More on Gyanvapi Mosque Report Connection to Hindu Temple Revealed

In a groundbreaking revelation, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) report on the Gyanvapi structure in Varanasi, released on January 25, has uncovered compelling evidence of a large Hindu temple that once stood beneath the existing mosque. The extensive 800-page report exposes deliberate concealment of artefacts, strategically hidden in cellars, shedding light on the rich historical tapestry of the disputed site.

Hidden Cellars and Artefacts:

The report details the existence of six cellars on the eastern part of the complex, with three on each side, and two additional cellars closer to the structure’s north. Shockingly, these cellars, discovered during modifications to the pre-existing structure, were found purposefully blocked with debris and walls, raising questions about intentional concealment.

1. Southern Cellars (S1, S2, S3): These cellars contained vital artefacts, including broken idols of Hindu deities such as Hanuman, Ganesha, and Nandi. Of particular significance is the discovery of a miniature temple, sculptures of Vishnu, Shaiva Dwarpala, Hanuman, terracotta figurines, and a Shiva linga with yonipatta. The intentional dumping of debris in these cellars aimed to obscure the rich heritage beneath.
2. Western Wall Area: The excavation revealed a plethora of items deliberately buried, such as a miniature shrine with sculptural depictions of deities, including Vishnu. Two sculptures of Vishnu, fragmentary images of Krishna, a head of Ganesh, and a headless deity resembling Krishna emerged during debris clearance.
3. Marble Slab with ‘Ram’ Inscription: A broken part of a marble slab inscribed with ‘Ram’ in Devnagari script was found in S3, adding another layer to the historical narrative.
4. Pillars from Earlier Hindu Temple: The cellars were constructed using stone pillars, with later additions of masonry pillars. ASI determined that pillars from an earlier Hindu temple were repurposed to create these underground chambers.

Challenges in Uncovering the Truth:

While Southern Cellars (S2 and S3) were thoroughly investigated, challenges arose in fully exploring S3 due to debris-filled conditions and lack of excavation approval. It’s plausible that more artefacts related to the Hindu temple lie buried in S3, awaiting further exploration.

The ASI report conclusively establishes the existence of a grand Hindu temple before the construction of the Gyanvapi Mosque. The deliberate concealment of artefacts, coupled with inscriptions in Persian detailing the temple’s demolition during Aurangzeb’s reign, strengthens the Hindu side’s claims. The dispute over the site takes a significant turn as the historical layers beneath the mosque’s surface come to light. The ASI findings underscore the need for a nuanced understanding of the site’s heritage and the complexities surrounding its contested history.