaying lime concrete as per original,underpining brick work to walls, carefulremoval of old pulverised plaster, re-plasteringin lime sand mortar, exposing and preservingthe old plastered surface by edging, filleting,grouting etc, removal of damaged floorconcrete, relaying in lime concrete andresurfacing with marble slabs as per originaland exactly matching with the adjoining existingfloors have been completed.

Relaying of damaged roof withnecessary repair and replacement of damagedwooden members and renewing clay burnt tilesin lime surkhi mortar on the east wing as peroriginal, removal of damaged old plaster fromwalls and replastering in lime sand mortar asper original, carefully taking out damaged oldlime concrete of floor, relaying the same in freshlime concrete and finishing top as per original,repairs to damaged doors and windows bynecessary replacement of parts with new onesand painting as per original have been completed(Pls. 218-221).

368. SOUTH GATE, KILLA NIZAMAT, DISTRICT

MURSHIDABAD

Repairs to brick masonry walls bynecessary underpining brick work in lime surkhimortar, renewal of damaged plaster andresurfacing the interior wall surfaces bytraditional lime punning as per original havebeen completed.

369. TOMB OF AZIM-UN-NISA BEGUM ,DAUGHTER OF MURSHID KULI KHAN, AZIM

NAGAR, DISTRICT MURSHIDABAD

Underpinning brick work to missingportions of walls, pointing to open brick joints,restoration of lime surkhi plaster at missingportions, removing damaged lime concrete fromfloors and relaying in fresh lime concrete,providing apron along outer walls have beendone.

370. TRIPOLIA GATE, KUMARAPUR, DISTRICT

MURSHIDABAD

Repairs to exterior wall surfaces byreplastering and lime punning, restoring alldecorative details as per original and matchingwith the adjoining existing wall surfaces havebeen completed.

277


217Adina Masjid, Pandua: 216, before and 217, after repair of brick masonry. See p. 275

216


278



218

2

19Im

amba

ra, K

illa

Niz

amat

: 218

, bef

ore

and

219,

afte

r pla

ster

ing

of w

all.

See

p. 2

76

279



220

221

Imam

bara

, Kill

a N

izam

: 220

, bef

ore

and

221,

afte

r rel

ayin

g of

col

laps

ed a

nd b

adly

dam

aged

roof

. See

p. 2

76

280


371. WARREN HASTING’S HOUSE, BARASAT,DISTRICT NORTH 24 PARGANAS

Carefully taking out the bulged portionsof brick walls after detailed documentation andreconstruction of these portions exactlymatching with the adjoining existing walls,replacing the damaged and worn out woodenmembers of roof by new ones of similar sizeand texture, renewing clay burnt roof tiles inlime surkhi mortar have been undertaken.

372. SIVA TEMPLE, KHARDAHA, DISTRICT

NORTH 24 PARGANAS

Repairs to the roof of ancient priest’squarters within the complex by careful removalof damaged old concrete and relaying fresh limeconcrete in position has been completed.

373. CLIVE’S HOUSE, DUM DUM, DISTRICT

NORTH 24 PARGANAS

Repairs to dilapidated portions of brickwalls and restoration of the missing parts,relaying damaged roof of ground floor rooms,repairs to doors and windows with necessaryreplacement of damaged parts have beenundertaken.

374. KURUMBERA FORT, GAGANESWAR,DISTRICT PASCHIM MEDINIPUR

Repairs to stone masonry walls, removalof damaged lime concrete at floor and roof andrelaying fresh lime concrete have beenundertaken.

374. TEMPLES OF BANDYOPADHYAY FAMILY,PATHRA, DISTRICT PASCHIM MEDINIPUR

Restoration of missing portions of brickmasonry walls, sealing of cracks on walls andsikhara of the main temple, replastering to wallsin traditional lime mortar as per original havebeen undertaken

UTTAR PRADESH

LUCKNOW CIRCLE

375. TOMB OF ABHIMAN, MEHNAGAR, DIS-TRICT AZAMGARH

Dome and walls of the mosque were con-solidated by way of plastering work. The floorwas repaired with lime concreting as per origi-nal.

376. EXCAVATED REMAINS, BHITRI, DISTRICT

GHAZIPUR

Out of plumb portion was underpinnedand reset in brick masonry with lime-surkhimortar. Watertightening was done to save itfrom rain water.

377. SHAHI FORT, JAUNPUR, DISTRICT

JAUNPUR

Collapsed portion of the fortificationwall was reset and missing parts were restoredas per original. Watertightening and pointingwork were also attended to the wall for makingit strengthened. Plain cement concrete pathwayhas also been provided within the protected areafor easy movement of visitors.

378. TOMB OF FIROZ SHAH, JAUNPUR,DISTRICT JAUNPUR

Consolidation of the dome has beenundertaken by way of lime concreting on itsexterior surface to make it strengthened andchecking the percolation of rain water.

379. JHANJHIRI MOSQUE, JAUNPUR, DISTRICT

JAUNPUR

375. JATAR DEUL, JATA, DISTRICT SOUTH 24PARGANAS

Pointing to brick joints of walls afterremoving the old and decayed mortar from thejoints and cleaning, etc., laying apron along theouter periphery of the deul have been completed.

281


Construction of dwarf wall in brickmasonry with mild steel grill over it wasconstructed to prevent the trespassing andencroachment.

380. EXCAVATED REMAINS, KUSHINAGAR,DISTRICT KUSHINAGAR

The inner side of the Nirvana Templewas strengthened and watertightening has beenundertaken to prevent the seepage of rain water.The deteriorated doors and windows wererepaired wherever necessary. The bulged and outof plumb portion of the Ramabhar Stupa wasconsolidated and for the disposal of stagnatedrain water construction of a drain has been made.The votive stupas were repaired by way ofresetting and watertightening to protect it fromfurther decay.

381. EXCAVATED REMAINS, FAZIL NAGAR,DISTRICT KUSHINAGAR

Fixing of mild steel grill over theexisting dwarf wall has been done as a measureof security of the monument. An entrance gatehas also been provided at the appropriate pointof the boundary wall.

382. EXCAVATED REMAINS, SARNATH, DISTRICT

VARANASI

Pointing has been done to the drum ofthe Dhamekh Stupa to check the growth ofvegetation, percolation of rain water, and furtherdeterioration of the structure. A preservativecoat has also been provided by using theappropriate chemicals. The Monastery 5 isprovided with a concrete pathway for easymovement of visitors. Keeping in view thesecurity of the site height of the existingboundary wall has been raised and refixing ofthe grill has been done over it.

383. JAI SINGH’S OBSERVATORY AT MAN

MAHAL, VARANASI, DISTRICT VARANASI

The old and decayed plaster was removedwherever necessary and replastered in limesurkhi mortar matching to the original.

384. EXCAVATED REMAINS, RAJGHAT, DISTRICT

VARANASI

Keeping in view the security measure ofthe site southern site of the boundary wall hasbeen raised and provided with mild steel grillover it.

MAHARASHTRA

MUMBAI CIRCLE

385. KOPESHWAR MAHADEV, KHINDRAPUR,DISTRICT KOLHAPUR

The old dislocated damaged and out ofplumb southern side compound wall was dis-mantled and re-constructed as per the originaland the wall top was watertightened in limeconcrete. The debris accumulated in the opencourtyard was also removed and the ground wasleveled.

386. PANHALA FORT, PANHALA, DISTRICT

KOLHAPUR

The parapet over the fort wall was re-constructed as per the original.

387. ROCK-CUT CAVES, JOGESHWARI, DISTRICT

MUMBAI

The huge debris over the roof of the caveaccumulated over a period of two to threedecades and which was affecting the rock-cutcave with seepage of rain and sewerage waterwas removed. The openings around the interiorprakara of the caves were provided with batproof mesh and cave was freed from bat menace.The pathway leading to the western entrancefrom the road side was paved with dressed stoneslabs (Pls. 222-223).

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adjacent ancient structure has also beenattended. The re-construction of the fallenminars and the arch of Kamani Masjid havebeen taken up and the work is in progress.

392. BUDDHIST CAVES, PALE, DISTRICT

RAIGAD

In continuation of three previous year’swork, providing and laying pathway from thefoot of the Pale hill up to the caves has beencompleted and construction of parapet wallalongside the pathway is in progress.

393. ELEPHANTA CAVES, GHARAPURI,DISTRICT RAIGAD

The work of providing and layingdressed stone approach pathway to Cave 2 to 5has been taken-up and the work is in progress.Besides this, the work of providing drainsalongside the pathway in uncoursed rubblemasonry covered stone block was also attended.

394. JANJIRA FORT, MURUD, DISTRICT RAIGAD

Removal of dense vegetation from Kingpalace, de-watering the ancient tank andremoving silt/slushy earth, boulders, etc. hasbeen completed.

395. JIJAMATA SAMADHI, PACHAD, DISTRICT

RAIGAD

Providing and laying rough dressedstone pathway and stone steps from main gateto Jijamata samadhi has been taken up and thework is in progress.

396. JIJAMATA WADA, PACHAD, DISTRICT

RAIGAD

The work of removal and resetting of thebulged out and out of plumb portions of thestructures situated near the ancient well wastaken up.

397. RAIGAD FORT, RAIGAD, DISTRICT RAIGAD

388. LENYADRI, JUNNAR, DISTRICT PUNE

In continuation of previous year’s work,existing approach steps leading to the caves werewidened and construction of parapet wall oneither side of the pathway has been attended.Widening of retaining wall and parapet wall infront of the Ganesa caves has also been undertaken for safety and easy movement of thepilgrims/visitors and the work is in progress(Pls. 224-225).

389. ROCK-CUT CAVES, KARLA, DISTRICT

PUNE

In continuation of previous year’swork, the façade of the Caves 8, 5 and 10 wasprovided with a bat proof mesh in teakwoodframe. Besides this the pathway leading to Cave10, 11 and 12 were paved with stone slabs.

390. SHANIWARWADA, PUNE, DISTRICT PUNE

The central bastion on the southern sideof Shanivarwada, which had fallen due to heavyrain was restored as per the original besidesstrengthening the adjoin wall by recess pointingand under pinning (Pls. 226-227).

391. SHIVNERI FORT, SIVANERI, DISTRICT PUNE

Under the civil deposit work funded byGovernment of Maharashtra, variousconservation and environmental developmentworks like improving the pathway leading tothe Hathi gate, restoration of the fallen portionof fortification wall in between Pir gate andHathi gate, watertightening of the roof ofGanesa gate, Maha darwaja and Pir gate,improving the steps and pathways leading to theKulup gate and Ambar khana, restoration offallen bastion and repairs of arched structure(gate) at Kadelot point, restoration of missingportion of the wall of the Badami tank weretaken up and completed (Pls. 228-229). Stoneflooring in the courtyard of structure known asbirth place of Sivaji Maharaja and pointing of

283


The fallen portion of the northwesternside wall of Bazarpeth portion was reconstructedas per original. Watertightening and pointing ofthe structures in Bazarpeth, Ashtapradhanwadaand pointing of southern part of Rajwada hasalso been attended (Pls. 230-231).

398. SINDHUDURG FORT, MALVAN, DISTRICT

SINDHUDURG

The work of filling-up of undercutcavities of the fort wall and watertightening thetop of the rampart was continued during thecurrent year.

399. OLD TEMPLE IN SARKARWADA LOCALY

KNOWN AS PARSANATH TEMPLE, VELAPUR,DISTRICT SOLAPUR

The work of watertightening of thesikhara, restoration of plinth and lowermoulding on the eastern side was carried out asper the original.

400. OLD DOUBLE SHRINED TEMPLE ON THE

FAR SIDE OF A TANK, LOCALLY KNOWN AS

NACHNIACHA MAHAL, VELAPUR, DISTRICT

SOLAPUR

The chain link fencing over dwarf wallhas been provided on the southern and easternside of the ancient tank and temple.

401. TEMPLE OF HARANARESWAR OR ARDHA-NARI-NATESHWAR, ONE HEMADPANTHI TANK

AND VIRAGAL STONE, VELAPUR, DISTRICT

SOLAPUR

The vimana portion was watertightenedand the open courtyard was provided with a stonepavement on the front and southern side of thestepped tank. The undulated steps of the tankwere repaired by removing and resetting themas per original. The main entrance was providedwith a grilled gate.

402. STEPPED WELL PANTACHA KOT, SATARA,DISTRICT SOLAPUR

Reconstruction of the fallen portion ofnorthern and western side walls of the steppedwell in cut stone masonry along with veneeringas per original has been attended. A chain linkfencing with mild steel grill has been providedon the east and west side of the stepped well(Pls. 232-233).

403. OLD FORT, SOLAPUR, DISTRICT SOLAPUR

The work of reconstruction of fallenportions of inner fort wall on the southern sideand bastion on the western side andwatertightening on top of the wall as per theoriginal was taken up. Resetting of undulatedroof and fixing of pipe railing along the stepsof the bastion on which the flag post is erectedwas also attended.

404. FORT AND OLD PORTUGUESE REMAINS,BASSIEN (VASAI), DISTRICT THANE

In continuation of earlier work ofstructural repairs to the Gonsalo Garcia churchat Bassein fort, removal of dead lime concreteand re-laying of fresh lime concrete in brick-bats over the roof of the main alter, removal ofdead lime mortar from the walls and re-plastering the same as per the original, re-fillingthe wall cracks, replacing of Mangalore tiles anddamaged wooden rafters in the roof etc weretaken up. The work of relaying of floor slabs instone is in progress (Pls. 234-235).

405. SIVA TEMPLE, AMBARNATH, DISTRICT

THANE

The work of providing grill fencing overdwarf wall in stone masonry by replacing theexisting damaged barbed wire fencing andextending the laying of stone pavement in theouter courtyard of the temple on the northern,eastern and southern sides has been taken up

284


223Jogeshwari caves, Jogeshwari: 222, before and 223, after conservation of pathway. See p. 282

222


285


225Group of caves, Lenyadri: 224, before and 225, after conservation. See p. 282

224


286


227Shaniwarwada, Pune: 226, before and 227, after conservation. See p. 282

226


287


229Shivneri fort: 228, before and 229, after conservation of Kadelot point. See p. 282

228


288


231Raigad fort, Raigad: 230, before and 231, after conservation of Bazarpeth. See p. 283

230


289


233Pantacha Kot, Satara: 232, before and 233, after conservation. See p. 283

232


290


235Bassein fort, Vasai: 234, before and 235, after conservation of Gonsalo Garcia church. See p. 283

234


291


237Siva temple, Ambarnath: 236, before and 237, after conservation. See p.292

236


292


and the work is in progress. The existingdilapidated store room in the south-westerncorner was removed and the work of re-erectinga shed to house the loose sculptures is underprogress (Pls. 236-237).

BIHAR

PATNA CIRCLE

406. TOMB OF SHAMSHER KHAN, SHAMSHER

NAGAR, DISTRICT AURANGABAD

The tomb was consolidated by way of un-dertaking lime concreting and watertighteningto prevent further decay.

407. EXCAVATED REMAINS , ANTICHAK

(VIKRAMSHILA), DISTRICT BHAGALPUR

Decayed and weak portion of the cellsof eastern wing of the monastery has beenstrengthened by way of underpinning, resetting,lime concreting and pointing in lime-surkhimortar. Structural repairs at the north-easterncorner of the monastery have also beenundertaken and floor was repaired with layingof lime concreting. Pradakshinapatha of thestupa has been strengthened by resetting ofbricks, lime concreting and watertightening asper original. A brick-on-edge pathway by layingof modern bricks has also been constructed foreasy movement of the visitors.

408. BUDDHIST STUPA, KESARIYA, DISTRICT

EAST CHAMPARAN

At the western side of the stuparestoration of bulged and broken parts werecarried out by using bricks bonded in lime-surkhi mortar. The restoration work includesunderpinning, resetting and watertighteningmatching to the original.

409. SUJATAGARH STUPA, BAKRAUR, DISTRICT

GAYA

Conservation of the stupa was attendedby underpinning, lime concreting, resetting inlime-surkhi mortar to make it strengthened.

410. RAJA BALI-KA-GARH, BALIRAJGARH,DISTRICT MADHUBANI

The mound was partly fenced byproviding chain link fencing over the dwarfwall to check the encroachment and trespassers.

411. STUPA, RAJGIR, DISTRICT NALANDA

To check the encroachment andunauthorised entry of the general public,construction of dwarf wall in brick with mildsteel grill fencing has been done at the site.

412. EXCAVATED REMAINS, NALANDA,DISTRICT NALANDA

Floor of the courtyard of Monastery 9was paved by using special size bricks in limemortar after removing the old one.

413. EXCAVATED REMAINS , KUMRAHAR,DISTRICT PATNA

The old and damaged brick on edgepathway was dismantled and repaired by raisingits height for easy movement of visitors.

414. TANK, MANER, DISTRICT PATNA

The decayed and damaged portion ofkiosk at the tank was reset by using lakhauribricks in lime-surkhi mortar as per original.

415. TOMB OF MAKHDUM SHAH DAULAT AND

IBRAHIM KHAN, MANER, DISTRICT PATNA

Old and deteriorated beam of themosque was replaced and reset in its originalplace. Restoration of bulged and broken partof the enclosure wall was carried out by usinglakhauri bricks in lime-surkhi mortar.

416. MIR ASHRAF’S MOSQUE CHOWK,SHIKARPUR, DISTRICT PATNA

293


421. RELIC STUPA, VAISHALI, DISTRICT

VAISHALI

The bulged and dislocated bricks of theremains of stupa were repaired and all aroundthe protected area dwarf wall with mild steelgrill fencing has been provided.

422. ASOKAN COLUMNS, RAMPURVA, DISTRICT

WEST CHAMPARAN

As a measure of security of the Asokanpillar a dwarf wall has been constructed andprovided with mild steel grill fencing over it.

Dismantling of deteriorated portion ofancient fountain was carried out wherevernecessary and conserved as per original.Damaged floor tiles were also replaced by freshone.

417. TOMB OF SHER SHAH SURI, SASARAM,DISTRICT ROHTAS

The choked inlet and outlet channel ofancient tank have been cleaned and repaired byusing proper ingredients. Dismantling ofdilapidated portion of the pathway has beenundertaken and reset in brick masonry byraising its height. Delhi gate and causewayleading from main entrance to the tomb havebeen repaired by replacing the old stonemasonry and laying of fresh one as per original.Dwarf wall with mild steel grill fencing aroundthe protected area has been constructed to checkthe encroachment and unauthorized entry ofgeneral public.

418. ROHTAS FORT, ROHTAS, DISTRICT

ROHTAS

Growth of vegetation on the structurehas been uprooted and relevant portions wererepaired by filling of cracks and crevices withproper ingredients. The floor has been pavedwith flag stones and bonded in lime-surkhimortar.

419. ANCESTRAL HOUSE OF DR. RAJENDRA

PRASAD, THE FIRST PRESIDENT OF INDIA,JIRADEI, DISTRICT SIWAN

Deteriorated portion of the roof wasrepaired to check the seepage of rain water. Theold and damaged doors and windows were alsoreplaced by fresh ones.

420. RAJA VISHAL-KA-GARH, VAISHALI,DISTRICT VAISHALI

The site is provided with constructionof dwarf wall and fenced in mild steel grill overit in view of its overall security.

CHHATTISGARH

RAIPUR CIRCLE

423. MAHADEV TEMPLE, BASTAR, DISTRICT

BASTAR

In continuation of previous year’s works,after removal of damaged apron it has been re-laid with new stones all around the temple. Be-sides an approach path leading to the templehas been provided for better movement of visi-tors.

424. NARAYAN TEMPLE, NARAYANPAL,DISTRICT BASTAR

Work of providing approach pathleading to the temple is in progress.

425. KANTHI DEUL, RATANPUR, DISTRICT

BILASPUR

In continuation of previous year’sworks, flag stone flooring has been providedaround the monument for easy movement ofvisitors.

426. RATANPUR FORT, RATANPUR, DISTRICT

BILASPUR

294


Pointing to excavated brick structureand providing lime concrete over it was carriedout during the period under report.

