In a groundbreaking archaeological revelation, a team from Assam University has stumbled upon sculptures dating back to the 8th century in the Kolalian area near the Assam-Mizoram border. The sculptures, exhibiting influences from both Hindu and Buddhist traditions, were uncovered by Ganesh Nandi, an assistant professor at Assam University’s Department of Visual Arts, and researcher Binoy Paul. The site necessitated an extensive trek through the forests from Assam’s Hailakandi district to Mizoram’s Mamit district.
The discovered stone carvings bear striking resemblances to sculptures found in two renowned archaeological sites, Unakoti and Pilak in Tripura, which date back to the 7th and 9th centuries. Nandi suggested that the Kolalian sculptures might have been created during a similar epoch. Particularly noteworthy is the identification of a full-sized statue resembling Lord Buddha, displaying a fusion of Buddhist and Hindu characteristics, with a distinctive feminine appearance.
Providing historical context, Nandi referred to Maharaja Dhanya Manikya and his general Rai Kachak, associated with the Tripura Kingdom. Local narratives suggest that Rai Kachak conducted a Durga Puja in the Kolalian region. While concrete evidence linking the stone structures to that era is lacking, the artistic style resonates with the Gupta and Paul eras (750–1200 CE).
Despite being overlooked by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and other researchers, the villagers considered the site sacred and diligently guarded it. According to Nandi, the sculptures are believed to be the oldest examples of this genre of art in Barak Valley’s history. The local community has been venerating these idols as Hindu deities for generations.
Interestingly, the sculptures in Kolalian echo the ancient artifacts found in Tripura’s archaeological sites of Unakoti and Pilak, contributing to a broader understanding of the cultural and historical connections in the region. Jayanta Bhushan Bhattacharjee, a senior researcher and former vice-chancellor of Assam University Silchar, underscored the historical significance of the region and emphasized the need for conservation efforts.
The ASI is planning to visit the site, and Assam University will collaborate by sending a team to further explore and document this newfound archaeological treasure. The discoveries in Kolalian, when considered alongside Unakoti and Pilak, have the potential to reshape our understanding of the historical narrative of Barak Valley and its intricate connections to neighboring territories.
