Location: Jalalpur, Nalanda District, Bihar | Date: May 2025
In a surprising discovery that has stirred both excitement and controversy, a 1700-year-old Shiv Parvati idol found in Bihar has become the center of a debate between local villagers and government officials. The ancient idol, believed to belong to the Gupta period, was discovered accidentally during digging in a farmerβs field.
This incident not only highlights Indiaβs rich historical roots but also opens up important questions about heritage protection, religious beliefs, and the rights of local communities over historical findings.
Where Was the Idol Found?
The Shiv Parvati idol found in Bihar was discovered in Jalalpur village, which falls under the Islampur block of Nalanda district. According to villagers, the idol was uncovered when laborers were digging farmland for construction purposes. What seemed like an ordinary day turned into a historic one when the digging equipment hit something hard β a large stone structure.
Upon pulling it out, the villagers were shocked to see a detailed sculpture of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati sitting together. The idol is approximately 3 feet tall and 1.5 feet wide, made of black stone with intricate carvings.
Β Why Is the Idol So Special?
Experts from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) who examined the artifact have suggested that the Shiv Parvati idol found in Bihar might date back to the Gupta Empire β a period often regarded as the golden age of Indian history (4th to 6th century AD).
The idol showcases advanced craftsmanship. The facial expressions, ornaments, and posture reflect a deep spiritual and artistic significance. According to ASI, such idols are extremely rare and valuable, both historically and culturally.
Β Villagers Want to Keep the Idol
After the Shiv Parvati idol found in Bihar, the local villagers have taken it upon themselves to protect and worship the idol. They immediately cleaned it and placed it on a temporary platform under a tree. Local priests began performing rituals and villagers started gathering daily for worship.
The villagers strongly believe that the idol is a blessing from the gods. βWe were chosen to receive this gift. This is not just a statue, it’s our living deity,β said Ramesh Yadav, a local farmer.
They now want to build a temple in the village and install the idol there permanently. According to them, the idol must not be taken away by authorities or shifted to a museum. βThis land gave us this treasure. We will not give it away,β said another local, Sita Devi.
Authorities Want to Preserve It
On the other hand, the district administration and ASI have stated that the Shiv Parvati idol found in Bihar should be treated as a national heritage item. They want the idol to be moved to a museum or a protected site so that it can be properly conserved.
“Historical artifacts need special preservation conditions. If left in the open, they may get damaged over time,β said one ASI official.
District Magistrate S.P. Sharma also confirmed that discussions are going on between the administration and the villagers. βWe respect their sentiments but also have a responsibility to protect national heritage,β he said.
Rising Tensions in the Village
Since the discovery, the situation in Jalalpur village has become tense. Large crowds have started visiting the idol daily, turning the village into a mini-pilgrimage spot. With media coverage and social media posts going viral, the Shiv Parvati idol found in Bihar has caught national attention.
Some local political leaders have supported the villagers, saying that the idol should remain in its place of discovery. Meanwhile, cultural activists and historians argue that ancient idols must be stored in safe environments to avoid damage and theft.
Police forces have been deployed to maintain peace, and discussions are ongoing to find a peaceful resolution.
What Makes the Idol Unique?
Experts claim that the Shiv Parvati idol found in Bihar shows classic features of Gupta-era art:
Symmetrical carving
Calm facial expressions
Detailed jewelry and attire
Traditional lotus base design
Stone type matches other Gupta period sculptures
According to art historian Dr. Kavita Sinha, βThis idol reflects the high level of skill Indian sculptors had during the Gupta period. Itβs a perfect example of spiritual art.β
What Is the Gupta Period?
The Gupta period (around 320β550 AD) is considered the golden age of Indian civilization. It was a time of great progress in arts, science, mathematics, and culture. Idols from this time show harmony, balance, and artistic depth. The Shiv Parvati idol found in Bihar adds one more jewel to the crown of Gupta heritage.
Crowd and Devotion Growing Daily
Ever since the news broke out, thousands of people from nearby districts have been visiting Jalalpur village for a glimpse of the idol. Some call it a divine miracle. Others see it as a tourist opportunity. Shops, food stalls, and small markets have already started popping up near the site.
For many visitors, seeing the Shiv Parvati idol found in Bihar is a spiritual experience. βI came from Gaya just to see this with my family. I feel peace after darshan,β said a devotee named Neelam Kumari.
Government’s Next Steps
To deal with the situation, the Bihar state government is planning a survey of all historical artifacts in the Nalanda region. There are rumors that similar findings may be hidden underground in nearby areas. Officials are working to maintain law and order while engaging with local community leaders to decide the future of the Shiv Parvati idol found in Bihar.
Some possible solutions being discussed include:
Building a government-supported temple in the village
Moving the idol to a local heritage museum with replica placed in the village
Joint management between villagers and archaeological experts
What This Means for India
The discovery of the Shiv Parvati idol found in Bihar has once again shown how rich Indiaβs cultural past is. But it also highlights the challenges that come with such discoveries β including ownership, protection, and respect for religious emotions.
While historians want preservation, local people want devotion. Finding a middle path will be key.
Final Thoughts
The Shiv Parvati idol found in Bihar is not just a stone sculpture. It represents Indiaβs deep spiritual roots, rich artistic heritage, and emotional connections with religion. It is important that both the historical and religious values are respected equally.
The debate between preservation and worship will likely continue, but whatβs clear is that this idol has awakened national curiosity and local devotion alike.