427. BHIMAKICHAK TEMPLE, MALHAR,DISTRICT BILASPUR

In continuation of previous year’s works,resetting of heavy sculptural panels at itsoriginal position is in progress. Besides workof the approach path leading to the temple is inprogress.

428. PATALESWAR TEMPLE, MALHAR, DISTRICT

BILASPUR

In continuation of previous year’s works,after dismantling the original platform it is beingreset to avoid water stagnation. Besides workof the approach path leading to the temple is inprogress.

429. SIVA TEMPLE, GATORA, DISTRICT

BILASPUR

In continuation of previous year’s worksduring the period under report re-plastering andunderpinning of brick walls after removal of thedead and pulverized lime plaster,watertightening of the ceiling, re-erection offallen pillars and restoration of broken archesetc. are in progress.

430. DANTESWARI TEMPLE, DANTEWADA,DISTRICT DANTEWADA

In continuation of previous year’s works,laying of lime concrete over the roof ofmukhmandapa and antarala, resetting of thedamaged roof of simhadwara, re-plastering ofside walls after removal of dead lime plasteretc. were carried out. A compound wall havebeen provided for the safety and security of themonument.

431. BHAIRAMDEV TEMPLE, DANTEWADA,DISTRICT DANTEWADA

In continuation of previous year’s works,providing and fixing of mild steel grill over theexisting compound wall is in progress.

432. CHANDRADITYA TEMPLE, BARSOOR,DISTRICT DANTEWADA

In continuation of previous year’s works,structural restoration including watertighteningof the mandapa of the temple were carried out.Besides, resetting work of the damaged apronall around the temple was completed. Drinkingwater facilities have been provided to visitors.In addition to this for the environmentaldevelopment garden work has been taken up.

433. MAMA BHANJA TEMPLE, BARSOOR,DISTRICT DANTEWADA

In continuation of previous year’s works,resetting of the damaged apron all around thetemple was completed and environmentaldevelopment work has been taken up within themonument complex by laying garden.

434. GANESA STATUE, BARSOOR, DISTRICT

DANTEWADA

The damaged shed provided earlier overthe Ganesa statue was dismantled and a newlarger size shed is being provided.

435. KAMA MEMORIAL, DHILMILI, DISTRICT

DANTEWADA

In continuation of previous year’s works,construction of a shed over the memorial pillaris in progress. For the safety and security of themonument galvanised iron chain link fencinghas been provided around the protected limit.Besides an approach path leading to the templehas been provided for better movement ofvisitors.

436. SIVA TEMPLE, DEOBOLODA, DISTRICT

DURG

295


In continuation of previous year’s works,apron all around the tank have been providedand damaged steps leading to the ancient tanklocated on the north side have been restored.Fixing of galvanised iron pipe railing aroundthe tank has been provided to avoid any mishapas well as to keep the tank water neat and clean.

437. SITA DEVI AND SATI PILLAR, DEORBIJA,DISTRICT DURG

Retaining wall has been provided alongthe edge of the pond to avoid any mishap aswell as to develop monument premises.

438. LARGE VISHNU TEMPLE, JANJGIR,DISTRICT JANJGIR-CHAMPA

For the safety and security of themonument a dwarf wall mounted with mildsteel grill has been provided around theprotected limit.

439. BRICK MOUND 2, GARH DHANORA,DISTRICT KANKER

For the protection and safety of themonument a dwarf wall has been provided andfixing of mild steel grill over the wall is inprogress.

440. PALI INSCRIPTION, SAMARSAL, DISTRICT

KORBA

For the safety and security of themonument a dwarf wall mounted with mildsteel grill has been provided around theprotected limit.

441. MAHADEV TEMPLE, PALI, DISTRICT

KORBA

Drinking water facilities have beenprovided to visitors. In addition to this for theenvironmental development, garden work hasbeen taken up.

442. DURGA TEMPLE, CHAITURGARH FORT,DISTRICT KORBA

Structural restoration of the mandapais in progress.

443. RAMA TEMPLE, SIRPUR, DISTRICT

MAHASAMUND

In continuation of previous year’s works,resetting, brick veneering, underpinning andwatertightening work was carried out at theplinth and steps parts of the Rama temple.Construction of compound wall is in progressto provide safety and security at the monumentarea.

444. TIVARADEV VIHAR, SIRPUR, DISTRICT

MAHASAMUND

In continuation of previous year’s works,in addition to consolidating the base all aroundthe monastery resetting and watertightening ofthe shrine chamber and cells on the north sideof the monastery, etc. are in progress. Duringthe course of scientific clearance remnants ofancient steps in front of the monastery wereexposed.

445. HARSHA GUPTA VIHAR, SIRPUR, DISTRICT

MAHASAMUND

In continuation of previous year’s works,resetting and watertightening of the shrinechamber, monastery cells of north side,consolidating the base all around the monastery,etc. have been completed. Resetting andwatertightening of the monastery wall on thefront side of the main entrance is in progress.

446. SHIV GUPTA TEMPLE, SIRPUR, DISTRICT

MAHASAMUND

Restoration and resetting of brick wallsincluding the mouldings above the plinth level,laying of apron after consolidation of the baseall around the small temple in the complex, etc.have been carried out. The premises is being

296


developed to restore the by gone beauty of themonument.

447. LAXMAN TEMPLE, SIRPUR, DISTRICT

MAHASAMUND

In continuation of previous year’s works,resetting, underpinning and pointing to theperipheral wall, providing and laying ofapproach road from temple to sculpture shed,providing approach pathway for physicallychallenged persons, installing electronic securitysystem in temple and sculpture shed etc. havebeen attended. Development of garden in themonument complex is in progress.

448. PADMAPANI VIHAR, SIRPUR, DISTRICT

MAHASAMUND

In continuation of previous year’s works,restoration and watertightening of the monasterywall is in progress. A garden is being developedin the complex to beautify the premises.

449. SIVA TEMPLE 4, SIRPUR, DISTRICT

MAHASAMUND

In continuation of previous year’s works,laying of approach path from the main entrancehas been taken up. Resetting, watertighteningof monastery walls are in progress.

450. EXCAVATED SIVA TEMPLE 6, SIRPUR,DISTRICT MAHASAMUND

A dwarf wall has been provided forsafety and security of the monument.

451. EXCAVATED STRUCTURE (SRP-13), SIRPUR,DISTRICT MAHASAMUND

A dwarf wall has been provided forsafety and security of the monument.


For the protection and safety of themonument a dwarf wall has been provided.

453. EXCAVATED SIVA TEMPLE 3, SIRPUR,DISTRICT MAHASAMUND

For the safety and security of themonument a dwarf wall mounted with mildsteel grill has been provided.

454. SIVA TEMPLE 1, SIRPUR, DISTRICT

MAHASAMUND

Digging of bore well for providingdrinking water facilities to the visitors has beencompleted.

455. SURANG TILA, SIRPUR, DISTRICT

MAHASAMUND

In continuation of previous year’s works,for the safety and security of the monument adwarf wall mounted with mild steel grill hasbeen provided.

456. SASAI VIHAR, SIRPUR, DISTRICT

MAHASAMUND

Restoration of the excavated structuresis in progress.


For the safety and security of themonument a dwarf wall has been provided.


For the safety and security of themonument a dwarf wall has been provided.

459. MAHADEV TEMPLE, NARAYANPUR,DISTRICT RAIPUR

In continuation of previous year’s works,after dismantling the damaged apron it is beingreset to avoid water stagnation around the

297


HIMACHAL PRADESH

SHIMLA CIRCLE

JHARKHAND

RANCHI CIRCLE

465. SRI BRIJESHWARI DEVI TEMPLE,CHAMBA, DISTRICT CHAMBA

To facilitate the movement of thepilgrims and tourists, a long flight of 76sandstone steps, secured with low side walls,set in lime-cement mortar, was provided alongthe hill slope from the metalled road levelbelow to the higher edge of the Sri BrijeshwariDevi temple courtyard. This is the main andoriginal approach to the Sri Brijeshwari Devitemple (Pls. 238-239).

466. SRI LAKSMI NARAYAN TEMPLE,CHAMBA, DISTRICT CHAMBA

The wooden roof of the mandapa andthe garbhagriha of Sri Laksmi Narayan temple,which is main temple amongst a group of sixtemples had accidentally set to fire nearly fiftyyear ago. While the roof of the garbhagrihahad been restored, this year the restoration ofthe roof of the mandapa was taken up. Woodentress comprising rafters and planks of first classdeodar wood and laying roof stones as peroriginal were provided (Pls. 240-241).

467. KATOCH PALACE, SUJANPUR TIRA,DISTRICT HAMIRPUR

A wooden ceiling was provided to theleft side gateway structures, with lime concreteon top finished as per original pattern. Thecourse rubble masonry was provided on theright side of the rear gate of the Katoch palaceand fort wall with the dressed sandstones, setin lime mortar, as per the original, afterdismantling the cracked stone masonry of therear gate. The restoration work of structureknown as baradari of the Katoch palace, whichwas badly damaged during 1905 earthquake,was taken up. The conservation works included

monument. Besides an approach path leadingto the temple has been provided.

460. SITA BENGRA AND JOGIMARA CAVES,UDAIPUR, DISTRICT SARGUJA

Galvanised iron pipe railing has beenprovided on the right side of the pathwayleading to the caves to avoid any mishap.

461. SIVA TEMPLE, KHEKPARTA, DISTRICT

LOHARDAGA

The construction of compound wallaround the exposed structural remains is inprogress.

462. JAMI MOSQUE, HADAF, DISTRICT

SAHEBGANJ

The restoration work of the fallen part ofnorthern portion of the mosque, the construc-tion of brick-on-edge pathway around themosque and the construction of enclosure wallin the back side of the mosque by providingmild steel grill over the dwarf boundary wallhave been completed.

463. BARADWARI, ARZIMUKHIMPUR, DISTRICT

SAHEBGANJ

The construction of random rubblestone retaining wall towards the river side ofthe Baradwari is in progress.

464. BENISAGAR, DISTRICT WEST SINGHBHUM

An octagonal visitor shed wasconstructed in south west corner of the site.Fencing of northern side with barbed wire isin progress.

298


re-producing the collapsed portions of thebaradari after constructing a base of hardsandstone masonry, supported with reinforcedcement concrete work to reach the plinth levelof the baradari structure, on the sloppy hill,providing and laying lime concrete in the floorof baradari and lakhauri brick masonry ofside walls of the structure was taken up. Thework of restoration of front and side retainingwalls of the baradari structure set in limemortar. The front and side retaining walls ofthe baradari structure were restored withcoarse rubble dressed sandstone masonry in limemortar (Pls. 242-243).

468. SIVA TEMPLE, BAIJNATH, DISTRICT

KANGRA

A retaining wall of coarse rubblemasonry with hard sandstone was constructedalongside the hilly slope, on the left of the riverto check erosion of the table land.

469. RUINED FORT, KANGRA, DISTRICT

KANGRA

The ongoing work of dismantling and res-toration of the bulged and missing walls ofSukha Talab has been completed. The cells nearthe Laxmi Narayana temple were restored as peroriginal with coarse rubble masonry of dressedsandstone in lime mortar. The inner surface ofthe cells walls was lime-plastered. Dressedsandstones were provided in the flooring of thecells. Two of the cells were provided withwooden roof, having lime concrete on the top.The other two cells, located on the right side ofDarshani darwaza, which originally had stoneroof and collapsed in the earthquake of 1905,were provided with the stone roof set exclu-sively in lime mortar as per original pattern. Thetop surface of the roof was provided with limeconcrete finished fine matching with originaldesign and pattern. All the four restored cellswere provided with wooden doors and win-

dows, along with chowkhats. The part of thefortification wall, running in between the Ahinigate and the Amiri gate, was restored maintain-ing its original curves, gun slits and other archi-tecture features, matching with the original char-acter of the fort architecture (Pls. 244-247).

470. RUINED FORT, NURPUR, DISTRICT

KANGRA

The ongoing work of course rubblemasonry with dressed sandstone in lime mortarof the fort walls, located on the left side of RaniMahal complex and the palace was completed.

The scientific clearance of the RangMahal complex, which was taken up last year toexpose the structures buried in 1905 earthquakehas interestingly revealed a circular well havingan unusual star-shaped rim along with the otherassociated structures.

471. BUDDHIST MONASTERY, TABO, DISTRICT

LAHAUL AND SPITI

In continuation of previous year’s works,dismantling of the remaining rubble stonepitched pathways and restoring the same withdressed sandstone over base concrete in limecement mortar was taken up and completed. Therestoration work of stupas was taken up byproviding local mud brick masonry in mudmortar to their platforms, after dismantling theexisting random rubble masonry of stones setin incompatible material. Complete mudplastering of these stupas was done in order tomaintain the original look and ambience of theancient Buddhist monastic complex.

472. MIRKULA DEVI TEMPLE, UDAIPUR,DISTRICT LAHAUL AND SPITI

The Mirkula devi temple had developed somesettlement problems mainly owing to moisturereaching into its foundations. Wooden sleeperswere procured for restoration work of the

299


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300


241Sri Lakshmi-Narayana Temple, Chamba: 240,before and 241, after replacing of roof. See p.297

240


301


243Katoch palace, Sujanpur Tira: 242, before and 243, after restoration of retaining walls. See p. 298

242


302


245Ruined fort, Kangra: 244, before and 245, after restoration of roof. See p. 298

244


303


247Ruined fort, Kangra: 246, before and 247, during restoration of fortification wall. See p. 298

246


304


temple. Till such time as a full-fledgedrestoration work is taken up, eight wooden loadsharing prop-ups, seemingly at the problematiczones were provided as precautionary measures.

473. SIVA TEMPLE, MANGARH, DISTRICT

SIRMOUR

A retaining wall of coarse rubblemasonry with dressed sandstone was constructedalongside the nalla that flow close by thesubsidiary temple in order to prevent the waterfrom entering the temple premises. Thissubsidiary temple, which was in a very bad shapeand had developed cracks and vegetationalgrowth, was re-set as per original.

KERALA

THRISSUR CIRCLE

PATTAMBI, DISTRICT PALAKKAD

The open courtyard of the temple was lev-eled up and proper drainage provided.

478. TENKAILASANATHA TEMPLE

(VADAKKUMNATHA), THRISSUR, DISTRICT

THRISSUR

The dilapidated first and second tier woodenmembers of the southern gopuram were dis-mantled and reset as per original after replac-ing the damaged members with new teakwoodrunners window jalis, planks, etc. The outerwalls all around were strengthening and re-plas-tered after removing the dead plaster. The en-tire structure was subjected to the anti-termitetreatment.

The lower portion roof of the westerngopuram has been dismantled after properdocumentation. The damaged roof members arereplaced with new teakwood members wher-ever required as per original design. Paint overthe old wooden carvings is removed and woodpreservative oil coat is applied over all roofmembers. Removal the dead lime plasters fromthe walls of the upper tala carefully and re-plas-tered with specially machine grained lime mor-tar.

The southeastern part of the Thidappally(kitchen) was properly conserved.

479. SIVA TEMPLE, CHEMMANTHITTA, DIS-TRICT THRISSUR

The out of plump laterite prakara wall oneastern side was dismantled after proper docu-mentation and reset as per the original. The con-servation of the damaged laterite easterngopura (south wing) was also and carried outby replacing damaged laterite stone with newones as per the original design. The dilapidatedwall of Vilakkumadam was also conserved.

474. TELLICHERRY FORT, TELLICHERRY,DISTRICT KANNUR

The damaged roof and walls of unit-I build-ing inside the fort was taken up for conserva-tion. The rotten rafters, wall plates, ridges,creepers, etc. were replaced with new oneswherever required. Anti termite treatment wasalso given. The outer face of the fort wall onthe southern side was pointed.

475. ST. ANGELO FORT, KANNUR, DISTRICT

KANNUR

The bastions of the fort werewatertightened. The dilapidated and erodeddrain on the northern side of the fort wall wasproperly conserved.

476. BEKAL FORT, PALLIKARE, DISTRICT

KASARGOD

The damaged laterite stone pavement be-tween bastions five and nine and was restored.

477.SIVA TEMPLE, NETRIMANGALAM ,

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and providing support of bela stone masonrywork to the bastion has been completed.

485. FORT (JETTY), DIU, DIU

The work of dismantling the damagedflooring in bela stone masonry and stonemasonry parapet wall and steps completed.

486. ARMOUR HOUSE, DIU, DIU

The work of dismantling the cracked andbulged out bela stone masonry of armour houseis in progress. The dismantling of badlydamaged pathway with stone edging andrelaying of lime concrete pathway with newlydressed stone edging have been completed.

DAMAN AND DIU

VADODARA CIRCLE

480. FORT WALLS, NANI DAMAN, DAMAN

The work of providing new sal wood beamsand teak wood planks in the aisle of the fortwall, after removing the old decayed beams andunderpinning and plastering of the walls andrelaying of open terrace with lime concretemortar has been completed.

481. HOLY JESUS CHURCH, MOTI DAMAN,DAMAN

The work of applying snowcem over theouter walls of the church and repairing of bellsand wooden doors has been completed.

482. CHURCH OF OUR LADY ROSARIO, MOTI

DAMAN, DAMAN

The work of distempering the innerwalls and snowcem on the outer wall and oilpaint on doors and windows has beencompleted.

483. ST. TIAGO BASTION AND RUINED CHAPEL

INSIDE THE FORT, DIU, DIU

The work of reconstruction of belastone masonry wall of the bastion and chapelwith duly dressed new bela stones andreconstruction of arch supported floor of chapelreconstruction of sanctum rows, flooring andlime plastering of chapel has been carried out.The work of stucco plastering of St.Tiagofacade, pulpit and vaulted roof of altar has beencompleted. Consolidating base to supportcracked rock below is in progress.

484. CAVALIEO BASTION (LIGHT HOUSE

BASTION), FORT DIU, DIU

The work of dismantling bed rockdetached from the lower portion of the bastion

GUJARAT

487. BHADRA TOWER, AHMEDABAD, DISTRICT

AHMEDABAD

The collapsed portion of Bhadra tower (dueto the earthquake of 2001) has been restored asper original. Decayed and dead lime plaster overthe structure has been removed and fresh limeplaster provided.

488. SAIYED USMAN’S TOMB, AHMEDABAD,DISTRICT AHMEDABAD

The work of providing andreconstructing collapsed inner chamber of thetomb consisting of kumbhis, columns, capitals,lintels, etc. duly carved as per original andresetting of the dismantled architecturalmember using dhrangdhara stones had beencarried out. The work is in progress.

489. SMALL STONE MOSQUE, ISANPUR,DISTRICT AHMEDABAD

The work of dismantling the badlydamaged architectural members such askumbhis, pillars, lintels, stone wall, etc. andreconstruction of the same as per original has

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been carried out. The missing ashlar stonemasonry wall of southern side mihrab and archeshas also been reconstructed as per original alsoproviding and fixing highly ornamented minarof the mosque with available original stonemembers.

490. GREAT MOSQUE, SARKHEJ, DISTRICT

AHMEDABAD

The old decayed and damaged flooringof the corridor, courtyard and mosque at Sarkhejhas been removed and reset with new dresseddhrangdhara stones as per original. The workis in progress.

491. MALAV TANK, DHOLKA, DISTRICT

AHMEDABAD

The missing stones of railing of thekakshasana and base pillars of the bridgeleading to central pavilion after dressing andmoulding of stones have been provided as peroriginal. The work is in progress.

492. BABA LAULI’S MOSQUE, AHMEDABAD,DISTRICT AHMEDABAD

The work of dismantling andreconstruction of badly damaged architecturalmembers, the central corbelled dome, lintel,capital, columns, chhajjas, kangoora, etc. hasbeen carried out as per original. The removal ofdead lime concrete and roof concrete includingpointing, dressing, moulding, etc. as peroriginal.

493. TOMB OF SHAIKH AHMED KHATTU GANJ

BAKSH, SARKHEJ, DISTRICT AHMEDABAD

The work of removal of dead limeconcrete and providing lime concrete anddhrangadhra stone along with stone lining hadbeen carried out.

