Heritage Conservation Demand Raised Before Odisha Archaeology Department to Safeguard the Historical Importance of Nala Dynasty Remnants

NabarangpurAug 4 [UDN}::  Sub-headline: Director of Archaeology Department Accepts Memorandum from Desia Kutum; Assures Field Visits to Podagad, Kelia and Garbharai, Preparation of Project Report and Proposal Submission to ASI
An encouraging step has been taken towards the preservation of the historical legacy and archaeological treasures of the Nala Dynasty period in the undivided Koraput region. Desia Kutum, a leading organisation engaged in research on tribal culture, language, folk traditions and ancient history for a long time, submitted a detailed memorandum to Dr. Debajani Bhuyan, Director of the Odisha Archaeology Department, demanding archaeological surveys, scientific excavations and conservation of ancient heritage sites associated with the Nala Dynasty.
The memorandum highlighted that the undivided Koraput region was an important centre of civilisation in ancient India. The area has historical links with Dandakaranya of the Ramayana era, Nishada references of the Mahabharata period, Mahakantara of the Buddhist era, and Pushkari, the capital of the Nala Dynasty. However, due to inadequate recognition of the contribution of the Nala Dynasty and its archaeological heritage in Odisha’s history, many heritage sites are facing neglect and deterioration.
The memorandum presented the historical and archaeological importance of several ancient sites associated with the Nala Dynasty, including Podagad, Kelia, Garbharai, Kesaribeda and the Shiva temple at Papadahandi in Nabarangpur district. Special emphasis was given to the preservation of Nala-era remains such as inscriptions, ancient sculptures and burnt brick structures at Podagad; the ruined Shaiva architecture and caves at Kelia; and Jain and Ganesha idols along with other historical artefacts found at Garbharai.
After receiving the memorandum, Dr. Debajani Bhuyan, Director of the Odisha Archaeology Department, expressed a positive response. She stated that the department would soon conduct field visits to Podagad, Kelia, Garbharai and other heritage locations. After collecting detailed information through these visits, a scientific project report would be prepared. The project would then be submitted to the Odisha Archaeology Department and the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) for necessary approval and support.
She further assured that scientific surveys, excavations, conservation and phased restoration work would be undertaken at these heritage sites in the future.
The memorandum was submitted by Desia Kutum Secretary and researcher Sabyasachi Bisoyi. He stated that the history of the Nala Dynasty is not only the heritage of undivided Koraput but also an invaluable chapter in the historical glory of Odisha as a whole. Preservation of this heritage would bring new historical discoveries to light and open new opportunities for research, heritage tourism and development of local culture. He also assured that Desia Kutum would provide all possible research-based support to the department in this initiative.
Following Dr. Debajani Bhuyan’s assurance, historians, intellectuals and local residents have expressed renewed hope for the preservation of Nala Dynasty-era heritage in the region.