Report on Archaeological Investigations

Report on Archaeological Investigations in Girija River Valley, Districts Aurangabad and Jalna, Maharashtra

Madan Singh Chouhan1, Tejas Garge1, Kishor Chalwadi1 and Amol Kulkarni2 1. Archaeological Survey of India, Aurangabad Circle, Aurangabad, Maharashtra,

India (Email: [email protected]) 2. History Museum, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University, Aurangabad,

Maharashtra, India

Received: 14 August 2015; Accepted: 08 September 2015; Revised: 18 October 2015 Heritage: Journal of Multidisciplinary Studies in Archaeology 3 (2015): 128‐162

Abstract: The archeological explorations in Girija river valley in Aurangabad district of Maharashtra were initiated as a part of village to village survey scheme by Archaeological Survey of India. This river valley falls within transit area between Ellora and Ajanta Caves, hence explorations were designed to know more about contemporary habitation deposits and archaeological potential of the area. The archaeological survey of Girija River is significant as it has brought to light as many as 39 sites to historical map of the area for the first time. A continuity of human habitation from terminal phase of Pleistocene till late medieval period is brought to light in present study. Further existence and role of non‐urban settlements in the history of the region is also highlighted.

Keywords: Mythology, Legend, Geography, Geology, Soil, History, Exploration

Introduction The Girija River rises in the Mhaismal hills in Aurangabad district of Maharashtra, and after an eastward course of about 80 km, meets the Purna river near Pimpalgoan in district Jalna (Fig.1). This area is known for its historical vibrancy and creation of magnificent architectural manifestations in form of rock cut caves and forts of medieval period. Since the area covered by the Girija river valley serves as a transit area between Ellora and Ajanta Caves, it was essential to know more about contemporary habitational deposits. Hence the exploration aimed at recognizing full‐scale archaeological potential of the area, were taken up by recording location of archaeological settlements, involving study of the environmental matrix around archaeological sites, settlement patterns through the time and evaluation of relationship between cultural graph and environment of the area.

Geographical Extent and Environment Aurangabad is a part of the Deccan plateau, slopping southeastward from the Sahayadri range (Western Ghats). This area is comprised with northward flowing

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tributaries of the Tapi and Godavari drainage namely Khelna, Shivana, Dudhana, Purna, Girija, Lahuki, Sukhna and Kham. The district is divided into the following geographical regions‐the Purna‐ Godavari basin, the northern piedmont slopes and the Ajanta Plateau. The western edge of the Ajanta plateau flanking the Shivna basin encompasses the Ellora (Verul) caves.

Figure 1: Location of Archaeological sites reported from exploration (2014‐15) in

Girija river valley

The Baiamuhal hills range, passing along Takli and Kanhar, connects the Aurangabad hills with the Gaotala ghats to the north, and forms the principal water‐shed for the numerous tributaries (including Girija) of the Purna. The hills of the range are lofty, averaging from 600 to 700 feet above the plains near Takli; but the highest are to the west Kanhar, where the Surpanath hill (3,517 feet above the level of the sea) is 1,082 feet above Kanhar, and 1,173 above Aurangabad. The ghat‐crossing from Kanhar towards Ajanta, divides the valley of the Girija from that of the Purna and Arjna. The banks of the Girija river are rugged; its flow is perennial; and it receives numerous streams from the hills that bound it to the north and south (Aurangabad District Gazetteer, 2006).

The semi arid climate is characterized by a hot summer and general dryness throughout the year except during the southwest monsoon season. Here the cold season starts from December to February followed by the hot season from March to May. The period from June to September constitutes the southwest monsoon season while October and November forms the post‐monsoon season.

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Geology and Soils There are two kinds of superficial formations, one consisting of upland soil derived from the decomposition of the rocks on the spot, peculiar to the hilly region, and the other alluvial soil, deposited by water, belonging to the plains and to the hollows in the valleys of rivers. They are variously composed, according to the rocks from which they are derived, and are sometimes of a heavy rich aluminous character, or consist of a light and fertile loam. Black soils occasionally occur, resting either on calcareous beds or on partially decomposed globular basalt. In the river valleys lower down, a light‐brown kankary alluvium is the prevailing soil. The black soil is generally derived from basalt; and its composition and colour vary according to the proportions of iron, lime, magnesia, and the amount of organic matter that it contains. These, and the grayish and brownish varieties, are very absorbent and retentive of moisture, and are exceedingly fertile. The black cotton soil expands and contracts to an unusual extent under the respective influence of moisture and dryness. During the rains it is exceedingly muddy; and in the hot weather it is covered with cracks and holes. Near Bhokardan and Jalna the soil is sometimes very calcareous, generally poor, and abounds with efflorescence of soda. The wells too, are often brackish. Sometimes the soil is of a reddish‐brown colour. The Girija river valley contains very adhesive black soil, shallow and full of basaltic boulders.

Mythology and Legends Girijadevi is another name of Goddess Parvati; consort of the lord Shiva. According to a legend while playing dice Shiva lost a game to Parvati which was rare. The sculptural panels from Ellora depicting Shiva and Parvati playing the game of dices often show Shiva winning the game and Parvati trying to get off in frustration. Here after losing a game Shiva reached a hill without informing Parvati about his where about and started performing penance. Hence the hill is known as Mahesh Mal (Mahesh plateau). Parvati appeared in the form of a tribal girl known as Girija. As soon Shiva opened his eyes after penance he saw this beautiful tribal woman and proposed her to marry. She agreed upon only condition that Shiva will never get angry in future. Then she returned back in the form of Parvati to surprise of Shiva. This event is supposed to have taken at a place near a small stream now known as River Girija. A shrine of Girijamata is seen near this stream locally known as Gaondari. According to another legend a sage known as Yogiraj Bharati performed hard penance and in reward Girijamata (Parvati) appeared before him. He requested her to come with him as boon. She agreed upon in the condition that she will follow him while walking and he shall not look back. The sage could not keep his word and he looked back while walking in the forest, so the goddess settled on the same place. At present this place is marked with another shine of Girijamata. The old temple built in stone is now replaced in RCC. Remains of the original stone temple are seen nearby the shrine.

Historical Background The Godavari basin is inhabited since the Lower Palaeolithic phase of Stone Age. The

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evidences of Lower Palaeolithic tools are reported in the river bed of Godavari, Pravara, Gangapur and Nevasa etc. The most important discovery in Aurangabad district was the occurrence of the Middle Palaeolithic sites in the old river bed of Godavari dating around 40,000 B.P. Upper Palaeolithic, a last phase of Palaeolithic culture have been found in Pitalkhora, Akhatwada, Manjlegaon, Mungi, Rahegaon, Rakshasabuvan and Ellora, in Aurangabad District. The rich collections of Microlithic assemblage representing Mesolithic culture are also reported in this area (Sali, 1990).

