In the Dwapar Yug, marking the end of the Third Age following the Satya Yug and Treta Yug, as depicted in the Puranas, a significant event unfolded. It was the midnight of Ashtami Tithi in Bhadrapad, aligning with August in the Gregorian calendar. After enduring six of the darkest nights over seven years, where all his six siblings perished shortly after birth, another ominous night approached. The air in Mathura was heavy with mourning as howling winds accompanied a stormy, rain-soaked night. Nature itself seemed to signal the arrival of the prophesied eighth child—a divine being destined to walk the earth as a mortal, to eradicate the rising evil.

This child was none other than Krishna.

In a miraculous twist, the seventh fetus had been transferred to his stepmother's womb at three months. Born as the elder brother of Krishna, this incarnation of Sheshnag, the serpent king, heralded the beginning of a remarkable legacy. Over the next fourteen years, Krishna’s life was filled with adventures and remarkable transformations. Who were his companions during his playful childhood? What games did he engage in? When did he first enchant the world with his flute? Who guided him in his formative years, shaping him into the hero we celebrate?

At the tender age of fourteen, he was already commanding an army on the battlefield, demonstrating his tactical brilliance and courage. Among the significant figures in his life was Radha, a mysterious and enchanting figure whose personal connections stirred the hearts of many. Who was she married to, and what was the essence of their bond? 

Krishna’s story intertwines with that of Dwarka—a magnificent city that he built, reflecting his profound influence and divine presence. In exploring the rich and intricate tapestry of Krishna’s early life, we delve into the friendships, lessons, and defining moments that molded him into an iconic figure destined to lead and protect. Join us on this journey to rediscover the divine legacy of Krishna in the vibrant milieu of Dwarka, a city that stands as a testament to his greatness.

Dwaraka - The Submerged City of Bhagawan Krishna

The discovery of the legendary city of Dwaraka, believed to have been founded by Sri Krishna, marks a significant milestone in affirming the historical relevance of the Mahabharata. This finding has laid to rest lingering doubts among historians regarding the authenticity of the Mahabharata and the very existence of Dwaraka itself. By establishing a continuous thread of Indian civilization from the Vedic era to the present, this discovery significantly narrows the gaps in Indian history. 

In addition to the historical insights, scientific data has been obtained regarding sea level changes and the impacts of marine environments on metals and wood over extended periods, thanks to underwater explorations. These remarkable achievements are the result of the dedicated and courageous efforts of 25 marine archaeologists, scientists, and technicians from the Marine Archaeology Centre of the National Institute of Oceanography. Their work not only contributes to our understanding of the past but also enhances our appreciation of India's rich cultural heritage.

The Exploration of Dwaraka: Unraveling the Mysteries of an Ancient City

Dwaraka, a coastal town located in the Jamnagar district of Gujarat, is traditionally associated with the legendary city of Dvaraka mentioned in the Mahabharata, believed to be the abode of Lord Krishna. Recognized as a significant port city in ancient times, some scholars connect it to the island of Barka noted in the Periplus of the Erythraean Sea. The historical narrative surrounding Dwaraka includes accounts of its submergence in the Arabian Sea, making it a critical archaeological site. The city first appears in a historical record dating back to 574 A.D., as documented in the Palitana Plates of Samanta Simhaditya, which refer to Dwaraka as the capital of Saurashtra on the western coast, asserting that Lord Krishna resided there.

The quest to uncover the secrets of this submerged metropolis began in earnest with initial archaeological excavations led by the Deccan College in Pune, in collaboration with the Government of Gujarat's Department of Archaeology, in 1963. Under the guidance of Dr. H.D. Sankalia, these excavations yielded ancient artifacts, providing valuable insights into the city’s past. However, it was the Marine Archaeological Unit (MAU) of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), under Dr. S.R. Rao, that conducted a significant round of underwater excavations in 1979. An esteemed archaeologist renowned for his work on Harappan sites, including the port city of Lothal, Dr. Rao discovered a distinctive pottery type known as lustrous red ware, dating back over 3,000 years.

