VARANASI: Numerous terracotta items, including figurines of deities and fragmented sculptures of Lord Hanuman and Lord Ganesha, were discovered from rubble in the western wall region of the premises, according to the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) in its survey report on the Gyanvapi mosque. Additionally, ASI reported that two glass objects—a necklace and a damaged Shiva linga—were discovered during its scientific study. “Differing kinds of stone objects include inscriptions on slabs, various-sized pestles and other domestic utensils, and sculptures of gods. There are statues of Shiva, Vishnu, Krishna, Hanuman, Ganesha, and other deities among the ones mentioned. Various kinds of terracotta objects, including as sling balls, tiles and bricks, male and female figures, deity figurines, etc., were found during the research. In the western wall area, fragments of Hanuman and Ganesha’s figurines were discovered among debris, according to the study. “During the survey two glass objects, i.e. a pendant and a broken Shiva linga were found,” said the report. Additionally, according to the Archaeological Survey of India, coins from various eras were also taken from the area. “These coins date from various eras. Shah Alam minted three coins with Persian legends on them. Numerous British-Indian coins, including a 64-coin hoard, were discovered. These include East India Company, Queen Victoria, Edward VII, and George V coins, some of which were corroded beyond recognition. There was also one copper coin belonging to Madhav Rao Scindia, according to the study. Following the publication of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) survey report on the Gyanvapi mosque in Varanasi, Maulana Khalid Rasheed Firangi Mahali, the chairperson of the Islamic Centre of India, stated that the study must be examined before any comments can be made. “The 839-page report from the ASI has been delivered to the relevant parties; the Muslim side must first review the entire document and provide their feedback.
We fervently hope that the decision-making process will be grounded in reality. The legal matter is still pending. Before anything is spoken, the ASI report will be examined, according to Maulana Khalid Rasheed. A previous structure appeared to have been destroyed in the 17th century, and “part of it was modified and reused,” according to the ASI report on the Gyanvapi mosque complex. It also stated that, based on scientific studies, it can be said that there “existed a large Hindu temple prior to the construction of the existing structure.
