Benisagar (Jharkhand) : Archaeologists have made an exciting discovery in Jharkhand’s Benisagar village, unearthing a 5th-century city. The site has piqued the curiosity of researchers, who are studying the sculptures and stone figures found there. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has recognized the significance of Benisagar by including it in the list of the country’s 100 most prominent archaeological monuments.
The exploration of Benisagar began in the 19th century when Colonel Tickell of the British Army visited in 1840. Subsequently, in 1875, historian J.D. Beglar also came to the site and found some sculptures, attributing the site’s date to the 7th century A.D. Historian KC Panigrahi published a paper in 1956 about the archaeological remains found at the site.
The ASI conducted its first excavation at Benisagar in 2003. The place derived its name from a large pond measuring 300 by 340 meters, believed to have been constructed by a king named Beni or Benu, according to local legend.
The excavation towards the south-east and eastern embankment of the pond revealed various sculptural remains, including two Panchayatan temple complexes, images of Surya, Bhairava, Lakulisha, Agni, and Kuber. Additionally, a stone seal was found at the site with the inscription “Priyangu Dheyam Chatuvidya (Chaturvidya),” suggesting that there was a person named Priyangu who possessed knowledge of the four Vedas. The inscription is written in Brahmi script, using the Sanskrit language.
Some scholars believe that the seal’s discovery indicates that Benisagar was once a center of learning where the four Vedas were taught. Furthermore, the presence of stones depicting scenes of Kama (love) and copulation suggests that sex education was not taboo during that era.
Historians speculate that Benisagar was likely influenced by Tantrism and Shaivism. Based on epigraphic analysis, the site is considered to be from the 5th century. The evidence gathered so far suggests that the area was inhabited from the 5th century to the 16th-17th century.
Benisagar’s location near the border of Mayurbhanj district in Odisha suggests it might have been under the rule of the king of Odisha. The temple architecture found at the site resembles the Rekha Deula style prevalent in Odisha.
During excavations in 2009-10 and 2019-20, stone panels featuring images of Agni, Ganesh, Mahishasura Mardini, Surya, Brahma, Shirochedak, Bhairav, Lakulish, Yamuna, and Shivling were discovered. Many sections of temple architecture, including door-jambs, branches, and headboards, were also found.
These artifacts have been housed in a museum established at Benisagar. Additionally, remains of old civilization buildings can be found nearby, with some resembling an old-time bathhouse due to their curved texture.
The site also boasts a 50-acre temple complex, and a unique attraction is a huge stone near the temple that produces a bell-like sound when struck by another stone, its chime audible up to a kilometer away in the night.
The massive pond spanning 300 x 350 meters is a special feature of Benisagar, never drying up even during the summer when other ponds in the area often do. The administration plans to create a viewpoint for tourists near the pond, offering them a chance to enjoy the beauty of nature.
Moreover, the Union Government intends to develop necessary tourist facilities, such as an audiovisual center, WiFi, Audiorail, and Water Management System, at archaeological monuments across the country, including Benisagar. This move aims to enhance the experience for visitors and preserve these historical treasures for future generations.
