ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITES OF KISHTWAR THAT CHALLENGES OUR UNDERSTANDING OF HISTORY
 |
| Archaeological Site at Kishtwar |
Kishtwar has been a remote and inaccessible region since ancient times. It is almost impossible to accurately estimate when people started settling here as there is no written evidence available to determine who the first settlers were or where they came from. Kishtwar has never been given much priority despite being a treasure trove of information that could potentially redefine the region’s history. In Kishtwar we find numerous ancient archaeological sites that never have been researched or comprehended. Scattered throughout Kishtwar, these ancient archaeological sites remain steadfast their original grandeur intact, stand as silent sentinels, harboring centuries old stories and secrets of bygone era that await discovery. As we delve into the mysteries of these relics, we may unearth a treasure trove of historical events, hidden for centuries, waiting to be rediscovered.
In this exploration of Kishtwar, I have documented several ancient archaeological sites, with many more fascinating discoveries to be shared in future installments.
ARSEE
Located at coordinates 33°19'46" N 75°44'31" E, Arase is situated approximately a mile from the main town of Kishtwar, behind the village of Begana, towards the northwest side. Today, only the remnants of stone structures, or Baolie, remai
n, whispering tales of the past. Upon closer inspection, one can discern the vestiges of multiple Baolies, suggesting that there were likely three to four such structures in the past. Unfortunately, only one remains standing, while the others have succumbed to the ravages of time. Interestingly, the structures at Arase bear striking similarities to those found at Bindraban, (article on Bindraban is available on My Kishtwar.com) Telmoche, and other locations. The designs, patterns, lengths, breadths, and widths of these structures are remarkably consistent.
Arase continues to hold significance for the local community. Members of the Hindu community visit the site to perform Brahmanical rites and rituals for the deceased, typically on the eleventh day following a person's passing. The abundance of water at Arase makes it a popular spot for various activities. Locals visit the site for bathing, washing clothes, and collecting water for daily use. Additionally, schools from Kishtwar often organize picnics at Arase, making it a cherished destination for recreation and relaxation.
TELMOCHE
Located approximately a mile northwest of Kishtwar's main center, Telmoche is a treasure trove of historical significance. The remnants of ancient Baolies suggest that four to five Baolie structures once stood here, but unfortunately, only one remains in semi-good condition, partially producing water from its nozzle. If neglected, this Baolie may soon become a relic of the past, preserved only in books. A second nozzle lies on the ground in disrepair, while another, located a short distance from the main Baolie, is also in a state of disarray. The dimensions of the main Baolie are 10 feet in length, 8 feet in width, and 7 feet in height. The stone structures, built in ancient times, bear a striking resemblance to those found in Arase and Bindraban.
A unique design, carved on a huge stone adjacent to the Baolie, appears to be a symbol of Sanatan Dharma. This suggests that the site may have been used for Brahmanical rituals. Another intriguing design, carved on a stone at the front of the Baolie, depicts a war scene, featuring a soldier with a sword and a charioteer. This design may be a testament to a long-forgotten victory of the Raja of Kishtwar or perhaps the creators wanted to convey information about particular event.
The remnants of stone foundations at Telmoche indicate that the town of Kishtwar was once much larger than it is today. The boulders used in the construction of these Baolies were sourced from a nearby location, leaving one to wonder how they were transported to the site.
[gallery columns="4" link="file" ids="6010,6015,6013,6017"]
INDRAPANYAR
Indarpayanar, situated below the village of Pochhal towards the Bhandarkoot side, is a breathtakingly beautiful location that offers a stunning view of the confluence of the Chenab and Mourye Soudar (Chandra Bhaga) rivers. This escarpment area was once an ancient route to Kashmir via Bindraban and Bhandarkoot. Although the route is still used by locals on foot, the area has largely been forgotten.
The remnants of old walls suggest that Indarpayanar was once inhabited. Two Baolies, built by the ancient residents, still exist, albeit in a state of disrepair. A majestic Chinar tree provides shade to both structures. Upon examination, it becomes clear that these Baolies once flowed with abundant water. One of the Baolies is missing its nozzle, which was discovered a short distance away, hidden in the bushes.
CHABE
Located between Kundali and Indarpayanar, Chabe is home to the ruins of two Baolie structures. The story of their decline is eerily familiar. One of the Baolies is partially hidden, constructed by digging into the ground approximately 15 feet below the surface. This unique structure features steps leading down to its nozzle, a rare feature among the Baolies in the region. The first Baolie is in disrepair, but it was functional until a few years ago. Despite its current state, the structure still retains moisture, suggesting that it could be restored to its former glory, alleviating the local water scarcity. The second Baolie lies in ruins, with only remnants of its stone foundation remaining. The stones used in its construction are scattered across the ground, bearing signs of intentional destruction.
