“Telangana village discovery: 3700 ancient coins unearthed at Phangiri.”
“Phanigiri site discovered, preserved during last Nizam’s era.”
In a noteworthy find by the Telangana Heritage department, ancient coins dating back nearly two millennia to the Ishvaku period were unearthed in Phangiri village, Hyderabad. The discovery of these historic coins, found in a pot measuring 16.7 centimetres in diameter and 15 centimetres in height, sheds light on the region’s rich archaeological heritage. This significant discovery took place about 110 kilometres away from Hyderabad, at an early historic site within the Surypet district.
The coins, dating back to the ancient Ishvaku period, provide valuable insights into the historical and cultural significance of the region. The find highlights the importance of Phangiri village as a site of historical interest, adding to its allure as a hub of ancient civilizations.
The excavation, carried out on March 29, unveiled this treasure trove of ancient currency, marking a significant moment in the preservation and exploration of Telangana’s rich past. The Telangana Heritage department’s efforts in unearthing and safeguarding such archaeological gems play a crucial role in unraveling the mysteries of the region’s history.
These ancient coins offer a glimpse into the economic and cultural exchanges of the Ishvaku period, providing historians and archaeologists with valuable artifacts for further study and analysis. The discovery also serves as a reminder of the continuous efforts to preserve and celebrate the cultural heritage of Telangana, ensuring that the legacy of its ancient civilizations lives on for generations to come.
The Ishvaku dynasty, also known as the Andhra Ishvaku kingdom, is a significant historical entity believed to have thrived for a century during the third and fourth centuries CE in present-day Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. This era marked a period of cultural and political advancement in the region, with the Ishvaku rulers leaving behind a legacy of architectural marvels and cultural contributions.
The recent discovery of ancient coins dating back to the Ishvaku period in Phangiri village, Telangana, offers a fascinating glimpse into this illustrious chapter of history. Unearthed during excavations conducted by the Telangana Heritage department, the coins were found within a pot measuring 16.7 centimetres in diameter and 15 centimetres in height.
Upon closer examination, it was revealed that the pot contained a treasure trove of lead coins, meticulously preserved over centuries.
“A total of 3,730 coins were counted, each weighing 2.3 grams,” the Heritage Department announced on April 4th.
The discovery of these coins is particularly significant due to their uniformity and material composition, all being made of lead. This suggests a standardized currency system prevalent during the Ishvaku era, shedding light on the economic structure and trade practices of the time.
Moreover, the sheer number of coins found within the pot indicates a thriving economy and bustling trade activity within the region. These coins, likely used for transactions and trade exchanges, offer valuable insights into the economic prosperity and cultural interactions of the Ishvaku kingdom.
The find also underscores the importance of Phangiri village as a significant center of trade and commerce during the ancient period. The meticulous preservation of these coins within the pot speaks volumes about the craftsmanship and attention to detail of the Ishvaku civilization.
Overall, the discovery of these ancient lead coins adds another layer to the rich tapestry of Telangana’s history. They serve as tangible artifacts that connect us to a bygone era, offering a glimpse into the lives, economy, and culture of the Ishvaku kingdom that flourished centuries ago in the heart of present-day Telangana and Andhra Pradesh.
Phanigiri village, nestled on the left bank of the Bikkeru rivulet, a tributary of the Musi River in Nagaram Mandal, Suryapet District, holds a rich historical legacy. The village derives its name from the Sanskrit words “Phani” meaning snake and “Giri” meaning hillock, owing to the distinctive shape of a hillock resembling a snake hood. Inhabited from 1000 BCE to the late 18th century CE, Phanigiri was a bustling center for pre/proto-historic, early historic, early medieval, and Asaf Jahi period inhabitants. The early historic site was first uncovered and protected during the reign of the last Nizam of Hyderabad, later excavated from 1941 to 1944 by Khaja Mahamad Ahmad. Additionally, Phanigiri is surrounded by several Buddhist sites such as Vardhamanukota, Gajulabanda, Tirumalagiri, Nagaram, Singaram, Aravapalli, Iyyavaripalli, Arlagaddagudem, and Yeleswaram.
Phanigiri stands as a significant Buddhist monastery, strategically perched atop a hill along the ancient trade route (Dakshinapatha) linking the west and east coasts of the Deccan. This evolved monastery holds a distinguished status, surpassing even the renowned monasteries of Amaravathi and Vijayapuri (Nagarjunakonda) in Andhra Pradesh, according to the department.
Excavations spanning seven field seasons from 2001 to 2019 have unveiled a treasure trove of historical artifacts at Phanigiri. Among the discoveries are a grand Mahastupa, apsidal Chaityagrihas, Votive stupas, pillared congregation halls, Viharas, platforms with staircases at various levels, an octagonal stupa chaitya, a 24-pillared mandapa, and a circular chaitya.
The cultural artifacts unearthed include terracotta beads, semi-precious beads, iron objects, shell bangle pieces, coins, stucco figures, Brahmi label inscriptions, and a holy relic casket. These items, meticulously dated from the first century BCE to the fourth century CE, offer a vivid glimpse into the vibrant cultural and religious life that thrived at Phanigiri during ancient times. This remarkable site serves as a testament to the rich heritage of Buddhism in the region, showcasing its flourishing art, architecture, and spiritual practices along the ancient trade routes of the Deccan.