A chance discovery in the heart of Assam's Mayong village has unearthed a portal to the region's ancient past, shedding light on a period that remains largely unexplored. The find, made by cultural activists Utpal Nath and Bipul Deka, includes two unfinished stone sculptures and a terracotta figure, all believed to date back to the 7th or 8th century and the 12th or 13th century, respectively. These artifacts, found near the Kashishila Shiva Ashram, offer a glimpse into the craftsmanship and religious practices of the time, with visible chisel marks on the stone sculptures hinting at the techniques employed by ancient artisans.
The discovery also unearthed ancient brick fragments, suggesting the presence of buried structural remains. This find has sparked renewed interest in the archaeological potential of Mayong, a place long shrouded in legends of tantra and occult practices. Utpal Nath emphasizes the importance of systematic archaeological exploration, stating, 'Mayong keeps giving.' He believes that scientific excavation by the Archaeological Survey of India and the state archaeology department could help establish the historical significance of these finds.
The call for a detailed archaeological survey of Mayong has been echoed by Sanskar Bharati Uttar Asom Pranta Prasar Pramukh Sailendra Pandey, who urges the government to engage the local community in protecting and showcasing the area's rich heritage. Pandey states, 'These treasures belong on the global stage. The community must stand united too — no more quiet neglect.' This discovery highlights the need to explore and understand Mayong's past, which could provide valuable insights into Assam's cultural and historical development, and potentially reveal connections to ancient religious or settlement structures.
