Patna, The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is set to initiate excavation work at Quila Maidan in Rajgir, Bihar, starting December 15. The endeavor aims to unearth human settlements and structures from the era of ancient Magadh rulers Bimbisar and Ajatshatru. Ground-penetrating radar has already confirmed the presence of ancient structures at the site. This excavation seeks to reveal the lifestyle, art, and architecture of the region in ancient times.
Earlier excavations in 1950 and 1960-1962 focused on the fortification wall, revealing the existence of the Magadh empire prior to the Christ era. However, the fort and the fort city within the fortification wall have not been excavated before. The upcoming excavation is expected to provide insights into the historical development of the area.
Sujit Nayan, the head of the ASI excavation branch in Patna Circle, mentioned that the site was being cleared and cleaned for the upcoming work. Local use of the site as a dumping ground has been halted. Nearly two dozen archaeologists will be involved in the excavation, with the anticipated start date being December 15.