This pivotal find triggered an extensive search for the sunken city of Dwaraka, beginning in 1981 and continuing for the next two decades. The underwater exploration project was officially sanctioned in 1984 by the then Prime Minister and was set to last three years. Underwater excavation presents numerous challenges, as the sea offers considerable resistance, and operations could only be conducted between November and February when conditions were favorable. Factors such as low tide, calm waters, and ample sunlight limited diving opportunities to just 40 to 45 days per season.

To maximize the effectiveness of their time underwater, divers employed advanced technology such as echo sounders, which allowed them to accurately locate and gauge the depth of submerged objects. Side-scan sonar provided visual data of the seafloor, with sonar signals revealing the broad characteristics of objects hidden beneath the waves. In addition to standard scuba diving gear, the teams also utilized underwater scooters to enhance their exploration efforts. 
From 1983 to 1990, Dr. Rao’s team made significant strides in their discoveries, which affirmed the existence of a submerged city in the region. However, the project faced continuous challenges due to the complexities of underwater archaeology and the need for meticulous recovery and analysis of artifacts.

In January 2007, the ASI’s Underwater Archaeology Wing (UAW) resumed excavations at Dwaraka. Alok Tripathi, the Superintending Archaeologist at UAW, indicated that ancient underwater structures found in the Arabian Sea had yet to be fully identified. "We need to ascertain what these structures are," Tripathi noted, emphasizing the fragmented nature of the findings and refraining from asserting that they were definitive walls or temples, explaining that they represent parts of some larger structure.

To understand the historical significance of the site comprehensively, both land and underwater excavations were conducted simultaneously, particularly near the Dwarakadhish temple. This coordinated approach allowed researchers to correlate and scientifically analyze the artifacts recovered from both environments, providing a more holistic view of Dwaraka's rich and complex past.

This ongoing exploration of Dwaraka is not merely a search for remnants of an ancient city; it reflects a broader endeavor to connect contemporary cultural identity with historical roots, rekindling a sense of pride and continuity in India’s ancient civilization. The revelations from these excavations have the potential to reshape our understanding of the region's historical narratives, highlighting the interconnectedness of trade, culture, and spirituality that characterized life in ancient Dwaraka. As scholars and archaeologists continue to delve into this submerged world, they remain committed to unraveling the mysteries of a civilization that has long been entwined with myth, history, and the enduring legacy of Lord Krishna.

Through this exploration, the story of Dwaraka emerges not just as a relic of the past but as a vibrant testament to the rich tapestry of India’s cultural heritage, urging us to reflect on the lessons of history while looking forward to the future.

The excavation aimed to determine the antiquity of the site through material evidence. The Archaeological Survey of India's (ASI) trained underwater archaeologists collaborated with Navy divers to explore sunken structural remains offshore. These findings were meticulously studied, dated, and documented to gain insights into the site's historical significance. On land, excavations took place in the forecourt of the Dwarakadhish temple, with students from cities like Gwalior, Lucknow, Pune, Vadodara, Varanasi, and Bikaner assisting ASI archaeologists. This collaborative effort highlights the multidisciplinary approach needed for such archaeological investigations, combining expertise in underwater exploration with traditional excavation techniques.

Discovery in the Gulf of Khambat (Gulf of Cambay)

In 2001, a remarkable discovery took place in the Gulf of Khambat (previously known as the Gulf of Cambay) during a survey commissioned by the Indian Government. The survey, initially focused on assessing pollution levels, was conducted by students from the National Institute of Oceanography. Their attention quickly shifted, however, upon uncovering a vast expanse of submerged structures. Spanning five square miles, these buildings made of stones lay hidden beneath layers of mud and sand.

The exploration team, assisted by divers, retrieved various intriguing artifacts including stone blocks, copper coins, and other samples, all hinting at a civilization long lost to time. Initial analysis suggested these relics were around 3,600 years old, a significant find in itself. However, further carbon dating conducted by institutions in Manipur and Oxford University unveiled even more astonishing results. Some artifacts dated back as far as 9,000 years, suggesting the presence of an ancient civilization around 7500 BC.

This discovery challenges our understanding of early human civilization, potentially predating the previously known oldest sites. The revelation that these submerged ruins might belong to a civilization thriving thousands of years ago sparks intrigue and invites further exploration into humanity's distant past.

