Aarey Milk Colony has again gained attention as a possible historic site following another significant discovery. Local nature enthusiast Juber Ansari recently unearthed a semi-round stone structure adorned with intricate designs, which experts suggest may be a temple architectural fragment featuring a Ratna motif and possibly serving as a pedestal.
In 2022, Ansari had discovered ancient idols like an ancient idol of Chamunda mata, an incarnation of Maa Durga in Unit No. 20 of Aarey Milk Colony. His latest find occurred in January while clearing an overgrown section near a cattle farm. He described the moment, stating, “On January 14, cleaning work was being carried out near a cattle farm as the drainage line was jammed. While clearing the drainage line at the end of the tabela, I found something-a semi-round white stone object-which was covered in cow dung. I realised it might have archaeological significance, so I cleaned it with water and discovered a beautiful design on it. I took pictures and, after discussing them with some archaeologists I know, confirmed its significance,” he said.
Juber Ansari with the discovered pedestal | Mid-Day
“I have since sent an email to the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) with pictures and details. I believe the authorities concerned should investigate this matter because several such discoveries have already been made in this locality. A proper excavation at the site is the need of the hour,” he added.
What does this artefact represent?
Archaeologist Sandeep Dahisarkar, upon analysing photographs of the artifact, suggested that the marble fragment could be linked to a Jaina shrine from the Shilahara-Yadava period. Elaborating his insights to the Mid-Day he said, “This appears to be a temple architectural fragment with a Ratna motif, likely a kind of pedestal. The marble fragment suggests it was part of a Jaina shrine from the Shilahara-Yadava period. My archaeological study, as published in my recent book Shri Bimbakhyana (2024), also mentions another marble fragment—a sculpture with a snake—from Malad, which is part of a Prabhavali or halo of Jaina Tirthankara Parshvanath. These temple fragments suggest they were likely destroyed by foreign invaders. In the case of Mumbai, this region was ruled by the Gujarat Sultanate and the Portuguese. Suburban Mumbai needs a dedicated archaeological museum to house such scattered and broken temple fragments, ensuring their protection and the preservation of Mumbai’s rich history.”
Who were the Yadavas?
The Yadavas, also known as the Seunas, were a medieval dynasty that ruled between the ninth and early 14th centuries. At their height, their dominion spanned present-day Maharashtra, North Karnataka, and portions of Madhya Pradesh. With Devagiri (modern-day Daulatabad) as their capital, they significantly influenced the region’s cultural and architectural heritage. Renowned for their temple patronage and contributions to Marathi literature, their rule ultimately ended when Alauddin Khilji’s forces captured their capital in the early 14th century.
Given the increasing number of archaeological discoveries in Aarey Milk Colony, historians and local advocates continue to urge authorities to undertake a thorough excavation to safeguard and document the region’s historical artifacts.
