Archaeological Excavation in Dwaraka

Prelims – History of India and Current events of national importance.

Mains (GS I) – Indian Heritage and Culture.

Why in news?

The Archaeological Survey of India's (ASI) Underwater Archaeology Wing has launched a new research expedition examining both onshore and offshore sites at Dwarka and Beyt Dwarka in Gujarat.

• Present study – It is being conducted by a 9-member team of the Underwater Archaeology Wing (UAW) of the ASI.
• Coverage – It includes both onshore and offshore expedition at Dwarka and Beyt Dwarka in Gujarat
• It is planned to cover an expanded area in Okhamandal city in Gujarat.
• Focus areas
  • Archaeological explorations
  • Identification of potential sites and places
  • Scientific study involving diving operations
  • Search and collection of archaeological remains, their proper documentation and study

Quick Facts

• Dwaraka – It is located on the western tip of the Kathiawar Peninsula and is one of the 4 Char Dhams, India's holiest sites.

Char Dhams are considered the most important Hindu pilgrimage sites in India they are Rameswaram, Puri, Dwarka, and Badrinath.

• Beyt Dwarka – It is an island off Gujarat's coast, believed to be Lord Krishna's ancient home.
• It is also known as Bet Shankhodhar due to its resemblance of Shankh shape.

• Dwarkadhish temple (Jagat Mandir)- It is located in Dwarka and is believed to have been established over 2500 years ago by Lord Krishna's great-grandson, Vajranabh.
• It is situated at the junction of the Gomti River and the Arabian Sea.
• It was honored by Adi Shankaracharya, the 8^th century Hindu theologian and philosopher.
• The original structure was destroyed by Mahmud Begada in 1472 and rebuilt in the 15th-16th century.

In 2024 Prime Minister inaugurated Sudarshan Setu bridge which is the country's longest cable-stayed bridge of 2.32 km, on the Arabian sea connecting Beyt Dwarka island to mainland Okha in Dwarka district.

Reference

The Hindu| Dwarka Underwater Expeditions