Gold Coin Rumors Trigger Village-Wide Digging Frenzy Near Khajuraho
Excitement swept through Rajgarh village in Chhatarpur district near Khajuraho as rumors spread about ancient gold coins being discovered in excavated soil. The frenzy began when soil from construction work at the historic Rajgarh Palace complex was dumped along a roadside on January 22.
Rainfall Reveals Glimmering Objects
After recent rainfall, locals reported that several gold-like coins started appearing in the washed-out soil. Word of the potential treasure spread rapidly through the community, prompting villagers to rush to the roadside dump site close to the palace complex, which is leased by a hotel group.
By Wednesday, the scene had transformed into an organized digging operation. Villagers were seen using pickaxes, shovels, and iron rods to excavate the soil, while women and children carefully sifted through the mud using iron sieves. The collective hope was to uncover valuable artifacts that might date back several centuries.
Unverified Claims and Community Speculation
Some villagers made unverified claims that many people had already found coins, with circulating rumors suggesting some individuals had recovered between 10 to 40 coins. One local resident even alleged that her five-year-old granddaughter had picked up a coin, only to have it snatched away by another child in the commotion.
Rajgarh is home to a 350-year-old Bundela-era palace, leading residents to speculate that any discovered coins might be connected to the region's rich historical past. Pictures of what appeared to be coins began circulating on social media platforms, though their authenticity remains completely unverified.
Official Response and Investigation
Police and administrative officers have firmly denied the claims of discovered coins. Authorities explained that black soil from the palace construction site had been used for road leveling ahead of the upcoming Basant Panchami fair, which might have contributed to the confusion.
Superintendent of Police Agam Jain told media outlets that while police have received information about the situation, no coins have been officially recovered so far. "If anything is found, a proper investigation will be carried out," Jain stated, emphasizing the need for verification before drawing any conclusions about historical artifacts.
The incident highlights how quickly rumors can spread in rural communities, especially when connected to potential historical discoveries. As villagers continue their search, authorities maintain a cautious approach, awaiting concrete evidence before confirming any findings related to what could potentially be centuries-old treasure.
