The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has submitted its scientific survey report on the disputed Bhojshala-Kamal Maula mosque complex to the Madhya Pradesh High Court, revealing significant findings that suggest the complex's temple status.
According to the report accessed by India Today TV, the ASI's survey unearthed several historical artifacts that point toward the complex's temple origins. Here are the key findings:
1. **Coins:** A total of 31 coins were discovered during the survey, dating back to various historical periods including Indo-Sassanian (10th-11th century), Delhi Sultanate (13th-14th century), Malwa Sultanate (15th-16th century), Mughal (16th-18th century), Dhar State (19th century), and British (19th-20th century). These coins provide evidence of the continuous historical occupation and usage of the site.
2. **Sculptures and Architectural Elements:** The survey uncovered 94 sculptures, fragments of sculptures, and architectural elements. These include depictions of Hindu deities such as Ganesh, Brahma, Narasimha, Bhairava, and various other gods and goddesses. Additionally, there are sculptures of animals like lions, elephants, horses, dogs, and mythical creatures such as kirtimukha and vyalas. Many of these sculptures have been defaced or removed, particularly in areas now occupied by mosques.
3. **Inscriptions:** Several inscriptions in Sanskrit and Prakrit were found on pieces within the structure. These inscriptions indicate literary and educational activities at the site. One inscription mentions King Naravarman of the Paramara dynasty (ruling between 1094 and 1133 AD), while others refer to historical events such as the conversion of a temple into a mosque during the rule of Khalji ruler Mahmud Shah.
4. **Educational Center:** The report suggests that Bhojshala was once a significant educational center established by King Bhoj. The artifacts recovered indicate that the current structure incorporates parts of earlier temples, underscoring its historical continuity.
**Dispute Overview:**
The Bhojshala-Kamal Maula complex has been a subject of dispute between the Hindu and Muslim communities. Hindus consider it a temple dedicated to Vagdevi (Goddess Saraswati), while Muslims refer to it as Kamal Maula mosque. Currently, Hindus are allowed to worship on Tuesdays, and Muslims offer namaz on Fridays.
The case is being heard by the Madhya Pradesh High Court following a petition challenging this arrangement. The High Court had ordered the ASI to conduct a scientific survey, which commenced on March 22 and concluded recently. The complete report was submitted as per the court's directive on July 15, and the next hearing is scheduled for July 22.
The findings of the ASI's report are likely to play a crucial role in the ongoing legal proceedings and the resolution of the longstanding dispute over the complex's religious status.
