Police said on Friday that on Thursday, a fisherman identified as Nazir Ahmad Latoo, a resident of Shaltang/Zogyar, reported to Police Station Sheeri, Baramulla, that he had recovered a stone sculpture while fishing in the River Jhelum.
A significant archaeological discovery was made in Baramulla district, North Kashmir, when an ancient stone sculpture of Goddess Durga, believed to be over 1,200 years old, was recovered from the River Jhelum.
According to police reports, the find occurred on Thursday when Nazir Ahmad Latoo, a fisherman from Shaltang/Zogyar, came across the sculpture while fishing. He immediately informed Police Station Sheeri in Baramulla, and the sculpture was taken into safe custody at the station.
On 26 December, following proper procedures and official directions from the Directorate of Archives, Archaeology & Museums, J&K, Baramulla Police formally handed over the sculpture—identified as Goddess Durga—to officials of the Archaeology Wing in Srinagar through an official handover process.
The recovery adds to a growing number of similar finds in the region, highlighting the rich cultural heritage of Kashmir. Over recent years, several idols of Hindu gods and goddesses have been retrieved from the Jhelum and other water bodies across south, central, and north Kashmir. For instance, in August 2021, police recovered another sculpture of Goddess Durga in Budgam, dating to the 7th–8th century AD. That sculpture, carved from black stone and measuring 12 by 8 inches, depicted the goddess seated on a lion throne, accompanied by four attendants.
Authorities have emphasized the importance of preserving such historical artifacts and urged citizens to promptly report any discoveries of archaeological or cultural significance.
