The Archaeological Survey of India has launched a fresh excavation at an ancient Ashvamedha Yajna site in Jagatgram, located on the outskirts of Dehradun. This marks the first major archaeological work at the site in over seven decades. The nationally-protected monument lies approximately 45 kilometers from Dehradun city.
Search for the Fourth Altar
Historical accounts indicate that four Ashvamedha Yajnas took place at this site during the reign of King Sheel Varman in the 3rd century AD. Today, only three altars remain visible at the location. Archaeologists are now digging to locate the fourth missing altar. They want to scientifically establish the site's original layout and precise chronology.
The ASI last conducted excavations here back in 1953 and 1954. The current project began just last month. It represents a significant renewal of archaeological interest in this important historical location.
What is Ashvamedha Yajna?
The Ashvamedha ritual was an ancient Vedic ceremony performed by kings to assert their sovereignty. A specially selected horse would be released to wander freely for one full year. The king's warriors accompanied the animal during its journey.
If the horse entered another ruler's territory, that ruler could challenge the king's authority by confronting the escort. When the horse returned unharmed after the year, it would be sacrificed. The king would then be declared an undisputed sovereign.
Recent Discoveries at the Site
Archaeologists working at Jagatgram have already made several important finds. They uncovered burnt coal, brick fragments, and pottery pieces from layers more than one meter below the surface. These materials might represent remnants used in the construction of the yajna altars.
Mohan Chand Joshi, Superintending Archaeologist of the Dehradun circle, explained their objectives. "We aim to understand the cultural sequence here," he said. "We want to determine the earliest human activity in this area."
The team discovered structural features including a vedica, or platform, about 85 centimeters below ground level. They found bricks and pottery alongside this structure. The exact age of these artifacts remains undetermined at this stage.
Scientific Analysis Underway
Archaeologists have sent collected samples to laboratories for detailed testing and dating. Pottery shards discovered alongside the bricks should provide additional clues about the period and nature of activities at the site.
ASI officials revealed they are engaging scientists from the Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology. These experts will perform thermoluminescence and optically stimulated luminescence dating on the artifacts. These advanced techniques will help establish accurate timelines for the materials.
Historical Significance of the Site
King Sheel Varman ruled the Kunind dynasty during the 3rd century AD. His empire stretched from Haripur to Lakhamandal, areas that now fall within Dehradun district. Haripur Kalsi served as his capital city.
Previous excavations at the site revealed bricks inscribed with Brahmi script. These inscriptions provided evidence of the Ashvamedha Yajnas conducted here. The Jagatgram location represents one of ancient India's important yajna sites.
Later historical developments saw Emperor Ashoka erect an inscription in the nearby Kalsi area. This adds another layer of historical significance to the region.
Future Plans and Accessibility
The site currently remains relatively remote and difficult to access. ASI hopes that eventually scholars, students, and visitors from across India will be able to visit this important historical location.
Joshi cautioned against premature conclusions. "It is too early to determine the location of the fourth altar," he stated. "Excavations will be conducted at various locations before we can draw any firm conclusions."
The archaeological team plans to continue their work through the end of February. Their systematic approach should yield valuable insights into this ancient ceremonial site and its place in India's historical narrative.