The strategic location of Aurangabad as entry point in ancient Dakshinapatha was the main reason why this region witnessed the rise and fall of several dynasties for many centuries. The district has a long and uninterrupted history since the Satvahana dynasty ruled this area from 230 B.C. to 230 A.D. evidences from Paithan capital city and Bhokardan trade centre mentioned in The Periplus of the Erythraean Sea (Wilfred H. Schoff, 1951: 195).

The Vakataka dynasty succeeded the Satvahanas in the Deccan around mid‐3rd century A.D. The Vakatakas were known as great patrons of arts, architecture and literature. The Chalukyas of Badami who ruled large parts of southern and central India succeeded the mighty Vakatakas in the Deccan. In the western Deccan, the rise of the Rashtrakutas in the middle of the 8thcentury A.D. eclipsed the Chalukyas of Badami before being revived by their descendants, the Western Chalukyas, in the late 10thcentury A.D.

The Seuna or Yadavas of Deogiri (850–1334 A.D.) initially ruled as feudatories of the Western Chalukyas then in the middle of the 12thcentury A.D., they declared independence and ruled from Deogiri (present‐day Daulatabad Fort in Aurangabad district, Maharashtra). Yadava rulers retained their capital until 1296 when Ala‐ud‐din Khilji defeated Ramachandradeva, and reduced him as his vassal. Qutb‐ud‐din Mubarak Shah Khilji made a successful campaign against Deogiri and annexed the same to the Delhi Sultanate, by quick succession of political events; the area was wrestled from the Imperial authority and the Tughluq, Bahamani and Nizamshahas of Ahemadnagar rulers till the area was taken over by the Mughals In 1633. For a short period it was under the control of the Marathas before the Nizams of Hyderabad took control of it in 1724 AD (District Gazetteer Aurangabad, 1884).

Previous Archaeological Investigations The site of Paal, Tehasil‐Fulambri, District Aurangabad was explored by Sh. Ajit Kumar and Sh. M. Mhadevaiha of Archaeological Survey of India, Aurangabad Circle and a few antiquities (Pl.3) and a copper plate has been reported (Indian Archaeology‐ A Review, 1986‐87: 120). The presence of marine shell bangles and debitage indicate that Pal was involved in manufacturing and long distance trade.

The site of Bhokardan is the only nearest excavated site situated on the bank of Khelna river 13 km to the north of confluence of Purna and Girija rivers. It has been identified


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with the ancient city of Bhokardan or Bhogavardhana. Markandeya Purana, refers it as a prosperous trading city in Dakshina path / Dandakaranya area, located on the trade route from Pratisthana then capital city of Satvahanas to Ujjain in the central India. Bhokardan was the one of the richest city in Satavahana period. Records from Bharhut and Sanchi mention receiving donations from inhabitants of this city for their construction. The two ancient mounds discovered here by Sh. M. N. Deshpande in 1958 were subsequently, excavated by a joint team of Marathwada and Nagpur University in 1973‐74. In the excavation, Period Ia was identified as early Satvahana period, Period Ib as late Satavahana period and Period II as post Satavahana period.

Methodology Applied and Explorations Undertaken Under the village to village scheme the sites were explored under the methodology including with available geographical data, study of toposheets and google earth imageries. A physical survey was taken up during February‐ March, 2015 of villages falling on the both banks of Girija river were inspected and antiquarian remains reported were brought to record. The details of which are as follows:

Mhaismal (N20°04’31.56”; E75°11’44.50”) Tehsil Khultabad, District‐ Aurangabad Mhaismal is located at the distance of 12 km towards north of khultabad. Microliths are reported in the vicinity of old Girija Mata temple locally known as Gaondari. It is located on eastern margin of the plateau facing the valley. Another temple dedicated to Girija Mata of late medieval period has been now entirely converted in to a modern shrine.

Takli, Tehsil Khultabad, District‐ Aurangabad Takli is situated at the distance of 9.5 km to the north‐west of Khultabad on the left bank of Girija river. Nearby the village are following remains of archaeological potential.

Hanuman Temple (N 20°04’ 15.2” E 075°14’ 25.3”) A Complex known as Hanuman Temple is located to the northern edge of the village. It has a dharamshala and a temple dedicated to Hanumana inside the premise built in nineteenth century(1869). Dharamshala is rectangular on plan facing south. It consists of cells in north‐ south orientation. On the backside (north side) there exists a temple of Hanuman now converted into a new RCC structure.

Fortification Gateways –There are remains of two ancient gateways found in the village.

Gateway 1 (N 20°04’ 12.3” E 075°14’ 26.5”) The original fortification to the village consists of two gateways; one on the south is still standing and is used as office of Grampanchayat. A colossal gateway is built in combination of stone and brick masonry. A semi‐round arched gateway has a

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nagarkhana on the upper floor now converted into grampanchayat office. The gateway was erected in the 18th century by a local Raja Shamraj Bahadur Rajavant.

Gateway 2 (N 20°04’02.9” E 075°14’25.3”) On the south side of the village has an gateway built in stone masonry. Only two side walls of the gateway are still in existence while the upper part and main entrance has now disappeared. Due to in dilapidated condition its main entrance wall and upper structure were dismantled in 1971 by the Grampanchayat.

Remains of old Kacheri Building (N 20°04’06.2” E 075°14’28.1”) The remains of old Kacheri building built in bricks masonry has now converted in to a modern temple. The original structure is contemporary to the fortification wall and gates as stated above.

Habitation Deposit/ Garhi (N 20°04’05.4” E 075°14’25.6”) Raised portion having accumulation of older habitation deposits known as Garhi was noticed amid the village. It is now surrounded by modern constructions. Pottery including black ware and red ware of late medieval period is reported from this location. Potsherds are too small to identify its original shape and purpose. A glass bangle fragment in black colour and triangular section reported from Takali indicates the presence of Bahamani and Asafjahi (late medieval) periods here.

Remains of Shiva Temple (N 20°04’17.1” E 075°13’25.8”) The remains of Shiva temple were noticed at a distance of 2.5 km from the Takli village towards west on the way to Mhaismal. The remains includes a large ‘yonipitha’ measuring 1.35cm in length and 1.12 cm in dia, fragmentary lintel carved with miniature shikhara, fragmentary kapota and carved horizontal stone blocks having sockets. These architectural members are found scattered in the adjoining agriculture field.

Devlana Budruk (N20°04’02.7” E75°16’12.5”) Tehsil‐ Khultabad, District‐ Aurangabad Devlana Budruk is located towards north‐ east side of Khultabad at the distance of 12.2 km on the left bank of the Girija river. Architectural members of early medieval temple are reported from here and they are mostly in the form of fragments including part of Chhadya, door frame and other decorative stones with simple moldings. They are stacked at the side of newly constructed temple on the left bank of river Girija.

