archaeological discoveries at the historic Kashashila Shiv Ashram in Assam’s Morigaon district have strengthened evidence of the region’s rich and ancient cultural history.
The latest artefacts were uncovered during excavation work for a new structure at the shrine in Hatimuria village. The discoveries include a semi-finished stone sculpture believed to date back to the 7th-8th century, along with terracotta sculptures estimated to belong to the 11th-12th centuries.
Dr Utpal Kumar Nath, secretary of the Mayong Village Museum and Research Centre, said the findings further underline the archaeological importance of the site.
Nath said the discovery was a significant moment for researchers and local residents, adding that similar artefacts had also been recovered from the area during earlier excavations.
The newly discovered objects have been preserved at the Mayong Village Museum and Research Centre for further study and conservation.
According to Nath, the findings indicate that the region was home to a culturally advanced and historically significant civilisation. He also said the possibility of uncovering more archaeological remains could not be ruled out.
The latest discoveries add to earlier recoveries from the Shiva Ashram, including several terracotta sculptures believed to date from around the 12th-13th centuries.
The repeated discovery of ancient artefacts has renewed calls for systematic archaeological exploration of Mayong. Nath also expressed his appreciation to the priests of the ashram and local residents for their cooperation in recovering and preserving the artefacts.
Experts believe that systematic excavation by the Archaeological Survey of India and the Assam State Archaeology Department could reveal further remains and provide a clearer understanding of Mayong’s historical development.
Mayong, located in Morigaon district, is widely associated with tantra, folklore, traditional beliefs and practices linked to magic. However, archaeological evidence indicates that the region’s cultural history extends far beyond these popular associations.
A detailed field survey carried out across the region during 2020-21 to document and map its archaeological landscape identified a wide range of remains. These included polished stone tools, early and late medieval rock-cut sculptures, temple ruins and sculptures associated with the Pala-Sena period.
The latest discoveries at Kachshila Hill have further enriched Mayong’s archaeological record and strengthened demands for scientific excavation, research and systematic conservation of the region’s heritage.
Researchers believe that continued exploration could help establish a more comprehensive picture of the ancient settlements, artistic traditions and cultural developments that once flourished in the Mayong region.