Researchers from a university in Assam have made a remarkable discovery of sculptures dating back to the 8th century, showcasing influences from both Hindu and Buddhist traditions. These ancient artifacts were found in a hill area near the Assam-Mizoram border.
The sculptures were unearthed in a village located in Mizoram’s Mamit district, which borders Assam. This region is predominantly inhabited by the Reang Tribes, who hold a rich tradition of worshiping Hindu deities.
The discovery involved a challenging journey through dense forests starting from Assam’s Hailakandi district and crossing into Mizoram.
The sculptures exhibit striking similarities to those found in various historical sites of Tripura, believed to date from the 7th to the 9th century. Among the remarkable findings is a full-sized idol that appears to blend styles of both Buddha and Hindu deities, drawing notable parallels with Buddha idols discovered in Cambodia.
References to the artistic style of these sculptures can be linked to forms prevalent during the reign of the Manikya Kings of Tripura, specifically between the 15th and 16th centuries.
The stylistic elements of the sculptures are reminiscent of the art forms characteristic of the Gupta and Pala periods (750-1200 CE), which are also noted in the historical sites of Tripura.
Locals have played a vital role in safeguarding these sculptures, venerating them as an integral part of their religious practices.
The discovery has attracted significant attention, prompting the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to plan an exploration with a team from the university to further investigate these historical artifacts.
This remarkable discovery not only highlights the region's rich cultural heritage but also reflects a fusion of Hindu and Buddhist art, offering profound insights into the historical narrative of the Barak Valley and its surrounding areas. It has the potential to reshape our understanding and appreciation of the cultural dynamics that have shaped this region over centuries.
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