Devlana Khurd (N 20°03’ 56.9” E 075°16’ 32.4”) Tehsil ‐ Khultabad, District‐ Aurangabad Devlana Khurd is situated at the distance of 13.4 km towards north‐east of Khultabad on the right bank of Girija river. There are four late medieval residential buildings on high platforms built in stone and brick masonry with decorative wooden doors. The use of large stone blocks in the plinth, construction of elevation in bricks in later age and decorative wooden craftsmanship are still surviving here.


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Vadhod Kanhoba (N 20°05’ 05.0” E 075°18’ 37.5”) Tehsil Khultabad, District‐ Aurangabad Vadud Kanhoba is located at the distance of 15.7 km towards north‐east of Khultabad. A Garhi (fortress) is located approximately 1.30 km to the north side of village. A rectangular shaped high rising wall measuring 48 m long and 16 m width and 6 m high is still in extant on the right bank of the river. Originally the Garhi was constructed on high platform with well chiselled huge stone blocks (Fig. 2). The superstructure and upper part of the walls have vanished now. A highly disturbed habitation mound probably of medieval period is found as indicated by pottery and bangle fragments reported from the surface collection. In the pottery, the application of jet black slip is noticed; application of red slip is also noticed on few potsherds. Potsherds are too small to identify its original shape and purpose. Fragments of glass bangles of different colours like yellow design on black bangle, and fragments of violet bangle having triangular and circular sections respectively are reported of varying thickness, either very thin or too thick (minimum 0.4cm, maximum 1.1). This type of bangles is one of the important features of Bahamani period. Along with bangle pieces, one quartzite core and stone tool flake are also reported from Vadhod Kanhoba.

Figure 2: Vadood Kanhoba

Shelgaon (N 20°05’ 57.2” E 075°21’ 05.9”) Tehsil ‐Khultabad, District Aurangabad A few fragmentary stone sculptures of folkish style are reported from the vicinity of newly constructed Hanuman temple in the village.

Dongargaon, Tehsil ‐Khultabad, District‐ Aurangabad Dongargaon is located towards north‐east of Khultabad at the distance of 25.5 km on the left bank of the Girija river. It is almost 4.5 km away from the river bank towards the north. The antiquarian remains found nearby the village are;

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Habitation Mound (N 20°08’ 59.3” E 075°22’ 18.6”) A habitation mound is reported from the village limits nearby a School (Fig. 3). The site is located to north of school extending east west for about 450 m x 300 m. The remains here includes foundation of a structures built in random rubble masonry and mud mortar. Other antiquities are pottery including red and grey ware and bangle fragments. The site is disturbed as often dug by villagers for the want of hidden treasure. The structures built in rubble masonry seem to have been destroyed for stone reuse. The whole surface of the mound is strewn with potsherds (Figs. 4 & 5).

Figure 3: Dongargaon

Figure 4: Dongargaon


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Figure 5: Pottery, Dongargaon

As indicated by the pottery found on the surface, the site was under occupation during historical and medieval period. Black and red ware potteries of early historical (Satavahana) period and Medieval (Bahamani) are reported from this site. In the pottery, the application of red slip, jet black slip, brown slip is noticed here. The common shapes of the pottery are storage jars, bowls and globular pots. Decorations in the form of stamp, groove inside lines are very common on this pottery (Fig. 6).

Some stone objects like broken mullar, a pear shaped stone object with four dents like depressions on each face, rotary quern were also reported from the surface. Fragments of glass bangles in black colour with circular section of Bahamani period are reported from site along with animal bone and three quartz cores and six stone flakes (Length: 2.1‐ 4.6 cms, Width:1.1 ‐ 2.1 cms, thickness: 0.4 ‐ 1.2cms).

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Figure 6: Pottery, Dongargaon


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Loose Sculptures (N 20°09’ 00.0” E 075°22’ 16.2”) Some loose sculptures of Yadava period are stacked and placed under a banyan tree behind the Zila Parishand School slightly away from the reported habitation deposit. Architectural members including ceiling fragments, pillars fragments and loose sculptures are reported from here which once formed the part of a temple here. These sculptures are:

Unidendified figurine (Height: 52 cm, Width: 46 cm.): One unidentified human figurine is found with broken head, hands and a leg. The image is shown seated having left leg folded and right leg mutilated.

Ganesh (Height: 72 cm. width: 46 cm.): The four armed deity is shown seated in lalitasana holding battle‐axe or parshu in upper right, unidentified object in the lower right and laddus in lower left hand. The upper left arm of the deity is also unidentified. The ornaments are not visible due to thick application of vermillion over the surface. On pedestal, his mount; mouse has depicted near his feet. Stylistically image can be assigned to 13th century AD.

Uma Maheshwar on Nandi (Height: 62 cm. width‐ 48cm.): The image of Uma Maheshwar is shown seated on standing Nandi; a celestial mount of lord Shiva where Parvati is shown seated behind him. Shiva’s left hand is placed on the back of her shoulder while his right folded hand comes on the stomach. Goddess puts her right arm across Shiva’s shoulder while left hand is mutilated. Both are with two handed badly covered with a patina of Vermilion. Stylistically image can be assigned to 13th century AD.

Uma Maheshwar (Height: 76 cm, width: 47 cm): Uma‐Maheshwara is shown seated on Nandi. Goddess is seated on the left thigh of Shiva. They embrace each other as his left arm is placed around her breast and she puts her right arm across Shiva’s shoulder. Shiva is shown four armed and Parvati with two arms. Shiva’s upper right hand is broken while lower right hand is on the right leg. Stylistically image can be assigned to 13th century AD.

Dancers (Height: 75 cm. width: 42 cm.): The present panel is a beautiful composition of three rhythmically composed male dancers. This sculpture is unique in the sense that three figures joint each other with their lower back and bent their leg in peculiar pose. On the front figurine is flanked by two more dancers who share a hand and a leg with main dancer. A close view of lower half shows that a pair of legs behind legs in front joins each other as if the central figure is standing on his toes. The side figures sharing a hand and a leg stand in a more comfortable tribhanga dance posture while main figurine in dvibhanga mudra. The ghungarus (bells) placed on four legs shared by three male figurines and hand postures indicate their identity as dancers. Besides elaborate tying of ghungarus the male figures are minimally ornamented with armlets and bangles. A grinning face of the man standing on left of the main figure is clearly noticeable. In all present panels remain special due to unique thought of composition and its fine execution (Fig. 7).

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Figure 7: Dancers, Dongargaon

Uma maheshwar (Height: 60 cm. width: 46 cm.): The image is identified as Umasahit Shiva, and description is almost identical to images mentioned as above except here Shiva holds trident in upper right hand and lower right is on his right leg.

