An antique idol of Shivalingam with Nagabharanam was saved from being smuggled out of the country by alert Chennai Air Cargo Customs officials. Marked as an export consignment, the idol according to Archaeological Survey of India experts appears to date back to the early 1800s.

As per the statement issued by the Commissioner of Customs the “non antiquity certificate from ASI was not submitted by the exporter”. It was also mentioned that the original source of this antique idol is Gedilam near Thirunavalur in Tamil Nadu’s Kallakurichi district.

This brass idol is 36 cm in height and its weight is 4.56 kilograms. The Customs officials while looking at the idol thought it to be antique and there were indications of use, and therefore sought the expert opinion of the ASI on it.

Following an examination by the ASI expert team, it was certified that the idol was likely to be from the 1800s period.

The invoice submitted with the shipping bill mentioned that the idol had been purchased from an arts and crafts emporium in Kumbakonam.

Along with several other items, the idol was seized under Customs Act, 1962 read with Antiquities Act, 1972.

Also read: Customs officials catch smuggler at Bengaluru airport with 15th Century Lord Mahavishnu idol