KUNDALI
Village Kundali, situated approximately half a kilometer from Pochhal, boasts a reliable water point that has been serving the locals for centuries. The site features a majestic Chinar tree and a Baolie that has provided drinking water, bathing facilities, and a place for washing clothes and utensils. The Baolie, located at coordinates 33°21'22" N 75°45'08" E, measures 9 feet in length, 6 feet 5 inches in width, and 5 feet in height. Although it has only one nozzle, which is partially broken, the structure remains a vital water source for the community. Pochal, once the largest village in Kishtwar, has always struggled with potable water scarcity. The Baolie at Kundali has been a lifeline for the villagers, who would travel from afar to access its waters. This water point also holds religious significance, as the Hindu community continues to worship here during auspicious occasions.
HATTA
Located between the villages of Hatta and Sangrambhatta is a water point, where a Baolie was constructed, similar to others found on the plateau. Although the Baolie is in disrepair, the local residents have diverted the water and created a point for daily use. The dimensions of the Baolie are 10 feet 1 inch in length, 5 feet 10 inches in width, and 3 feet 10 inches in height. A nozzle, measuring 3 feet 6 inches in length, 0.9 inches in width, and 0.6 inches in thickness, is fixed in the ground, providing pure drinking water. In front of this Nag, there stands a massive Broon tree, estimated to be around 400 years old. This type of tree is commonly found near Baolies in the region, as it holds cultural significance as a symbol of Dharam in Kishtwari culture.
Unfortunately, the Baolie has suffered damage, with some stones missing, including a huge stone from the left wall, measuring 4 feet 6 inches in length, 2 feet in width, and 0.3 inches in thickness. Approximately 200 meters northeast of Hatta, towards Sangrambhatta, lay two more Baolies, both in a state of disrepair. Although the structures are dislocated from their original positions, twin nozzles constructed from the same stone can still be seen. It is likely that there were three to four Nags in this area, but due to the passage of time or human actions, they have almost disappeared, leaving behind only remnants of walls on the verge of collapse. The dimensions of one of the Baolies are 10 feet in length, 6 feet 5 inches in width, and 6 feet in height. The dimensions of the nozzle are 2 feet in length, 1 foot 4 inches in width, and 2 feet 2 inches in thickness. The second nozzle measures 4 feet 5 inches in width and 5 feet 4 inches in thickness, although its length is not measurable due to being fixed in mud. Remnants of another Nag can be found in the Kali Mata Mandir temple of Hatta. Located beneath the main idol, the nozzle of this Nag is visible. While it is believed to have been a pavilion, closer examination reveals that it was, in fact, a Baolie in the past.
[gallery link="file" columns="4" ids="6020,6022,6025,6026"]
SANGRAMBHATTA
The village of Sangrambhatta is situated approximately one kilometer north of the main town of Kishtwar. The village owes its name to the renowned Pandit Sangrambhatta of Nagseni. Nestled under a majestic Chinar tree, an ancient Baolie still quenches the thirst of locals and meets their daily water needs. Although, the water level is gradually declining, rising concerned about its sustainability. Further along the road to Hatta via a Nallah, lie remnants of Baolies that are totally in pity condition. Few walls of these Baolies are still there and may get vanished in coming years. Some parts of the Baolies are buried in the soil, perhaps waiting for the day when they might be taken out from there.
HUDRI
Hudri, situated below the Qila (fort) towards the south of Kishtwar, has historical significance. This ancient site has been a gathering point for the community, particularly during the festival of Kakul in the month of February. Kakul festival was celebrated in ancient times and gradually disappeared. The locals would bathe in the Baolies and celebrate according to their customs and traditions.
Hudri is also notable for being the site where King Kahan Pal, the first historical ruler of Kishtwar, defeated and captured the warriors of the Panjsasis tribe in the early 11th century. A centuries-old Chinar tree stands tall at Hudri, which is located at coordinates 33°18'24" N 75°45'47" E. Although the Baolies that once existed here are now gone, two active nozzles remain. The first nozzle measures 1 foot 5 inches in length, while the second nozzle measures 1 foot 2 inches in length, 9 inches in width, and 5 inches in height. Today, locals visit Hudri to wash clothes, bathe, and fetch water for domestic purposes. A Government Middle School is also operational in this area.
