Peddapally: Hidden history beneath earth’s crust to fore

Peddapally: Hidden history beneath earth’s crust to fore
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Highlights

Barely a month after the launch of excavations at Peddabonkur in Peddapally district, 190 km northeast of Hyderabad, new evidences that could help to reconstruct the region’s hidden history, traced back to 3rd century BC, have come to the fore. It may be noted here that State Archaeology and Museums Department had launched the excavations at a site, believed to be of Satavahana times here.

Peddapally: Barely a month after the launch of excavations at Peddabonkur in Peddapally district, 190 km northeast of Hyderabad, new evidences that could help to reconstruct the region’s hidden history, traced back to 3rd century BC, have come to the fore. It may be noted here that State Archaeology and Museums Department had launched the excavations at a site, believed to be of Satavahana times here.

Addressing a press conference after visiting the excavation site on Wednesday, NR Visalatchi, Director of Department of Archaeology and Museums, under whose guidance the excavations are going on said: “In the recent excavations, we have found small pearls, shell beads, tortoise-type beads, thin gold foil beads in the shape of amalaka with shoulders, one copper coin each in the shape of circular and square, lid and lamp bowl made of terracotta, earthen pots, dice made of bone, silver ring and antler (horn of deer) etc.” A detailed scientific study of these items will be carried to find out the historical links of the bygone era, she said.

In fact, the authorities carried scientific excavations in this region between 1967-68 and 1973-74 and came up with some interesting findings such as brick-built constructions, artefacts and coins of Satavahana, Mourya and Roman kingdoms.

The Roman coins suggest that local kings had trade links abroad. The quality of copper used in these coins is testimony to the metallurgical skills of that time. The golden beads, pearls and semi-precious stones excavated from this site reveal the prosperity of the people.

However, due to successive governments thereafter the archaeological wing discontinued its excavations and research. Against this backdrop, the State Archaeology and Museums Department has restarted the excavations in sprawling 60 acres on February 22, following clearance from Central Advisory Board of Archaeology (CABA).

A division comprising 25 trenches is laid down to the north of enclosure-1, which was excavated previously. Initially, the authorities conducted excavation in six trenches.

Speaking to The Hans India, Assistant Director (in-charge of erstwhile Karimnagar district) Ch Madhavi said: “The excavation is in full swing and it will continue for another two months. As of now, eight of our officials are carrying out the excavation works with the help of local workers.”

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