Discoveries at the Dwaraka Site

Marine archaeological explorations off the coast of Dwarka have unveiled an array of fascinating structures and artifacts, sparking renewed interest in the ancient city famously associated with the legend of Lord Krishna. Among the underwater findings, a variety of stone structures have been identified, ranging from semicircular to rectangular and square shapes. These remain scattered across a vast area, extending from the intertidal zone to depths of around 6 meters.

Alongside these structures, a variety of stone anchors have been discovered, some situated deeper than 6 meters. These findings suggest that Dwarka was once a bustling port center on India's western coast. Comparative analysis with nearby sites indicates the structures date from the historical to late medieval periods, lending credence to the belief that they may be remnants of the legendary city of Dwarka, as described in ancient Hindu texts as the residence of Krishna.

The meticulous process of documenting these underwater treasures involves both photography and detailed drawings. Utilizing underwater cameras and transparent polyester film fixed with a graph sheet, divers carefully measure and record the dimensions, creating accurate representations of structures and antiquities. Regular dredging by the Public Works Department helps maintain the area's accessibility, though it requires archaeologists to carefully brush away sediments to uncover what lies beneath.

Notable discoveries include bastions, walls, pillars, and variously shaped stone anchors, as well as a semi-spherical stone thought to have served as a flag post base. Ingenious features like L-shaped stone edges suggest techniques to combat wave erosion. Objects such as seals and inscriptions date back to 1500 BC, and pottery has been dated as far back as 3528 BC. Additionally, stone sculptures, terracotta beads, and metal objects crafted from bronze, copper, and iron enrich the story of this ancient site.
 

The existence of Dwarka was once confined to the realm of legend, yet these underwater discoveries offer compelling evidence suggesting it was indeed a thriving city. Could this mean that the tales of Lord Krishna and his exploits were rooted in historical fact? As researchers continue to study these findings, the line between myth and history intriguingly blurs, inviting us to reconsider the stories passed down through generations.

The explorations in the Gulf of Khambat, also known as the Gulf of Cambay, have uncovered compelling evidence of an ancient civilization that challenges existing perceptions of Indian history. Beneath 70 feet of water, archaeologists discovered sandstone walls, a grid of streets, and indications of a historical sea port, with artifacts dating as far back as 7500 BC. Among these fascinating finds were a piece of wood, pottery sherds, weathered stones potentially used as tools, fossilized bones, and a tooth. These items were analyzed by several esteemed institutions, including the National Geophysical Research Institute in Hyderabad, the Birbal Sahni Institute of Paleobotany in Lucknow, and the Physical Research Laboratory in Ahmedabad. Remarkably, the piece of wood was carbon-dated to be 9,500 years old.

The National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT) returned for further exploration between October 2002 and January 2003, examining two paleochannels bordered by rectangular and square structures resembling basements. Through dredging, they recovered more artifacts, including pottery sherds, microliths, remnants of wattle and daub, and hearth materials. Subsequent dating conducted at laboratories in Manipur University and Oxford University confirmed these artifacts to be 9,000 years old.

These discoveries present a significant reevaluation of the timeline for ancient Indian civilization. While mainstream scientists traditionally dated Indian culture and civilization back 4,000 to 5,000 years, the submerged ruins in the Gulf of Khambat suggest a much older origin, extending as far back as 9,000 years. This breakthrough pushes the boundaries of historical understanding and reveals the deep-rooted antiquity of civilization in the Indian subcontinent.

The discovery of the ancient city of Dwarka beneath the waves has lent remarkable credibility to the legends found in the Mahabharata, stirring intrigue and wonder among historians and archeologists alike. For years, the existence of Krishna's Dwarka was relegated to myth and folklore, imagined as a city of opulence, with descriptions of its grandeur deeply embedded in Indian cultural consciousness. Now, thanks to dedicated marine archaeological efforts, many of these ancient tales are being brought to life.

