An ancient idol of Goddess Durga has been recovered from the Jhelum River in Baramulla district of north Kashmir. The sculpture was found by a local fisherman while he was fishing in the river. The idol has now been handed over to the Archaeology Wing in Srinagar for detailed examination and preservation. 

According to Jammu and Kashmir Police, the discovery was made by Nazir Ahmad Latoo, a resident of Shaltang Zogyar in Baramulla. Latoo came across the idol while fishing in the Jhelum River and immediately informed the authorities about the find. Following this, the police took swift action to ensure the safety of the ancient sculpture. 

A police spokesperson explained the process followed after the discovery. “The sculpture was immediately brought to the notice of authorities and was kept in safe custody at Sheri police station. Following due procedures and directions from the Directorate of Archives, Archaeology and Museums, Jammu and Kashmir, the sculpture was formally handed over to the Archaeology Wing, Srinagar,” the spokesperson said. 

The ancient Durga idol is currently undergoing a thorough examination by experts. Officials said that the sculpture will be properly documented and preserved after the examination is completed. The detailed study is expected to reveal important information about the age, style, and historical significance of the idol. 

Highlighting the importance of such discoveries, the police spokesperson further stated, “Such discoveries not only enrich Kashmir’s historical narrative but also underline the importance of community participation in preserving the region’s invaluable heritage.” The police have also appealed to citizens to act responsibly and inform authorities immediately if they come across any historical or archaeological objects, as seen in this case. 

This is not the first time that an ancient Durga idol has been found in the Jhelum River. In August 2021, another stone idol of Goddess Durga was discovered in the river by sand labourers. After a detailed examination, experts confirmed that the idol dated back nearly 1,200 years, to around the 8th century AD. 

The earlier idol depicted Goddess Durga seated on a throne with four attendants. According to official records, the sculpture was made of black stone and measured about 6 inches by 8 inches in size. After examination, the idol was handed over to the Jammu and Kashmir Department of Archives, where it is currently preserved. 

At that time, Deputy Director of the Department of Archives, Archaeology and Museums, Mushtaq Ahmad Beigh, shared details about the finding. He said, “During examination by experts it was revealed that the sculpture of Goddess Durga dates back roughly to 7th-8th AD (about 1200 years old).” 

The recent recovery of another Durga idol from the Jhelum River once again highlights the rich archaeological and cultural heritage of Kashmir. Authorities believe that careful examination of the newly found sculpture will add further understanding to the region’s ancient history and religious art traditions.