Ancient Shiva Linga unearthed in Kapilvastu pond excavation
The stone linga surfaced while soil was being removed from the pond and deposited in a nearby field on the northern side of the village.
KATHMANDU: A rare ancient Shiva Linga with its base (Argha) has been discovered during a soil excavation from an old pond in Niglihawa village, located in Ward No. 9 of Kapilvastu Municipality.
The stone linga surfaced while soil was being removed from the pond and deposited in a nearby field on the northern side of the village.
The artifact features a lower base circumference of 5 feet 6 inches, a second section circumference of 45 inches, and a 3-inch gap between the upper and lower segments.
The height of the upper part (linga) is 16.5 inches, with a smooth section measuring 5.5 inches in circumference.
Shanti Sherma, Head of the Kapilvastu Museum, suspects the Shiva Lingam dates back to the medieval period—likely between the 16th and 17th centuries.
The discovery of both the linga and its Argha suggests a temple may have once stood at the site.
Currently, the linga is being safeguarded at a local resident’s home.
According to local resident Birendra Kumar Upadhyaya, discussions are ongoing about whether to hand over the artifact to the Department of Archaeology or to preserve it within the village through community efforts.
In Hindu tradition, the Shiva Linga symbolizes Lord Shiva and is regarded as a formless representation of the divine.
It is typically placed on a circular base known as a “Peetham” or pedestal, which signifies the source of creation.
