Nearly two decades after the last major excavation, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has initiated a groundbreaking underwater exploration off the Gujarat coast. A team from ASI’s Underwater Archaeology Wing (UAW) has dived into the depths of the Arabian Sea to investigate the remnants of an ancient 4,000-year-old planned city, widely believed to be the submerged Dwarka linked to Hindu deity Lord Krishna.
Revival of Underwater Exploration at Dwarka
The ASI’s renewed mission to explore and preserve India’s submerged cultural heritage marks a significant step in the field of marine archaeology. Led by Additional Director-General (Archaeology) Professor Alok Tripathi, the five-member ASI team includes a substantial number of women archaeologists, such as Aparajita Sharma, Poonam Vind, and Rajkumari Barbina. Their primary area of investigation is near the Gomati Creek, which is believed to hold crucial evidence of ancient habitation.
Led by Additional Director-General (Archaeology) Professor Alok Tripathi, the five-member ASI team includes a substantial number of women archaeologists, such as Aparajita Sharma, Poonam Vind, and Rajkumari Barbina. (Theorist Photos)
This revival of offshore surveys follows the last excavations conducted between 2005 and 2007. The ASI’s UAW has played a pivotal role in marine archaeological research in India since the 1980s, having previously explored significant underwater sites like Mahabalipuram in Tamil Nadu, Lakshadweep’s Bangaram Island, and Manipur’s Loktak Lake.
Dwarka: A City of Myth and Reality
Dwarka is one of Hinduism’s Sapt Puris (seven sacred cities) and holds immense spiritual and historical significance. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Krishna is said to have built this grand city after migrating from Mathura. However, legend states that Dwarka was eventually reclaimed by the sea following Krishna’s departure, marking the onset of Kali Yuga.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the spiritual and historical relevance of Dwarka during his February 2024 visit to the Dwarkadhish Temple, where he also conducted an underwater exploration of the site. “I went deep into the sea and did ‘Darshan’ of the ancient Dwarka city. Archaeologists have written extensively about the submerged city hidden underwater,” PM Modi remarked.
Archaeological Evidence Supporting Submerged Dwarka
The search for Dwarka’s ancient remnants has spanned decades. Initial studies date back to the 1930s, with major excavations beginning in 1963. Between 1983 and 1990, marine archaeologists discovered a fortified foundation, stone blocks, pillars, stone anchors, and evidence of an extensive irrigation system. These findings, documented by UNESCO, suggest a well-planned ancient city.
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The National Institute of Oceanography (NIO) and ASI’s past research have revealed numerous artifacts, including pottery from the Late Harappan to the Medieval period, stone anchors from the Mediaeval era, and amphorae remains from early historic periods. Findings along the Gomati River’s banks have further reinforced the belief that this location was once a thriving trade hub.
According to archaeologist S.R. Rao, the submerged structures align with descriptions in ancient scriptures, suggesting that the lost city of Dwarka could be more than just a myth. He famously stated, “This discovery has turned myth into reality.”
The Importance of the ASI’s Current Exploration
The ongoing underwater exploration aims to bridge the gap between mythology and history by uncovering new material evidence. With advanced technology and modern marine archaeology techniques, the ASI hopes to provide definitive insights into India’s ancient maritime past, trade networks, and urban planning.
Marine archaeologists, including A.S. Gaur and S. Tripathi, have emphasized the significance of Dwarka’s location as a trading center. The findings could reshape historical narratives regarding early Indian civilization and its maritime capabilities.
As the ASI’s team dives deeper into the Arabian Sea, every discovery has the potential to reshape our understanding of India’s ancient past. The findings could further establish Dwarka’s historical authenticity, enhance global recognition of India’s underwater heritage, and contribute to the broader study of submerged civilizations.
