Ancient idols unearthed in Kashmir spring spark cultural, historical stir

A routine excavation for the restoration of a natural spring in south Kashmir’s Anantnag district has led to a remarkable archaeological discovery — ancient Hindu idols and Shivlings believed to be linked to the Karkoota dynasty, a powerful Hindu ruling family that reigned over Kashmir between 625 and 855 CE.

The artifacts were unearthed at Karkoot Nag in the Salia area of Aishmuqam during Public Works Department-led renovation work. Officials confirmed the recovery of multiple idols, Shivlings, and sculptural pieces from the spring site, which has long been regarded as a sacred pilgrimage spot by the Kashmiri Pandit community.

"The idols will be moved to Srinagar’s SPS Museum for scientific analysis and dating,” said officials from the Jammu and Kashmir Department of Archives, Archaeology and Museums, who visited the site soon after the discovery. “Research scholars will examine them to determine their historical and cultural context.”

The finds have reignited local interest in the region’s ancient heritage, especially among the displaced Kashmiri Pandit community, who believe the spring may have once housed a temple from the Karkoota era.

“There has been a strong influence of the Karkoota dynasty in this area,” said a Kashmiri Pandit who visited the site. “These idols, Shivlings and sculptures could either be remnants of a temple or were preserved here over time. We believe a temple once stood at this sacred pond, and we are urging authorities to consider building a new temple here to honor that legacy.”

Located around 16 kilometers from the Anantnag district headquarters, Karkoot Nag continues to draw spiritual significance for many. With the idols now in the care of heritage authorities, calls are growing for both archaeological conservation and cultural revival.