Research for Mysteries of Chhattisgarhs History

Raipur : Aiming to discover, Chhattisgarh's glorious past, reveal the secrets of history and give global recognition to the hidden archaeological heritage of the state, the state's Archaeology Department has prepared an ambitious 'Vision 2035', based on the research done since the formation of the state.

 The 8 major goals of 'Vision 2035'

Search along the rivers: New archaeological sites will be excavated by surveying the banks of major rivers like Shivnath, Jonk, Indravati and Hasdeo flowing in the state.

Preservation of rock paintings: Chhattisgarh is very rich in rock paintings. The department has signed an agreement with Indira Gandhi National Center for the Arts, New Delhi, to preserve more than 80 rock paintings found in Raigarh and Kanker. Work will be done from planting trees to filling cracks to protect the caves from the weather.

 Revealing Mystery of 36 forts: Chhattisgarh is named after 36 forts. The department will now search and document all these 36 Mrittikagarhs (earthen forts) so that the entire history behind this name can be revealed.

First time excavation in Bastar-Sarguja: Important areas like Bastar and Sarguja have remained untouched by archaeological excavations till now. Now many places will be identified and excavations will be done here, which will reveal the untold history of this region.

Accurate determination of period: To know the exact age of the prehistoric sites and rock paintings of the state, samples will be collected from Raigarh, Korba and Kanker and they will be scientifically examined.

Excavation at identified sites: Detailed information about their chronology and settlement will be collected by excavating at already identified archaeological sites like Malhar, Rewa and Tarighat.

Rewa: Center of ancient trade? Excavation going on in Rewa of Raipur has found remains from the Maurya period to the Kalchuri period.  From the pearls found here and India's first currency (silver punch mark coins), it is estimated that this place must have been a big factory and trading center in ancient India.

Maheshpur will become a tourist center: Remains related to Shaiva, Vaishnava, Jain and Surya sects from the 8th to 13th century have been found in Maheshpur of Surguja. This heritage will be preserved and developed as a big tourist destination.

Vivek Acharya, Director of Culture and Archeology Department, said that through this vision plan, the cultural history of Chhattisgarh will be presented to the world in a better way, which will promote both the identity and tourism of the state. The land of Chhattisgarh will reveal the secrets of history