ASI launches excavation project in MP’s Nachne village, aims to uncover India's oldest temple

Archaeologists from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) are conducting an extensive excavation in Nachne village, nestled within Madhya Pradesh's Panna district, in a quest to potentially unearth India's oldest temple.

 

The excavation site, positioned a mere 30 meters away from two ancient temples, ‘Parvati temple’ (Gupta-era ) and the ‘Chaumukh Nath temple’(attributed to the Kalachuri Dynasty) has ignited anticipation among both scholars and locals.

 

Neelamber Mishra, the Additional Collector of Panna, confirmed the ongoing excavation led by ASI, emphasizing its month-long duration. "The excavation work is underway, with the primary objective being the discovery of hidden historic sites," stated Mishra.

 

Dr. Shivakant Bajpai, the Superintending Archaeologist overseeing ASI's Jabalpur Circle, highlighted the archaeological significance of Nachne village. "The excavation work is currently in its initial stages... Nachne village holds considerable importance in terms of archaeology," remarked Bajpai, underscoring the potential historical treasures concealed beneath the village's surface.

 

Madhya Pradesh boasts a wealth of ancient temples, including the renowned 'Sanchi 17', a Gupta-era shrine dating back to the 5th century Common Era, acclaimed as India's oldest surviving complete temple. With ASI's excavation efforts in Nachne village gaining momentum, hopes are high for a groundbreaking discovery that could reshape the country's archaeological narrative.