Dwarka's Sunken Secrets Align with Mahabharata's Legendary City

A few years back, Dr. S.R. Rao captured imaginations when, asked about the discovery of Krishna's legendary Dwarka, he quipped, "only the name board is missing." In January 2000, Dr. Rao put forward an ambitious proposal to the Ministry of Culture, aiming to protect Dwarka's submerged cultural treasures and develop the site into a vibrant pilgrimage-tourism destination. Despite an estimated budget of Rs 14 crores and initial support from the Ministry, the proposal has, regrettably, remained unrealized.

Rao's proposal detailed remarkable findings from Bet Dwarka Island, where researchers uncovered fort walls of an ancient settlement both on land and submerged, dated to the 16th century BC through thermoluminescence dating. The journey to unravel Dwarka's mysteries began with archaeological excavations near the Dwarkadhish Temple in 1979-80, revealing eroded debris and pottery suggestive of a port town engulfed by the sea around 3,500 years ago. These compelling discoveries ignited further explorations in the Arabian Sea, especially near the Gomati River's mouth, where modern Dwarka now stands.

Indian mythology paints a vivid picture of the ancient city of Dwarka, describing it as a magnificent metropolis with 900,000 royal palaces made of crystal and silver, adorned with emeralds. These tales speak of a city interwoven with a complex network of boulevards, roads, marketplaces, assembly houses, and temples. Such legends have become an integral part of India's cultural heritage, their authenticity entrenched in the collective consciousness.

Thanks to the diligent efforts of India’s marine archaeological department, what was once relegated to the realm of myth is steadily gaining historical substance. Recent marine explorations have uncovered an array of fascinating structures submerged beneath the sea, including sandstone walls, an intricate grid of streets, and remnants of an ancient seaport, lying under 70 feet of water. These discoveries not only support the existence of a city dating back 9,000 years but also suggest it was a vital and bustling port throughout historical and medieval eras. These revelations offer a tantalizing glimpse into a bygone era, where childhood stories converge with archaeological reality.

The comprehensive exploration and excavation of the sunken city of Dwaraka commenced in 1988 with several key objectives aimed at uncovering the mysteries of this legendary site:

1. Mapping the Port City's Extent: The explorations reached as far as the Temple of Samudranarayan, dedicated to the Sea God. This effort aimed to delineate the scope of the ancient port city while investigating the purpose of the formidable stone walls that stood along the banks of the ancient Gomati River.
2. Architectural Conformity with the Mahabharata: Another critical goal was to assess whether the architectural features of Dwaraka aligned with the descriptions provided in the Mahabharata. This alignment would validate historical assertions about the city's design and significance.
3. Corroborative Evidence for Reclamation: Researchers sought to gather additional evidence related to the reclamation processes mentioned in the epic, thus enhancing our understanding of the city's historical context and its interactions with changing landscapes.
4. Identifying the River's Connection to the Sea: Determining the precise location where the Gomati River met the sea was essential for grasping the port's geographical significance and its role in maritime trade.
5. Investigating the Causes of Submergence: Lastly, a pivotal aim was to uncover the reasons behind the city’s submergence, providing insight into its eventual demise and the environmental factors at play.

Through these focused inquiries, the excavation efforts not only aimed to reconstruct the past of Dwaraka but also to create a deeper connection to India's rich cultural and historical heritage, fostering pride and curiosity among contemporary audiences. Each discovery has the potential to illuminate the legendary maritime civilization that once thrived on these shores, capturing the imagination of future generations.

The ancient city of Dwarka is believed to have been constructed across six distinct blocks—two situated on the right bank and four on the left. Each of these sectors was fortified with protective walls made from meticulously dressed sandstone, and the findings of ongoing excavations largely align with the descriptions of Dwarka found in the Mahabharata.

For example, the enclosures discovered might correspond to the Antahpurs (or harems) mentioned in the texts, suggesting a strong reflection of the city’s historical and cultural practices. Additionally, the significant number of stone anchors unearthed indicates a thriving overseas trade network. While larger ships were moored further out to sea, smaller vessels were likely anchored closer to the warehouses along the Gomati River, a portion of which has since submerged.

