A historic discovery in Sambhal reveals ancient temples, wells, and stepwells, offering valuable insights into the region's cultural heritage, say Biswajeet Banerjee and Sajid Khan
What began as a routine inspection by district officials to check noise levels from loudspeakers and illegal electricity connections in the Muslim-dominated Khaggu Sarai area of Sambhal has turned into a historic archaeological discovery. On 14 December, a team led by the District Magistrate (DM) and Superintendent of Police (SP) stumbled upon a locked structure. Breaking open its doors revealed not just an abandoned Shiva temple but also a wealth of history hidden beneath layers of soil and silt.
The discovery of the temple, which had been locked for 46 years, has prompted a flurry of activity, including surveys by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). Early reports suggest the temple, and other relics unearthed nearby, may date back several centuries, providing invaluable insights into Sambhal's rich cultural and religious history.
Locked Temple, Unlocked History
DM Dr. Rajendra Pansiya recalled the unexpected nature of the find. “This discovery was purely accidental. We were investigating noise and electricity issues near a mosque, but what we found behind the locked doors was remarkable,” he said. The temple, which had been shut since the 1978 communal riots, housed a Shiva idol and a statue of Hanuman. Nearby, a well contained three additional statues that were uncovered during excavation.
The riots of 1978, which displaced many from the local Hindu community, had led to the temple being abandoned. “Local accounts suggest the temple is over 500 years old,” Dr. Pansiya added. To confirm its antiquity, the district administration reached out to the ASI for carbon dating and further investigation.
The ASI Steps In
Following the DM’s request, a four-member ASI team from Meerut and Delhi conducted an extensive eight-hour survey of the site last week. The team examined the temple, the adjacent well, and five other pilgrimage sites, including Bhadrak Ashram, Swargdeep, and Chakrapani. During their survey, they documented their findings through photography and collected evidence for further analysis.
In addition to the temple, the ASI team identified 19 wells, including the historically significant Chaturmukh Koop, Moksha Koop, and Dharma Koop. The ASI’s investigation aims to establish the historical and cultural significance of these sites.
Dr. Pansiya expressed optimism about the findings. “Once we have the ASI’s report, we will have a clearer picture of the historical importance of these sites. Based on their recommendations, we will prepare a plan for their preservation and development,” he said.
The Stepwell of Laxman Ganj
Adding to the list of discoveries, a 250-foot-deep stepwell, believed to date back to the First War of Independence in 1857, was unearthed in Sambhal’s Laxman Ganj area last week. Named Rani ki Bawdi, the stepwell came to light after the ruins of an ancient Banke Bihari temple were discovered earlier this month.
Kaushal Kishore, the state publicity chief of the Sanatan Sevak Sangh, had written to the DM, pointing out the historical significance of the site. “The stepwell and the ruins are remnants of the royal family of Sahaspur. These finds are a testament to our history,” Kishore said.
The excavation, which involved two bulldozers, also revealed a two-storey structure near the stepwell. Work at the site is ongoing, with authorities halting operations at night due to visibility issues.
“Encroachments on the site have been identified, and notices will be issued to families occupying the land illegally,” Dr. Pansiya said, adding that the administration is committed to restoring and beautifying the area.
The discovery of the ancient stepwell, or Bawdi, in Sambhal has brought to light the rich history of the region, linked to the erstwhile royal family of Sahaspur State in Bilari. Official records list the Bawdi as a pond spanning 400 square metres. However, recent excavations have revealed much more—a well-preserved three-storey structure featuring intricate architecture and significant historical relevance.
“The Bawdi was constructed during the reign of the king of Bilari and is believed to be approximately 150 years old,” Dr. Pansiya said. The structure includes two marble floors and one brick floor, along with a well and four rooms, all part of an elaborate underground complex. Signs of encroachment on the site have also been identified, and the administration plans to address this issue promptly.
The site, once a vital part of the Sahaspur State, served as a rest stop for soldiers and the royal family during their travels. Shipra Gera, a relative of the royal family, recounted the historical importance of the Bawdi. “This place was a strategic stopover for soldiers travelling from Sahaspur (Bilari) to villages under the State's control, which now fall in the Badaun district. The royal family also used the underground complex during their journeys to escape the scorching summer heat,” she said.
The Bawdi’s corridors were manned by soldiers, and the site served both functional and leisure purposes. The underground chambers provided a cool retreat for the royals, while the stepwell itself ensured a steady water supply for their needs.
As restoration and research continue, the Bawdi and its surrounding structures are set to become a beacon of Sambhal's historical legacy, offering locals and visitors alike a chance to reconnect with the region's storied past.
A Shared History Unearthed
The discoveries in Sambhal are a poignant reminder of the region’s layered history, which is often obscured by present-day tensions. The proximity of the temple to the Shahi Jama Masjid, where violence had erupted during a protest against a court-ordered survey, underscores the intertwined histories of communities that have lived together for centuries.
Local historian and archaeologist Dr. Arvind Sharma highlighted the significance of the finds. “These discoveries provide a window into the past, showcasing Sambhal’s role as a cultural and religious hub. The preservation of these sites is not just about protecting relics but also about understanding our shared heritage,” he said.
The district administration, in collaboration with the ASI, is now focused on ensuring that these historical sites are preserved and developed responsibly. Plans include creating tourist-friendly infrastructure while maintaining the integrity of the sites.
The discoveries have sparked excitement and curiosity among locals. “We’ve always heard stories about these places, but seeing them come to light is incredible. It feels like a part of our history has been revived,” said Sunil Kumar, a Sambhal resident.
As excavation and research continue, the findings in Sambhal are expected to shed more light on the region’s past, offering lessons for the present and inspiration for the future.
The accidental unearthing of the Shiva temple and subsequent discoveries serve as a reminder of the hidden treasures that lie buried beneath the surface, waiting to be rediscovered and celebrated.
