ASI discovers unique decorative panels at Bhubaneswar’s iconic Sari Deula temple

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<strong>While carrying out excavation of a buried temple on premises of Sari Deula temple in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, the Archaeological Survey of India found a slanting roof which has decorated panels.</strong></p>
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Situated in the Old Town behind the Bhabani Shankar temple, on the panels human figures are depicted. The panels were found the south west direction of the temple.</p>
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Arun Malik, ASI Superintending Archaeologist (Bhubaneswar circle) disclosed that the sculptures are unique since such decorations cannot be found in any of the existing temples in Bhubaneswar.</p>
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Found 2.5 metres below the surface, these decorative panels are similar to the one that was found from the site a week back.</p>
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The ASI had last week discovered an ancient sculpture of Lord Vishnu, two inscriptions and a decorative panel while excavating the buried temple. The temple has been found to be built in Khakara style which is evident from its roof design and features, the Vishnu image is suggested to be one of the earliest in Odisha. The scene depicted by the panel shows a holy bathing scene of either a king or a priest.</p>
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According to Malik even though the sculptures appear like typical Hindu characters it is too early to comment on what period these inscriptions or sculptures belong to.</p>