Dwarka, 12,000 Year Old City of Lord Krishna in Gujarat
Dwarka is a city located in the western Indian state of Gujarat. It holds great significance in Hindu mythology and is associated with the legendary kingdom of Lord Krishna, a major deity in Hinduism.
According to Hindu scriptures, Dwarka was the capital city of Lord Krishna's kingdom, known as Dwarka Kingdom or Dwaravati. It is believed to have been established by Lord Krishna himself after he moved there from Mathura to escape the constant threats and attacks from his enemies. Dwarka became a prosperous and magnificent city under Krishna's rule.
The story of Dwarka is intricately woven with the life and adventures of Lord Krishna. It is said that Krishna's arrival in Dwarka was marked by the submergence of a previous city called Kusasthali, which was submerged by the sea due to a curse. Krishna then established Dwarka on the same site, and it became his abode.
The story of Dwarka reaches its climax with the great Kurukshetra War, described in the Hindu epic, the Mahabharata. Lord Krishna, who was an advisor and charioteer to the Pandava prince Arjuna, played a pivotal role in the war. After the war ended, Krishna retired to Dwarka.
However, according to Hindu scriptures, Dwarka eventually faced its own downfall. After Krishna's departure from the mortal world, a great flood engulfed Dwarka, and the city was submerged beneath the sea. It is believed that only a small part of the original city remains visible today as the present-day Dwarka.
Dwarka continues to be an important pilgrimage site for Hindus and attracts millions of devotees each year who come to seek blessings and immerse themselves in the divine history associated with Lord Krishna and the ancient city.
Dwarka: Archaeological Interpretations
Archaeological interpretations of Dwarka, based on excavations and research conducted over the years, have shed light on the historical significance of the ancient city. Here are some key findings and interpretations:
Submerged Structures: The underwater archaeological explorations off the coast of Dwarka have revealed a series of stone structures. These structures include massive walls, fortifications, and remnants of a jetty, suggesting the presence of a well-planned and organized city. The submerged structures are believed to be part of the ancient Dwarka described in Hindu texts.
Carbon Dating: Carbon dating of organic material, such as wood and pottery fragments found in the underwater excavations, has provided a timeline for the existence of Dwarka. The results suggest that the city could have existed around 1500 BCE, although there is ongoing debate and research to establish a more accurate date.
Architectural Features: The architectural features of the submerged structures bear resemblance to the descriptions of Dwarka in ancient texts. The city is described as having well-constructed palaces, gardens, and temples. The underwater structures exhibit evidence of sophisticated architecture, with stone blocks fitted together using precision engineering techniques.
Cultural Artefacts: Various cultural artifacts have been recovered from the underwater excavations, including pottery, coins, seals, and sculptures. These artifacts provide insights into the material culture and trade connections of Dwarka during its existence.
Geomorphological Studies: Geomorphological studies have been conducted to understand the geological changes that led to the submergence of Dwarka. These studies suggest that the region experienced significant seismic activity and changes in sea levels over the centuries, contributing to the submergence of the city.
Historical Context: The archaeological findings and interpretations of Dwarka align with the historical context of the region. Dwarka's location on the western coast of India made it an important maritime center, engaged in trade and cultural exchanges with other ancient civilizations.