Uma Maheshwar (Height: 60 cm. width: 45 cm.): This image is almost identical to the images as mentioned above. Many of the sculptures and architectural members are now applied with vermillion.


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Beside that other sculptures include fragment of ceilings, image of Nandi and a broken panel of bharwahaka scattered nearby this place.

Bhawani Temple (N 20°09’ 01.9” E 075°22’ 13.9”) A temple dedicated to goddess known as Bhawani Mandir is located to the west of the mound near foothill near a modern Shiva temple (Fig. 8). It is built with blocks of stones belonging to ancient temple now rearranged in the form of a small rectangular shrine. The original temple seems to have been constructed in Yadava period. The huge blocks of basalt are used in masonry and elegant sculptures are embedded on the outer walls of the shrine. On the basis of style it can be assigned to 11th ‐12th century AD, however it were later on altered. Most of them are carved in high relief specially damsels or apsaras in dancing postures. A panel of male dancers with drums is also notable. Among divinities figures of Vishnu and Ganesha are common. A unique panel consisting of five standing bulls facing viewers and a pair of bulls being deployed by a man for ploughing is depicted to the upper right side on the front wall. It is carved in low relief notable for rare depiction of ploughing scene and rhythmic composition of the figures (Fig. 9). The central figure in the shrine is probably of Vishnu but it is being worshiped as goddess Bhawani.

Figure 8: Bhawani Temple, Dongargaon

Pimpalgaon, Tehsil‐ Phulambri, District‐ Aurangabad Pimpalgaon is located at a distance of 5.8 km towards north‐east of Phulambri on the right bank of river Girija.

Microlithic Deposit (N 20°07’ 11.8” E 075°23’ 58.9”) Few microlithic tools are reported from the village limits of Pimpalgoan on a terrace located to the south east of the village at the distance of 535 m as crow flies. The terrace formed at the right bank of the river is composed of sediments deposited over basalt formations by fluvial action consists of silt, sand, calcareous elements and few agate nodules. Stone flakes of different shapes and size (length: 1.2 ‐ 3.3 cm, width: 0.9 ‐ 1.7 cm, thickness: 0.2 ‐ 0.6 cm, weight: 0.440 ‐ 3.190 grms) and few cores (length: 2.2 ‐ 5.4

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cm, width: 1.6 ‐ 3.7cm, thickness‐ 0.5 ‐ 2 cm, weight: 3.190 ‐ 32.940 grms) are reported. The main raw material used here is chalcedony and a few tools made on crystal quartz are also reported.

Figure 9: Ploughing Scene, Dongargaon

Habitation Deposit (N 20°07’ 23.7” E 075°23’ 43.4”) A habitation deposit was noticed right side of the Pimpalgaon village which overlooks the river meander as a raised mound. Open spaces between modern houses in present village have yielded with pottery of Bahamani/ Nizamshahi/ Mughal period characteristics. Some of the structures locally known as Wadas (Havelies) are also identified as fortress of late medieval period in the village along with circular brick wells. Mouldings, projections, use of black colour for bricks and use of designs in terracotta are noteworthy in brick buildings built in late medieval period (Fig. 10). The pottery reported from here is essentially black and red ware. The application of brown slip is noted on potsherds.

Loose Sculptures (N 20°07’ 22.2” E 075°23’ 44.2”) Few fragments of sculptures and architectural members of early medieval period including a kirtimukha are reported near Shiva temple built on the left bank of the river. Five Samadhis (memorials) of 19th century, built in stone masonry are also found adjoining to the temple.

Mhasla (N 20°06’ 51.6” E 075°24’ 30.1”) Tehsil Phulambri, District‐ Aurangabad Mhasla is located to the north of Phulambri at the distance of 3.2 km on the right bank of the Girija river. The maximum habitation deposit noticed here is around 5 m above the surrounding ground level. At present, modern houses have encroached upon the entire mound. Cultural material from habitation mound indicates its medieval period (Bahamani to Asafjahi). Pottery found on the surface and from the exposed sections is black and red ware. Decorative patterns and tool impression is noted on the rim and body portion on potsherd. The application of jet black slip is noted on one of the potsherd. Few potsherds are well fired, few are medium and some of them are ill fired. A terracotta sling ball is reported from Mhasala.


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Figure 10: Decorations on brick Pimpalgoan

Paal, Tehsil‐ Phulambri, District‐ Aurangabad Paal is located towards north‐east at the distance of 6.9 km of Phulambri Tehsil in Aurangabad district on the left bank of the Girija river. The antiquarian remains found nearby the village include:

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Shiva Temple (N 20°08’ 16.1” E 075°27’ 04.2”) A temple consisting of a garbhagriha, antarala, and a closed pillared madapa is reported near this village (Fig. 11). It is modified heavily on the exteriors however original features are visible in the interiors. This site can be assigned to 11th ‐12th century AD.

Figure 11: Shiva Temple, Paal

Habitation Mound (N 20°08’ 14.1” E 075°27’ 13.6”) The mound (Fig. 12) is situated to the south‐western periphery of the village. The mound has about 10 m thick cultural deposit extending over an area of 50 m x 40 m. Eastern half of the mound is almost destroyed due to digging activity for soil and western side of mound has been encroached upon by the modern houses. It consists of the debris of structural remains, greyish soil, potsherds and other remains indicating cultural deposits. As indicated by the pottery found on the surface the site was under occupation during Satavahana and Vakataka period. The pottery of black and red ware variety of Satavahana period is reported from this site. One potsherd in jet black slip with graffiti has also found. The application of red slip, brown slip, and dark red slip is noted on potsherds. Large number of rims of storage jars and pots were noticed here (Figs. 13 & 14). Ritualistic objects probably a fire alter made in terracotta of Satvahana period is reported from here (Figs. 15 & 16). A terracotta lamp in oval shape is reported along with terracotta stopper of cylindrical shape. The site is also reported with good number of shell bangles.


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Figure 12: Habitation Mound, Paal

Phulambri (N20°05’28.2”; E075°25’ 23.6”) Tehsil‐ Phulambri, District‐ Aurangabad Phulambri is located at the distance of 28.7 km to the north of Aurangabad city on the bank of Girija river. On the northern periphery of the village about half a kilometre away to the west from the highway connecting Aurangabad to Jalgon a medieval dargah built over the ruins of a Yadava temple is noticed (Fig. 17). The stone architectural members of a Yadava period temple are used for constructions of steps from revaluate to the platform of the structure. On stylistic basis the tomb falls in Mughal period. The mausoleum is square on plan and placed on a raised platform of stone. The surmounting flattish dome is ornamented with petal design and provided with minarets on four corners. Now entire structure is whitewashed with lime. The architectural members originally from temple consist of human figurines, pilasters, elephants, geese and other geometrical motifs carved in high relief now seen fitted in secondary context (Fig. 18). The temple remains including sculptures belong to Yadava period, tentatively of 12th century AD.

