1200-year-old idols found in Nalanda

Patna, Feb 3: Two stone idols believed to be about 1200 years old was found from a waterbody close to the ancient Nalanda University during desilting of a pond, an ASI official said.
The idols were found earlier this week from Tarsinh pond at Sarlichak village near the ancient Nalanda Mahavira, a world heritage site about 88 km from here, during desilting under Bihar government’s ‘Jal-Jeevan-Hariyali’ project launched to protect and conserve water and the environment.
Details of the two idols were, however, not divulged either by Archeological Survey of India or the administration.
Goutami Bhattacharya, Superintending Archaeologist (ASI, Patna circle) said there are reports that when villagers living in the area came to know about the discovery of the idols, they started making plans to build a temple to house these.
“Our officials posted there came to know about it and immediately informed the local police. According to feedback that we have received, both the idols, which are probably 1200 year old, are now in the custody of the local police,” she told PTI.
“We want to display them at the Nalanda Museum. I have requested the state government to immediately hand over these idols as per the provisions of the Indian Treasure Trove Act, 1878,” Bhattacharya said.
The official said it is seen that any antiquities or treasure when found beneath the surface are usually brought to a nearby temple or other religious places by locals. But whenever any antiquities or artefacts exceeding the value of Rs 10 are found they should be deposited at the nearest government treasury by the finder, according to the Indian Treasure Trove Act, 1878. (PTI)