MP: Idols of Shiva, ‘Vasuki Naag’ Found in Bhojshala

Bhopal: Idols of Lord Shiva and ‘Vasuki Naag’ (the mythological snake with seven hoods) were among around 20 ‘archaeological remains’ found in the controversial complex of Bhojshala temple-Kamal Maula mosque in Dhar district in Madhya Pradesh during the latest scientific survey by Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), an activist of a Hindu body said on Tuesday.

While more than nine remains were found during the survey by ASI in the ASI- protected 13th century monument on June 22, over 11 remains were found on June 23, Gopal Sharma, convener of Bhojshala Mukti Yagna told this newspaper.

Mr Sharma was present during the survey as a representative of Hindus.

According to Mr Sharma, the idol of a seven-headed snake, known to be ‘Vasuki Naag’, was found in the northern side of Bhojshala temple during the survey on June 22.

The idol of ‘Vasuki Naag’ was made of black granite, he said.

While the seven hoods of the ‘Vasuki’ or snake in the idol were found in good shape, the lower portion of the snake in the idol was completely damaged, he added.

In mythology, the ‘Vasuki Naag’ serves as the bed of Lord Vishnu.

Another significant finding in the June 22 survey by ASI was the 2.5 ft long idol of Shiva made of stone, he said.

On June 23, more than 11 ‘archaeological remains’ were found in the Bhojshala temple complex, according to Mr Sharma.

The most significant finding among them was the royal emblem of the Parmar dynasty, which ruled Central India between ninth century- 14th century, carved in a piece of a pillar.

Similar image of the emblem was found in a pillar in the sanctum sanctorum of Bhojshala temple earlier, he added.

ASI has started the scientific survey of Bhojshala temple-Kamal Maula mosque complex in March this year following a directive by Madhya Pradesh high court which sought to ascertain the ‘true character, nature and form’ of the disputed site in the wake of Hindus and Muslims staking claim over it.

While Hindus are allowed to worship in Vagdevi (Saraswati) temple in the complex on every Tuesday, Muslims are permitted to offer namaz in the mosque, situated on one side of the complex, on every Friday.