BIMARNAG
Bimarnag, situated northeast of Kishtwar town, is home to a revered Baolies believed to possess healing properties. The village's name is derived from this Nag (Baolie) whose waters have been sought after for centuries to cure ailments and alleviate physical pain. Five Baolies once existed in Bimarnag, but today they lie in various states of disrepair. The first Baolie, now reduced to a solitary nozzle, has been repurposed as a shed for Hindu last rites by the Panchayat Hidyal. This nozzle, facing northeast, measures 1 foot in length, 0.5 feet in breadth, and 5 inches in height. A second Baolie, located half a kilometer west of the first, is flanked by two massive Braun trees considered sacred by the Hindu community. Although only vestiges of the original Nag (Bavalies) remain, the site's historical significance is evident.
The third Baolie features a dual-mouthed nozzle, actively producing a substantial amount of water for local use. The nozzle's dimensions are 1 foot 4 inches in length, 1 foot in width, and 1 foot in height. The Baolie faces west, and its scattered boulders attest to its former grandeur. The fourth Baolie, situated 300 meters west of the second, shares a similar state of disrepair. However, its nozzle remains active, producing clean water for daily use. The nozzle's dimensions are 3 feet in length, 1 foot 6 inches in width, and 1 foot 5 inches in height. The fifth Baolie, located a kilometer northwest of the fourth, features the ruins of two Baolies, with evidence suggesting a third may have existed. One of the Baolies boasts an active nozzle, producing a substantial volume of water. The nozzle's dimensions are 2 feet 10 inches in length, 1 foot 6 inches in width, and 1 foot in height. The sixth Baolie, situated 10 feet above the fifth, features a nozzle with two mouths and intricate carvings, including images of two humans and a lion. The Baolie measures 6 feet in length, 5 feet 6 inches in width, and 5 feet in height.
HARGADI
Hargadi, located approximately 1.5 kilometers northeast of Bimarnag, is a picturesque and captivating destination nestled below the Matta village of Kishtwar. To decipher the name Hargadi, it's essential to divide the word into two distinct components: "Har" and "Gadi." In the Kishtwari dialect, "Har" signifies the course of water, while "Gadi" (or "Gad") connotes the flow of water. In ancient times, when the lake (Guddansar or Govardansar) breached its western barriers, water flowed out through this course.
At Hargadi, two ancient Baolies await renovation and preservation. These structures can be spotted from the last two Baolies of Bimarnag, identifiable by a massive Chinar tree. To reach Hargadi, one must traverse approximately one kilometer on foot through a semi-dense forest. This scenic location has the potential to attract visitors and tourists. Under the shade of the enormous Chinar tree, the two Baolies stand in a state of disrepair. The coordinates of this site are 33°18'30" N 75°45'31" E. The first Baolie was preserved by nomads who utilized the area as a summer meadow for their livestock. This Baolie features a single nozzle, which is no longer active. A stepwell with five steps is situated below the nozzle, containing water that remains available throughout the year. According to the nomads residing in the area, they use this water for household purposes and their livestock. The dimensions of this Baolie are 10 feet 3 inches in length, 4 feet 10 inches in width, and 6 feet in height. The nozzle's dimensions were not measured due to the narrow entrance and presence of water; however, it is estimated to be approximately 1 foot 6 inches by 1 foot. Both Baolies face south, and below this point lays a massive sand mound, suggesting that water was stagnant here for an extended period.
History is not just limited to folklore, stories, or written records, it requires a unique perspective to truly understand it. Our mission is to meticulously document these archaeological sites through comprehensive documentaries, preserving their historical significance for generation to come. This exhaustive documentation will not only enlighten the public but also provide a vital resource for researchers, archaeologists, scholars and historians. As technology continues to advance at an unprecedented rate, we may soon uncover the long-hidden secrets encapsulated within these ancient structures, revealing new insights into their mysterious past.
As custodians of our culture heritage, it is our collectively responsibility to safeguard these historical treasures, painstakingly created by our ancestors. By doing so, we can ensure that future generations continue to draw inspiration from our rich past. I humbly urge the district administration to provide their support to preserve these ancient archaeological sites for posterity.
Authored by: ANIL KUMAR BHAGAT
Mobile: 7051350159
Email: anilk11111982@gmail.com
Disclaimer:This article presents the author's personal research and interpretation of historical events. www.mykishtwar.com provides this platform for the dissemination of information and diverse perspectives. The accuracy, completeness, and validity of any statements made within this article are solely the responsibility of the author. The content of this article is the sole responsibility of the author. www.mykishtwar.com does not assume any liability for the information presented. The author's views and opinions do not necessarily represent those of www.mykishtwar.com. Readers are encouraged to conduct their own research and verify the information presented.