494. KABUTAR KHANA PAVILION, CHAMPANER-PAVAGADH, DISTRICT GODHRA

Restoration of old brick wall in limemortar has been carried out and lime plaster hasbeen provided on the front side wall and ceiling.Providing ashlar stone masonry in KhajuriMasjid is in progress.

495. KEVADA MASJID, CHAMPANER-PAVAGADH,DISTRICT GODHRA

The works of providing chhajja stoneson cenotaph and apron around cenotaph and infront of mosque nave been carried out. Dresseddhrangadhra stone pathway has also beenprovided. Excavation of foundation trench forbrick masonry platform around the mosque isin progress.

496. EK MINAR-KI-MASJID, CHAMPANER-PAVAGADH, DISTRICT GODHRA

The work of providing chain linkfencing over brick masonry dwarf wall and mildsteel grill is completed.

497. HELICAL STEP WELL, CHAMPANER-PAVAGADH, DISTRICT GODHRA

The work of providing dhrangadhrastone apron around the well on lime concretebase is completed. De-silting of the well hasbeen taken up and fifteen steps have beenexposed and pointing has been attended towherever necessary.

498. LILA GUMBAJ-KI-MASJID, CHAMPANER-PAVAGADH, DISTRICT GODHRA

The work of providing and fixing ashlarstone masonry wall of the courtyard has beencarried out and work of providing chain linkfencing over brick masonry dwarf wall is inprogress.

499. SOUTH-EAST BHADRA GATE,CHAMPANER-PAVAGADH, DISTRICT GODHRA

The work of pointing the old brickmasonry wall, kangura with lime mortar and

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dismantling old flaked lime concrete. Relayingof fresh lime concrete over balcony andplatform. Providing old type brick masonry inlime mortar over gate and providing wall nearGate 1 and preparing of kangura at missingplaces in lime mortar. Filling random rubblemasonry in lime mortar in corner bastions.Providing finely dressed ashlar stone masonryin bastion, fixing it with lime mortar. Providingashlar stone masonry in jarokha above Gate 2and platform near the gate providing chain linkfencing over brick masonry dwarf wall. The workis completed.

500. ATAK GATE, CHAMPANER-PAVAGADH,DISTRICT GODHRA

The works of dismantling of bulged anddislodged masonry wall and reconstructing inlime mortar the back side of Gate 1, 2 and alsofront of Gate 1 have been carried out.Watertightening of the rubble masonry wall withthe lime mortar was attended to.

501. JAMI MASJID, CHAMPANER-PAVAGADH,DISTRICT GODHRA

The works of providing chhajja stones,repairing damaged ashlar stare masonry ofcorridor, watertightening of corridor andreconstruction of fallen and damaged porchtowards northern side of Jami Masjid with oldavailable stones have been carried out. A pavedpathway of dhrangadhara stone over limeconcrete bed has also been provided. The workof constructing toilet blocks and ramp forphysically challenged persons is completed. Thework of providing apron around the mosque hasbeen completed.

502. NAGINA MASJID, CHAMPANER-PAVAGADH,DISTRICT GODHRA

The work of dressing of chhajja stonefor fixing in mosque and cenotaph is in progress.

503. VENI MADHAV TEMPLE, DWARKA,DISTRICT JAMNAGAR

The work of dismantling the sikharaover garbhagriha and resetting the same as peroriginal is completed.

504. DWARAKADHISH TEMPLE, DWARKA,DISTRICT JAMNAGAR

The work of erection of mild steel grillover dwarf masonry wall and fixing of entry gateis completed.

505. BABA PYARE CAVES, JUNAGARH, DISTRICT

JUNAGARH

The work of dismantling random rubblemasonry wall without damaging the lowerportion and stacking useful stones for reuse,disposal of debris, enclosing of area by mild steelgrill over dwarf wall is completed.

506. BUDDHIST CAVE, JUNAGARH, DISTRICT

JUNAGARH

The work of removing the debris andproviding base with concrete, galvanised ironpipe and iron angle bar grills for safety ofvisitors, besides minor works such as repairs ofpillars and flooring, plastering all around themonument is completed.

507. RAO LAKHA CHHATRI, BHUJ, DISTRICT

KACHCHH

Reconstruction of pillars of collapsedmain chhatri as per original by using availableand new stones dressed and carved as per originaland also provided with capitals over pillars. Thework of providing chain link fencing on dwarfmasonry wall is in progress.

508. EXCAVATED SITE, DHOLAVIRA, DISTRICT

KACHCHH

The work of removal of earth which wasdumped during excavation at south east corner

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of eastern reservoir and between areas of otherexcavated remains has been carried out.Construction of culvert over Manhar river forapproach road and vehicle parking area havealso been provided.

509. RANI-KI-VAV, PATAN, DISTRICT PATAN

The work of providing and fixing ofDholpur stone pathway over concrete beddingand brick layers with stone edges in acquiredarea and providing concrete in parking area hasbeen completed.

510. SAHASRALINGA TALAV, PATAN, DISTRICT

PATAN

The work of providing and fixing chainlink fencing over brick masonry wall iscompleted.

511. TORANA, VADNAGAR, DISTRICT PATAN

The work of repair of torana andproviding and fixing chain link fencing overbrick masonry dwarf wall has been carried outand re-erection of dismantled torana, capitalsand lintels has also been completed.

512. KHWAJA SAFAR SULEIMANI TOMB, SURAT,DISTRICT SURAT

Wooden frame with mild steel grill hasbeen provided around the corridors.

513. OLD ENGLISH TOMBS, SURAT, DISTRICT

SURAT

The works of repairing damageddecorative columns as per original and underpinning the damaged wall, providing and fixinggalvanised iron pipe, wire net have been carriedout and completed.

514. OLD DUTCH TOMBS, SURAT, DISTRICT

SURAT

The work of applying lime surkhi plasterreproducing floral grouting of cracks on walls,

arches, columns and repair of broken original.The work is in progress.

515. HIRA GATE, DABHOI, DISTRICT

VADODARA

The fallen architectural members havebeen carefully retrieved from the debris andstacked for reuse after proper documentation.The work is in progress.

516. BHAU TAMBEKARWADA HAVELI ,VADODARA, DISTRICT VADODARA

Dismantling rotten wooden beams fromthe roof of second and third floors, chiselingthe wooden members from old teak wood asper the existing style and erecting the same hasbeen taken up. After providing the woodenmembers anti termite treatment was given.Relaying the weathered course with brick-batsand pure lime to an average thickness of 100mmwell beaten with wooden hammers pouring ofnutmeg mixed with jaggery and water andplastering the top with combination mortar 1:1:4added with water proofing compound, curing,etc. applying French polish for the teakwoodmembers like wooden ceiling, beams, etc. wasattended to.

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ARCHAEOLOGICAL CHEMISTRY

ANDHRA PRADESH

1. SRI VIRABHADRA SWAMY TEMPLE,LEPAKASHI, DISTRICT ANANTAPUR

In continuation of previous year’swork, the conservation and restoration workwas taken up on the paintings executed on theceiling of Visnu shrine and stone surface ofpillars. The paintings executed on the limeplaster over granite slabs, ceiling pillars werehaving accumulation of dust and dirt, soot,cobwebs, insects nests, accretions loss ofadhesion of plaster at some places, along withpresence of lime deposits, oil stains, greasymatter, superficial dust and dirt on the stonepillars. Superficial accretions were removedmechanically using sable hair brushes. The sootand dust accretions were removed chemicallyusing a mixture of 2-ethoxy ethanol, toluene(sulphur free) and tri-ethanol amine in the ratioof 2:2 and 0.5. The tenacious accretions werefurther cleaned using a mixture of methanoland Iso-propanol. On account of the tenaciousnature of the accretionary deposits, theapplication of the mixture of solvents had tobe resorted to 3-4 times for their completeremoval. Further, any remnants left on thesurface were removed mechanically with thehelp of artist brush and cotton swabs. The workis still in progress.

2. SRI VAIDYANATHA SWAMY AND SRI

BHEEMALINGESWARA SWAMY TEMPLE,PUSHPAGIRI, DISTRICT CUDDAPAH

IX. ARCHAEOLOGICAL CHEMISTRY

TREATMENT OF MONUMENTS AND PAINTINGS1

1. Information from: Director (Science) of the Chemical Branch of the Survey.

In continuation of previous year’s work, theconservation treatment and preservation workhas been taken up for the removal of micro-vegetational growth, tenacious coats of lime andred ochre and stains of bat’s excreta form theexterior and interior surfaces of chhajja, pil-lars, gopuram of both the temples. The thickand tenacious coats of lime and red ochre wereremoved by chemico-mechanical means using3-5% acetic acid in aqueous medium. Micro-vegetational growth was removed using a mix-ture of liquid ammonia (3%) and non-ionic de-tergent in 3:1 ratio, followed by brushing withdifferent type of brushes. A final wash with di-lute ammonia solution and then with plain wa-ter was given to remove all the residual chemi-cals. Subsequent to cleaning, the exterior sur-face was given fungicidal treatment with a coatof 2% sodium penta chlorophenate (SPC) fol-lowed by application of a silicone based waterrepellent Wacker BS-290 in mineral turpentineoil (MTO) (1:15) on the dried surface.

3. SRI BHEEMESVARA SWAMY TEMPLE,DRAKSHARAMA, DISTRICT EAST GODAVARI

In continuation of previous year’swork, the conservation treatment andpreservation work has been taken up for theremoval of micro-vegetational growth fromexteriors and lime, soot and oil accretions frominterior part of west gopuram in which thedressed khondalite has been used as buildingmaterial. The micro-vegetational growth wasremoved with the mixture of ammonia andteepol in 3:1 ratio. An aqueous solution of

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glacial acetic acid was used chemico-mechanically for the removal of lime depositsfollowed by thorough washing with diluteammonia solution for neutralization of acidremnants. Subsequently, the surface wassubjected to thorough washing with plain water.The preservation part will be taken up in nextyear.

4. SRI BHAVANARAYANA SWAMY TEMPLE,BAPATLA, DISTRICT GUNTUR

The eastern and western exteriorsurfaces and open mandapa of this templecomprises granite stone, which was taken upfor the chemical conservation treatment. Themain conservation problem of this temple wasmicro-vegetational growth along withdeposition of dust, dirt, lime coats, oil stains,greasy matter, soot, etc. on the exteriorsurfaces. For the removal of micro-vegetational growth 3% liquid ammonia andnon-ionic detergent in the ratio of 3:1 followedby soft brushing with nylon brushes was carriedout. For the removal of accretions from theintricate carvings and designs tooth brushes andcotton swabs were also used. The coats of limewere removed chemico-mechanically using 3-5% solution of glacial acetic acid in aqueousmedium. The soot and oil smears wereremoved using tri-ethanol amine. The greasymatter deposited on the interior surface wasremoved by using the clay pack technique withFuller’s earth. The western exterior surfaceswere given a coat of 2% SPC and a mixture ofWacker SMK-1311 in water as a protectivecoat.

5. GOLCONDA FORT, GOLCONDA, DISTRICT

HYDERABAD

In continuation of previous year’s work,the conservation work was taken up on thecurtain wall, Selai khana (Aslah khana), exteriorof Rani Mahal and side structures made up of

granite stone with lime plaster. The mainconservation problems were micro-vegetational growth and lime coats onexteriors. The micro-vegetational growth wasremoved chemico-mechanically using amixture of ammonia and non ionic detergentin 3:1 ratio, by brushing with nylon brushes ofdifferent types. The lime coats were alsoremoved chemico-mechanically, using 3%aqueous acetic acid solution followed bythorough washing with dilute ammonia solutionfor neutralizing the remnants of acids. Thetreated surface was then thoroughly washedwith plain water followed by a fungicidaltreatment using 2% aqueous SPC. Finally, theentire cleaned and dried exterior surface wasgiven a water repellent treatment with siliconebased water repellent Wacker BS-290 in MTO(1:15). The work is in progress.

6. BEACH GHANTKI, BURUZU, DISTRICT

KURNOOL

In continuation of previous year’s work,the conservation treatment work was taken upfor the removal of micro-vegetational growth,lime wash accretions, bird droppings, scribblingon walls etc. from stucco and brick surfaces,tetrahedral structure at top floor, identical stepswall on north and south side, eastern andwestern wall, parapet wall, southeast cornerwall at first floor, east parapet wall, steps in eastwall, steps in south, north and east walls atground floor. The micro-vegetational growthwas removed by using a mixture of ammoniaand teepol in 3:1 ratio, followed by thoroughwashing with distilled water. The lime and redochre accretions were removed chemico-mechanically using 5% aqueous acetic acidrepeatedly until complete removal of accretionsfollowed by thorough washing with plain water.The acid remnants on the wall were neutralizedby aqueous solution of dilute ammonia. Theentire cleaned exterior surfaces were given a

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coat of 2% aqueous SPC as fungicide. Finally,the dried exterior surfaces were given a waterrepellent treatment using Wacker BS-290 inMTO in 1:15 ratio. The work is still inprogress.

7. SWARGABRAHMA AND BALABRAHMAESWARA

TEMPLE, ALAMPUR, DISTRICT MEHBOOBNAGAR

In continuation of previous year’swork, the work was taken up for the removalof lime wash coats, marks of cement, micro-vegetational growth from the exterior surfaceand bat’s excreta and lime coats from interiorsurface of monuments. The bat’s excreta andmicro-vegetational growth was removed byusing a mixture of liquor ammonia and non-ionic detergent in 3:1 ratio and 5% ammoniumcarbonate and ammonium bicarbonate in 1:1ratio in aqueous medium. The calcareous andsiliceous deposits were removed chemico-mechanically using 3-5% aqueous solution ofglacial acetic acid and 2% solution of sodiumthiosulphate in distilled water. After thoroughwashing with plain water, the dried surface wasgiven fungicidal treatment to arrest therecurrence of micro-vegetational growth. Aprotective coat of silicone based water repellentWacker BS-290 in MTO (1:15) was given onexterior cleaned surface.

8. PAPANASI GROUP OF TEMPLES, ALAMPUR,DISTRICT MEHBOOBNAGAR

Work was taken up for the removal ofmicro-vegetational growth, lime coats and bat’sexcreta form the exteriors and interiors of thetemple. The micro-vegetational growth wasremoved, using a mixture of 3% liquidammonia and non-ionic detergent in the ratioof 3:1, followed by brushing with nylon brushesof different shapes and sizes. The thick limecoats were removed chemico-mechanicallyusing 3-5% solution of glacial acetic acid inaqueous medium. For the removal of bat’s

excreta mixture of liquid ammonia and non-ionic detergent in 3:1 ratio along with 5%ammonium carbonate and ammoniumbicarbonate in 1:1 ratio in aqueous mediumwere used followed by thorough washing withthe plain water to ensure elimination ofremnants of chemicals from the stone surface.The entire treated and dried surface was givena coat of 2% SPC as fungicide. On the stonesurface a preservative coat of repelling superwas applied.

9. KUSH MAHAL (SHITAB KHAN PALACE) AND

LOOSE SCULPTURE, WARANGAL FORT,DISTRICT WARANGAL

The work was taken up for the removalof micro-vegetational growth, lime and othercalcareous deposits from the exterior andinterior surfaces of south, east, west sides andloose sculptures in the interior of the fortusing aqueous ammonia and non-ionicdetergent in 3:1 ratio. The lime and red ochrecoats were subjected to the chemico-mechanically cleaning, using 3% glacial aceticacid in aqueous medium. Repeatedapplications of acetic acid had to be followedfor complete removal of remnant coats. Thesurface was then washed with aqueousammonia solution for neutralization of acidremnants, followed by thorough washing withplain water. All the treated and dry exteriorsurfaces were given a coat of 2% aqueous SPCas fungicide followed by application of asilicon based water repellent Wacker BS-290mixed with MTO in 1:15 ratio. The work isstill in progress.

10. BUDDHIST REMAINS, GUNTUPALLI ,DISTRICT WEST GODAVARI

In continuation of previous year’sworks, the conservation treatment has beentaken up for the removal of hardened limeaccretions and micro-vegetational growth on

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ASSAM

11. SIVADOL, NEGHRITING, DISTRICT

GOLAGHAT

In continuation of previous year’swork, the remaining 40% work has beencompleted. The main temple comprises of foursubsidiary shrines having lime plasteredsurface beautifully decorated with the stonesculptures at lower level. These weresubjected to chemical conservation treatmentwork to remove accretionary deposits, birddroppings and micro-vegetational growth usingaqueous ammonia solution and teepol in 3:1ratio followed by thorough washing with plainwater. The cleaned surface was given afungicidal treatment with 5% aqueous solutionof santobrite to arrest the re-growth of micro-vegetation. Finally, the dried surface was givenwater repellent treatment using Wacker BS-290in MTO in 1:10 ratio.

12. JOYSAGAR GROUP OF MONUMENTS

INCLUDES SIVADOL, DEVIDOL, VISHNUDOL AND

GHANSHYAM’S HOUSE, JOYSAGAR, DISTRICT

SIBSAGAR

The conservation and preservation ofJoysagar group of monuments brickconstruction, Vishnudol temple that has stonesculptures and carvings at Joysagar were takenup to clean accretionary deposits like mossand lichens, dust, dirt and birds excreta usinga mixture of aqueous ammonia and non-ionicdetergent. After washing, the dried surface wasgiven fungicidal treatment with 5% aqueoussolution of santobrite followed by applicationof preservative coating of Wacker BS-290 inMTO 1:10 ratio. Some part of Devidol templewas strengthened by an ethyl silicate basedstone strengthener Wacker OH-100.

13. TALATAL GHAR, JOYSAGAR, DISTRICT

SIBSAGAR

In continuation of previous year’s work,the chemical conservation treatment work wastaken up for remaining 50% area on this bricktemple which is lime plastered in order toremove heavy microbiological growth and otheraccretionary deposits using aqueous mixture ofammonia and teepol in 3:1 ratio followed bythorough washing with plain water. The cleanedsurface was then given fungicidal treatmentwith 5% aqueous solution of SPC to arrest there-growth of micro-vegetation. Finally, thedried surface was given a water repellenttreatment using silicone based Wacker BS-290in MTO in 1:9 ratio.

BIHAR

14. MUNDESHWARI TEMPLE, RAMGARH,DISTRICT BHABHUA

The sandstone temple without sikharawas subjected to the chemical treatment work

certain part of exterior surface ofDharmalingeswara Cave and large monastery.The thick and tenacious coats of lime weresubjected to mechanical treatment usingneedles and nylon brushes, so as to reducetheir thickness. The micro-vegetational growthwas removed using a mixture of aqueousammonia and teepol in 3:1 ratio, followed bybrushing with different types of brushes withsoft bristles. Solution of 3% glacial acetic acidwas applied chemico-mechanically for theremoval of remnants of lime deposits.Brushing in between with nylon brushes helpedin dislodging the lime deposits from thesurface. A final wash with dilute ammoniasolution was carried out for the removal of acidremnants, if any. All the treated exteriorsurfaces were given a coat of 2% aqueous SPCas fungicide followed by application ofsilicone based water repellent Wacker BS-290with MTO in 1:15 ratio as a protective coat.

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in order to remove accretionary deposits likemicro-biological growth, dust, dirt and birdexcreta from exterior surface of the shrine. Thesurface was cleaned using a mixture of aqueousammonia solution and teepol in 3:1 ratiofollowed by thorough washing with plain water.The cleaned surface was then given a fungicidaltreatment with 5% aqueous solution ofsantobrite followed by application of WackerBS-290 in MTO in 1:9 ratio (single coat) aswater repellent.

15. ANCIENT SITE, VIKRAMSHILA UNIVERSITY,ANTICHAK, DISTRICT BHAGALPUR

The brick structured ancient remains ofVikramshila excavated site such as ruinedentrance gate, monks’ room, adjoiningstructures were subjected to chemicalconservation treatment in order to eradicatemicro-vegetational growth, superficialaccretionary deposits, bird’s droppings, etc.using aqueous ammonia solution and teepol in3:1 ratio followed by thorough washing withthe plain water. The cleaned surface was thengiven a fungicidal treatment with 5% aqueoussolution of santobrite to arrest the re-growthof micro-vegetation. Finally, the dried surfacewas given a water repellent treatment usingWacker BS-290 in MTO 1:9 ratio. The weakand fragile brick structures were strengthenedusing a stone strengthener Wacker OH-100.