Pathari, Tehsil ‐Phulambri, District‐ Aurangabad Pathari is located 8.3 km north‐east of Phulambri on the right bank of Girija river. Nearby the village are found following antiquarian remains:

Microlithic Deposit (N 20°08’ 01.7” E 075°29’ 02.5”) A deposit of microlithic tools is reported on the right bank of the river Girija slightly away from village to the east. A quartz blade of triangular section, some stone flake tools of different shapes and size (length: 1.6 ‐ 4cm, width: 1.3 ‐ 2.9 cm, thickness: 0.4‐ 0.8 cm, weight: 1.090 ‐ 11.250 grms,) and colours like white, grayish, and yellowish reported along with cores of quartzite stones of different size, (length: 1.9 ‐ 5.5 cm, width: 1.5 ‐ 4.2 cm, thickness: 0.7 ‐ 1.6 cm, weight: 2.840 ‐ 42.070 grms) are reported.

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Figure 13: Pottery from Paal


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Figure 14: Pottery from Paal

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Figure 15: Fire Altar, Paal

Figure 16: Fire Altar, Paal

Habitation Mound (N 20°08’ 11.3” E 075°29’ 10.2”) A habitation mound near the village has been destroyed to a large extent. A few potsherds of late phase of medieval period (Asafjahi), red and black wares, a potsherd with brown slip; and one in yellowish brown slip applied on inside of potsherd are reported from here.


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Figure 17: Medieval dargah built over the ruins of a Yadava temple, Phulambri

Figure 18: Decorations in architectural members of Yadava temple, Phulambri

Waghalgaon (N20°06’50.4”; E075°30’11.5”) Tehsil‐ Phulambri, District‐ Aurangabad Waghalgaon is located towards north‐east of Phulambri at the distance of 9.7 km on the right bank of the Girija river. Few late medieval (Asafjahi) period buildings constructed in bricks with decorative wooden architectural members are reported from here.

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Wadod Bajar (N 20°08’46.7”; E 075°31’29.3”), Tehsil‐ Phulambri, District‐ Aurangabad Wadod Bajar is located towards north‐east of Phulambri at the distance of 13.8 km on the right bank of the Girija river. There are three medieval period buildings (Havelis) on an ancient mound over here. These buildings are built in composite masonry of stones and bricks. Almost all the surface area on the top of mound is covered by these buildings. The pottery and bangle fragments recovered from the section (Fig. 19) and from surrounding fields show existence of Satavahana and medieval period (Yadava, Bahamani and Asafjahi) settlements. Potsherds of early historic period are with brown, dark brown and red slip. Circular decorative pattern is noted on one of the potsherds. One potsherd having spouted jar is reported. Storage jar, spouted vases were common shapes in the early historic period(Satavahana). Potsherds of medieval period consist of black and red ware, few potsherds with brown slip and few applied with jet black slip were also found. A broken stone mullar is also reported.

Figure 19: Exposed Section, Wadood Bazar

Wadod Khurd (N 20°09’14.1”; E 075°32’45.8”) Tehsil ‐ Phulambri, District ‐ Aurangabad Wadod Khurd is situated at a distance of 15.9 km from Phulambri on the left bank of Girija river. The mound is 180 m away from the village towards south. At present mound is under protected forest land. This mound is of early historic (Satvahana) period which seems to have continued in medieval era (Yadava, Bahamani to Asafjahi) periods indicated by pottery and bangle fragments reported from the surface. Few potsherds of medieval period are reported from here consists of black and red ware, main shape noted is storage jar. Shell fragment probably a bangle with graffiti and an isolated stone flake is reported from here.


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Shevta Khurd, Tehsil ‐ Phulambri, District ‐ Aurangabad Shevta Khurd is located 16.3 km towards north‐east of Phulambri on the right bank of the Girija river. The remains of gateway and a mound are reported from here as below:

Gateway (N 20°09’ 08.4”; E 075°33’ 45.2”) Near the entrance of the village a late medieval gateway built in composite stone and bricks masonry is reported. Few architectural members of temple and stone cannon balls are reported near the gateway.

Habitation Mound (N 20°09’ 07.7”; E 075°33’ 43.7”) A brick structure of medieval period is reported in the centre of the village. A habitation mound of 5 m thickness is reported near this brick structure. At present mound is destroyed due to digging of soil. Western side of the mound is encroached upon by the modern houses. The mound is of medieval (Bahamani to Asafjahi) period as indicated by pottery reported from the surface. Black and red ware pottery with black and yellowish brown slip is reported and main shapes noticed are bowl and storage jar. A circular terracotta lamp with ring base, small glass bead in white and blue colour and unidentified stone object in half roundish shape at broken condition are also reported.

Shevta Budruk, Tehsil ‐Phulambri, District‐ Aurangabad Shevta Budruk is located 17.7 km north‐east of Phulambri Tehsil. The archaeological remains found nearby are:

Hero stone (N 20°09’ 10.8”; E 075°33’ 56.1”) In the front of newly built Hanuman temple there are two hero stones of 12th‐13th century AD and some temple architectural member reported.

Habitation Mound (N 20°09’ 12.5”; E 075°33’ 57.7”) North of the village there is a mound of 3 m cultural deposit reported with mud walls. At present it is badly destroyed by digging for soil. A highly disturbed mound of early historic (Satvahana) period seems to have continued in use in the medieval (Yadava and Bahamani) period as indicated by pottery and bangle fragments reported from the surface. Potsherds of early historic period are in red ware with decorative design and different types of rims. Medieval pottery includes storage jar and pots with black and red ware with jet black slip (Fig. 20). A small scrubber of terracotta is also reported from here.

Jalgaon Mete (N 20°08’ 49.0”; E 075°34’ 45.2”), Tehsil‐ Phulambri, District‐ Aurangabad Jalgaon Mete is located 17.8 km towards north‐east of Phulambri on the right bank of river Girija. Remains of an old temple, a shivalinga, few architectural members and a 1.5 m cultural deposit is reported to the north of the village. The mound is destroyed by the villagers for digging the soil. The pottery found from the surface here are of early medieval (Bahamani) period includes black and red ware having decorative wavy

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lines. Potsherds are too small for identification its original shape. Among debris flake tools of chalcedony in different sizes are reported. A circular brick well of late mediaeval period is also reported near this mound.

