The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has once again begun digging at the historically rich Suka-Sari temple complex, located in the Old Town area of Bhubaneswar. This renewed effort follows an earlier phase of excavation that had already unearthed significant remnants, including those of a large Devi temple and several smaller shrines.
Unearthing History: The Renewed Dig
Personnel from the ASI's Bhubaneswar circle have recently initiated work on the southern side of the Sari Deula temple complex. The primary objective is to locate the remaining portions of the previously discovered Devi temple and to identify any other ancient architectural remains that may be buried at the site. The ASI first started excavation at Sari Deula in 2021, pausing the work in 2022-23.
Superintending archaeologist of ASI's Bhubaneswar circle, N K Swain, explained the rationale behind resuming the project. "We resumed the dig to excavate the Durga temple further," he said. "We will examine whether there are any other architectural fragments, panels, mouldings or small temple structures in the area. There is a great possibility of finding such remains because the entire area is replete with ancient structures." The team is employing traditional tools and practices to avoid damaging any fragile structures or idols hidden underground.
Significant Past Discoveries
The initial excavation phase from 2021 to 2023 yielded remarkable findings, primarily concentrated in the east and north-west corners of the ornate, west-facing Sari Deula temple, which is situated close to the famous Lingaraj Temple.
One of the most notable discoveries was the remains of a buried sandstone Devi temple, which housed an idol of Mahisasurmardini Durga. This idol was found in the sanctum sanctorum in a fairly intact condition. Historian Jagannath Ratha highlighted the site's significance, noting that while it was believed Sari Deula was built in the Panchayatan style with four subsidiary shrines, the area seems to contain even more temples. The buried Devi temple itself faces south towards the Bindusagar lake.
Other important artifacts recovered from the site, particularly to the west of the Devi temple, include:
- A sculpture of Lord Vishnu
- An idol of Devi Gajalaxmi
- A depiction of Narasimha
- Numerous pottery items
- Large and small inscriptions
- Laterite sculptural blocks
Context and Future Implications
The entire archaeological site came to light following the demolition of a college by the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC). This demolition was part of a larger initiative to create land for the Ekamra Kshetra heritage project, which aims to preserve and showcase the cultural and historical wealth of the region.
The ongoing excavation is not just about uncovering individual artifacts; it is a systematic effort to piece together the grand architectural and religious landscape that once existed in this part of Odisha's capital. Each finding adds a new chapter to the understanding of the region's ancient history, temple architecture, and religious practices. The work of the ASI promises to reveal more secrets from Odisha's glorious past, potentially transforming the historical narrative of Bhubaneswar's Old Town.
