An ancient stone sculpture of the Goddess Durga, recovered from the Jhelum River in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district, has been handed over to the Archaeology Wing in Srinagar for detailed examination and preservation, officials said.
According to the J&Kashmir Police, the artefact was discovered by a local fisherman, Nazir Ahmad Latoo, while fishing in the river near Sheeri. After noticing the sculpture, Latoo promptly informed the local police, following which the idol was taken into safe custody at the Sheeri police station.
Police officials said archaeological experts were called in to examine the find. After it was formally identified as a sculpture of Goddess Durga, the artefact was transferred to the Department of Archives, Archaeology and Museums, Jammu and Kashmir in line with established procedures.
“The sculpture was immediately brought to the notice of authorities and was kept in safe custody before being formally handed over,” a police spokesperson said. The idol will now undergo scientific assessment, documentation and conservation.
Officials said the discovery could offer important insights into the region’s ancient religious and artistic traditions. They added that such finds highlight the role of public cooperation in safeguarding Kashmir’s cultural heritage and urged citizens to report artefacts of historical significance without delay.