Figure 20: Ceramics from the Habitation Mound, Shevata Budruk

Borgaon Arj, Tehsil ‐Phulambri, District‐ Aurangabad Borgaon Arj is located 19.6 km towards north‐east of Phulambri on the left bank of the Girija river. A habitation mound and hero stones of historical period are reported from here as below:

Habitation Mound (N 20°08’ 56.9” E 075°35’ 06.2”) The eastern part of the village comprises a 4 m cultural deposit mound and few medieval period buildings (Havelis) built in bricks. The pottery of black ware and red ware and bangle fragments reported from surface indicate its medieval period (Yadava, Bahamani to Asafjahi). A few potsherds of late medieval period are also reported from this site. Incised decorations are noted on few potsherds. A circular bricks well is reported near this mound adjoining to the river. Main shapes are storage jar and globular pot.

Hero Stone (N 20°08’ 58.4”; E 075°35’ 05.5”) A hero stone (Virgal) is noticed amid the village near Hanuman temple. All four sides of hero stone are carved. Sun and moon signs are marked on the top of the surface while at the lower has the scene of two warriors. Besides that a fragment of temple pillar is also noticed here. These remains can be assigned to late historical period.


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Pedgaon (N 20°09’ 07.2” E 075°35’ 57.6”) Tehsil‐ Phulambri, District‐ Aurangabad Pedgaon is located 20.5 km towards north‐east of Phulambri on the left bank of Girija river. South of the village there is around 5 m cultural deposit mound. Half portion of the mound is destroyed by digging for soil and remaining part of the mound is in extant (Fig. 21) and containing pottery and bangle fragments of medieval period (Yadava, Bahamani and Asafjahi). Contemporary brick structures are also noticed here. Potsherds consist of red ware, black ware few of which have horizontal grooves on neck and body portion.

Figure 21: Disturbed Archaeological Site, Pedgaon

Padali (N 20°08’ 47.6” E 075°36’ 04.7”) Tehsil‐ Phulambri, District‐ Aurangabad Padali is located 19.8 km towards north‐east of Phulambri on the right bank of Girija river. A mound with cultural deposit was noticed in centre of the village. The cultural remains of 7 m thickness including burnt brick walls extended in an area of 50 x 60 m still stands here while rest of the mound seems to have been destroyed by the modern digging activity (Fig. 22). Remains of burnt brick wall standing up to a height of 6 to 7 m is still seen standing adjoin to the mound. The pottery and antiquities reported from the surface of early historical (Satavahana) and Medieval (Bahamani to Mughal) period is noticed here. A bead of terracotta arecanut shape also indicates presence of early historical period. Black ware with grooves, red ware with brown slip is noted. Bangles fragments found here are in red, green, blue and black with circular section, a piece of shell debitage and fragments of shell bangle is reported from here (Fig. 23).

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Figure 22: Disturbed Archaeological Site, Padali

Figure 23: Various artifacts from Padali

Takli Jivrag (N 20°08’ 36.6”; E 075°37’ 36.0”) Tehsil ‐Sillod, District‐ Aurangabad Takali Jivrag is located 17.7 km towards south of Sillod on the left bank of the river Girija. A deposition of 7 m thick greyish soil is noticed in the centre of the village extending in an area of 20 x 15 m. At present half portion of mound is destroyed by the villagers for digging the soil and remaining half portion is still in extant (Fig. 24) having circular feature in one of the corners. This tower like deposition of soil is inner core probably having burnt brick or stone veneering on the exterior which has now vanished. Pottery and bangle fragments found on surface show its affiliation to early


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historic (Satvahana), historical (Vakataka) and medieval (Bahamani to Mughal) periods. Potsherds of early historic period are black and red ware applied with jet black slip. Early medieval pottery includes red and black ware, with brown and dark brown slip wherein rims of storage jar are significantly reported. Glass bangles fragments of black colour and one shell bangle fragments with circular and flattish section, a stone striker of marble in oval shape and a flake has found along with iron fragments.

Figure 24: Disturbed Archaeological Site, Takli Jivrag

Kaygaon (N 20°10’ 01.5”; E 075°37’ 48.7”), Tehsil‐ Sillod, District‐ Aurangabad Kaygaon is situated on the left bank of Girija river about 15 km to the south of Sillod. A cultural deposit of 6 m thickness was noticed amidst village with mud walls and two buildings (Havelis) of medieval period. The remaining mound at present is approximately 20 m long and 16 m wide. The pottery of medieval (Bahamani to Mughal) and late medieval (Asafjahi) period is reported from the surface including black and red ware. Application of red and yellowish brown slip is noticed on the few of sherds. Along with usual storage jars, globular pot a sherd of pan (tava) is also reported from here.

Vajrakheda, Tehsil ‐ Bhokardan, District ‐ Jalna Vajrakheda is located 18.3 km towards south‐west of Bhokardan on the left bank of Girija river. Nearby the village are a habitational mound and a temple as described in the following paragraphs.

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Habitation Mound (N 20°08’ 01.5” E 075°38’ 50.8”) In the centre of the village 4 m thick cultural deposit with mud walls is reported (Fig. 25). A highly disturbed mound of medieval (Yadava and Bahamani) period contains the remains of pottery, earthen storage jar and bangle fragments on the surface. Black and red ware potsherds are reported from here. Rims of storage jar and decorative patterns on body in the form horizontal grooves are noticed on the pottery. Two fragments of glass bangle in black and green colour are also reported.

Figure 25: Cultural Deposit, Vajrakheda

Shiva Temple (N 20°07’ 59.4” E 075°39’ 50.8”) A Shiva temple reported to the north of village has been altered to a great extent by the villagers. It enshrines a shivalinga inside the garbhagriha. It consists of a garbhariha and antarala. Doorframe is typical Yadava style in four shakhas with four deity figurines at the both lower part of the shakhas. Beside that ornate pillars and pilasters, decorative vitana are found in the temple. Empty devkoshtakas are noticed on the both walls of the antrala. Few loose sculptures of Shivaite affinity including Umamaheshwar and fragment of temple are also noticed outside of the temple.

Goshegaon (N 20°10’ 07.8” E 075°39’ 16.8”) Tehsil ‐ Bhokardan, District ‐ Jalna Goshegaon is located 14.2 km south‐west of Bhokardan on the left bank of the Girija river. Four old buildings (Havelis) and a mound of cultural deposit of 1.5 m are reported amid the village. At present mound is destroyed by digging for soil. Black


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and red ware potsherds of early medieval (Yadava) period are reported here. A small fragment of glass bangle in black colour and a shell kawrie are reported from this site.

Hasnabad (N 20°07’ 45.0” E 075°41’ 48.6”) Tehsil‐ Bhokardan, District‐ Jalna Hasnabad is located 14.1 km south‐east of Bhokardan on the left bank of the river Girija. A building belonging to medieval era with enclosure wall is reported from here. A colossal structure with round arched gateway is built in composite masonry of stone and bricks. The structure has a mud enclosure wall. The area of the building with compound wall is approximately 100 m X 80 m. The soil used here is distinct in colour, whitish soil comprising potsherds and other materials of cultural remains. Black and red ware potsherds are reported from this site. A small flake tool of green colour, small glass beads of green and blue colour, fragments of glass bangles in black and green colour are reported among the antiquities (Fig. 26). The mound which once existed here belonged to early mediaeval (Yadava and Bahamani) period as indicated by the ceramic assemblage.

