Reportedly, the Archeological Survey of India has uncovered the remains of a long-lost "modern civilization" within the Bandhavgarh National Park in Madhya Pradesh, including man-made water bodies and paintings that date back thousands of years. The discovery of the paintings inside a rock-cut cave suggests deliberate human activity, providing insight into the people who once lived there. The site was found in the Tala range of Bandhavgarh, which was an old trade route according to the ASI, with many passengers passing through the rock-cut shelters. The ASI believes that this is the first time that rock paintings of such age have been discovered, with the paintings estimated to be about 1500 years old.
According to Dr Shivakant Bajpai, who spoke to media agencies, the recently discovered rock painting is estimated to be around 1500 years old and depicts an animal. This painting is the first of its kind found in the area. In addition to this, the discovery of man-made waterbodies is a significant finding, as it suggests that the people of this lost civilisation had an advanced knowledge of water management. The construction of these waterbodies required high levels of skill, resources, and coordination, indicating a level of intelligence that is consistent with a modern society. These structures would have been built for a variety of purposes, such as agriculture, fishing, transportation, and religious ceremonies, and could be critical in indicating the existence and advancement of a lost civilisation.
The discovery of man-made water bodies indicates that an advanced society existed in this area, and these structures were constructed at a higher elevation to collect water. The civilization is estimated to be around 1800-2000 years old, with renovations taking place approximately 1000 years ago.
During the 2022 expedition, archaeologists found not only paintings and water bodies but also several caves and other structures. Despite being Hindu or Buddhist structures, they did not lack a modern design, as they were all stone-carved and used by traders for expanding their businesses.
The relics found in 2022 included various ancient structures, such as large monoliths and sculptures of Lord Vishnu, such as 'Varaha' and 'Matsaya.' Lord Vishnu is depicted here in various avatars, including 'Varaga' and 'Matsaya.' The site is also mentioned in Brahmi script inscriptions inside the caves, alongside other names such as Mathura, Kushambi, Parvata, Vejebhrarada, and Sepatanaairikaa.
In 2022, a study documenting twenty-four Brahmi inscriptions from the 2nd-5th century AD was conducted, highlighting the rarity of these historic artifacts. The period in question covers the reigns of kings Shri Bhimsena, Maharaja Pothasiri, and Maharaja Bhattadeva. This study is the first of its kind to examine this historic period in over 80 years at the Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, which is located approximately 500 km from Bhopal.
The discovery of a "modern society" dating back 2000 years in Bandhavgarh National Park is significant for India as it sheds new light on the history and culture of the region. The presence of rock paintings, man-made water bodies, and other artifacts suggests that the area was once inhabited by a prosperous community. Moreover, the discovery of these ancient ruins could increase its appeal to visitors, generating much-needed revenue for the local economy.