The layout of the excavated ruins, alongside the distribution and positioning of fort walls and bastions, resonates with descriptions found in the Harivamsha, a supplementary text to the Mahabharata that details Dwarka extensively. According to the Harivamsha, Dwarka covered an area of 12 yojanas and was connected to the mainland by a narrow strip that remains visible during low tide today. These geographical features demonstrate that the city discovered through excavations matches the size and structure described in ancient texts, providing a tangible link to India's rich cultural heritage and reaffirming Dwarka's legendary status as the fabled home of Lord Krishna.

The Harivamsha offers intricate details about the security measures of ancient Dwarka, highlighting that entry into the city required specific seals. Notably, similar seals have been discovered on the seabed, along with a stone image of Vishnu, chert blades, and various pottery items among the recovered artifacts. Additionally, coins uncovered during underwater excavations bear inscriptions that align closely with descriptions found in the Mahabharata.

Delving deeper into the architectural plan of the original Dwarka, Dr. S.R. Rao proposes that the city was fortified by two significant walls—one on the lower terrace and another on the middle terrace. The outer walls, extending approximately four kilometers along the eastern shore, have suffered considerable damage from marine erosion. The lower terrace walls are constructed from massive, dressed sandstone blocks, while the upper terrace features more rudimentary rubble walls. Unfortunately, many structures, including houses and public buildings built from smaller stones within the enclosures, have been destroyed and leveled by rising sea levels. These remnants now lie 7 to 10 meters beneath the current mean sea level, indicating a rise of about 10 meters over the past 3,600 years.

The reclamation of land from previously waterlogged areas, as referenced in the Mahabharata, is corroborated by the boulder foundations that supported the walls and bastions of the city. Marine archaeology has substantiated the existence of Dwarka and its submergence during the second millennium B.C., as mentioned in significant Sanskrit texts such as the Mahabharata, Harivamsa, Matsya, and Vayu Purana. 

Accepting these archaeological discoveries as evidence of the legendary city of Dwarka carries profound implications for our understanding of the Mahabharata. If Dwarka is indeed proven to be a historical reality, the narrative transforms from a mere collection of myths and legends into a more authentic account of past events. This shift not only enriches the cultural and historical tapestry of India but also invites us to reconsider the connections between mythology and history, potentially illuminating our understanding of ancient civilizations and their legacies.

Inference:

 The correlation between the archaeological findings at the excavated site near Bet Dwarka and the descriptions of Dwarka in the *Harivamsha Purana* presents a compelling case for identifying this location as the legendary city of Dwarka. Notably, carbon dating of the artifacts has consistently pointed to a timeline around 3500 BC, which aligns with astronomical analyses that date the Mahabharata war and Dwarka's submersion to this same period.

Furthermore, the discoveries made during the second round of explorations in the Gulf of Khambat reveal that it was not only Dwarka that succumbed to the encroaching sea; other coastal regions have also faced significant submersion over the centuries. With some artifacts dating back to 7500 BC, it suggests that ancient Indian civilization stretches back more than 9,000 years, with coastal areas gradually being submerged since that time, culminating in the eventual submersion of Dwarka around 3500 BC.

Before this groundbreaking discovery, there were skeptics who argued that the Hindu epic Mahabharata was purely mythical, asserting that searching for the remnants of an ancient city in the sea was a futile endeavor. Some scholars even posited that the battles described in the epic were merely exaggerated family disputes. However, the excavations led by Dr. S.R. Rao challenge this notion, affirming that the descriptions found in these ancient texts should not be dismissed as fanciful tales but should be taken seriously and approached with logic and reasoning.

Ultimately, the evidence gathered from these excavations supports the narrative of the Mahabharata, confirming the existence of the magnificent capital city of Dwarka, which was once home to Lord Krishna. This discovery not only enriches our understanding of India's historical landscape but also reaffirms the cultural significance of the Mahabharata, transforming it into a document of both mythology and history.

The Enigma of Dwarka: Unveiling the Truth Behind Its Submergence

The fate of Dwarka, the legendary city associated with Lord Krishna, is deeply rooted in scientific reality. Research has established that the rising sea levels significantly and suddenly submerged this ancient metropolis. The Harivamsha vividly recounts this event, detailing how Krishna instructed Arjuna—who was visiting Dwarka at the time—to evacuate the city's inhabitants as an impending deluge loomed. The text narrates, “On the seventh day, just as the last of the citizens were leaving, the sea surged into the streets of Dwarka.”