Figure 26: Artifacts from Hasnabad

Ita No.1 (N 20°07’ 10.6” E 075°40’ 09.9”) Tehsil‐ Bhokardan, District‐ Jalna Ita No.1 is 17 km south‐east of Bhokardan Tehsil of Jalna district. It is situated on the right bank of the Girija river. In the village, a hero stone applied with vermillion (13th ‐14th century AD) is reported inside a modern shiva temple. The upper half is displayed with a human figure in seated pose worshiping Shivalinga while lower half shows a fight scene between two warriors.

Sawkheda (N 20°06’ 55.0” E 075°39’ 22.9”) Tehsil‐ Bhokardan, District‐ Jalna Sawkheda is located 18.7 south of Bhokardan on the right bank of river Girija. As a common feature here the mound is located right in the middle of the village. It is surviving to a height of 3.5 m and rest is destroyed due to digging for soil. This highly disturbed mound probably of early medieval (Yadava and Bahamani) period as indicated by pottery reported from the surface. Black ware applied with black slip, red ware with yellowish brown slip having storage jar and pots as main shapes are among the reported pottery. A rusted horseshoe of iron is also reported.

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Deulgaon Kaman (N 20°08’ 00.8”; E 075°39’ 42.2”), Tehsil‐ Bhokardan, District‐ Jalna Deulgaon Kaman is located on the left bank of Girija river at a distance of 16.8 km south of Bhokardan. On the southern side a mound of 3 m deposit is noticed here. A few medieval bricks structure (Wada/ Havelis) are still present in the village. The soil diggers have destroyed this mound badly; however surviving cultural material indicate presence of early historic (Satavahana) and medieval (Bahamani) pottery with usual black and red ware. An isolated flake tool of chalcedony and a shell fragment are reported among antiquities.

Borgaon Khadak (N 20°07’ 58.9” E 075°42’ 47.8”), Tehsil‐ Bhokardan, District‐ Jalna Borgaon Khadak is located 13.9 km south of Bhokardan on the left bank of Girija river. Remains of old Shiva temple along with a shivlinga, Nandi and a hero stone belonging to 13‐14th AD are reported. A much disturbed habitation mound is located 255 m away from the village towards north. The pottery and bangle fragments reported from the surface indicate its medieval (Bahamani to Mughal) origin. Black and red ware potsherds with application of brown and black slip, a shell kowari in damaged condition, a few bangle fragments in red, green colour and a small bangle fragment in black colour with yellow design on it; a typical feature of Bahamani bangle is reported from Borgaon Khadk.

Javkheda (N 20°05’ 38.6” E 075°43’ 32.1”), Tehsil‐ Bhokardan, District‐ Jalna Javkheda is located at the distance of 18.5 km south of Bhokardan on the right bank of the river Girija. In front of modern temple dedicated to Hanuman to the West side of the village, two loose sculptures of Vishnu sculpture were found applied with vermillion. First image is in sthanakmudra holding gada and padma in upper two hands and shown with two dwarf attendants. Second image of Vishnu is shown seated on Garuda with Lakshmi seated in his lap. Both images measures 24 cm height and 18 cm width and on stylistic ground is assignable to Yadava period.

Khadki (N 20°07’ 04.6” E 075°43’ 29.6”), Tehsil‐ Bhokardan, District‐ Jalna Khadki is located at a distance of 16.7 km south of Bhokardan on the right bank of river Girija. The ancient mound is reported 566 m north from village which is under destruction. It is of early medieval (Yadava and Bahamani) period as indicated by pottery reported from the surface. Potsherds of black and red ware including jet black and brown slip are seen here. Remains of a temple are noticed adjoining to the mound. An enclosure wall is reset out of stones used in a temple; a Shivalinga is seen in the middle and a sculpture Uma‐maheshwar is placed at the back wall. On stylistic grounds it is crude as compared to Yadava period sculptures can be assigned to Maratha period.

Latifpur (N 20°07’ 28.9”; E 075°41’ 54.3”), Tehsil ‐Bhokardan, District‐ Jalna Latifpur is located 16.2 km south of Bhokardan on the right bank of Girija river. The central portion of the village comprises a 15 m high mound locally known as Garhi. The mound is encroached upon by the modern houses from all directions. Potsherds of


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early Satvahana and Vakataka period are reported from the section of this Garhi including black and red ware. The application of jet black, yellowish brown and brown slip is noticed. A chalcedony flake tool and a shell fragment are also reported from here.

Takli Bajad (N 20°07’39.6”; E 075°46’12.5”), Tehsil‐ Bhokardan, District‐ Jalna Takali Bajad is located 13.4 km south of Bhokardan on the left bank of Girija river. A mound is 230 m away from the village towards south extending over an area of 130 x 90 m. The remains of thick mud walls indicating presence of a large structure are noticed here in the middle of the mound. This mound is being destroyed by soil diggers. It is historical (Vakataka) and early medieval (Yadava, Bahamani) period as indicated by pottery and bangle fragments reported from the surface. Potsherds of black and red ware are reported from Takali Bajad. Rims of storage jars, potsherd with geometrical decorative pattern, bangle fragments in blue and black colour are also reported from here.

Borgaon Taru (N 20°08’01.1”; E 075°46’46.1”), Tehsil‐ Bhokardan, District‐ Jalna Borgaon Taru is located 12.7 km south of Bhokardan on the left bank of Girija river. A mound and few old buildings (wada) built in burnt bricks masonry were noticed at the south of the village. The mound is about 3.5 m high; half portion of the mound has been encroached upon by the modern constructions. The ceramics of black and red ware and bangle fragments in blue and yellow on black colour are reported from the surface of Bahamani period.

Takli Hivardi (N 20°07’27.0”; E 075°46’20.8”), Tehsil‐Bhokardan, District‐ Jalna Takali Hiwardi is located 14.4 km south of Bhokardan on the right bank of river Girija. A mound of 6 m deposition was noticed to the north‐east of the village. The remains are approximately extended over an area of 4020 square meter. Few thick mud walls still stand against great damage done by soil diggers. This highly disturbed mound is of medieval (Bahamani) period as evidenced by pottery; red and black ware ceramics and bangle fragments reported from the surface. On potsherds application of brown, red slip is noticed and storage jar and pot seems to be the most common shapes of the pottery reported from this site. A small terracotta animal figurine; most probably a bull, few bangle fragments of Bahamani period in red and black colour are among the antiquities reported from this site along with an animal teeth.

