Historical and Archaeological Findings in News

Bhojshala-Kamal Maula Complex Dispute

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level: Bhojshala-Kamal Maula Complex, Reign of Mihir Bhoja, Gurjara-Pratihara dynasty and its contemporaries

Mains level: NA

Why in the news?

The Supreme Court has issued a cautionary note to Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) barring any physical excavation that could alter the character of the Bhojshala-Kamal Maula Complex.

About Bhojshala Complex

Details
Location Dhar district, Madhya Pradesh.
Historical Background Established by Raja Bhoj, the greatest ruler of the Parmar dynasty, as an educational institute.
Date of Establishment 11th century.
Transformation Originally a Goddess Wagdevi (Saraswati temple), later converted into Kamal Maulana Mosque by Muslim rulers.
Architectural Features
  • Large open courtyard (Mahaāyata);
  • Verandah with decorated pillars (Sthāpanā);
  • Prayer hall with intricately carved ceilings (Shikharākāra).
Inscriptions
  • Two hymns depicting the Karmavatar of Vishnu (Avatār);
  • Sarpabandha pillar inscriptions with Sanskrit alphabet and grammatical rules (Vyākaraṇa).
Archaeological Significance Protected by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) as an 11th-century monument under Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958

Controversy over Bhojshala Complex

  • Religious Claims: Hindus regard the site as the temple of Goddess Wagdevi (Saraswati), while Muslims believe it to be the Kamal Maula mosque.
  • Usage Agreement: The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) allows Hindus to pray on Tuesdays and Vasant Panchami, and Muslims to offer namaz on Fridays,

Recent Developments

  • Vasant Panchami Dispute: A recent order allowing Hindus to worship during Basant Panchami hours led to discontent among some Right-wing activists.
  • Demand for Extended Access: Hindu groups demand all-day access to the shrine on such occasions, leading to protests and petitions filed in the High Court.

 

Who was Raja Bhoj?

Details
Original name Raja Bhoja (Mihir Bhoja)
Dynasty Gurjara-Pratihara
Reign 836 – 885 AD
Rise to Prominence Emerged as the paramount power in northern India, defeating rivals like the Palas and Rashtrakutas
Capital Kannauj (Mahodaya)
Military Strength Possessed India’s strongest cavalry, as noted by Arab traveller Sulaiman
Title Assumed the title of “Adivaraha”; referred to as “King Baura” by Arab travellers
Religious Affiliation Great follower of Vaishnavism
Acknowledgment of Supremacy Acknowledged as supreme by various factions, including Arabs of Sindh, Chandalas, and Kalachuris
Notable Feats Triumph over Pala king Devapala and Rashtrakuta king Amoghavarsha
Legacy Renowned for his wisdom, military prowess, and patronage of Vaishnavism
Historical Significance Marked the zenith of the Gurjara-Pratihara dynasty, leaving a lasting impact on Indian history

 

PYQ:

[2021] With reference to Chausath Yogini Temple situated near Morena, consider the following statements:​

  1. It is a circular temple built during the reign of Kachchhapaghata Dynasty.​
  2. It is the only circular temple built in India.​
  3. I was meant to promote the Vaishnava cult in the region.​
  4. Its design has given rise to a popular belief that it was the inspiration behind the Indian Parliament building. ​

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 4 only

(d) 2, 3 and 4 only

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