Ramgram: The Department of Archeology has commenced an excavation at Panditpur, a significant historical and archeological site located in Ramgram-18, West Nawalparasi. The excavation initiative follows the discovery of structures estimated to date back to the sixth century, identified during a recent geophysics survey. The excavation is scheduled to continue for a period of 21 days.
According to National News Agency Nepal, Mayor Dhanapat Yadav of Ramgram confirmed that the federal, provincial, and local governments have allocated the requisite budget to support the excavation activities. Senior archeological officer Bhaskar Gyawali revealed that the current excavation efforts are concentrated on a site where a round-shaped archeological structure was discovered during the geophysics survey.
Panditpur is historically significant as it is believed to have been the capital of the ancient Koliya state and is recognized as the ancestral home of Buddha’s mother. Previous excavations conducted by the Department f
rom 2068 to 2072 uncovered utensils, a pond, and bricks dating back to the eighth century, highlighting the rich historical tapestry of the site.