Kailashahar, Jan 21: The discovery of an ancient stone idol beneath the soil in Bhuiyapara, under the Deoracherra ADC Village of Gournagar Block, has become a centre of attraction in the local area. The idol was uncovered by laborers during work on Tuesday, leading to an influx of curious villagers.

The news of the idol’s discovery spread rapidly on social media, drawing large crowds to the site. Villagers began offering prayers with incense sticks and candles, speculating that the idol could represent Brahma, Ganesh, or Shiva. Experts suggest the statue is several centuries old.

Following the discovery, local authorities, including Kailashahar Sub-Divisional Magistrate Pradip Sarkar, Unakoti Archaeological Survey of India Conservator Assistant Abhishek Kumar, Gournagar Block BDO Pranay Das, and Deoracherra ADC head Umesh Nama, inspected the site.

SDM Pradip Sarkar stated that the idol appears to be made of stone and could hold historical significance. The ASI is coordinating with higher authorities to determine the idol’s authenticity and origin. For now, it remains under secure observation.

Interestingly, the Bhuiyapara area lies just three kilometers from the Unakoti tourism site and 1.5 kilometers from Shivbari village, home to Asia’s largest stone Shivalinga. Officials speculate the newly unearthed idol may share historical ties with these landmarks.

Subsequently, the idol was moved to the Unakoti District Magistrate’s office by BDO Pranay Das, where it has continued to draw large crowds eager to witness the relic first-hand.