16. MONASTERY COMPLEX 8, NALANDA,DISTRICT NALANDA

The ruined brick structure of Monastery8 was subjected to a cleaning treatment bycarefully removing biological accretions andgrowth using chemicals and soft brushes. Atsome places consolidation treatment was alsogiven to impart strength to deteriorated brickstructure using an ethyl silicate based stonestrengthener Wacker OH-100. Finally, afungicidal treatment using SPC of 5% followed

CHHATTISGARH

18. RATANPUR FORT, RATANPUR, DISTRICT

BILASPUR

The monument’s exterior walls built upof soft sandstone shows signs of erosion dueto vagaries of wind and weather. The work wastaken up for the removal of micro-vegetationalgrowth, dust, dirt, soot deposits, stains ofacrylic paint and lime wash coat. The cleaningof the surface was carried out by using liquidammonia solution 4% and non-ionic detergentwith the aid of soft nylon brushes. The removalof thick layer of lime from the surface wascarried out using very dilute acetic acid solutionfollowed by complete neutralization byammonia solution. For biocidal treatment, 2%solution of SPC in de-ionized water was appliedwith spray pump over the cleaned surface.Finally, hydrophobic treatment was given to thetreated surface by applying a silicone basedwater repellent Wacker BS-290 solution inMTO solvent of 1:15 ratio.

by preservative coat of Wacker BS-290 inMTO was given to reduce ingress of moistureas well as recurrence of biological growth.

17. EXCAVATED AND TRENCHES, KULHUVA,DISTRICT VAISHALI

Brick structural remains adjoining bigStupa was subjected to the chemical treatmentfor the removal of micro-biological growth,dust, dirt and other deposits using a mixture ofammonia and teepol aqueous ammoniasolution and teepol in 3:1 ratio followed bythorough washing with plain water. The cleanedsurface was then given a fungicidal treatmentwith 5% aqueous solution of santobritefollowed by application of Wacker BS-290 inMTO 1:10 ratio (single coat) as waterrepellent.

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19. HARSH GUPTA VIHAR, SIRPUR, DISTRICT

MAHASAMUND

The work was taken up on the remainsof dilapidated wall of main shrine and cell wallbuilt up of soft bricks for the removal of micro-vegetational growth along with cleaning,mending to sculptures of monument and theirconsolidation. The cleaning of the surface wascarried out by using liquid ammonia solution4% and non-ionic detergent with the aid of softnylon brushes. For biocidal treatment, 2%solution of SPC in de-ionized water wasapplied with spray pump over the cleanedsurface. The weathered sculptures wereconsolidated by using an ethyl silicate basedstone strengthener Wacker OH-100. Finally,hydrophobic treatment was given to the treatedsurface by applying a silicone based waterrepellent Wacker BS-290 solution in MTO.solvent of 1:15 ratio.

DELHI/NEW DELHI

20. FEORZSHAH TOMB, HAUZ KHAS, DELHI

The work was taken up on the limeplaster surface of the tomb including drum anddome, marble grave inside the tomb, stonesurface that is fragile in condition having browniron stains. Besides, efforts were made for theremoval of enormous growth of microvegetation along with thick layer of dust, dirt,soot and tarry matter. The superficial depositswere removed from stone, lime plaster andmarble surface, by using 2-5% aqueousammonia and teepol solution. Clay packtreatment using Fuller’s earth along with 2-5%sodium carbonate was given on marble surfaceto remove hard accretions. Lime plaster surfacewas subjected to bleaching powder treatment.SPC was applied as fungicide on the chemicallytreated area followed by a water repellent

treatment using Wacker BS-290 in MTO. Thework is still in progress.

21. RAMPART WALL, RED FORT, DELHI

In order to improve its aestheticappearance, chemical conservation treatment oframpart wall under flag mast facing ChandniChowk is taken up every year as a regularconservation measure before 15th August. Forthe removal of superficial accretion of dust, dirt,micro-vegetational growth and particulatematters etc., 2-5% aqueous ammonia andteepol solution was used. The calcareousdeposits were removed chemico-mechanicallyby using dilute acetic acid followed bythorough washing with plain water. Ninenumbers of metallic pinnacles situated atLahori gate were chemically treated in thelaboratory for the removal of superficialaccretionary deposits and retouched by usinggolden powder in varnish. Two standingelephants of Hathi gate were cleaned byaqueous ammonia and teepol solution toremove dust, dirt and stains of birds’ excreta.Cracks in their teeth were treated and filled,followed by the application of a fine coatingof colour in varnish and thinner on the surfaceof elephant figures. The huge brass gate at theentrance of the Meena Bazaar was chemicallytreated using 3-5% alkaline solution of sodiumpotassium tartarate (Rochell’s salt) andpreserved by using dilute solution of lacquervarnish in turpentine oil. Brass gate situated inMeena Bazaar was also chemically treated forthe removal of surface accretions, dust, dirt,rust, birds’ excreta and coating of old varnish.

22. IMAM ZAMIN TOMB, QUTUB COMPLEX, NEWDELHI

The work was taken up on the limeplaster and sandstone surface for the removalof superficial accretionary deposits, dust, dirt,

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smoke, soot pollutants, micro-vegetationalgrowth and bird excreta. The chemical treatmentof sandstone, lime plaster and marble surfacewas carried out using a mixture of 5%ammonia solution and 2-5% non-ionicdetergent. Lime plaster surface of dome wassubjected to bleaching powder treatment. Ironstain marks were removed by dilute solution ofoxalic acid. Clay pack treatment using Fuller’searth along with 2-5% sodium carbonate wasgiven on marble/sandstone surface to removehard accretions. The weak and fragile stonesurface was strengthened using a stonestrengthener Wacker OH-100. After chemicaltreatment, fungicide SPC was applied all overthe surface except marble surface and finallypreserved by applying Wacker BS-290 dilutedin MTO of 1:12 ratio as water repellent onlime plaster and stone surface.

23. MODEL SCULPTURES, ASI HEAD QUARTERS,NEW DELHI

The chemical treatment and preservationof four model structures built up of lime plaster,mortar and sandstone have been carried out forthe removal of dust, dirt, soot, tarry matter,calcareous and other pollutant. The chemicaltreatment of sandstone and masonry structurewas carried out using a mixture of 5% ammoniasolution and 2-5% teepol. The lime plastersurface was subjected to bleaching powdertreatment. The weak and fragile stone surfacewas strengthened using a stone strengthenerWacker OH-100. After chemical treatment,fungicide SPC was applied all over the surfaceexcept marble surface and finally preserved byapplying Wacker BS-290 diluted in MTO of1:12 ratio as water repellent on the lime plasterand stone surface.

24. CHOTE KHAN TOMB, SOUTH EXTENSION,NEW DELHI

The entire surface of monument isaffected with thick growth of micro-vegetationand other accretionary deposits like dust, dirt,soot, bird excreta and other atmosphericpollutants. The chemical treatment of sandstoneand lime plaster surface was carried out with amixture of 5% ammonia solution and 2-5%teepol (non ionic detergent). Lime plastersurface was subjected to bleaching powdertreatment. Sandstone surface was consolidatedwith a stone strengthener Wacker OH-100.After chemical treatment, fungicide SPC wasapplied all over the surface and finally preservedwith a coating of Wacker BS-290 diluted inMTO of 1:11 ratio as water repellent on limeplaster and stone surface.

25. BHURE KHAN TOMB, SOUTH EXTENSION,NEW DELHI

The entire exterior surface of monumentis affected with thick growth of micro-vegetation and other accretionary deposits likedust, dirt, soot, bird excreta and otheratmospheric pollutants which were chemicallytreated and preserved. The quartzite stonesurface was badly affected with iron stains dueto rusting of iron dwells. Lime plaster surfacewas subjected to bleaching powder treatment.The fragile sandstone surface was consolidatedwith a stone strengthener Wacker OH-100.After chemical treatment fungicide SPC wasapplied all over the surface and finally preservedwith a coating of Wacker BS-290 diluted inMTO of 1:11 ratio as water repellent on limeplaster and stone surface. The work is still inprogress.

26. PURANA QUILA, NEW DELHI

The chemical treatment to the exteriorof Qal’a-i-a-Kuhna Mosque was carried out forthe removal of superficial accretionary deposits,cobwebs, soot and tarry matter, marks of ink,paint, coaltar, etc. from stone, marble and lime

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GOA

28. BASILICA OF BOM JESUS, OLD GOA

The chemical conservation treatmentwas taken up for the removal of micro-vegetational growth and salt deposition on theexterior walls of Basilica built up of lateritestone blocks. The surface accretions such asdust, dirt, birds’ excreta and micro-vegetationalgrowth were removed chemico-mechanicallyusing 2-3% aqueous solution of ammonia andnon ionic detergent and gentle brushing withnylon brushes followed by through washingwith plenty of water. Paper pulp treatment was

given to the infested areas in order to extractsoluble salts from the stone fabric. The surfacewas then washed with de-mineralized water forthe removal of bits of paper pulp sticking tothe surface. A 2% solution of SPC in distilledwater was applied on the cleaned surface asfungicide. After consolidation of extensivelydeteriorated portion using an ethyl silicate basedstone strengthener Wacker OH-100, WackerBS-290 diluted in MTO in 1:13 ratio wasapplied on the entire cleaned and dried surfaceas a water repellent.

29. SE’ CATHEDRAL, OLD GOA

Work in Cathedral was carried out ofgilded wooden figures on the main altar of thechurch. First all the dust and dirt superficiallydeposited was removed by gentle brushing.Subsequently, adherent accretionary depositswere removed using organic solvents likecellosolve, carbon tetra chloride, methanol,acetone, toluene in different combinations asper the response of accretionary deposits.

30. ST. FRANCIS OF ASSISI CHURCH, OLD GOA

The wooden artefacts, murals, paintingson canvas were in a very bad conditionespecially due to insect activity at many places.The entire church was fumigated as murals aredepicted all over. Fumigation of the church hasbeen carried out with etoxide gas as a fumigantto control the insect and pest activities. Thefumigant was allowed in the air tight conditionin the church for about 36 hours. The gasdetectors were used to trace out leakage of gas,if any.

plaster surface of kanguras and top mostportions of oriel windows, by using 5%aqueous ammonia and 2-5% teepol solution.Lime plaster surface of dome was subjected tobleaching powder treatment. Iron stains wereremoved by dilute oxalic acid. After chemicaltreatment fungicide SPC was applied all overthe surface except marble surface and finallypreserved by applying Wacker BS-290 dilutedin MTO of 1:12 ratio as water repellent on limeplaster and stone surface.

27. ISA KHAN TOMB, HUMAYUN’S TOMBCOMPLEX, NEW DELHI

The lime plaster and stone/tiled surfacearea of the main dome including dome of eightchhatris was subjected to chemicalconservation treatment for the removal ofmicro-vegetational growth along with removalof thick layers of dust, dirt, soot and iron stainsby using 5% aqueous ammonia and teepolsolution. Lime plaster surface was subjectedto bleaching powder treatment. SPC wasapplied on treated surface. Finally the entirestone surface was preserved by applyingWacker BS-290 diluted in MTO of 1:11 ratioas water repellent. The work is still in progress.

GUJARAT

31. SIDDI SAIYED MOSQUE, AHMEDABAD,DISTRICT AHMEDABAD

This mosque which is of sandstoneconstruction having unique semi circular jalisthat were subjected to chemical treatment for

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the removal of dust, dirt, bird droppings andother micro-vegetational growth using amixture of dilute ammonia and non-ionicsolution. The consolidations of pulverized jaliswere carried out by spraying an ethyl silicatebased stone strengthener, Wacker OH-100.Application of 2% solution of SPC asfungicidal treatment was given to entire cleanedarea. Finally, the cleaned and dried surface waspreserved with a silicone based water repellentWacker BS-290, diluted in MTO in 1:13 ratio(Pls. 248-249).

32. RAO LAKHA CHHATRI, BHUJ, DISTRICT BHUJ

The monument having sandstonesurface was covered with dust, dirt, birddroppings and other micro-vegetational growthwhich were removed by using 2-3% solutionof ammonia and teepol. Entire cleaned areawas treated with fungicide using 2% of aqueoussolution of SPC followed by a protective coatof water repellent using Wacker BS-290 MTOin 1:9 ratio.

33. SIKANDAR SHAH TOMB, HALOL, DISTRICT

HALOL

The monument is built up of sandstonewith fine plastered domes and the centralchamber and entrance porches with fluteddomes. The work was taken up for the removalof dust, dirt, bird’s droppings, micro-vegetational growth and other accretionarydeposits. These accretionary deposits wereremoved by using 2-3% solution of ammoniaand non ionic detergent. The cleaned surfacewas given fungicidal treatment with 2%aqueous solution of SPC. Finally the driedsurface was given water repellent treatmentwith Wacker BS-290 and MTO in the ratio 1:9.

34. CITADEL WALL OF FORT, PAVAGADH,DISTRICT GODHRA

The chemical treatment for the removalof micro-vegetational growth dust, dirt and bird

droppings on the citadel walls of themonuments was carried out. The micro-vegetional growth and other accretions wereremoved using 3% aqueous solution ofammonia and teepol. The entire cleanedsurface was given fungicidal treatment using2% aqueous solution of SPC followed by aprotective coat of water repellent usingWacker BS-290 in MTO in the ratio of 1:9.

35. BABAMAN MOSQUE, PAVAGADH, DISTRICT

GODHRA

This monument is built up of sandstoneand was infested with dust, dirt and micro-vegetational growth. These superficialaccretionary deposits were removed by using2-3% aqueous solution of ammonia and non-ionic detergent. The clean and dried surfacewas subjected to fungicidal treatment by using2% aqueous solution of SPC. The entire driedsurface was preserved by application of a waterrepellent Wacker BS-290 in MTO in 1:9 ratio.

36. SATKAMAN, PAVAGADH, DISTRICT GODHRA

The Satkaman situated at the end of theSadan Shah fort and right side of the Budhiyadarwaja is constructed of sandstone. The stonesurface was covered with dust, dirt, micro andmacro-vegetational growth and trees. For theremoval of plants and trees paraquat di-chloride, a contact herbicide, mixed withdistilled water in appropriate ratio was sprayedand injected as per requirement. After fifteendays the dry plants and trees were removedmechanically. The infested surface was treatedwith 2-3% aqueous solution of ammonia andnon-ionic detergent. The cleaned surface wasthen subjected to fungicidal treatment by using2% solution of SPC. The cleaned surface waspreserved with Wacker BS-290 in MTO in 1:9ratio. The work is in progress.

37. GALTESHWAR MAHADEV TEMPLE, SUNAK,DISTRICT SUNAK

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HARYANA

39. LAT-KI-MASJID, HISAR, DISTRICT HISAR

The work was carried out to removethe surface accretions, soot, smoke, stains ofrust on iron rod and pinnacle of the Lat andmicro-vegetational growth, by usingchemicals viz., 2-ethoxy ethanol,triethanolamine, oxalic acid, aqueousammonia solution and non ionic detergent in

proper ratio with the help of soft nylon brushes.The weak, weathered, pulverized portion of thestone structures was consolidated with an ethylsilicate based stone strengthener Wacker OH-100. The entire cleaned surface was givenfungicidal treatment using 3% solution of SPCin distilled water followed by water repellenttreatment with Wacker BS-290 in MTO in theratio of 1:14.

40. KHWAZA KHIZR’S TOMB, SONEPAT, DISTRICT

SONEPAT

In continuation of previous year’s work,the chemical conservation was carried out onred sandstone surface and wooden structure ofthe monument. The red sandstone portion andwooden structure were badly covered with dust,dirt, grease, soot and micro-vegetation. Thesuperficial accretions were chemically cleanedby using a mixture of suitable chemicals andsolvents. The weak and fragile stone portion wasconsolidated with stone strengthener WackerOH-100. Subsequently cleaned and dried stonesurface was given fungicidal treatment with 3%aq, solution of SPC. A silicone based waterrepellent Wacker BS-290 mixed with MTO inthe ratio of 1:14 was applied on the stonesurface.

HIMACHAL PRADESH

41. ROCK-CUT TEMPLE, MASRUR, DISTRICT

KANGRA

In continuation of previous year’sworks, the remaining chemical conservationand consolidation work of rock cut monolithictemple was taken up. The consolidation workwas carried out on the weak, fragile andpulverized stone surface of rock cut figureswith an ethyl silicate based stone strengthenerWacker OH-100 solution. The cleaningtreatment was carried out using an aqueous

Work was under taken for the removalof dust, dirt, bird’s droppings, thick micro-vegetational growth, superficial accretionarydeposits and consolidation of pulverizedsandstone which was noticed at the plinthportion of the temple. The consolidation ofpulverized stones surface was carried out byspraying an ethyl silicate based stonestrengthener, Wacker OH-100. The chemicalcleaning was carried out using 3% aqueoussolution of ammonia and teepol (non-ionicdetergent). The cleaned and dried surface wasgiven fungicidal treatment with 2% aqueoussolution of SPC. The treated surface was finallygiven a water repellent treatment using WackerBS-290 in MTO in 1:9 ratio.

38. MANSAR TALAB SHRINE, VIRAMGAM,DISTRICT VIRAMGAM

The Mansar talab having 357 numbersof small Vaisnava and Siva shrines built up ofsandstone. These shrines were covered withdust, dirt, bird’s droppings and micro-vegetational growth. The chemical treatmentwork was carried out for the removal ofaccretionary deposits using a mixture of diluteammonia and non-ionic solution. Applicationof 2% solution of SPC as fungicidal treatmentwas given to entire cleaned area. Finally, thecleaned and dried surface was preserved with asilicone based water repellent Wacker BS-290,diluted in MTO in 1:13 ratio.

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mixture of ammonia and non ionic detergentsolution with very soft nylon brushes. Thecleaned, consolidated and dried rock surfacewas then given fungicidal treatment followedby application of two coats of water repellentWacker BS-290 in MTO in the ratio of 1:14.

42. RUINED FORT, NURPUR, DISTRICT KANGRA

The conservation treatment work ondarbar hall and west side fortification wallwhich is of sandstone was taken up for theremoval of plants, micro-vegetational growthand other superficial accretions by the chemico-mechanically using aqueous solution ofammonia and non-ionic detergent in a suitableratio followed by spraying of 3% solution ofSPC as fungicide over the completely cleanedand dried surface of the stone. Theconsolidation work was carried out on the weak,fragile and pulverized stone surface with anethyl silicate based stone strengthener WackerOH-100 solution. The water repellenttreatment was given with Wacker BS-290solution in MTO in 1:14 ratio.

43. GAURI SANKAR TEMPLE, DASAL, DISTRICT

KULLU

The conservation work was taken up onthe exterior and interior stone surfaces of thismonument by removal of micro-vegetationalgrowth, smearing of colours deposition of soot,smoke, grease, etc. Suitable organic solventsand aqueous solution of ammonia and non-ionicdetergent was used with mild brushing tofacilitate the removal of biological growth aswell as greasy and oily matter from the surface.Fragile, weak, weathered portion wasconsolidated with an ethyl silicate based stonestrengthener Wacker OH-100 solution. The cleansurface was given fungicidal treatment with 3%solution of SPC to reduce the reappearance ofbiological growth. Finally, the water repellenttreatment was given with Wacker BS-290

solution in MTO in 1:14 ratio in two wet-on-wet coats.

44. PHOO GOMPHA, TABO, DISTRICT LAHAUL

AND SPITI

Work was carried out on the paintedsurface of the wall paintings. Paintings werecovered with mud streaks, dust, dirt smoke andsoot. The problem of cracks and bulging werealso observed on the murals of this gompha.In order to strengthen the painted plaster, thecracks on the paintings were filled up andrepaired with suitable and compatible materials.After the process of strengthening and repair,chemical cleaning was carried out usingmixture of organic solvents like alcohols, 2-ethoxy ethanol, tri-ethanolamine, etc. Thecolour matching of the repaired and filletedarea was carried out as per requirement and 1-2% solution of poly vinyl acetate solution intoluene was applied as preservative. A total areaof 26sqm area of wall painting was completed.

