The underwater archeology of thus in Dwaraka, Gujarat. Archive
In search of shedding new light on Dwarka, an important part of the “cultural history” of India, the Archaeological Service of India (as) has undertaken a project to determine the age of the objects recovered there through the scientific analysis of the Sedemsosos.
The new study by a team of nine members of the Submarine Archeology Wing (UAW) of the Thus has conducted a One-Hore and Offshore expedition in Dwarka and Beyt Dwarka in Gujarat to search, document and study a new archaeological remuneration in the place also, through scientific analysis of sediments, archaeological and marine, according to a senior official.
Beyt Dwarka, who is believed to be Mr. Krishna’s former home, is an island off the coast of Gujarat, where the Dwarkadhish temple is located.
A card field work had been carried out previously in February by a team of five members of the LIO in southern Gomati Creek, located on the east side of Dwarka. This research was to inspect previously explored areas and examine its current condition. The objective of identifying probable areas for new research and studies. The selected area was explored by archaeologists and important characteristics were photographed.
“Dwarka is an important place from a historical, archaeological and cultural point of view. Dwark has always brought a matter of research mentioned in ancient literature. It has remained an important part of the cultural history of India. Archaeologists also in the past”, Prof. Dr. Alok Tripathi, additional general director of the SI, who leads the excavation, told The Hindu.
The Wing of Submarine Archeology of the ASS carried out systematic archaeological research from 2005 to 2007 in Dwarka. These investigations, both on land and on the high seas, revealed important archaeological remains that include old sculptures, stone anchors and other objects of historical importance.
A large area was scientifically surveyed, but the underwater archaeological excavations were carried out in an area limited by the archaeologist of the SIO and the divers of the Indian Navy. The excavation area was duly marked and systematic immersions were performed. Duration The excavation, the dispersed submerged remains were cleaned due to the deposition of vegetation, as well as a thick calcareous deposition. The excavation revealed groups of submerged remains.
In 2007, a small area was also chosen near the north door of the Dwarkadhish temple for excavation. The entire excavation was carried out meticulously to document antiquity in situ. A deposit of approximately 10 meters with 26 layers was excavated. Antiques recovered from this small excavation included iron objects, accounts, copper objects, rings, etc. In addition, recovered potters were also examined excavation and studied thoroughly.
It is planned that the present study cover an expanded area in the city of Okhamandal. Archaeologists teams are looking for other potential sites in the area to understand the history of the site, Prof. Dr. Tripathi said.
This study would include archaeological explorations, identification of potential sites and places, scientific study that involves diving, search and collection of archaeological remains, their appropriate documentation and study, which involve analysis and scientific studies.
In February, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had sacrificed prayers in the Dwarkadhish temple immersing in deep waters and had published in X calling him a “divine experience.” He had also inaugurated the Sudarshan Setu, a four -lane bridge that connects Okha with Beyt Dwarka Island.
The Gujarat government has also announced plans to introduce an underwater service in Dwarka, to help devotees explore the relics of the ancient city.
Published – April 14, 2025 08:57 PM IST
