In a remarkable discovery that bridges faith and history, a centuries-old stone sculpture of Goddess Durga has been recovered from the waters of the Jhelum river in Jammu and Kashmir. The precious artefact, found by a local fisherman, has now been formally entrusted to the state's archives and museums department for expert care and study.
A Fisherman's Historic Catch
The chain of events began on Thursday when fisherman Nazir Ahmad Latoo made an unexpected find while casting his net in the Jhelum river in Baramulla district. Instead of fish, he pulled out a stone sculpture of significant antiquity. Recognizing its potential historical value, Latoo promptly reported his discovery to the Sheeri police station the same day.
Acting swiftly, the Jammu and Kashmir Police took the sculpture into their custody to ensure its safety. The artefact was securely stored at the police station while the next steps were determined. The police's immediate action highlights the crucial role local communities and law enforcement play in protecting national heritage.
Expert Examination and Formal Handover
On Friday, the police escalated the matter by calling in specialists from the Department of Archives, Archaeology and Museums. The experts conducted a preliminary examination of the stone idol right at the police station. After a careful assessment, they formally identified the sculpture as a depiction of Goddess Durga, a principal deity in Hinduism revered as a symbol of power and protection.
Following this identification, the sculpture was officially handed over to the archaeology department. This transfer ensures the idol will undergo proper conservation, detailed study, and potentially be displayed for the public in the future, adding to the rich tapestry of the region's documented history.
Commitment to Cultural Heritage
The Jammu and Kashmir Police have underscored their dedication to safeguarding the union territory's cultural legacy. In their statement, they reaffirmed their commitment to protect the cultural heritage of J&K. They also made a public appeal, urging all citizens to follow the fisherman's exemplary conduct.
The police have encouraged people to immediately inform the authorities about any similar discoveries of historical or archaeological importance. Such vigilance ensures that invaluable pieces of the past are preserved through proper channels rather than being lost or damaged. This incident serves as a perfect model of community-police-expert collaboration in heritage conservation.
The discovery of the Durga sculpture in the Jhelum is not just an archaeological event; it is a reminder of the layers of history embedded in the land of Jammu and Kashmir. It underscores the continuous flow of culture and devotion through time, now brought to light by a vigilant citizen and a responsive administration.
