`Om Namah Shivaya': 12th-century Shivlingam discovered in West Godavari

Polavaram: A 12th-century Sivalingam was discovered during Polavaram project excavation work in the West Godavari district. It was recovered from the approach channel in the slipway of Godavari river. Kakinada-based Archaeological Department said. Assistant Director K Thimmaraju, who visited the spot, said that the Sivalingam dates back to the 12th century.

"One of the Sivalingam in Pattiseema temple was found now. It is similar to the existing one. During the Chalukya rule, Shiva temples might have been built along the Godavari. Those ruins of temples are coming out during excavations", said Thimmaraju.

Between 1996-2002, the Archaeological Survey of India conducted a comprehensive survey of the project near Old Pydipaka in Polavaram Mandal. The officials found bricks, monuments, and ruins of a temple dating back to the 2nd century.

Plan for museum

The Archaeological Department plans to construct a museum near the Polavaram project, preserving idols, ruins, and monuments found in 375 villages. The department has requested 5 acres of land to set up a museum estimated at a project cost of Rs 40 crore. Officials are likely to submit a proposal to the government for funds.

During previous excavations, officials have found remains of aborigines in East Godavari and a few more things in Rudrakota. These were preserved in the Eluru Museum. "Once a museum is set up at Polavaram, all the things found during excavations can be preserved in the new museum," said Thimmaraju.

More excavations

Archaeologists believe there are chances to unearth many more ruins related to the 12th century near the approach channel. Officials said they would submit a letter to the Commissioner. They believe that the many things related to the temple can be found if dug deeper