3730 Ikshvaku Period Coins Found in Telangana, Phanigiri, Suryapet
Phanigiri, nestled in the heart of Telangana, has recently yielded a remarkable treasure—a hoard of Ikshvaku period coins. These ancient coins, dating back centuries, offer us a glimpse into a forgotten era, bridging the gap between the past and the present. Let’s delve deeper into the significance of this find.
The Location and Its Mystique
Phanigiri, perched atop a hill, situated in Suryapet district, holds secrets buried beneath its soil. Approximately 40 km from Suryapet city & approximately 110 km form Hyderabad city, this historical site has long intrigued archaeologists and history enthusiasts. Its serene landscape conceals remnants of an ancient Buddhist past, waiting to be unearthed. This site has long been recognized as a center of cultural and historical importance. Its strategic location on the ancient trade route connecting the west and east coast of the Deccan has drawn the attention of archaeologists since 2001.
The Pot of Coins
- The excavation team, led by N. Sagar and co-excavator B Mallu, unearthed a coin hoard on March 29.
- Among the artifacts found was an earthen pot, measuring 16.7 cm in diameter and 15 cm in height, buried at a depth of two feet.
- Inside this pot, they discovered a total of 3,730 lead coins.
- Each coin, with an average weight of 2.3g.
- Each coin featured an elephant symbol on one side and the Ujjain symbol on the other.
- These coins are believed to belong to the Ikshvaku period, dating between the third and fourth centuries CE
Detailed Description of the Excavation
The excavation at Pahnigiri involved careful digging and sifting through layers of soil to uncover the hidden artifacts. The team used various archaeological techniques to ensure the preservation and documentation of the findings. The coins were discovered in a well-preserved condition, providing valuable information about the economic and political landscape of the Ikshvaku period.
The hoard of coins consists of copper coins with intricate designs and inscriptions. These coins bear the imprint of the Ikshvaku dynasty, which ruled over parts of present-day Telangana and Andhra Pradesh from the 1st century BCE to the 4th century CE. The inscriptions on the coins provide clues about the rulers and their titles, offering a glimpse into the political structure of the time.
Alongside the coins, other artifacts such as pottery, beads, and terracotta figurines were also discovered. These findings contribute to our understanding of the material culture and daily life of the people during the Ikshvaku period.
Beyond the Coins: Other Artifacts
Alongside the coins, various other artifacts emerged during the excavation:
- Stone and glass beads
- Fragments of shell bangles
- Stucco motifs
- Broken limestone sculptures
- A child’s toy cart wheel
- Iron nails
- Pottery
Beyond the Coins: Stucco Motifs:
- Alongside the coin hoard, the archaeologists found several other artifacts, including stucco motifs.
- Stucco is a type of decorative plaster used in ancient architecture.
- These motifs likely adorned the walls, pillars, or other structures at the Phanigiri site.
- Stucco work often featured intricate designs, patterns, and symbolic elements.
- The discovery of stucco motifs adds to our understanding of the artistic and architectural practices during the Ikshvaku period.
Significance:
- Stucco motifs provide insights into the aesthetic preferences of the people who inhabited Phanigiri.
- They may have served both decorative and religious purposes within the Buddhist monastery.
- Further analysis of these motifs can reveal details about the iconography, cultural influences, and artistic techniques of that era.
In summary, the stucco motifs found during the Phanigiri excavation offer a glimpse into the artistic heritage of ancient Telangana, connecting us to the Ikshvaku dynasty and their cultural legacy. 🏛️🔍
Connection with the Ikshvaku Dynasty and Origin of Pahnigiri
The Ikshvaku dynasty, also known as the Suryavamsha, traces its lineage to Ikshvaku, the legendary progenitor. According to ancient texts, Ikshvaku was among the ten sons of Shraddhadeva Manu, the first man in Indian mythology. The Ikshvakus ruled over the eastern Krishna River valley, their capital gracing the ancient city of Vijayapuri (modern Nagarjunakonda). These coins serve as tangible artifacts connecting us to this illustrious dynasty and its historical legacy.
Phanigiri’s Richness and Global Significance
Phanigiri village itself derives its name from the shape of the hillock it occupies—a snake hood, metaphorically representing the hidden treasures beneath its surface. The village has thrived from 1000 BCE until the 18th century CE. The artifacts discovered here are not only of local importance but also hold global significance. Many of these excavated treasures have found their way to prestigious institutions, including the New York Metropolitan Museum.
Beyond the coins, Phanigiri reveals more. Its landscape boasts a massive stupa, apsidal halls adorned with stupas, and viharas—once inhabited by Buddhist monks. The site even features footprints attributed to Gautama Buddha, adding to its spiritual allure. The art and architecture at Phanigiri reflect the Ikshvakus’ dual religious inclinations—Buddhism and Brahminism—a testament to their cultural richness.
Restoring the Past
The exposed structures at Phanigiri, including a Mahastupa, apsidal Chaityagrihas, votive Stupas, and Congregation hall viharas, await restoration and conservation. Valuable Buddhist sculptures discovered here deserve to be displayed in a museum, allowing visitors to connect with the ancient past and unravel the stories hidden within these ancient stones.
The discovery of the coins at Pahnigiri strengthens the connection between the site and the Ikshvaku dynasty. It provides evidence of the economic activities and trade networks that existed during that time. The coins also help in establishing a timeline for the rule of the Ikshvaku dynasty, contributing to the overall understanding of the region’s history.
Furthermore, the excavation at Pahnigiri has opened up new avenues for research and exploration. It has sparked interest among historians, archaeologists, and enthusiasts who are eager to delve deeper into the history of Telangana and its ancient civilizations.
In conclusion, the hoard of Ikshvaku period coins found at Pahnigiri in Telangana is a significant archaeological discovery. It provides valuable insights into the history, culture, and political landscape of the Ikshvaku dynasty. The excavation at Pahnigiri has not only unearthed a treasure trove of coins but has also shed light on the ancient origins of the site and its connection to the Ikshvaku dynasty. This discovery adds to the growing body of knowledge about Telangana’s rich historical heritage and serves as a testament to the importance of archaeological research in preserving and understanding our past.