Just 30 kilometers from Bhubaneswar, near Tirimul village in Khordha district, lies a site of immense historical value—Narahuda. Since 2021, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has been excavating this mound, located about 30 kilometers from the coastline. The findings? A cultural layer over 4 to 5 meters thick spread across two acres, revealing artifacts from as far back as the Chalcolithic Age (2000–1000 BCE). This discovery has stirred interest among archaeologists worldwide.
1. A Glimpse into the Chalcolithic Era
The Chalcolithic Period, also known as the Copper-Stone Age, marks a transitional phase between the Neolithic and Bronze Ages. It was a time when people began using copper tools alongside stone implements. The Narahuda site indicates a flourishing community skilled in agriculture, animal husbandry, and fishing—key traits of early human settlement.
2. Rare Artifacts Unearthed
Excavations at Narahuda have revealed a rich array of artifacts—stone and iron tools, ornaments made from copper and bone, semi-precious stones, terracotta beads, fragments of glass bangles, figurines of animals, marbles, and toy cart wheels. Additionally, archaeologists found circular mud structures, clay walls, and post-holes that offer insight into the architecture of the time.
3. Evidence from Three Cultural Periods
Remarkably, Narahuda contains traces from three distinct cultural periods:
- Chalcolithic Age (2000–1000 BCE)
- Iron Age (1000–400 BCE)
- Early Historic Period (400–200 BCE)
This layered discovery is the first of its kind in Odisha, offering a unique glimpse into how civilizations evolved in the region over time.
4. Daily Life in an Ancient Settlement
The remains of circular mud houses suggest a settled lifestyle. The pottery, copper artifacts, and bone remains point to a well-established agrarian society. People here were not nomads—they lived in planned communities, practiced rituals, and developed a vibrant culture.
5. 4000-Year-Old Water Management System
Two rivers—Ganghara and Prasanna—flow near the site, forming a natural moat around the settlement. This indicates a sophisticated water management and defense system, likely designed over 4,000 years ago. It’s a testament to the community’s advanced understanding of hydrology and urban planning.
6. A Discovery of Global Importance
The Narahuda site has drawn global attention, not only for its age but also for the diversity of findings. Its similarities with Chalcolithic sites stretching from the Chota Nagpur Plateau to the Gangetic Basin highlight its significance. It has opened a new chapter in the understanding of India’s ancient civilizations.
7. Comparisons with Other Sites in Odisha
Odisha has previously yielded Chalcolithic artifacts at sites like Golabai Sasan, Suberei, Harirajpur, and Talapada. However, Narahuda stands out due to the sheer volume of findings and the presence of relics from multiple time periods, offering a broader narrative of human development in the region.
8. Traces of Early Sun Worship
Artifacts from Narahuda hint at sun worship practices dating back to 1099 BCE, predating the famous 13th-century Sun Temple at Konark. This early form of solar devotion suggests deep-rooted spiritual traditions that may have influenced later religious developments in the region.
9. A Future Archaeological Treasure Trove
Excavations are still ongoing, and experts believe many more significant findings lie beneath the surface. Narahuda holds the potential to turn Odisha into a major hub for archaeological tourism, enriching both regional pride and global historical awareness.
Are You Ready to Explore Narahuda?
This hidden treasure is not just about relics—it’s a window into India’s ancient soul. From early urban planning to spiritual traditions, Narahuda tells a story thousands of years old—one that’s only just beginning to be uncovered.
Would you visit this site if it were open to the public? Share your thoughts!
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