Ahmedabad: Shell bangles adorned with gold foil, pearl and gold ear ornaments, and various game pieces have brought the gleam of a treasury to the camp of archaeologists at Valabhipur, a town located about 40 kilometers northwest of Bhavnagar. The camp is operated by the Excavation Branch V of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and the State Archaeology Department of Gujarat.
Another precious find is a delicate carnelian intaglio featuring a deer symbol. Carnelian is an orange or orange-red semiprecious stone, and intaglio refers to the engraving technique used. These artifacts, along with a copper plate and numerous figurines and terracotta seals, evoke the cultural zenith of the Maitraka dynasty. This dynasty was one of the earliest from the Saurashtra peninsula, ruling almost the entire area of present-day Gujarat and beyond from the 5th to the 8th centuries.
Dr. Reshma Sawant, the superintending archaeologist with the ASI who has been working at the site for the past two seasons, stated, "Based on the evidence so far, the artifacts and structures present a picture of a thriving and prosperous town that not only had manufacturing facilities but also well-connected trade." She emphasized that the trade links are highlighted by the presence of torpedo jars that originated from the Mediterranean regions. Torpedo jars are tall, narrow clay vessels used for shipping goods over long distances.
Sawant added, "Moreover, the site was a confluence of religions. We have found Lord Ganesha idols, Lajjagauri figures, and seals and sealings associated with Buddhism." The ASI began excavations at the site in 2024-25 with the aim of uncovering archaeological evidence of ancient Valabhi, the capital of the Maitrakas. This city was renowned not only for its religious discourse but also for its university, which attracted scholars from all over India.
Officials noted that the nature of the excavated structures will become clearer with further digging, as excavations are set to continue next season. The approximate age of the finds aligns well with the Maitraka period (5th to 8th centuries CE) and later periods. Two sites in the town are under archaeological investigation: an ancient mound near Mafat Nagar and a town site near Darbargadh. Experts indicated that the ancient mound is currently the primary focus.
Scholars observed that, like many towns that have existed for centuries, Valabhipur has retained its overall layout. It is possible that the structures the ASI is searching for lie beneath the existing town, where excavation is no longer feasible. However, evidence from the limited area reveals the nature of the site. Sawant explained, "We have hearths and a large number of conches and shells used for making bangles. We also have semiprecious stones and bead polishers, indicating a thriving economy." She further mentioned, "We also have coins, sealings, and a rare copper plate that provide us with epigraphic (written) records. The copper plate has been sent to the Science and Epigraphy Branch in Mysuru for cleaning and deciphering."
Dr. Y S Rawat, the director general of the ASI, told TOI that the results from the excavations are encouraging. "The evidence found from the digs will help put the historic facts in perspective," he said. "The excavations will continue for the next season. A site atop the nearby Thapnath Hill is also an exciting discovery." Hiuen Tsang, the famous Chinese traveler to India, referred to the town as 'Fa La Pi' in his writings and described it as 'densely populated, rich' due to the availability of rare and valuable products. He also noted the rich library with royal patronage, according to historian Makrand Mehta. Another Chinese traveler, I Tsing, also praised the town and its university.
Why is the capital located at its current site? Some accounts point to its maritime connection. The town has two nearby rivers, Ghelo and Kalubhar, although the coast is no closer than 40 kilometers. Experts believe that inland riverine trade, rather than a seaport, may have been the reason. Some coastal sites in Bhavnagar district have shown evidence of habitation centuries ago, and the current excavation may shed light on its connection with contemporary sites.
The town holds significance as a confluence of religions, including Buddhism, Jainism, and Hinduism, and as the site for several seminal events. According to historians, it was the location of the historic Valabhi Council of Jainism. The town is believed to have fallen to invasions into Gujarat in the 8th century CE. Notably, the ASI is currently working on two sites: Valabhipur and Lothal. The work was initiated after a major excavation at Vadnagar, which eventually led to the creation of an archaeological experiential museum in the town.
Citadel with a View atop Hillock
ASI officials identified ancient bricks on the flattened top of a hillock, known locally as Thapnath Hill near Chamardi village. This led to a significant discovery: a 50-square-foot area was found to contain a major structure. Dr. Reshma Sawant noted that half of the structure is made of burnt bricks measuring 39 x 23 x 5 centimeters, while the rest consists of stones, possibly indicating two phases of construction. "We are yet to ascertain the nature of the structure—whether it was a watchpost that provided an unhindered view of a large area or if it had another purpose," she said. "Some coins found at the site are from the medieval period. One interesting discovery is a suspected water channel." The site will be explored in detail during the next excavation season, as nearby hills also show signs of anthropogenic activities.
Maitrakas: The Superpower before Solankis
According to historians, the Kingdom of Valabhi emerged after the disintegration of the Gupta Empire in the early medieval period in the 5th century CE. It is believed that Bhattaraka, a general of the Gupta Empire in the Saurashtra region, declared himself ruler and took the title of 'senapati' (general), which he held until his son proclaimed himself 'maharaja' (emperor). Numerous silver coins from the Maitraka reign have been found, bearing the distinct trident as the royal seal. Most details of the kingdom come from copper plates issued as grants. The reign is known for its architecture and cultural contributions, particularly through the famed Valabhi Vidyapith, which was one of the foremost seats of learning in ancient India. The Chinese traveler Yijing praised it, noting that it was financially supported by the state and educated several prominent scholars. Sustained invasions severely weakened the kingdom and led to its downfall in the 8th century, according to scholars. It was only after two centuries that the Chalukyas (Solankis) again made the region a superpower among Indian kingdoms, ushering in an age of cultural renaissance.