Experts propose three potential causes for the inundation of the city: a shift in the seabed's elevation, a massive earthquake, or a rapid rise in sea levels. Among these scenarios, the latter is considered the most plausible explanation. A seabed shift would likely leave visible evidence of eroded coastlines, which has not been observed. Additionally, the earthquake hypothesis can be dismissed, as the archaeological remains indicate that the structures did not collapse under seismic activity.

The most credible explanation points toward a significant rise in sea levels. Historical parallels can be drawn from similar phenomena that occurred along the shores of Bahrain during the same period, supported by recent archaeological findings indicating extensive trade and cultural exchanges between the western coast of India and present-day Bahrain.

These investigations into the submergence of Dwarka not only enrich our understanding of its history but also underscore the interconnectedness of ancient civilizations, prompting us to consider how environmental changes impacted human settlements. The story of Dwarka serves as a poignant reminder of the vulnerability of human achievements in the face of nature’s relentless forces.

The Enigmatic Legacy of Dwarka: Insights from Recent Discoveries

The exploration conducted by the National Institute of Ocean Technology at the Gulf of Cambay has yielded fascinating revelations regarding ancient civilizations, with carbon-14 dating of underwater wood samples indicating origins between 7,500 and 9,000 years ago. However, these findings may not have a direct correlation with the legendary Dwarka associated with Lord Krishna, which, according to Shri Rao, is believed to have existed around 4,000 years ago. 

Nonetheless, the data gathered from these excavations is invaluable for understanding historical sea-level changes, revealing an approximate rise of 30 meters over the last 7,500 years—an average increase of about 10 meters every 3,500 to 3,800 years. 

Dr. Rao has emphasized that while the majority of the Dwarka excavations have been completed, further archaeological work in the intertidal zone of Balapur Bay in Bet Dwarka, where additional artifacts may lie, has been largely neglected. This lack of exploration is primarily attributed to insufficient funding and a noticeable disinterest from the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR).

As it stands, Dwarka remains one of the most extensively researched underwater sites in India. The continuing efforts to uncover its mysteries not only deepen our understanding of ancient history but also underscore the need for renewed focus and investment in archaeological research that has the potential to reshape our knowledge of India’s cultural heritage.

A Vision for the Preservation of Dwarka’s Heritage

The proposal for heritage conservation at Dwarka envisions a comprehensive three-stage approach that incorporates further excavations in Bet Dwarka. One notable suggestion is to enhance public access to the submerged city by installing underwater acrylic tubes or viewing chambers at specific locations during favorable seasons, similar to facilities found in places like Singapore and Auckland, New Zealand. Alternatively, the use of underwater video cameras could project images onto monitors above water, offering visitors a glimpse into this historical treasure.

Additionally, the idea of establishing a submarine museum showcasing dolphins is noteworthy, given their abundant presence in the deeper waters off Dwarka. There is also compelling justification for creating a Maritime Museum of Antiquities, presenting artifacts unearthed from excavations at Dwarka, Bet Dwarka, Somnath, and Nageswar, along with dioramas illustrating the ancient port of Lothal and the city of Dwarka. Currently, these valuable antiquities are stored at the National Institute of Oceanography (NIO) in Goa.

This scenario sheds light on a pervasive issue within India’s system, which contributes to a lack of enthusiasm regarding the project. Similar discoveries in other countries would have likely received prompt support and encouragement. The excavations led by Dr. S.R. Rao at Dwarka, under the auspices of the NIO, have yet to secure necessary funding and extensions, particularly considering Dr. Rao’s age of 72.

Unlike land excavations, which require considerable human labor, underwater explorations necessitate considerable government support, including multiple permits, specialized machinery, and trained divers adept at locating significant artifacts.

To Indians, Dwarka is not merely an archaeological site; it represents a vital piece of their cultural heritage. Many individuals view the Mahabharata as a historical account rather than mere mythology. The excavations at Dwarka symbolize national pride and a shared honor for all who hail from this land of Bharata. Therefore, we must advocate for action on the Dwarka project, ensuring that this integral part of our heritage is preserved and celebrated for generations to come.
 

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