By: Muzamil Yaqoob
Ancient carvings and structures have been discovered in the forests of Heer Pora, Shopian, revealing a glimpse into the region’s cultural and religious history. These carvings, found on mountain cliffs, appear to depict Hindu gods and symbols, though their exact origins are still unknown.
The carvings were found by local villagers and trekkers exploring forest trails. They include images of deities, symbols, and faint traces of ancient writing. Despite being weathered by time, they are seen as a valuable connection to the past, possibly dating back centuries.
The site is located about 3 kilometers from the Mughal Road in Heer Pora and can only be reached on foot. This reporter traveled the difficult path to bring this discovery to public attention.
Local historians and archaeologists have been asked to examine the site and confirm its age and significance. A local scholar said, “This find could help us learn more about the region’s cultural heritage and needs to be preserved.”
Villagers are proud of the discovery and hope it will highlight the historical importance of Shopian. They also called for the carvings to be protected from damage and erosion.
The discovery has sparked interest among historians and cultural experts, who are urging immediate efforts to preserve the site. This finding reminds us of the rich history hidden in Kashmir, waiting to be explored and understood.
Further studies are expected to provide more details about these ancient carvings.