45. BUDDHIST MONASTERY, TABO, DISTRICT

LAHAUL AND SPITI

The chemical conservation andconsolidation work was carried out for the wallpaintings and stucco figures in the ante-roomof Duwang gompha. In order to strengthen thepainted plaster as well as the stucco figures, thecrack on the paintings were filled up and missingportion of the stucco figures were repaired bysuitable and compatible materials. After theprocess of strengthening and repair, chemicalcleaning was carried out using mixture oforganic solvents like alcohols, 2-ethoxyethnol, triethanolamine, etc. The colourmatching of the repaired and filleted area wascarried out as per requirement and 1-2%solution of PVA solution in toluene was appliedas preservative.

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KARNATAKA

46. HUCHAPPAYYA MUTT COMPLEX, AIHOLE,DISTRICT BAGALKOT

Huchappayya Temple (Mutt complex),comprises of two temples which are built upof sandstone were subjected to chemicalconservation treatment for the removal ofsuperficial accretionary deposits, micro-vegetational using ammonia and non-ionicdetergent in the ratio 3:1 aqueous acetic acidof 2-3% was used for the removal of limewash/lime accretions. The fragile stone surfacewas strengthened using Wacker OH-100 (EthylSilicate). The exterior areas were givenfungicidal treatment of 2% aqueous SPCfollowed by water repellent treatment usingWacker BS-290 in MTO in 1:14 ratio.

47. BHUVARAHA TEMPLE, HALSI, DISTRICT

BELGAUM

The granite stone temple was taken upfor conservation treatment and preservation ofthe exterior portion of vimana,arthamanatapa, common navaranga and twogarbhagriha walls. General cleaning andremoval of micro-vegetational growth, limedeposits/ coats and red ochre coats was doneusing aqueous ammonia and non ionicdetergent of 3-5% solution. Removal of limewash/coats was carried out using aqueoussolution of acetic acid of 2-3%, thedeteriorated stones were strengthened usingWacker OH-100 (ethyl silicate). Fungicidaltreatment was given using 2% aqueous SPCsolution followed by water repellent treatmentusing Wacker BS-290 (silane-siloxanemixture) and MTO in 1:14 ratio. The work isstill in progress.

48. AHMED SHAH WALI TOMB, ASTHUR,DISTRICT BIDAR

In continuation of the previous year’swork, the conservation treatment was continuedon this massive square shaped structure withinterior paintings of floral designs over limeplaster. The painted surfaces of east and southwalls were subjected to conservation treatmentfor the removal of surface accretions such asold varnish, soot, dust, dirt and birds’ droppingswhich were removed by using 2-ethoxy ethanoland turpentine oil and other suitable solventslike tri-ethanol-amine, methanol, n-butanol,acetone. Filleting and colour integration wasalso done wherever required using plaster ofparis and earth colours. The treated area waspreserved with 1% solution of PVA in toluene(sulphur free) (Pls. 250-251).

49. ASAR MAHAL, BIJAPUR, DISTRICT BIJAPUR

In continuation of the previous year’swork, the conservation treatment was continuedin three rooms on the first floor of the mahal,having beautiful paintings over lime plasteredwalls and ceilings on the lintels. Theconservation treatment was carried out for theremoval of superficial accretions, soot, dust, dirt,and old preservative coatings using a mixtureof suitable organic solvents. Consolidationwork was also carried out for filling andfilleting on the north and west wall of the firstroom. The colour integration work was alsoattended using earth colours. The cleaned areaof the west wall was given a single coatpreservative coating using 1% PVA in toluene(sulphur free). The work is still in progress.

50. GOMATESWARA STATUE, SRAVANABELAGOLA,DISTRICT HASSAN

The colossal statue of Gomateswara ongranite stone was chemically treated andconserved. The general cleaning of the removalof superficial accretionary deposits like ghee,milk, curd, herbal juices and red stains wascarried out using ammonia and non-ionic

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detergent in 3:1 ratio. The red ochre stains werecleaned using organic solvents viz., morpholine,chloramine-T and toluene in different ratios.The fragile and deteriorated portions of statuewere strengthened using Wacker OH-100 (ethylsilicate). The monolithic statue up to the kneeportion was treated with 2% aqueous SPC as afungicidal treatment and finally a water repellanttreatment was given using Wacker BS-290(silane-siloxane mixture) in MTO (Pls. 252-253).

51. RAMESWARA TEMPLE, KUDLI, DISTRICT

SHIMOGA

In continuation of the previous year’swork, the work was carried out on exterior southwall and interior portion of sabha mandapa,sukanasi and garbhagriha which is of chloriticschist for the removal of superficial accretions,micro-vegetational growth, lime patches and redochre stains. The general cleaning and theremoval of micro-vegetational growth werecarried out using ammonia and non-ionicdetergent solution in the ratio of 3:1. Thelime patches and red ochre deposits on theexterior and interior surfaces were cleaned using2-3% solution of aqueous acetic acid. In theinterior portion, removal of thick oily accretionswas carried out using Fuller’s earth, sodiumcarbonate and sodium bicarbonate. Thedeteriorated stones were strengthened usingethyl silicate based stone strengthener WackerOH-100. The exterior cleaned portions weregiven a fungicidal treatment using 2% aqueousSPC followed by a water repellent treatmentusing a silicone based micro emulsion WackerSMK 1311.

52. KEDARESWARA TEMPLE COMPLEX,BALLIGAVI, DISTRICT SHIMOGA

The Kedaresewara temple is built up ofschist stone is having three vimanas dedicatedto Brahma, Visnu and Mahesvara. The general

cleaning was carried out for the removal ofmicro-vegetational growth from the exteriorsurface and accretions like soot, oil and greaseon the interior surfaces, using aqueous ammoniaand non ionic detergent 3-5% solution. The limepatches were cleaned using 2-3% solution ofaqueous acetic acid. The deteriorated stoneswere strengthened using ethyl silicate basedstone strengthener Wacker OH-100. Theexterior cleaned portions were given afungicidal treatment using 2% aqueous SPCfollowed by a water repellent treatment usinga silicone based micro emulsion Wacker SMK-1311(Pls. 254-255).

53. PRANAVESWARA TEMPLE AND INSCRIBED

PILLAR, TALAGUNDA, DISTRICT SHIMOGA

The temple is of chloritic schist stonewith garbhagriha, navaranga and inscribedpillar situated in front of the temple, was treatedand conserved for removal of microvegetational growth and thick lime coats. Thegeneral cleaning and eradication of micro-vegetational growth was carried out usingaqueous ammonia and non ionic detergentsolution in 3:1 ratio. The thick lime coats wereremoved by using an aqueous acetic acidsolution of 2-3%. Wacker OH-100 (ethylsilicate) was used for consolidation ofdeteriorated stones. Finally, a fungicidaltreatment using 2% aqueous SPC was givenfollowed by water repellent treatment usingWacker SMK-1311 (silane siloxane mixture)in aqueous medium in 1:14 ratio.

54. TRIMURTHYNARAYANA TEMPLE, BANDALKE,DISTRICT SHIMOGA

The entire temple both on exterior andinterior sides contains ornamental carvings. Thewestern vimana was collapsed and subsequentlyconserved. The other two exiting vimanas arein good state of conservation. The generalcleaning was carried out for the removal of the

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superficial accretions like dust, dirt, micro-vegetational growth, soot and oily accretionsusing ammonia and non ionic detergent (3-5%in water). Both lime and red ochre patches wereremoved by using 2-3% of aqueous acetic acidsolution. The fragile stone portionsconsolidated using Wacker OH-100 (ethylsilicate). The cleaned exterior surface was givenfungicidal treatment with 2% aqueous SPCsolution followed by water repellent treatmentusing Wacker SMK-1311 (silane siloxanemixture) in aqueous medium in 1:14 ratio.

55. SOMESWARA TEMPLE, BANDALKE, DISTRICT

SHIMOGA

The schist stone temple was taken up forthe removal of lime accretions and superficialaccretionary deposits. The general cleaning wascarried out using ammonia and non-ionicdetergent mixture in the ratio of 3:1. The limepatches were cleaned using 2-3% aqueousacetic acid solution and oxalic acid solution.The highly deteriorated portions werestrengthened by using an ethyl silicate basedstone strengthener Wacker OH-100. Fungicidaltreatment was given to entire cleaned and driedsurface with 3% solution of SPC to checkmicro-vegetational growth. Finally, WackerSMK-1311 a silicon based micro emulsion aswater repellent was applied over the entireexterior treated surface.

KERALA

56. ST. ANGELO FORT, KANNUR, DISTRICT

KANNUR

The chemical treatment of stablehaving lime plaster ceiling and arches wastaken up for the removal of micro-vegetational growth by using dilute solutionof non-ionic detergent and ammonia. Afterremoval of accretions and thorough washingwith plenty of water, fungicidal treatment wasgiven using 2% solution of SPC. Finally,

Wacker BS-290 in MTO in 1:14 ratio wasapplied as water repellent on the cleaned anddried surface.

57. SRI SIVA TEMPLE, SETHUR, DISTRICT

KARAIKAL

The chemical treatment andpreservation work was taken up for the removalof dust, dirt, oily accretions and micro-vegetational growth from the granite stonesculptures of Sri Siva temple and stucco ingopuram. The work is still in progress.

58. BEKAL FORT, PALLIKARA, DISTRICT

KASARGOD

In continuation of the previous year’swork, the removal of dried thick micro-vegetational growth was taken up . To arrest it,2% aqueous solution of SPC was sprayed onfort walls followed by dry brushing with nylonbrushes. Teepol and ammonia solution wasused to clean the traces of micro-vegetationalgrowth. Dried stone surface was once againgiven a fungicidal treatment with 3% solutionof SPC to check micro vegetational growth.Finally, on dried surface Wacker BS-290 inMTO in 1:14 ratio was applied as waterrepellent treatment.

59. SRI VADAKKUNATHAN TEMPLE, TRICHUR,DISTRICT TRICHUR

In continuation of previuos year’s work,the chemical treatment work was carried outfor the removal of superficial accretions andold preservatives on the paintings of SriSankaranarayana shrine. For general cleaning,organic solvents viz., sulphur free toluene,ethoxy ethanol and little amount of butyl amineand turpentine oil in different ratio was used asper requirement. The colour re-integration workwas also attended were ever required. Finally,1% solution of PVA in toluene was applied aspreservative on the entire treated surface (Pls.256-257).

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MADHYA PRADESH

60. JAMA MASJID, CHANDERI, DISTRICT ASHOK

NAGAR

Jama Masjid which is built of sandstoneshowed blackening due to the micro-biologicalgrowth all over the exposed surface. Outerwalls, ceiling and pillars showed accumulationof dust, dirt, dried micro-biological growth,etc. The removal of thick layer of lime formthe stone surface of prayer verandah wascarried out by using very dilute formic acidsolution followed by complete neutralizationby ammonia solution. The removal of unwantedaccretion from the stone surface exposed afterlime removal was carried out using ammonicalsolution mixed with non-ionic detergent. Entirecleaned area was given fungicidal treatmentwith SPC solution in de-ionized water. Thecleaned interior surface was finally preservedwith polymethyl methacrylate, while the surfaceexposed was preserved with Wacker BS-290(water repellent) in dilution of 1:15 with MTOsolvent.

61. KOSHAK MAHAL, CHANDERI, DISTRICT

ASHOK NAGAR

The walls, ceiling, arches of the KoshakMahal, which is of sandstone were covered withthick micro-biological growth, dust, dirt,bird’s droppings, etc. The cleaning of thesurface was carried out by using ammoniasolution 4% and non-ionic detergent with theaid of soft nylon brushes. For biocidaltreatment, SPC of 2% solution in de-ionizedwater was applied with spray pump over thecleaned surface. The weathered stone surfacewas consolidated by using an ethyl silicatebased stone strengthener Wacker OH-100.Finally, hydrophobic treatment was given to thetreated surface by applying Wacker BS-290solution in MTO solvent of 1:15 ratio.

62. JARDINE MUSEUM, KHAJURAHO, DISTRICT

CHHATTARPUR

The museum has large collection ofsculptures and architectural fragments around1583 in number, which had been covered withdeposition of dust, dirt, dried micro-biologicalgrowth, soil and lime, etc. Scientificconservation for the eradication of theseaccretions initiated by using dilute ammonicalsolvent mixed with non-ionic detergent. Diluteacetic acid solution was used for the removalof lime deposits followed by completeneutralization with ammonia solution. Theentire cleaned surface was given a fungicidaltreatment using SPC and preserved with aprotective coating of polymethly methacrylateof 2% solution in toluene.

63. VAMAN TEMPLE, KHAJURAHO, DISTRICT

CHHATTARPUR

In continuation of the previous year’swork, on sandstone surface of maha mandapaportion from south side and the upper portionof north face were given chemical treatmentfor the removal of micro-vegetational growthand unwanted superficial accretions, usingammonical solution mixed with non-ionicdetergent. A very dilute acetic acid solutionwas used for the removal of lime accretionfollowed by complete neutralization withammonia solution. The cleaned surface wassubjected to the fungicidal treatment with SPCin de-ionized water. The cleaned surface wasfinally preserved with water based siliconeresin (water repellent) Wacker SMK-1311 inratio of 1:10 dilution.

64. KANDARIYA MAHADEV TEMPLE,KHAJURAHO, DISTRICT CHHATTARPUR

In continuation of the previous year’swork, the exterior of the north-west face ofsikhara, mahamandapa, mandapa andardhamandapa and platform wall of the

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temple was taken up for chemical treatmentfor eradication of micro-biological growth,dust and dirt using ammonical solution mixedwith non-ionic detergent. The cleaned anddried surface was given fungicidal treatmentwith 2% solution of SPC. Finally, hydrophobictreatment was given to the treated surface byapplying two coats of a silicone based waterrepellent Wacker BS-290 solution in MTOsolvent of 1:15 ratio wet on wet.

65. JAMI MASJID, MANDU, DISTRICT DHAR

The limestone blocks of the wall andthe lime plaster of the domes of Jami Masjidshows surface erosion, scaling, flaking andblackening due to the growth of micro-floraalong with dust and dirt. The cleaning andpreservation work has been undertaken whichis in continuation of previous year’s work ofthe exterior surface of southern and easternwall, and domes. The cleaning of the surfacewas carried out by using ammonia solution 4%and non-ionic detergent with the aid of softnylon brushes. For biocidal treatment, 2%solution of SPC in de-ionized water wasapplied with spray pump over the cleanedsurface. Finally, hydrophobic treatment wasgiven to the treated surface by applying WackerBS-290 solution in MTO solvent of 1:15 ratio.

66. HINDOLA MAHAL, MANDU, DISTRICT

DHAR

In continuation of previous year’swork, has been carried out on the interior wallof northern portion of Hindola Mahal by usingnon-ionic detergent mixed with ammonicalwater. The deposits of dried micro-vegetationalgrowth were eradicated by cleaning with 3%aqueous solution of ammonia and non-ionicdetergent using soft nylon brushes. Fungicidaltreatment was given to the cleaned surface byapplying 2% solution of SPC in de-mineralizedwater. Finally, the cleaned and restored stone

surface was given a coat of hydrophobic siliconresin, Wacker BS-290.

67. HOSHANG SHAH’S TOMB, MANDU, DISTRICT

DHAR

Composite polishing of the marblesurfaces of Hoshang Shah tomb was continued.The work was executed over the exteriorportion of northern, southern and western wallsalong with main dome, using equi-mixture oflead oxide, tin oxide and oxalic acid with thehelp of polishing stone.

68. BAHU TEMPLE, GWALIOR FORT, DISTRICT

GWALIOR

The Bahu temple which is built withsandstone is decorated with beautiful carvingsboth on exterior and interior walls. The templeappears black due to the deposition of driedmicro-vegetational growth, dust and dirt, etc.Besides, micro-cracks and powdering ofsandstone blocks of the architectural memberswere observed at number of places. Thereforein continuation to previous year, the exteriorof mandapa wall of the temple was taken upfor the chemical conservation. The cleaningof the surface was carried out by the brushes.For biocidal treatment, SPC 2% solution inde-ionized water was applied with spray pumpover the cleaned surface. The weathered stonesurface of temple was consolidated by an ethylsilicate based stone strengthener Wacker OH-100. Finally, hydrophbic treatment was givento the treated surface by applying a siliconebased water repellent Wacker BS-290 solutionin MTO solvent of 1:15 ratio.

69. MOHAMMED GHAUS TOMB, GWALIOR,DISTRICT GWALIOR

This monument is decorated withbeautiful paintings executed in geometrical andfloral pattern on lime plaster. The chemicalcleaning and preservation including fixing,

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filleting and color re-integration of paintingson ceiling of entrance porch, verandah anddoorjamb of Mohammed Ghaus tomb,Gwalior was taken up. The cleaning of thesurface was carried out by using varioussolvents with absorbent cotton swabs over therestored and consolidated painted plaster.Fixing, filleting and edging of loose and fragileplaster of the ceiling was done wherevernecessary using plaster of paris mixed withadhesive (Fevicol) suitably tinted with earthcolors.

70. GREAT STUPA, SANCHI, DISTRICT RAISENRemaining work from last year,

cleaning and preservation of toranadwaraand sandstone railing on the top of the andacontinued using ammonical solution mixedwith non-ionic detergent with aid of soft nylonbrushes. A 2-3% aqueous solution of SPC wasapplied as a fungicide. Finally, two coats ofsilicone based water repellent Wacker BS-290 in MTO, wet-on-wet were applied.

71. RAISEN FORT, RAISEN, DISTRICT RAISEN

The work was taken up on the exteriorsurface of the Raisen fort, which is ofsandstone/plaster. The removal of surfaceaccretions such as dust, dirt and micro-vegetational growth was carried out by using4% solution of ammonia and non-ionicdetergent with the aid of soft nylon brushes.The removal of thick layer of lime from thestone and plaster surface was carried out usingvery dilute formic acid solution followed bycomplete neutralization by ammonia solution.For biocidal treatment 2% solution of SPC inde-ionized water was applied with spray pumpover the cleaned surface. Finally, hydrophobictreatment was given to the treated surface byapplying Wacker BS-290 solution in MTOsolvent of 1:15 ratio.

72. SIVA TEMPLE, BHOJPUR, DISTRICT RAISEN

The temple which is of sandstonebecame blackish on its exterior surface and theplatform wall due to the deposition of driedmicro-vegetational growth. All over the interiorsurface of the sanctum a thick deposit ofcalcareous accretions were left behind by waterseepage along with the dust, dirt, etc. Thechemical treatment for the removal of thedeposits left behind by the water seepage alongwith the dust, dirt, etc. was carried out bychemico-mechanical means by using ammoniasolution and non-ionic detergent with aid ofsoft nylon brushes. For biocidal treatment, SPCof 2% solution in de-ionized water was appliedwith spray pump over the cleaned surface.Finally, hydrophobic treatment was given to thetreated surface by applying a silicone basedwater repellent Wacker BS-290 solution inMTO solvent of 1:15 ratio in two coats wet-on-wet. Over the interior surface of themonument a 2% solution of poly methyl methaacrylate in toluene was applied as a preservativecoating.

