Dwarka, the ancient coastal city in Gujarat steeped in the legends of Lord Krishna, is poised for extensive archaeological explorations, both on land and underwater, according to the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). These renewed efforts aim to uncover previously unexamined areas, utilizing modern technology to deepen the understanding of the region's historical and cultural heritage.
Dwarka holds immense significance in Hindu culture, revered as the kingdom of Lord Krishna and described in ancient scriptures as a grand, fortified city that eventually submerged into the Arabian Sea. For centuries, Dwarka's existence was considered a matter of faith and mythology. However, archaeological discoveries of underwater structures, stone anchors, and artifacts have fueled the debate about its historicity.
The ASI's Underwater Archaeology Wing (UAW) will spearhead the upcoming explorations, covering new areas at Beyt Dwarka and previously unexplored underwater zones. Professor Alok Tripathi, Additional Director General of the ASI, emphasized that the excavations would be more detailed and would explore areas that have not been studied extensively. The focus includes examining the other side of the Gomti river's mouth. Modern tools and technologies will be deployed to facilitate larger and deeper excavations in the Arabian Sea.
Past underwater archaeological excavations at Dwarka were conducted between 2005 and 2007, with limited exploratory studies in 2025. These investigations revealed significant archaeological remains, including ancient sculptures and stone anchors. The ASI's website notes the discovery of terracotta objects, beads, fragmented bangles, copper rings, iron ingots, and pottery during earlier explorations. Between 1983 and 1990, the Marine Archaeology Unit of India's National Institute of Oceanography (NIO) also carried out underwater excavations at Dwarka and Bet Dwarka.
On land, the focus will be on relatively undisturbed areas of Beyt Dwarka. Earlier excavations were largely concentrated near the cliff area, but the new explorations will venture deeper into the forest area, where signs of a significant settlement have been observed.
The investigations also aim to ascertain the antiquity of recovered objects through scientific analysis of sediments, archaeological, and marine deposits. Excavations near the Dwarkadhish Temple in 2007 uncovered a deposit of about 10 meters having 26 layers with antiquities including iron objects, beads, copper objects and rings. Pottery recovered during the excavation were also examined.
Dwarka, meaning "door" or "gate" in Sanskrit, may have been a significant port for trade between India and Arabic regions between the 15th and 18th centuries. The city's submerged remains and numerous stone anchors suggest its importance in ancient trading relations.
The renewed exploration of Dwarka seeks to bridge the gap between legend and historical reality. By employing advanced technology and systematic investigation, the ASI aims to uncover new insights into the submerged city's settlement planning, economic activities, arts, crafts, and the way of life of its inhabitants.
