KAPILVASTU, Nepal – May 20, 2025:
A stone Shivalinga, believed to date back to the medieval period, has been unearthed in Niglihawa village, Ward No. 9 of Kapilvastu Municipality. The significant archaeological find was made while workers were dumping soil excavated from an old pond into a nearby field.
According to Shanti Sharma, Chief of the Kapilvastu Museum, the Shivalinga likely dates back to the 16th or 17th century. “The presence of the Shivalinga along with its yoni (base) indicates that a temple might have once stood at the site,” she said.
The artifact is notably large, with the lower circular base measuring 5 feet 6 inches in diameter. The middle portion is 45 inches wide, while the upper cylindrical structure stands 16.5 inches tall. The Shivalinga’s size and craftsmanship hint at its religious and cultural importance during its time.
Local authorities and residents have taken immediate steps to preserve the relic. It is currently being safeguarded at a resident’s home until proper conservation measures are arranged.
Experts believe this discovery could shed new light on the region’s religious history and call for further archaeological studies to uncover the full significance of the site.
