Rare Medieval Stela, Possible Fossil Slab Recovered in Lolab; Artefacts Under Scientific Examination | Kashmir Life

SRINAGAR: Rare artefacts recovered from the Lolab Valley in north Kashmir are undergoing detailed scientific examination after being formally taken into custody by the Department of Archives, Archaeology and Museums (AA and M), officials said.

The recoveries include a sculpted stone stela and a separate stone slab bearing unusual tubular impressions, both retrieved from the bed of a local nallah in the village Sever, Khurhama area of Lolab in Kupwara district.

Officials said the AA and M team, led by Dr Javed Ahmad Mantoo, Surveyor-cum-Excavation Assistant, has taken possession of the artefacts from the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Lolab in the presence of revenue and police authorities. The items have been secured for preservation, identification and further study as per established archaeological procedures.

Preliminary assessment indicates that the sculpted stone may represent a memorial stela dating back to the late medieval period, tentatively between the 12th and 14th centuries CE. Experts noted that the carving exhibits stylistic features associated with regional folk artistic traditions.

Traces resembling inscriptions in the ancient Sharada script have also been observed on the stone surface. However, officials said that detailed epigraphic analysis is underway to authenticate and decipher the markings.

In a separate finding, the recovered stone slab with tubular impressions is being examined for its possible paleontological significance. Initial observations suggest that the formations could be fossil traces linked to the geological history of the Lolab Valley, though confirmation will depend on scientific evaluation.

The department has acknowledged the role of the District Administration Kupwara and local police in facilitating the recovery and ensuring the safe transfer of the artefacts for expert analysis.

Authorities have also urged the public to report any similar discoveries to district or police officials to ensure proper documentation, preservation and study of historically or scientifically significant material.