Sambhal survey: UP archaeologists inspect Kalki Vishnu temple, well

Sambhal: A team from the Uttar Pradesh Archaeological Department visited Sambhal on Saturday to survey 19 wells and five pilgrimage sites in an ongoing effort to determine their historical and cultural significance.

The survey team arrived at the Kalki Vishnu Temple around 10:45 a.m., where they inspected the Krishna Well located nearby, according to an official. The team spent approximately 15 minutes examining the site and assessing the age of the structures, said Sambhal Sub-Divisional Magistrate Vandana Mishra. She added that it was unclear if the team would return on Sunday.

Sambhal holds religious significance for Hindus, as several ancient texts identify the city as the birthplace of Kalki, the tenth incarnation of Lord Vishnu.

Mahender Sharma, the caretaker of the Kalki Vishnu Temple, confirmed the visit. “The officials inspected a well within the temple premises and took photographs of the temple,” he said. While unable to confirm the exact age of the temple, Sharma noted that a 1,000-year-old map of the region references the temple, believed to be part of the Hari Temple mentioned in scriptures.

The archaeological survey follows a request by District Magistrate Rajendra Pensia, who urged the department to review the historical and religious significance of various structures in the city. Earlier, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) team conducted a nine-hour survey of the 19 wells and pilgrimage sites. A report will be prepared based on the findings.

Sambhal recently witnessed communal tensions when an ASI team attempted to survey the Shahi Jama Masjid, leading to clashes that resulted in the deaths of four people and injuries to 20 security personnel. Allegations have surfaced that the mosque was built on the ruins of a temple demolished in the 16th century. The incident led to legal actions against local politicians and residents involved in the violence.

With IANS inputs