ASI Report Reveals Historical Findings at Bhojshala Complex

On Monday, July 15th, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) submitted its report on the scientific survey of the Bhojshala complex in Dhar, Madhya Pradesh. The survey, conducted under the directive of the Madhya Pradesh High Court, aimed to resolve the ongoing dispute over the complex’s religious character. The ASI report, which has been shared with both the central and state governments, indicates that the existing structure was built using parts of pre-existing temples and was later modified into a mosque.

Key Findings of the ASI Report

Evidence of Temple Origins

The ASI’s scientific investigation revealed that the current mosque structure incorporates elements from earlier temples. The report highlights the following key points:

• Temple Architecture: The art and architecture on several pillars suggest they were originally part of Hindu temples.
• Vishnu Sculptures: Mutilated sculptures of Vishnu were discovered during the survey.
• Paramara Period: The pre-existing structure dates back to the Paramara period, with inscriptions composed by some of the Paramara kings.

Inscriptions and Sculptures

The ASI report provides detailed observations on various inscriptions and sculptures found at the site:

• Sanskrit and Prakrit Inscriptions: Many inscriptions start with invocations such as “Om Sarasvityanamah” and “Om Namah Shivay.” These inscriptions are older than the Arabic ones, indicating earlier Hindu occupancy.
• Hindu Deities: Sculptures of Hindu deities, including Ganesha, Brahma, Narasimha, and Bhairava, were found. Many images were defaced or chiselled out as human and animal figures are not permitted in mosques.
• Trishul Painting: A grey Trishul painting was found on the right hand of an idol, measuring about 10 cm long and 8 cm wide.

Architectural and Sculptural Elements

The ASI discovered a significant number of sculptures and architectural fragments:

• Diverse Materials: The sculptures and fragments are composed of basalt, marble, schist, soft stone, sandstone, and limestone.
• Depictions of Deities and Animals: Carvings included images of deities, animals like lions, elephants, and birds, and mythological figures.
• Kirtimukha Faces: Many pillars featured Kirtimukha faces, which are mythological beings with human and animal features.

Coins and Historical Artifacts

The ASI also found a total of 31 coins made of silver, copper, aluminum, and steel, believed to be over 1,000 years old. These coins span various periods, including the Indo-Sasanian (10th-11th century), Delhi Sultanate (13th-14th century), Malwa Sultan (15th-16th century), and Mughal (15th-16th century) eras.

Historical and Educational Significance

The inscriptions at the Bhojshala complex point to its historical role as a center of education:

• Educational Center: The inscriptions indicate the presence of a traditional educational center, believed to have been founded by Raja Bhoj.
• Paramara Kings: One inscription mentions King Naravarman, son of Udayaditya of the Paramara dynasty, who ruled between 1094-1133 AD.

Conclusion

The ASI’s comprehensive report underscores the complex history of the Bhojshala site, highlighting its transformation from a Hindu temple complex to its current mosque structure. The findings provide crucial insights into the site’s architectural, religious, and historical significance, contributing to the ongoing discourse about its identity. The Bhojshala complex remains a focal point of contention between Hindu and Muslim communities, with each group claiming historical and religious ties to the site.