Underwater Archaeology in Dwarka
Context
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) under a team led by Prof. Alok Tripathi and other five archaeologists have initiated a fresh round of underwater explorations in Dwarka waters.
- The mission is part of the revived Underwater Archaeology Wing (UAW), which aims to study and protect India’s submerged cultural heritage.
Key Highlights of the Exploration
- Historic Underwater Excavation
- The ASI team has begun underwater investigations near the Gomati Creek in Dwarka.
- This marks the first time that a team with a significant number of women archaeologists is participating in an underwater exploration.
- Revival of the Underwater Archaeology Wing (UAW)
- The UAW, originally active since the 1980s, has been revived to conduct fresh studies.
- Past explorations (2005-2007) discovered stone anchors and sculptures off the coast of Dwarka.
- Collaboration & Technological Advances
- ASI’s UAW has worked with the Indian Navy and other government bodies for marine heritage conservation.
- Previous projects include Bangaram Island (Lakshadweep), Mahabalipuram (Tamil Nadu), Loktak Lake (Manipur), and Elephanta Island (Maharashtra).
Why is Dwarka exploration so important?
- Understanding India’s Maritime Past
- Dwarka is believed to be one of the oldest port cities in Indian history.
- If submerged structures are found, they could provide archaeological evidence supporting India’s ancient maritime trade.
- Preserving Underwater Cultural Heritage
- Coastal erosion and rising sea levels threaten historical artifacts submerged underwater.
- Mapping and preserving these structures will ensure their scientific documentation and conservation.
- Linking Mythology with History
- Ancient texts describe Dwarka as the kingdom of Lord Krishna, believed to have submerged after his departure.
- Scientific excavation may provide archaeological validation to historical references in Mahabharata and other scriptures.
- Boosting Marine Archaeology in India
- India has a vast coastline with a rich maritime legacy, yet underwater archaeology remains underdeveloped.
- Renewed efforts can set a precedent for future underwater research.
About Dwarka: A City of Myth and History
- Ancient Significance:
- Dwarka is believed to be the capital of Lord Krishna’s kingdom, It is also mentioned in the Mahabharata.
- According to texts, the city was submerged by the sea after Krishna’s departure.
- It is located on the western coast of Gujarat, near the Arabian Sea.
- It is also considered as one of Hinduism’s seven sacred cities (Sapt Puris) and is believed to have been established by Lord Krishna after he moved from Mathura to Gujarat.
- Archaeological Discoveries:
- Past excavations have found stone anchors, temple remains, and marine structures dating back to 1500 BCE or earlier.
- These suggest an advanced port city with maritime activity.
- Religious and Cultural Importance:
- Dwarka is one of the Char Dhams (four sacred pilgrimage sites) for Hindus.
- The Dwarkadhish Temple, built in the Chalukyan style, is a key spiritual landmark.
- Modern-Day Dwarka
- Today, Dwarka is a coastal town situated at the entrance of the Gulf of Kutch.
- It plays a vital role in the Krishna pilgrimage circuit, linking it to Mathura, Vrindavan, Govardhan, Kurukshetra, and Puri.
- The Dwarkadhish Temple, built in the 13th century, is a major religious and cultural landmark dedicated to Lord Krishna.
- The Government of India has selected Dwarka as one of 12 heritage cities under the HRIDAY (Heritage City Development and Augmentation Yojana) scheme, aiming to enhance its civic infrastructure and preserve its historical significance