73. BALJATI SHAH’S MOSQUE AND TOMB,DHAMONI, DISTRICT SAGAR

Beside, the accumulation of dust, dirt,bird’s droppings and blackening due to micro-biological growth, the main problem was thethick lime wash coating all over the surface ofboth the structures except the platform and thethree walls of the tomb. Thick lime depositsfrom the sandstone surface were removedchemico-mechanically by using dilute organicacids and soft nylon brushes, followed bytreatment with ammonia solution to neutralizethe effect of acids left behind on the surface.For the elimination of dead and living micro-biological growth and other extraneousdeposits a mixture of ammonia and non-ionicdetergent was used with the aid of soft brushes.For biocidal treatment, SPC 2% solution inde-ionized water was applied with spray pump

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MAHARASHTRA

74. AJANTA CAVES, AJANTA, DISTRICT

AURANGABAD

Removal of dust and dirt from paintingsand sculptures of different caves using softbrushes, temperature and relative humiditywere maintained regularly at Cave 1, 2, 16 and17. Insecticidal treatment was also givenregularly on fortnight basis of the unpaintedsurface using 2% pyrethrum extract in solventas a preventive measure. In continuation ofprevious year’s work, the paintings on ceilingof the Cave 2 and 16 were subjected tochemical treatment for the removal of dust, dirt,soot accretions and old preservative coatingfrom Cave 17 using mixture of suitable organicsolvents in different proportions. The loosegrains of white pigments on the surface wereconsolidated and gaps/lacunae were filled withsuitable materials. After drying, the surfacewas scientifically cleaned with a mixture ofsuitable an organic solvent followed bypreservative treatment was given using 0.5-1.0% solution of PVA in toluene.

In order to consolidate the sculpturesof Cave 1,4, 5,9,19,26 and 27 an ethyl silicatebased consolidant was percolated inside thecracks, exfoliated and damaged portion bysaline method in which the flow of consolidantwas regulated as per the requirement. Besides,the painted area in various Cave 2, 6,9,10,11,15 and 16 were consolidated usinglime plaster and mud plaster. The basalt stonesurface at the façade of Cave 4,13,26 and 27were subjected to conservation treatment forthe removal of white depositions of salts, bat’s

excreta, dust, dirt and thick layer of micro-vegetational growth using paper pulp and claypack methods followed by thorough washingwith distilled water to make it salt free. For theremoval of micro-vegetational growth aqueoussolution of ammonia and non-ionic detergentwith few drops of hydrogen peroxide was used.The entire cleaned and dried surface was thengiven a silicon based water repellent treatmentusing Wacker BS-290 solution in MTO.

75. AURANGABAD CAVES, DISTRICT AURANGABAD

The rock cut sculptures and stonesurface of Cave 6 and 7 of were subjected tothe stone conservation treatment involvingremoval of superficial dust, dirt, bird’s excretaand other surface accretions in the interiorsand thick growth of micro-vegetation inexterior of caves. A mixture of 2-3% aqueoussolution of ammonia and 1% non-ionicdetergent was used for cleaning followed bythorough washing with clean water. Calcareousdepositions were removed with the help of 1-3% aqueous solution of acetic acid bychemico-mechanical means followed bythorough washing with clean water to neutralizeacid effect. To eradicate the stains of bat’sexcreta, mixture of 5% solution of EDTA, 3%solution of ammonium carbonate, 5% solutionof ammonia and few drops of tri-ethanolaminewas used. The fragile portion and cracks wereconsolidated using an ethlyl silicate basedstone strengthener, Wacker OH-100 and rockpowder. A fungicidal treatment using 2%aqueous solution of SPC was given to thecleaned surface followed by application of asilicon resin based water repellent Wacker BS-290 diluted in MTO in 1:13 ratio on the driedsurface.

The insecticidal treatment to arrest theinsect activity was carried out at these rock cutcaves having interior mural paintings executedon mud plaster. These caves were properly

over the cleaned surface. Finally, hydrophobictreatment was given to the treated surface byapplying a silicone based water repellent WackerBS-290 solution in MTO solvent of 1:15 ratio.

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sealed with the use of plywood and woodenrafters to make them air tight. Subsequently,after the fumigation process was over withetoxide gas for 36 hours, sealing was removedslowly and the remaining gas was removed byexhaust fan.

76. ELLORA CAVES, ELLORA, DISTRICT

AURANGABAD

Work was taken up in Cave 10 for theremoval of thick layer of dust, dirt, bird’sexcreta using aqueous mixture of ammonia andnon-ionic detergent. Besides chemicalcleaning, filling of cracks and reconstructionminor missing parts of sculptures were alsoattended using rock powder of similar originand Wacker OH-100 an ethyl silicate basedstone strengthener. Hardened accretionarydeposits were remove with the help of 1-3%aqueous solution of acetic acid +1% non ionicdetergent with gentle brushing using nylonbrushes followed by thorough washing withwater. Finally, fungicidal and preservativetreatment was given using 2% SPC solution inwater and Wacker BS-290 diluted in MTO in1:13 ratio.

The conservation treatment on Cave 15was carried out on basalt rock having muralpaintings on mud plaster and lime plastersurface. The mud plaster and lime plastersurface was bulged out at many places. Fixingand filleting of bulged out and damaged mudplaster and lime plaster was carried out,wherever required with matching retouchingmaterial.

The conservation of stone sculpture andsurface of vimana, terrace of main temple,sabha mandapa in the Lankeshwar Cave 16was carried out to remove the cemented dust,dirt, bird’s excreta using 2-3% aqueoussolution of ammonia and non-ionic detergentby gentle brushing with nylon brushes followed

by thorough washing with clean water.Calcareous deposits from rock surface wereremoved with the help of 1-3% aqueoussolution of acetic acid and 1% non ionicdetergent with gentle brushing using nylonbrushes followed by thorough washing withclean water. Removal of dust, dirt and soot frommural paintings was carried out using suitableorganic solvents like methanol, ethyl methylketone, butanol and butylamine mixture insuitable proportions. In order to stabilize thepainted surface, consolidation, fixing/filletingwork of loose painted plasters, cracks, holes,etc. has been carried out using appropriatecompatible materials and an ethyl silicatebased consolidant Wacker OH-100. Thecleaned stone surface was given fungicidaltreatment using 2% aqueous solution of SPC.On the stone/sculpture surface in dry statewater repellent treatment was given usingWacker BS-290 diluted in MTO in 1:13 ratioas preservative. The restoration work of themural paintings is still in progress.

77. DAULATABAD FORT, DAULATABAD, DISTRICT

AURANGABAD

The wooden doors of the Daulatabadfort were cleaned by removing surface dirt andaccretions using the mixture of toluene, iso-propyl alcohol, acetone and acetic acid inappropriate proportions. The cleaned woodensurface was then subjected to fungicidal andinsecticidal treatments using aqueous solutionof SPC and beach wood, creosote oil in iso-propyl alcohol respectively. Finally, applicationof polyurethane in turpentine oil was carriedout on the entire dried wooden surface as apreservative treatment.

78. MARKHAND DEV TEMPLE, MARKHAND,DISTRICT CHANDRAPUR

The exterior carvings of this templewhich is of basalt stone were cleaned and

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conserved with the removal of thick layers ofmicro vegetation, dust, dirt, bird’s excreta andother surface accretion by chemico-mechanical means using 2-3% aqueoussolution of ammonia and 1% non-ionicdetergent with gentle brushing by soft nylonbrushes followed by thorough washing withclean water. Calcareous depositions wereremoved with the help of 1-3% aqueoussolution of acetic acid followed by thoroughwashing by cleaned water. The nandi image infront of temple was in two pieces having theweight of 5 tons each was joined usingstainless steel pins and epoxy resin. Theexterior part of this figure was consolidatedand re-integrated with stone powder andWacker OH-100 (ethyl silicate). Forfungicidal treatment 2% aqueous solution ofSPC was applied on cleaned area. Finally,entire cleaned and dried surface was given apreservative coat using Wacker BS-290 inMTO in 1-13 ratio.

79. SANGMESHWAR TEMPLE, JALGAON, DISTRICT

JALGAON

This temple which is of basalt rockhaving many big holes, cracks and fragilesurface on exterior side with weathered stonesculptures. The consolidation and mendingwork was carried out with an ethyl silicatebased stone strengthener Wacker OH-100 andlime with aggregates. A mild cleaning of thestone surface was carried out as per normalcleaning process where ever required. Afterdrying, the cleaned surface was given siliconbased water repellent treatment using WackerBS-290 solution in MTO in proper dilution.

80. KANHERI CAVES, BORIVALI, DISTRICT

MUMBAI

The exterior carved stone of basalt wascleaned and conserved after the removal ofthick layers of micro-vegetation, dust, dirt,

ODISHA

81. BARABATI FORT, CUTTACK, DISTRICTCUTTACK

The main portion of the fort, built upof sandstone and some portion of the westernside is of laterite and sand stone were subjectedto treatment for the removal of surfaceaccretion such as dust, dirt and micro-vegetational growth by using 2% aqueousammonia solution and non-ionic detergentmixture. On the dried surface fungicidaltreatment was given by spraying 2% aqueousSPC solution. Finally, the dried stone surfacewas given a protective coat of silicone resinbased water repellent Wacker BS-290 dilutedwith MTO in 1:12 ratio.

82. JAGANNATHA TEMPLE, JAJPUR, DISTRICTJAJPUR

The vimana, jagamohana andbhogamandapa of this temple which is ofkhondalite and sandstone are fully limeplastered while the platform of the temple isnot plastered. The conservation work wascarried out for the removal of micro-

bird’s excreta and other surface accretion bychemico-mechanical means using 2-3%aqueous solution of ammonia and 1% non-ionic detergent with gentle brushing by softnylon brushes followed by thorough washingwith clean water. Calcareous depositions wereremoved with the help of 1-3% aqueoussolution of acetic acid followed by thoroughwashing by clean water. The fragile stoneportions were consolidated by using an ethylsilicate based stone strengthener Wacker OH-100. The cleaned area was then given afungicidal treatment using 2% aqueoussolution of SPC followed by application of asilicon based water repellent Wacker BS-290diluted in MTO in 1:13 ratio on treated anddried surface.

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vegetational growth and superficialaccretionary deposits by using 2% aqueousammonia and non-ionic detergent. Fungicidaltreatment was given by spraying 2% aqueousSPC solution on the entire cleaned surface.Plaster surface was preserved by applying singlecoat of Wacker SMK-1311 water based waterrepellent, diluted with water in the ratio of 1:12.Single coat of Wacker BS-290 diluted withMTO in 1:12 ratio on the total stone surface,was applied as preservative.

83. JAMBESWAR TEMPLE, BHUBANESWAR,DISTRICT KHURDHA

The chemical treatment was taken up onthe exterior walls of vimana, jagamohana,Aruna pillar and side temples, that are of sandstone of various shades like red, yellow, greyetc. The removal of surface accretions such asdust, dirt and micro-vegetational growth wascarried out by using 2% aqueous ammonia andnon-ionic detergent mixture. The weak stonesurfaces, except sub-shrine temples, wereconsolidated by using an ethyl silicate basedstone strengthener Wacker OH-100 followedby giving a fungicidal treatment using 2%aqueous SPC solution on the cleaned andconsolidated surface. Finally, silicon basedwater repellent Wacker BS-290 diluted withMTO in 1:9 ratio was applied on the treatedand dried surface as protective coat. The workis in progress.

84. LINGARAJA TEMPLE COMPLEX,BHUBANESWAR, DISTRICT KHURDHA

In continuation of previous year’s work,conservation treatment on the exterior sandstone surface of jagamohana, bhogamandapaand natamandapa of the Lingaraja Templealong with sub-shrines namely BiswanathTemple, Gouri Sankara Temple, AmaleswaraTemple, etc. and plastered surface of kalasa of

jagamohana and roof of bhogamandapa andnatamandapa were taken up for the removalof dry accretion and deposits of dust, dirt, redochre patches and micro vegetational growthby using a mixture of 2% aqueous ammoniaand non-ionic detergent in a chemico-mechanical way. The cleaned area was thengiven a fungicidal treatment using 2% aqueoussolution of SPC. The deteriorated stoneportions were strengthened by using an ethylsilicate based stone strengthener Wacker OH-100. A silicone based micro emulsion of WackerSMK-1311 in distilled water was applied onthe plastered surface as a water repellenttreatment whereas the entire treated and driedstone surface was given a single coat of siliconebased water repellent Wacker BS-290 dilutedwith MTO in 1:12 ratio as protective coat.

85. SUN TEMPLE COMPLEX, KONARK,DISTRICT PURI

In continuation of previous year, theconservation work was taken up in theintricately carved pillared natamandapa withintemple complex which is of khondalite stonein ashlar masonry. First there was the removalof vegetational growth as well as surfaceaccretionary deposits using 2% aqueousammonia solution mixed with non-ionicdetergent. The deposition of salts within thefabric of the stone was removed by repeatedpaper pulp treatment. Surface consolidation wascarried out by using Wacker OH-100 (ethylsilicate) where ever required. The cleanedsurface was given fungicidal treatment using2% aqueous solution of SPC to arrest thefurther micro-vegetational growth. Finally,single coat of Wacker BS-290 as water repellentdiluted with MTO in 1:9 ratio was applied aspreservative. The work is still in progress.

86. SRI JAGANNATHA TEMPLE COMPLEX, PURI,DISTRICT PURI

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PUNJAB

87. OLD SARAI AMANAT KHAN, AMRITSAR,DISTRICT AMRITSAR

The work was executed on the gatewayof this monument which is built of bricks andlime plaster, decorated with glazed tiles, floraldesigns and inscriptions, etc. At few places,remnants of paintings were also visible on thelime plaster surface. The work was carried outusing the mixture of aqueous solution ofammonia and non-ionic detergent for theremoval of micro-vegetational growth andother accretionary deposits. The entire treatedand non painted area was given fungicidaltreatment with 3% aqueous solution of SPC.The weak and fragile portions wereconsolidated using an ethyl silicate based stonestrengthener Wacker OH-100. Finally, twocoats of silicon based water repellent Wacker

BS-290 in MTO in wet on wet was applied as aprotective coat over the entire treated and driedsurface. Painted area was cleaned with suitableorganic solvents like ethanol, methanol,turpentine oil and 2-ethoxyethanol, etc. followedby a preservative coat with 1% PVA solution intoluene which is sulphur free.

88. HAJI JAMAL TOMB, NAKODAR, DISTRICT

JALANDHAR

This tomb which is of bricks, coveredwith lime plaster and decorated with mosaicwork was taken up for the removal ofsuperficial dust, dirt and other accretionarydeposits along with micro-vegetational growthusing suitable mixture of liquid ammonia andnon-ionic detergent with soft nylon brushes. The2-3% aqueous solution of SPC was sprayed asfungicidal treatment over treated and driedsurface of the monument. The deteriorated andweak portion of the monument wasconsolidated using an ethyl silicate based stonestrengthener Wacker OH-100. The treatedsurface was given water repellent treatment withtwo coats of Wacker BS-290 solution in MTO.

89. SARAI COMPLEX, NUR MAHAL, DISTRICT

JALANDHAR

The cells of inner sarai complex of brickconstruction were subjected to treatment forremoval of superficial accretions and micro-vegetational growth using 2% aqueous mixtureof ammonia and non-ionic detergent with thehelp of soft nylon brushes. The cleaned surfacewas given fungicidal treatment using 3%aqueous solution of SPC. The weak and fragileportions of the wall were consolidated usingethyl silicate based stone strengthener WackerOH-100. Finally, silicon based water repellentWacker BS-290 in MTO was applied as aprotective coat over the entire treated and driedsurface.

Vimana of Sri Jagannatha Temple, whichis of khondalite stone was subjected totreatment for the removal of surface accretionssuch as dust, dirt, micro-vegetational growth,deposition of soluble salts by using 2% liquidammonia and non-ionic detergent solution. Thestone surface of vimana was cleaned byrepeated paper pulp treatment for the removalof soluble salts. The fragile stone portions ofthe wall of vimana were strengthened by anethyl silicate based stone strengthener WackerOH-100. A fungicidal treatment was given with2% SPC on the entire cleaned surface.

Finally, the plastered surface form bekilevel to top of vimana was preserved byapplying a coat of silicone micro-emulsion ofWacker SMK-1311 in distilled water in the ratioof 1:12 and the dried stone surface was thengiven a protective coat of silicone resin basedwater repellent Wacker BS-290 diluted withMTO in 1:12 ratio as a preservative.

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RAJASTHAN

90. MANDLESHWAR MAHADEV TEMPLE,ARTHUNA, DISTRICT BANSWARA

In continuation of previous year’s work,the interior and exterior surface of this templewas taken up for the removal of micro-vegetational growth and other surfaceaccretions using 2-3% liquid ammoniasolution with non-ionic detergent. The sikharaportion was also cleaned gently followed byapplication of aqueous SPC as fungicidaltreatment on the entire cleaned surface.Finally, silicon based water repellent WackerBS-290 in MTO was applied as protective coatover the entire treated and dried stone surface.

91. FORT CHITTAURGARH, CHITTAURGARH,DISTRICT CHITTAURGARH

In continuation of previous year’s workwas taken up on the gate of Ratan Singh palaceand sub-shrines of Choth Mata temple, Visnutemple and Laxmi temple. Choth Mata temple,Visnu temple, Laxmi temple and inside walland rooms of Ratan Singh palace around gardenare constructed of sandstones where as gateof Ratan Singh palace is lime plastered fromexterior side. Work was carried out to eradicatedepositions of dried micro-vegetationalgrowth, dust and dirt with the help of 2-3%liquid ammonia solution and non-ionicdetergent. The lime depositions were removedchemico-mechanically by using 1% diluteacetic acid solution followed by thoroughwashing with clean water. The cleaned surfacewas then subjected to fungicidal and waterrepellent treatments.

The outer sikhara portion includingmandapa of the southern and western side ofKalika Mata Temple was taken up for removalof micro-vegetational growth and other surfaceaccretions by using 2-3% aqueous ammonia

solution and non-ionic detergent. The cleanedand dried surface was giving a fungicidaltreatment with 2% aqueous solution of SPCand was finally preserved using a silicone basedwater repellent Wacker BS-290 in MTO. Thework was still in progress.

92. MAHANALA TEMPLE COMPLEX, MENAL,DISTRICT CHITTAURGARH

In continuation of the previous year’swork, the hard lime deposition on the interiorportion of the mandapa of Jaleshwar Mahadevtemple was removed with the help of 1-2%aqueous solution of glacial acetic acid by gentlebrushing. After thorough washing and drying,the micro-vegetational growth was removedusing 2-3% liquid ammonia with non-ionicdetergent in aqueous media with the help of softnylon brushes. The cleaned and dried surfacewas then subjected to a fungicidal treatmentusing SPC to arrest further micro-biologicalgrowth. Finally, a water repellent treatment wasgiven by applying a coat of Wacker BS-290 inMTO.

93. KUMBHALGARH FORT, KUMBHALGARH,DISTRICT RAJSAMAND

Conservation work on Gole RaoTemple 1, 2 and 3 was taken up for the removalof micro-vegetational growth, dust, dirt, etc.by using 2-3% aqueous solution of liquidammonia mixed with non-ionic detergent,followed by a thorough wash with clean water.The cleaned and dried surface was then given afungicidal treatment with 2% aqueous solutionof SPC. Finally, the cleaned and dried stonesurface was preserved using Wacker BS-290 inMTO as water repellent treatment. Work on JainTemple 2 and 3, Parshavnath temple atKumbhalgarh fort including boundary wall ofVedi Temple was taken up for the removal ofsuperficial deposits and micro-vegetationalgrowth, dust and dirt, etc. by using 2-3%

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aqueous solution of liquid ammonia mixed withnon-ionic detergent, followed by thoroughwash with clean water. The cleaned and driedsurface was then given a fungicidal treatmentby spraying 2% aqueous solution of SPC.Finally, the cleaned and dried stone surface waspreserved by using Wacker BS-290 in MTO aswater repellent treatment. In continuation ofthe previous year’s work was taken up on theinterior face of Rampole with adjacent fortwalls for the removal of dirt, dust and micro-biological growth. 2-3% ammonia solutionmixed with non-ionic detergents was used tofacilitate the removal of accretionary deposits.The cleaned and dried surface was then given afungicidal treatment with 2% aqueous solutionof SPC. Finally, the entire cleaned and driedsurface was preserved with a silicone basedwater repellent Wacker BS-290 in MTO.

94. BISALDEV TEMPLE, BISALPUR, TODA RAI

SINGH, DISTRICT TONK

In continuation of the previous year’swork, has been taken up for the removal ofsurface accretions such as dirt, dust and micro-vegetational growth using 2-3% aqueoussolution of ammonia and non-ionic detergent.The cleaned surface was then given a fungicidaltreatment using aqueous solution of 2% SPCfollowed by application of a preservative coatof a water based emulsion Wacker SMK-1311as water repellent.

