Pune: The Gokhale Institute’s History Literature Festival witnessed a momentous revelation on its second day as archaeologists Sanjay Kumar Manjul and Arvin Manjul shared the secrets behind their groundbreaking discovery of a 4,000-year-old chariot in the village of Sinauli, Uttar Pradesh. The couple delved into the challenges, importance, and subsequent criticism surrounding their remarkable find during an engaging session on archaeology.
The excavation site in Sinauli gained global attention in 2018 when a war chariot, associated with the Indus Civilization, was uncovered. The significance of this discovery has been likened to the iconic Harappan archaeological excavations of the 20th century. The Manjul couple shed light on the intricacies of unearthing this ancient chariot, exploring its cultural importance in Indian history.
Sanjay Kumar Manjul emphasized the cultural significance of chariots in Indian tradition, citing references in the Vedas, Ramayana, and Mahabharata. He refuted Western claims that the concept of chariots originated outside India, asserting that this discovery solidified their existence in the Indian subcontinent.
Arvin Manjul elucidated the challenges of archaeological excavation, describing it as a systematic destruction process. Initially mistaking the chariot for a throne, she highlighted the meticulous efforts required to extract the artifact without causing damage. Amidst debates suggesting the discovery was a bullock cart rather than a chariot, Sanjay Kumar Manjul presented compelling evidence to support their findings, dismissing such claims.
Anticipating skepticism, Sanjay Kumar Manjul revealed that future excavations in the Indus Valley and the Ganges were on the horizon. He encouraged broader participation in archaeology, particularly among the youth, expressing confidence in the potential for even more significant discoveries across India.
As the revelations unfold at Gokhale Institute, the ancient chariot’s secrets continue to rewrite the narrative of Indian history, challenging preconceived notions and inspiring a new generation of archaeological enthusiasts.
