The Sambhal authorities on Thursday dug up another ancient well in the Uttar Pradesh region, 200 meters from the controversial Shahi Jama Masjid, adding another mystery to the region's history.
This is after a stepwell and a tunnel were discovered in an excavation done in the nearby Chandausi area.
The newly discovered well, located near the Sarathal outpost in Sambhal Sadar, was found within a Hindu settlement. The municipal team is currently removing soil from the site to facilitate further excavation.
Locals have identified the well as "Mrityu Koop," a structure they claim is mentioned in ancient scriptures and is one of 19 wells created by Lord Brahma.
"Till about 20 years ago, this well had water, and people used to bathe here before going to the nearby Mrityunjay Mahadev temple for prayers," said a local resident.
Another local resident attributed the revival of the site to the government led by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, expressing gratitude for the administration's commitment to preserving cultural and historical heritage.
"Earlier, we used to come here, and people used to fetch water from the well. We have seen this ourselves. However, due to certain circumstances and indifference, people stopped using it. But now, with the efforts of the administration and the Yogi government, which is working on the revival of our heritage, we express our sincere gratitude," he said.
Residents have also said that in the Puranas, mention of the well is referred to, and many locals remember that it was a prime feature of rituals at a nearby Harihar temple.
This discovery comes after archeologists unearthed what they believe are the remnants of an ancient Banke Bihari temple found in the same locality.
Historians and elderly of the locality believe that archeological excavations these days are unearthing relics of a bygone era, thus underlining that the locality is historically and culturally significant.
Excavation and beautification efforts are expected to continue with plans to restore and preserve the site.
The residents and historians alike have shown eagerness for these discoveries as they are seen as a crucial step in reviving Sambhal's rich heritage.
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