95. KALYAN RAI TEMPLE, TODA RAI SINGH,DISTRICT TONK

In continuation of the previous year’swork, was carried out to eradicate micro-biological growth with the help of 2-3%ammonia solution mixed with non-ionicdetergent by gentle brushing with soft nylonbrushes. The cleaned surface was then given afungicidal treatment with 2% aqueous solutionof SPC as a fungicide to arrest further micro-biological growth. The cleaned and dried surface

was preserved with a silicone based waterrepellent Wacker BS-290 in MTO (Pls. 258-259).

96. PIPAJI TEMPLE, TODA RAI SINGH,DISTRICT TONK

In continuation of the previous year’swork, was taken up for the removal of surfaceaccretions such as dirt, dust and micro-vegetational growth by using 2-3% aqueoussolution of ammonia with non-ionic detergent.The cleaned surface was then given a fungicidaltreatment using aqueous solution of 2% SPCfollowed by application of a preservative coatof Wacker SMK-1311 in water.

TAMILNADU

97. GROUP OF MONUMENTS, MAHABALIPURAM,DISTRICT KANCHIPURAM

The rock cut structures and sculpturesof Arjuna’s penance, Krishna mandapa,Varahmandapa, Ganesa ratha, Pandava cave,Trimurthi cave and Rayar gopuram on granitewere chemically treated for the removal of dust,dirt and micro-vegetational growth by usingammonia and non-ionic detergent solution.After removing the accretions completely thearea was washed with plenty of water and then2% solution of SPC was applied as fungicideon dried surface. Finally, cleaned and driedsurface was preserved with a silicone basedwater repellent Wacker BS-290 in MTO.

98. ROCK-CUT JAINA TEMPLE, SITTANAVASAL,DISTRICT PUDUKKOTTAI

In continuation of the previous year’swork of paintings and Jaina beds of rock cutJaina temple, Sittanavasal was taken up. Thepaintings were treated with organic solvents likesulphar free toluene, ethoxy ethanol andturpentine oil for the removal of dust and oldpreservative. Finally, fresh 1% solution of PVA

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in toluene was applied as preservative. Jainabeds were also treated with non-ionic detergentand ammonia solution for the removal ofvegetational growth, dust and dirt. Finally,fungicide and preservative coating wereapplied.

99. SRI VARADARAJA SWAMY TEMPLE ON

HILL, SANKAGIRI, DISTRICT SALEM

In continuation of previous year’swork, the work of remaining mandapas wastaken up for the removal of lime washaccretions with dilute acetic acid solution andfor the removal of dust, dirt and micro-vegetational growth mixture of aqueousammonia and non-ionic detergent was used.Application of 2% aqueous solution of SPCas a fungicide was given on the exteriorportions. Finally, over exterior surface a waterrepellent treatment was given using a siliconebased Wacker BS-290, diluted with MTO in1:14 ratio.

100. SRI BRIHADESVARA TEMPLE, THANJAVUR,DISTRICT THANJAVUR

In continuation of the previous year’swork of the main vimana nayaka was takenup for the removal of surface accretions viz.,micro-vegetational growth, dust, dirt, bird’sexcreta, etc. For the removal of surfaceaccretions mixture of non-ionic detergent andammonia solution in 1:3 ratio was used. Afterremoving the accretions completely the areawas washed with plenty of water and then 2%solution of SPC was applied as fungicide andfinally, cleaned and dried surface was preservedwith a silicone based water repellent WackerBS-290 in MTO. One panel of nayaka paintingwhich was superimposing the painting of Cholaperiod was also stripped out and mounted onepoxy panel.

To prevent the growth of micro-organisms over this stucco Keralantaka

gopuram, 2% solution of SPC followed byWacker SMK-1311 in water in 1:14 ratio wasapplied on chemically treated surface. Stonesculptures like walls and doorjambs belowstucco vimana were covered with dust, dirt andother accretions. For this the area waschemically treated with non-ionic detergent andammonia solutions in 1:3 ratio. After cleaning,the surface was washed with plenty of waterand 2% solution of SPC was applied asfungicide and finally on dry surface Wacker BS-290 in MTO in 1:14 ratio was applied aspreservative. Vandalism marks over theMaratha paintings in the open mandapa of westside were also chemically cleaned.

101. SRI JALAKANTESWARA TEMPLE, VELLORE,DISTRICT VELLORE

In continuation of the previous year’swork, for the remaining portions of this templewhich is of granite stone was taken up for theremoval of dust, dirt and micro-vegetationalgrowth. Aqueous ammonia and non-ionicdetergent solution was used for cleaning,followed by application of 2% aqueous SPCas fungicidal treatment on the exteriorportions. The fragile stone portions werestrengthened by applying an ethyl silicatebased stone strengthener Wacker OH-100.Finally, a water repellent treatment was givento the dried surface using a silicone basedwater repellent Wacker BS-290, diluted withMTO in 1:14 ratio.

102. SRI SUBRAMANYASWAMY TEMPLE AND

JAINA CAVE, VALLIMALAI, DISTRICT VELLORE

The granite stone sculptures, walls andpillars of Sri Subramanyaswamy temple andJaina cave of Vallimalai were taken up for theremoval of dust, dirt, lime wash and micro-vegetational growth. Dilute acetic acid solutionwas used for the removal of lime washaccretions. Non-ionic detergent and ammonia

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UTTARAKHAND

103. SUN TEMPLE, KATARMAL, DISTRICT

ALMORA

The group of 46 temples including onehuge temple of lord Surya that are built of sandstones were taken up for the removal of thickmicro-vegetational growth, loose dust and dirtetc. The micro-vegetational accretions wereeradicated by treating with 2-5% aqueousammonia solution and a little non-ionicdetergent. The entire treated surface was givena coat of 2% solution of SPC as fungicidaltreatment. Finally, over exterior surface a waterrepellent treatment was given using a siliconebased Wacker BS-290, diluted with MTO in1:11 ratio.

104. MRITYUNJAY GROUP OF TEMPLES,DWARAHAT, DISTRICT ALMORA

The Mrityunjay group of Templescomprises of Mrityunjay temple, Bharionathtemple and an open courtyard that are built ofgray sandstone were taken up for the removalof micro-biological growth dust, dirt and othersuperficial accretions on the interior surface.The loose dust and dirt was brushed off usingsoft nylon brushes. The micro-vegetationalgrowth alongwith grime was eradicated bytreating with 2-5% aqueous ammonia solutionand a little non-ionic detergent. The interiorportions were treated by applying the paste ofFuller’s earth containing traces of cellosolveand some organic solvents in suitable

proportion in order to loosen the greasy andtough accretions. The paste so applied wascovered with polythene sheets. After drying, thepaste was removed.

105. GROUP OF TEMPLES, GOPINATH,GOPESHWAR, DISTRICT CHAMOLI

The exterior surface of the Gopinathgroup of Temples became black due to thedeposition of dust, dirt and dried micro-vegetational growth. The interior surface wasimparting a black appearance due to thedeposition of soot and greasy matters owing tothe practice of lighting oil lamps. The loose dustand dirt was brushed off using soft nylonbrushes. The micro-vegetational growthalongwith grime was eradicated by treating with2-5% aqueous ammonia solution and a littlenon-ionic detergent. The interior portions wastreated by applying the paste of Fuller’s earthcontaining traces of cellosolve and someorganic solvents in suitable proportion in orderto loosen the greasy and tough accretions. Thepaste so applied was covered with polythenesheets. After drying the paste was removed.

106. GROUP OF TEMPLES, ADI BADRI, DISTRICT

CHAMOLI

The Group of Temples known as AdiBadri that comprises fourteen temples areconstructed with sand stone. There was heavydeposition of dust, dirt and dried micro-vegetational growth on the exterior surfacewhile the interior surface of the temple becameblack due to the deposition of soot and smoke.To remove the micro-vegetational growth andother accretions 2-5% aqueous ammoniasolution containing the little liquid, non-ionicdetergent was used. The interior portions weretreated by using Fuller’s earth containingtraces of cellosolve and some organic solventsin suitable proportion in order to loosen thegreasy and tough accretions. The paste so

solution was used in general for the removalof dust, dirt and micro-vegetational growthfollowed by application of 2% solution of SPCas a fungicidal treatment on the exteriorportions. Over exterior surface a waterrepellent treatment was given by using asilicone based Wacker BS-290, diluted withMTO in 1:14 ratio.

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applied was covered with polythene sheets. Afterdrying, the paste was removed with soft nylonbrushes. Some weak portions of stone wereconsolidated using an ethyl silicate based stonestrengthener Wacker OH-100. The treatedsurface was given fungicidal treatment using2% SPC. Finally, the cleaned and dried surfacewas preserved with a silicone resin Wacker BS-290 in MTO in the ratio of 1:11.

107. MAHASU TEMPLE, HANOL, DISTRICT

DEHRADUN

The work was taken up for the removalof thick deposition of micro-biological growth,dust and dirt from the exterior surface,deposition of soot, smoke, sticky oily and greasymatter from the interior surface and the gatesof main sanctorum and grabhagriha which isof silver metal turned black due to depositionof above mentioned accretions. The exteriorsurface of the temple was treated with 2%aqueous ammonia containing a little non-ionicdetergent. Tough and sticky accretions wereremoved by applying ammonia solution andnon-ionic detergent mixed with the traces ofhyderogen peroxide and tri-ethanolamine. Thelime wash, coat was removed by the solutionof dilute acetic acid. The black accretions ofinterior surface were cleaned with clay packtechnique. The paste was appliedhomogenously by using Fuller’s earth indistilled water containing sodium carbonateand cellosolve. The silver surface was cleanedscientifically using mild solutions of oxalicacid, tartaric acid and ammonia. Scientificallytreated exterior surface was subjected tobiocidal treatment. Two coats of 2-3% SPCwas applied on the dried surface. Finally, thedried surface was preserved with a siliconebased water repellent Wacker BS-290 dilutedin MTO in the ratio of 1:11.

UTTAR PRADESH

108. AKBAR’S MAUSOLEUM , SIKANDRA,DISTRICT AGRA

In continuation of previous year’s workfor the removal of dirt, dust, smoke, tarrymatters and micro-biological accretions wascontinue by using clay pack method byapplying a paste of Fuller’s earth containingtraces of cellosolve and some other organicsolvents in suitable proportions. The paste ofFuller’s earth was applied over the marblesurface and then covered with polythenesheets. The surface was made free of this pasteand thoroughly washed. Finally, the cleanedsurface was treated with a paste mixture of leadoxide and tin oxide to retain its original lusture.

109. AGRA FORT, AGRA, DISTRICT AGRA

In continuation of previous year’s workwas taken up for the removal of dust, dirt,smoke, tarry matters and micro-vegetationalgrowth from the marble surface of the MotiMasjid because the exterior marble surface ofthis mosque had turned pale and dark brown inappearance, which was cleaned by clay packmethod by applying a paste of Fuller’s earthcontaining traces of cellosolve and somesuitable organic solvents in appropriateproportion in order to loosen the greasy andhard accretions. The paste of fuller’s earth wasapplied over the marble surface and thencovered with polythene sheets. It was left for aday allowing the proper adsorption to take place.The surface was made free of this paste andthoroughly washed. The cleaned surface wastreated with the mixture of lead oxide and tinoxide to retain its lusture.

110. GROUP OF MONUMENTS, FATEHPUR SIKRI,DISTRICT AGRA

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In continuation of previous year’s workwas taken up on the red sandstone and limeplastered surface of this Hiran Minar for theremoval of micro-biological growth and otheraccretionary deposits using 2-3% solution ofaqueous ammonia and non-ionic detergent.The lime depositions were removed bychemico-physical methods. After chemicalcleaning fungicidal treatment was given with2% solution of SPC on the exterior surfacefollowed by preservative treatment with theapplication of two coats of a silicone basedwater repellent Wacker BS-290 diluted inMTO in the ratio of 1:10 wet-on-wet basis.

In continuation of previous year’s workwas taken up on the sand stone surface of HathiPole Gate and Water Tank for the removal ofmicro-vegetational growth, dust, dirt and othersuperficial accretionary deposits using 2%aqueous ammonia solution and little non-ionicdetergent. The cleaned exterior surface wasthen subjected to a fungicidal treatment byapplying 2-3% aqueous solution of SPCfollowed by preservation with a silicone basedwater repellent Wacker BS-290 diluted in MTOin the ratio of 1:11.

The interior of Hakim hamam wasbeautifully painted by geometrical designs.Fixing and filleting work was also attended.After retouching and colour reintegration, acoat of PVA in toluene was applied as apreservative.

111. ROMAN CATHOLIC CEMETERY, AGRA,DISTRICT AGRA

The work was taken up for the tomb ofCol. Hastings and other small tombs for theremoval of micro-vegetational growth, dust,dirt and other terry matters. Due to thickdeposition of micro-vegetational growth thetomb has become blackish in appearance. The

loose dust and dirt was brushed off using softnylon brushes from the exterior surface of themonument. The micro-vegetational accretionswere eradicated by treating with 2% aqueousammonia solution containing a little non-ionicdetergent. The cleaned surface was given a coatof 2% SPC as a fungicidal treatment. Thesurface so prepared was preserved with asilicone based water repellent Wacker BS-290diluted in MTO in the ratio of 1:11.

112. KHUSROO BAGH TOMBS, DISTRICTALLAHABAD

In continuation of previous year’s workwas taken up for the dome and burjis of thetombs situated in the Khusroo Bagh complexfor the removal of micro-vegetational growth,lime patches and lime coatings, dust and dirt.The loose dust and dirt was brushed off usingsoft brushes. The micro-biological accretionswas eradicated using 3-5% aqueous ammoniasolution adding a little of liquid non-ionicdetergent from the sandstone and plasteredsurface. The lime plaster surface was treatedwith bleaching powder. The treated sandstoneand lime plastered surface was given biocidaltreatment by applying 2-3% solution of SPC inwater. Lime coating was removed by using 1%of acetic acid solution. The weak stone surfacewas consolidated using an ethyl silicate basedstone strengthener Wacker OH-100. Finally, theabove treated dried sandstone surface waspreserved with a silicone based water repellentthe Wacker BS-290 diluted in MTO in the ratioof 1:11.

113. MAKHDOOM JAHANIA, KANNAUJ, DISTRICTKANNAUJ

The three tombs and one mosque weretaken up for the removal of micro-vegetationalgrowth, dust, dirt and other accretionarydeposits. The micro-vegetational growth waseradicated by treating with 2% aqueous

337


ammonia solution containing a little liquidnon-ionic detergent. The treated surface wasgiven a coat of 2% SPC. The weak stonesurface was consolidated using an ethyl silicatebased stone strengthener Wacker OH-100.Finally, the above treated dried sandstonesurface was preserved with a silicone basedwater repellent Wacker BS-290 diluted inMTO in the ratio of 1:11.

114. JAINA TEMPLE, DEOGARH, DISTRICTLALITPUR

The chemical treatment work was takenup for the exterior surfaces of the temple whichhave become black due to the deposition ofdust, dirt and dried micro-biological growth.The black depositions were very thick and badlyaffected the beauty of carvings and images.There is a deposition of lime beneath the blackdepositions. The dried vegetation growth andother black accretions were removed using 3-5% aqueous ammonia solution adding a littleof liquid non-ionic detergent with the help ofsoft nylon/coir brushes. The work is still inprogress.

115. SADAT ALI TOMBS AND MURSHID JADI,LUCKNOW, DISTRICT LUCKNOW

The tomb is built of lakhauri bricksusing lime plaster as mortar. The chemicalconservation work was taken up for the removalof thick growth of micro-vegetation, dust, dirtand other accretionary deposits over thesandstone and plastered surface. The loose dustand dirt was brushes off using soft brushes. Thespores of deep-rooted micro-organism werekilled by applied a coat of calcium hypochloritepaste on the lime plastered surface. The pastewas allowed to remain on the surface for atleast 6-8 hours. The harmful, biological andmicro-biological accretions were eradicatedusing 3-5% aqueous ammonia solution addinga little of liquid non-ionic detergent with the

help of soft nylon/coir brushes from plasteredsurface. The treated sandstone and limeplastered surface was then given biocidaltreatment, by applying 2-3% solution of SPCin water. Finally, the above treated surface, onbeing completely dry, was preserved with theWacker BS-290 diluted in MTO in the ratio of1:11.

116. ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH, SARDHANA,DISTRICT MEERUT

The exterior surface of both the towersof Roman Catholic Church became black atmany places due to the deposition of dust, dirtand dried biological growth. These accretionson the surface were imparting a very shabby andunpleasant look. The loose dust and dirt wasbrushed-off using soft brushes. The spores ofdeep rooted micro-organism were killed byapplying a coat of calcium hypochlorite pasteon the plastered surface. The paste was allowedto remain on the surface for at least 6-8 hours.The micro-vegetational growth was removed byusing 3-5% aqueous ammonia solution addinga little of liquid non-ionic detergent with thehelp of soft nylon/coir brushes from plasteredsurface. The treated plastered surface was givenbiocidal treatment, by applying 2-3% solutionof SPC in water. The weak stone surface wasconsolidated using an ethyl silicate based stonestrengthener Wacker OH-100. Finally, theabove treated dried sandstone surface waspreserved with a silicone based water repellentthe Wacker BS-290 diluted in MTO in the ratioof 1:11. The metallic portion was cleaned usingmild solution of oxalic acid, tartaric acid andpreserved with solution of PVA in toluene.

117. LAL KHAN TOMB, VARANASI, DISTRICTVARANASI

This tomb, having lime plastereddomes and coloured tiles was subjected tochemical treatment for the removal of thick

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micro-vegetational growth, dust, dirt, smokeand bird’s excreta by using 3% solution ofammonia and teepol. The cleaned surface wasthen given fungicidal treatment followed byapplication of silicone based water repellentWacker BS-290 diluted in MTO in the ratioof 1:11.

118. PANCHAYATANA TEMPLE ADJOINING VOTIVESTUPAS AND OTHER ANCIENT REMAINS, SARNATH,DISTRICT VARANASI

Mostly brick structure and partiallylime plastered Panchayatana temple and othershrines of Sarnath excavated site weresubjected to removal of micro-vegetationalgrowth, bird’s excreta and other accretionarydeposits by using 5% solution of ammonia andnon-ionic detergent. After cleaning thecomplete dried surface was given fungicidaltreatment with 5% solution of SPC to arrestthe vegetational growth. Finally, the abovetreated and dried surface was preserved witha silicone based water repellent Wacker BS-290 diluted in MTO in the ratio of 1:11. Thework is still in progress.

WEST BENGAL

brushes. The weak stone surface wasconsolidated using an ethyl silicate based stonestrengthener Wacker OH-100. The cleaned areawas then subjected to fungicidal treatmentfollowed by application of Wacker BS-290 inMTO in the ratio of 1:10 as preservative. Thework is in progress.

120. Ancient metallic coins and an image fromAhichhatra excavation site, received fromAgra Circle have been chemically treatedand preserved.

121. Antiquities of copper, silver, iron and leadcoins from Daultabad fort, Daultabadhave been chemically treated andpreserved.

122. Wooden doors from Daultabad fort werechemically treated and preserved.

123. One hundred fifty antiquities receivedfrom Aurangabad Circle have beenchemically treated and preserved.

124. Fortythree antiquities of iron, brass andsilver received from Excavation Branch-IV, Bhubaneswar have been chemicallytreated and preserved.

125. A terracotta monastic sealing, receivedfrom Excavation Branch-IV,Bhubaneswar has been chemically treatedand preserved.

126. Fifteen numbers of antiquities mainly ofterracotta and potteries received fromArchaeological museum, Ropar havebeen chemically treated and preserved.

