Discovery of Ancient Footprints in Madhya Pradesh Linked to Jain Monk
Hidden In MP Forests For Centuries, 1,000-Year-Old Footprints May Belong To Jain Saint
News 18
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An archaeological survey in Jamgarh village, Raisen district, Madhya Pradesh, has revealed a nearly 800-meter-long trail of ancient footprints, believed to belong to a Jain monk from the 10th-11th century. The discovery includes a weathered inscription in early Nagari script, suggesting a significant link to Jain traditions in the region.
- 01The footprints and inscription were discovered by archaeologists Nancy Sharma and Milnath Petele during a field survey.
- 02The inscription contains terms like ‘Śrī’, ‘siddha’, and ‘pandita’, indicating its sacred significance.
- 03Ramesh Yadav, an expert on Parmar history, suggests the footprints may belong to a learned Jain saint.
- 04The discovery is notable as it combines sacred footprints with a long-inscribed pathway carved into living rock.
- 05The site is located in a forested area, making it difficult to find unless specifically sought out.
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An archaeological survey in Jamgarh village, located in Raisen district of Madhya Pradesh, has uncovered a remarkable nearly 800-meter-long trail of footprints carved into rocky terrain, alongside a two-line inscription in early Nagari script. This discovery, made by archaeologists Nancy Sharma and Milnath Petele from the Bhopal chapter of the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage, is believed to date back to the 10th-11th century and may be linked to a Jain monk who traversed the region. The inscription features sacred terms such as ‘Śrī’, ‘siddha’, and ‘pandita’, which are associated with Jain traditions. Ramesh Yadav, a veteran archaeologist, posits that the footprints likely belong to a learned Jain saint, as the term ‘siddha’ is commonly used for Jain sages. The footprints end about 600 meters from nearby caves, suggesting the saint may have been on a path to moksha samadhi. This find is significant not only for its historical implications but also as a rare example of a long-inscribed pathway carved into living rock, highlighting the importance of Jain traditions in Madhya Pradesh's history.
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This discovery enhances the cultural and historical significance of the Raisen district, potentially attracting more archaeological interest and tourism to the area.
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