Archaeological excavation in Lakkundi gathers pace; global heritage body keen on collaboration

Gadag, : Restoration and excavation activities at the historic town of Lakkundi have gained significant momentum, with work entering its 15th consecutive day on Monday. Deputy commissioner C.N. Sridhar personally visited the site to review progress and instructed local authorities to initiate relocation of houses situated close to the ancient Kumbareshwara Temple to facilitate uninterrupted conservation work.

The recent unearthing of valuable antiquities and structural remains has brought renewed focus on Lakkundi, which is renowned for its centuries-old temples and stepwells. Amid the ongoing operations, the internationally reputed Deccan Heritage Foundation has shown strong interest in taking part in the overall development and preservation of the heritage complex.

A team of experts from the Deccan Heritage Foundation, including Dr. Helen, Dr. Stephen and Dr. Alexander from Italy and Greece, toured Lakkundi and examined several monuments and the open-air archaeological display area. The delegation interacted with officials and expressed willingness to extend technical assistance for scientific conservation and tourism promotion.

Archaeological artefacts discovered during earlier excavations have been carefully preserved in an open museum set up on nearly three acres of land. The Karnataka government has proposed to upgrade this facility with an estimated investment of Rs 2.25 lakh. The visiting NGO team has agreed to help prepare a detailed project blueprint and assist in designing informative guide material about Lakkundi’s history in both Kannada and English languages.

Senior officers from the Archaeology Department, along with district administration officials, inspected a series of ancient structures that require immediate restoration. Authorities are planning to undertake renovation of at least five temples and five historic wells at an estimated cost of around Rs 10 crore once the current excavation phase is completed. Key monuments under consideration include Chabbera Well, Choukimath, Fakir Swamy Math Well, Naganatha Temple, Malibavi Ishwara Temple and Vidyashankara Linga Temple.

In connection with the development works, relocation of families residing near the Kumbareshwara Temple has been identified as a priority. As many as 26 households have already been allotted alternative residential plots. Local residents have assured cooperation on the condition that fair compensation and proper facilities are provided. The Deputy Commissioner directed the Tahsildar to conduct further meetings with the affected families and ensure a hassle-free shifting process.

Addressing reporters, DC C.N. Sridhar said, “The government has earmarked Rs 10 crore in the current financial year exclusively for the improvement of Lakkundi heritage sites. We are inspecting various temples and wells to prepare a comprehensive restoration plan. Many monuments here have different local names today, while inscriptions reveal their original historical identities.”

Regarding relocation issues, he clarified that people would be shifted only after due compensation and mutual understanding. “We will not displace anyone without proper arrangements. Houses around the Kumbareshwara Temple will be vacated in stages, and the final timeline will depend on administrative procedures,” he stated.

With continuous excavation efforts and international cooperation on the horizon, officials believe Lakkundi is set to emerge as a major heritage tourism destination in the coming years.