TREATMENT OF EXCAVATED OBJECTSAND MUSEUM EXHIBITS2

2. Chemical treatment carried out by 120, Zonal Laboratory, Agra; 121-123, Zonal Laboratory,Aurangabad; 124-125, Regional Laboratory, Bhubaneswar; 126, Zonal Laboratory, Chandigarh; 127-135, Laboratory, Science Branch, Dehradun; 136-137, Zonal Laboratory, Delhi and 138, ZonalLaboratory, Mysore of the Survey.

119. BEGUNIA GROUP OF TEMPLE, BARALAR,DISTRICT VARDHMAN

The Group of four temples (Kali,Ganesa, Siva and Durga) built of sandstone wassubjected to chemical treatment in order toremove micro-vegetational growth, dust, dirtand bird’s excreta including strengthening offragile and powdery carvings and sculptures.The surface was cleaned with the help of 5%aqueous ammonia solution and non-ionicdetergent by gentle brushing with suitable nylon

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127. Seventeen archival art materials receivedfrom the Taj Museum, Taj Mahal, Agrahave been chemically treated andpreserved.

128. Lime mortar samples from stupa collectedfrom the excavated site at Kanganahallinear Sannati in Chitapur taluk of districtGulbarga, Karnataka received fromDirector (Conservation) was analyzed todetermine its chemical composition.

129. Eleven mortar samples collected fromMahabodhi Temple, Bodhgaya have beenanalysed to determine their chemicalcomposition.

130. Six samples of mortar/mud plaster fromChauburji, Itimad-ud-Daula, Agra beinganalyzed for determining their chemicalcomposition.

131. Seven mud plaster samples from ElloraCave nos. 5 and 6 have been analyzed fordetermining their chemical composition.

132. Two metal samples (brass) from mainMausolium door, Bibi-ka-maqbara,Aurangabad have been analyzed fordetermining their chemical composition.

133. A Japanese painting received from SwamiRama centre, Jolly Grant, Dehradun hasbeen restored.

134. Four lime plaster samples from BharatMata temple, Daulatabad fort, Aurangabadhave been analyzed for determining theirchemical composition.

135. Scientific and analytical studies ofsamples (what sort of samples) collectedfrom Red fort, Delhi with regard topreparation of comprehensiveconservation management plan of Redfort, Delhi is in progress.

136. Chemical cleaning and analysis of metalantiquities received from excavation atSiswania, District Basti were carried out.

137. Marble sculptures in the marble hallcollection of President’s Secretariat werechemically treated and preserved.

138. Twenty four lead coins received from theexcavated site at Sannati Buddhist site inChitapur taluk, District Gulbarga,Karnataka are being chemically treated andpreserved.

139. The colour of marble surface of VictoriaMemorial Hall has changed its appearancealong with its deterioration due to effectsof various pollutants like smoke, dust, dirtand greasy matter. In continuation ofprevious year’s work has been taken upon the south and north side of the exteriorsurface which is of rough coarse marbleand interior surface of the north-westrestoration room of marble and sandstonematerials along with metal structures. Theclay pack method was used for cleaningof marble surface by applying the pasteof Fuller’s earth containing traces ofsodium carbonate, sodium bicarbonateand hydrogen peroxide in order to loosenthe greasy and hard accretions. Thesandstone surface was cleaned using amixture of aqueous ammonia solution andnon-ionic detergent followed by thoroughwashing with clean water. The work isstill in progress.

140. Cleaning, consolidation and preservationwork was carried out on the muralpaintings of Shri Guru Ram Rai Durbar,Dehradun. The work is still in progress.

141. The Ambient Air Quality MonitoringStation (AAQMS) at Taj Mahal, Agra hasbeen monitoring and analyzing thepresence of air pollutants such as sulphur

340


dioxide (SO2), oxides of nitrogen (NOX)and suspended particulate matter (SPM)in the ambience of Taj Mahal. Besidesthese pollutants, some environmentalchemical activities such as dust fall rateand sulphation rate were also calculatedin this laboratory in respect to Taj Mahaland Agra fort. Meteorological parameterswhich may affect the activity of the abovecited pollutants viz., temperature, relativehumidity, wind speed/wind direction,solar radiations and rain fall were alsomonitored.

A. Chemical parameters

i. Sulphur dioxide: The maximumconcentration of SO2 was recorded as15.75 µg/M3 in the month of January2007, whereas the maximum monthlyaverage concentration was recorded as05.18 µg/M3 in the month of January2007. The monthly annual concentrationof SO2 for the period between April, 2006and March, 2007 was measured as3.49µg/M3.

ii Nitrogen dioxide: The maximumconcentration of NO2 was recorded as23.44 µg/M3 in the month of May 2006,whereas maximum monthly averageconcentration was recorded as 13.19 µg/M3 in the month of December, 2006.The annual concentration of NO2 for theperiod between April, 2006 and March,2007 was calculated as 7.02 µg/M3.

iii. Sulphation rate: Sulphation rate is animportant factor and is described as therate at which SO2 in the atmosphere getsconverted into SO3. This SO3 in turntransforms into sulphuric acid, which, ifcomes in contact with the marble maycause its dissolution. The maximumsulphation rate was calculated as 0.0288

gm SO3/m2/day in the month of April,2006 at Taj Mahal.

B. Physical parameters

i. Dust fall rate: Dust is a carrier of variouspollutants present in the atmosphere.These particles can cause abrasion to themarble surface if strike with momentum.The maximum dust fall rate was recorded5.24 MT/Km2/month in the month ofMay, 2006 at Taj Mahal, Agra. Volatilematter of dust fall has also been estimatedduring the period.

ii. Suspended Particulate Matter: The tolerable limit for SPM has been fixed as100µg/M3 for the sensitive zone of themonument. The maximum monthlyaverage concentration of SPM wasrecorded in month of May, 2006 as 681.67µg/M3. The monthly annual averageconcentration of SPM for the periodbetween April, 2006 and March, 2007 wascalculated as 253.819 µg/M3.

C. Meteorological parameters

i. Wind speed and wind direction: Windspeed and wind direction have beenmonitored with the help of wind monitor(WM-200). During the period underreview, light air (1-5km/hr) was recorded.In the months of April to June, 2006, lightto strong wind was recorded. Thedirection of wind flow remained variable.

ii. Temperature and Relative Humidity: Themaximum temperature was recorded 43°Cin the month of May, 2006, while theminimum temperature was recorded as4.4°C in the month of December, 2006.The relative humidity varied from 15%and 99% during the period under review.

iii. Rainfall: The total rainfall was recorded459.5mm during the period under review.

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The maximum rain fall was recorded as251.5mm in the month of July, 2006.

142. To study the levels of suspendedparticulate matter and important gaseouspollutant in the ambient air in and aroundCharminar and their impact on thestability of structures are being carriedout.

143. Petrological studies of stone samplesreceived from different archaeologicalmonuments situated at Hyderabad,Gopeshwar, Adibadri, Khajuraho,Gwalior with the view to have completeinformation about the action ofdeteriorating agencies have beencompleted. A comparative study ofweathered stone samples of Red fort,Delhi under the “ComprehensiveConservation Management Plan, RedFort” was carried out in the laboratory.

144. Physico-chemical studies on polymersin conservation of stone-efficacy ofsynthetic polymers Topcoat and Wackeras consolidants for red sandstone wascarried out. Samples were artificiallyweathered and physico-chemicalproperties e.g., water-absorption by

capillary, immersion, rate of waterevaporation and surface roughness werealso studied.

145. Bio-deterioration studies of monumentsand museums of Rajasthan was conducted.Walls of Amber Fort, Jaipur were treatedwith different homoeopathic drugs(Petroleum-30, Rumex-200, Arsenicum-30, Sulphur-1M and biocideNaphthaquinine). No effective results werefound.

146. The Laboratory is presently engaged in theconservation of maps and drawings ofWorld Heritage Site, CST, Mumbai.Another main project in hand is theconservation of manuscripts belonging toRashtriya Sanskrit Sansthan, Allahabad.

147. The Regional Conservation Laboratory,Mysore was designated as a researchcentre of the National ManuscriptsMission. The Laboratory will carry outresearch in the field of lamination, massde-acidification, adhesives for palm-leafand traditional methods of conservationunder this project.

148. A 3-week training in the conservation ofart objects was organized for the Asstt.Archaeological Chemists from differentbranches of the Survey from 9-28th April,2007. 15 persons attended andsuccessfully completed the training.

3. Information from: 143, Stone Conservation Laboratory, Agra of the Survey; 144-148, NationalResearch Laboratory for Conservation of Cultural Property, Lucknow.

RESEARCH AND ANALYSIS3

342


249Siddi Sayed mosque, Ahmedabad: 248, before and 249, after chemical conservation. See p. 317

248


343


251Ahmed Shah Wali Tomb, Asthur: 250, before and 251, after chemical conservation. See p. 320

250


344



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259Kalyan Rai Temple, Toda Rai Singh: 258, before and 259, after chemical conservation. See p. 332

258


348


X. ARCHAEOLOGICAL GARDENS

1. RED FORT, DELHI

The area on south western side ofDewan-i-Am is landscaped. A pump is installedin ancient well for irrigation of this area. Aftertrenching the area backside of barrack wasgiven shape to suit to the surrounding andgrassed.

2. MANDI MOSQUE, DELHI

There is small area around the mosquewith no water supply arrangement. The Mandimosque is in ridge area of southern Delhi. Thefront area was full with stones and malba, itwas removed to the depth of 20cm andcompensated with good earth, to develop lawn.The garden development including plantationis completed.

3. CITADEL WALL, PAVAGADH, DISTRICT

GODHRA

The outer area on south western sidealong citadel wall facing the main road fromVadodara to Pavagadh is taken up fordevelopment. The area was full with wildvegetation and stones including wall members.All the wall member stones and other stonesare stacked separately at suitable place and thearea was dug after clearing the wild vegetation.The good earth was added to compensate themalba and stone and manure was added toincrease fertility of soil and grassing andplantation is done after dressing of the area.The water supply arrangement is made frombore well at Shahar-ki-masjid (Pls. 260-261).

4. ANCIENT SITE, LOTHAL, AHMEDABAD

The whole region at Lothal is badlyeffected with salinity and soil is clay in nature.The drinking water is brought from far distance.It was essential to take up environmentaldevelopment to make the place tourist friendly.In first phase on experimental basis the frontarea of museum with some plantation inadjoining ancient site area is taken up. Afterclearing, the wild vegetation. The pits are dugfor plantation and area in front of the museumhas been grassed. The lawn and plants are ingood condition.

5. NAGINA MASJID, PAVAGADH, DISTRICT

GODHRA

The Nagina masjid is located in isolatedplace is scrub forest. The area was full with wildvegetation and thorny bushes and even trees andbushes grown on the ancient channel frommasjid to well. The wild vegetation wasuprooted. The area was given the shape whiledigging. The area is grassed and plantation workwill be taken up as soon as conservation workwill be over (Pls. 262-263).

6. RUINED QILLA (PRITHVI RAJ CHAUHAN’S

FORT), HANSI, DISTRICT HISSAR

The fort of famous emperor Prithvi RajChauhan at Hansi occupies a large area, whichis divided in two parts.

The outer area is a moat except in frontof entrance to the fort. The fort wall is of mudand there is regular erosion of mud loosing theglory. The outer area has only one structure

DELHI

GUJARAT

HARYANA

349

ARCHAEOLOGICAL GARDENS

known as ‘ghoda-ghar’ (stable) and remains ofbrick structure. The moat area was undulatedand full wild vegetation and thorny bushes ofProsopis (Vilayati babul), which made thearea in accessible to visitors and it was beingmisused by local residents. The earth from thearea was also being dug for their use. The innervast area is undulated, and the excavations arealso carried out in this area. There was no watersupply arrangement and ground water is salinein nature. As the area is quit vast therefore inthe first phase, the garden development in areain front of entrance is taken up to improve theenvironment.

To make water supply arrangement, ashallow bore well to the depth of 115' is sunk.In view of brick structural remains in the areatrenching is not proposed, only good earth tothe thickness of 15cm will be spread to developlawns. A brick pathway is laid by the ChandigarhCircle. The work of development of garden isin final stage of completion and the lower moatarea will be provided with plantation.

7. HIDIMBA DEVI TEMPLE, MANALI, DISTRICT

KULLU

The ancient temple of Hidimba devi ismade of wood and the area is full with big treesof deodar. The area is irregular in shape withslope from south western side to north easternside. The northern side has steep slope. Theground receive sparse sun light. Due to regularerosion the ground was undulated and havingwild growth. The monument is in centre of cityand being visited by domestic and foreigntourist. The landscaping of archaeological areaaround temple is taken up to arrest erosion andto make well maintained tourist friendlycomplex. The beautiful valley of snow and treesis attracting tourist from all over the world.

While trenching the area, it was shaped torestore original topography. The shrub plantsare planted in the open area, which receivessunlight. The area is grassed and shade lovingground covers and bulbs are planted.

8. ANCIENT PALACE OF RAJA SUCHET SINGH,RAM NAGAR, DISTRICT UDHAMPUR

The place is located on hill slope. Theexisting garden was in front area but rear areawas full wild vegetation. The lawn of existinggarden were badly infested with weeds.Therefore landscaping of rear portion andregrassing of existing lawn is taken up to makewhole area presentable. The irrigation pipe lineis extended in rear portion, while trenching thearea is shaped without disturbing topographyof area. The grassing is done to arrest erosionfrom slopes. The creepers are also planted onslopes (Pls. 264-265).

9. SAMADHI OF QUEEN OF RAJA SUCHET SINGH,RAMNAGAR, DISTRICT UDHAMPUR

The samadhi is on north and westernside of Ramnagar fort. The garden wasmaintained in the inner court yard of samadhi.The outer area was full with wild grasses. Thegarden is laid in outer area. The grassing wasdone after trenching and plantation is donealong periphery. The shrubs are planted in groupat suitable places.

10. SARAI INCLUDING GATEWAY, NURMAHAL,DISTRICT JALANDHAR

The sarai consist of vast courtyard andcells in the ancient wall of sarai and masjid innorth western portion with two big gateways.The 8'' dia. bore-well is sunk for irrigation. Thesome areas were full with malba and alsohaving tar roads, these areas are to be dug to

HIMACHAL PRADESH

JAMMU AND KASHMIR

350


the depth of 30cm and unserviceable materialis to be removed to initiate the horticulturalworks. The level of area around masjid is higherthan pathway, therefore it need to be cut to thelevel of pathway.

11. SARAI INCLUDING GATEWAY, DAKHNI,DISTRICT JALANDHAR

There is linear strip of land on all sidesof monument. The area is almost leveled butfull with wild grasses, which is cleared bydigging to the depth of 45cm. The soil was goodtherefore only manure is added to improvefertility. The 8''dia. bore-well is sunk to depthof 100m and a submersible pump-set isinstalled for irrigation. The pits have been dugat periphery and at other places as per plan forplantation of trees and shrubs. After trenchingand fine dressing of the area, grassing is done(Pls. 266-267).

12. HATHI KHANA, BAYANA FORT, BAYANA,DISTRICT BHARATPUR

Bayana fort is situated on high hill andcovering vast area of whole rocky hill. It isaccessible from the west through steps up totop of hill. At foot of hill there is enclosureknown as Hathi bara. It is little away from mainroad and one has to pass through village toreach Hathi Khana. In first phase woodlanddevelopment is taken up to initiate developmentwork along with water supply arrangement toconvert this dreary starch of land in to greentourist friendly spot. The 8''dia. bore well tothe depth of 105m is sunk. The pipe line is laid.The work of digging of pits for plantation oftrees is in progress and further work will betaken up as soon as power supply is received.

13. ANCIENT SITE, SAMBHAR, DISTRICT JAIPUR

The ancient site Sambhar is close tofamous largest salt lake Sambhar in Jaipurdistrict. It is located on main road from Duduto Phulera. The ancient site is spread over alarge area with ancient remain at five placeswhich are well conserved. The vegetation isscantly. There are thorny bushes of prosopisjuliflora and xerophatic plants. The areareceive poor rain fall. The ground water issaline and poor, therefore in first phase thework of water supply arrangement andenvironment development of area on both thesides of approach path from main road to siteis taken up. The successful 12'' dia. dug wellto the depth of 62' is constructed. The RajasthanState Electricity Board is requested for powersupply. The wild grasses are uprooted bytrenching.

14. MENAL TEMPLE, MENAL, CHITTAURGARH,DISTRICT CHITTAURGARH

The area is being visited by largenumber of tourists regularly. The loose stonesare spread over the whole archaeological areaand giving dreary and shabby looks. The waterfall receives the water from seasonal river. Infirst phase, the area on both sides of approachpath from road to temple is taken up and forwater supply, 8'' dia. bore well is sunk to thedepth of 95m.

15. ANCIENT SITE, NAGRI, DISTRICT

CHITTAURGARH

It is a mound having remains of ancientSiva temple and citadel wall of huge dry stoneblocks. The area was full with wild vegetationand thorny bushes, which was destroying thearchaeological remains. The area also becomecentre of anti-social activities. Therefore, itwas essential to take-up environmentaldevelopment of this site to make it touristfriendly. The 8'' dia. bore well was sunk forirrigation. The wild vegetation was uprooted.

RAJASTHAN

351


261Citadel wall, Pavagarh: 260, before and 261, after landscaping. See p. 348

260


352


263Nagina masjid, Pavagarh: 262, before and 263, after landscaping. See p. 348

262


353


265Ancient Palace, Ramnagar: 264, front area and 265, after development. See p. 349

264


354


266

267Dakhani Sarai, Dakhani: 266, before and 267, after development. See p. 350


355


269Ancient site, Nagri: 268,before and 269, area after clearance. See p. 357

268


356


271Kumbhalgarh fort, Kumbhalgarh: 270, before and 271, after landscaping. See p.357

270


357


The self-grown trees were trimmed and prunedto give natural shape, which was destroyed bylocal residents, by regular cutting of trees andbushes for their use. The natural doob grass isallowed to grow and shallow rooted shrubs areplanted (Pls. 268-269).

16. PARSWANATH AND SIVA TEMPLE,KUMBHALGARH FORT, DISTRICT RAJSAMAND

After augmentation of water supply bydesilting of Mammadev Bavdi, the gardendevelopment is taken up. Both the temples arelocated on hill. The area is landscaped. Thesmall patch of lawn are developed withplantation of dwarf shrubs in spaces betweenrocks. The trees like champa, khajur,harsingar, molsari are planted at places havingsoil of good depth. The sweet scented creepersand bulbous plants are also planted (Pls. 270-271).

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During the year under review, the surveybrought out publications both under academic andinformative series as detailed below:

A. ACADEMIC

1. Indian Archaeology- A review for theyear 2000-01.

2. Excavation Report on Nagarjunakondaand Ta-Prohm Temple-A Conservation Strat-egy.

B. INFORMATIVE SERIES

3. Inventories of Monuments and Sites ofNational Importance of Jaipur and ThrissurCircles.

4. Guide Books of Mahabalipuram andHampi under World Heritage Series,Bishnupur in Bengali, Monuments of Punjabin Punjabi, Kushinagara in English andSarnath (Deluxe Edition) in English.

Besides, guide books on Nalanda,Nagarjunakonda, Dig in English and Bishnupur,Nalanda and Dig in Hindi were reprinted.

C. OTHER PUBLICATION

5. Under the Cultural AwarenessProgramme the Jaipur Cicle brought out thebrochures on World Heritage Monumentsin English.

6. Institute of Archaeology of the Surveybrought out the Newsletter of Institute ofArchaeology, Vol.1 Part -1

XI. PUBLICATIONS

D. CULTURAL AWARENESS

Archaeological Survey of India organizedphoto exhibition, quiz, painting competition, filmshows, workshops, cultural programmes etc., onthe occasion to celebrate Republic Day (26th Janu-ary), World Heritage Day (18th April), Interna-tional Museum Day (18th May), Van Mahotsav(1st to 7th July), Independence Day (15th August),Teachers Day (5th September), World TourismDay (27th September), Gandhi Jayanti (2nd Oc-tober), Children’s Day (14th November), WorldHeritage Week ( 19th -25th November) for gen-erating awareness about the rich cultural heritageamong the masses.

indian archaeology 2006-07

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