Deulgaon Tad ‐ 2, Tehsil ‐ Bhokardan, District‐ Jalna Devulgaon Tad‐ 2 is located 14.3 km south of Bhokardan on the right bank of Girija river. A shiva temple and a habitational mound are reported from this village as below: Shiva Temple (N 20°07’28.5”; E 075°47’56.8”) A renovated Shiva temple amid the village is of medieval period as indicated in decorative mouldings on pillars and other architectural members of the temple used in reconstruction. Temple enshrines a Shivalinga in the garbhagriha.

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Habitation Mound (N 20°07’21.8”; E 075°47’46.3”) At the south of the village, there is a mound and good numbers of mud walls thereon. The mound is of 5 m deposit and approximately in the area of 23,808 square m. A large part of mound is destroyed. A mud structure or walls with the cells can be seen on mound. The cells now fallen may be originally of double storied. A mound of historical (Vakataka) early medieval (Yadava and Bahamani) period is found as indicated by the pottery and bangle fragments reported from the surface. Few potsherds of medieval period are reported from Deulgaon Tad. Potsherds are black and red ware and the application of brown and dark brown, red and black slip has noticed, while one potsherd is in jet black polished slip. Most of potsherds reported from site has rim of storage jars and pots including geometrical decorative pattern. Two stone tool flake of quartz stone, two metal rings; one is in good condition and other is half in broken condition and both are rusted in green colour, fragments of black bangles, red bangles, two fragments of shell bangle and two small fragments of polychrome bangles are reported from Deulgaon Tad (Fig. 27).

Figure 27: Artifacts from Habitation Mound, Deulgoan Tad

Sangameshwar (Girija Purna Confluence), (N 20°09’15.8” E 075°48’11.7”), Tehsil Bhokardan, District‐ Jalna Sangameshwar is located on Girija ‐ Purna confluence, to the south of Bhokardan at the distance of 10.9 km. In the village, there is a modern temple having loose sculptures and architectural members used in the masonry of old temples. A shivlinga and a much eroded image of Uma‐maheshwar are of historical period.


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Valsa‐1, Tehsil‐ Bhokardan, District‐ Jalna Valsa‐1 is located 10.5 km away from Bhokardan on the right bank of river Purna. Among the antiquarian remains there are few architectural members and a habitational mound found nearby the village.

Architectural Members (N 20°09’44.4”; E 075°47’30.4”) There are few fragments of old temple scattered in the premise of modern Hanuman temple which includes decorative motifs like kirtimukha and part of vitana(ceiling). These are placed at the corner of the temple.

Habitation Mound (N 20°09’47.9”; E 075°47’30.7”) A habitation mound of 5 m deposit is noticed at the south of village extended approximately in 100 square m area. At present, half of the mound is encroached upon by the modern houses and remaining mound is still open and seen littered with cultural debris. Potsherds reported from the surface indicate medieval (Bahamani) origin. Black and red ware including storage jars and pots are main shapes while surface application of brown, red and jet black slip with horizontal incised straight parallel lines are also noticed on the pottery. One unidentified rusted iron object and broken stone Muller are also reported from this site.

General Observations The archaeological survey of Girija river is significant as it has brought to light as many as 39 sites to historical map of the area. The site of Paal was reported earlier but no details were published, the present survey of 50 villages has resulted in discovery of cultural remains from 45 locations for the first time. Outcome of present survey is 3 microlithic deposits, 31 habitation mounds, 18 places with remains of temples, lose sculptures and architectural members, 4 sites with hero stones, 9 locations with buildings or havelis of late mediaeval origin, a dargah and 3 brick wells. The preliminary analysis of the ceramic assemblage and antiquities found from the habitation deposits indicate presence of Satavahana remains at 8 localities, 9 sites with Vakataka affinity, 15 sites of Yadava, 19 sites of Bahamani to Mughal and 10 sites of Asafjahi/Maratha affinity.

The surrounding area of Girija valley remains very important in the historical perspective, world famous Ellora Caves are just 4 to 5 km away as crow flies from Girija Mata temple, Mhaismal from which the river originates. The Pitalkhora and Ajanta Caves are 40 and 70 km away respectively from Mhaismal. The fort of Daulatabad is about 15 to 60 km away from the river course on an average which was a major political centre throughout medieval period. The ancient site of Paithan situated at the distance of 50 km, Newasa is 80 km and Nashik is 200 km away from Girija valley crossing point. The excavated site of Bhokardan in Jalna district was one major settlement involved in trade and manufacturing during early historical period. The ceramic assemblage and small size of settlements indicate that these were mostly non urban habitats surviving on natural resources namely fertile black cotton soil and

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resources available from surrounding hilly landscape. Some of the settlements like Paal and Doangargoan may have served as transit points on the trade route connecting Pratishthan (modern Paithan, Maharashtra) to other trade centres like Ujjain in central India and Asika (modern Adam, district Nagpur) in Vidarbha as indicated by presence of marine shell bangles during historical period.

The presence of rock cut architecture in form of Pitalkhora and Ajanta Caves during the early historical or Satvahana period along with number of habitation settlements denote significance of this region, this continuation is also witnessed during Vakataka period. Presence and continuity of occupation during Yadava period is indicated by remains of temples in form of architectural members and sculptures. Under Bahamani rule sites continued and their number also seems to have increased, during Mughal period no architectural activity is witnessed in Girija valley however number of settlements seems to have continued under Maratha and Asafjahi (Nizam of Hydrabad) period. The present study is preliminary reporting of archaeological findings from the Girija River bringing it to the notice of archaeologists and historians. Further there is still scope of carrying out study on geoarchaeology of the region, ceramic assemblage, settlement patterns etc.

Acknowledgments Authors are thankful to Director General, Archaeological Survey of India for reviving village to village survey scheme under which present explorations were carried out. Thanks to Shri. Mayuresh Khadke and Ms. Snehal Kulkarni for assistance in documentation work.

References Chapekar B.N. 1969, Report on the Excavation at Ter (1958), Publised by B.N. Chapekar,

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Marathwada University, Aurangabad. District Gazeteer, Aurangabad district, 1884, Published under the order of His Highness

Nizam’s Government, Bombay, pp123‐330, Reprinted in 2006, Government Press, Mumbai).

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Sankalia H.D. and Deo S.B. 1955, Report on Excavations at Nasik and Jorwe, 1950‐51, Deccan College Monograph Series, No.13, Deccan College Post Graduate & research Institute, Pune.

Sanklia H.D. and Dikshit M.G. 1952, Excavations at Bramhapuri (Kolhapur) 1945‐46, Deccan College Monograph Series, No.5 , Deccan College Post Graduate & research Institute, Pune.

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Documents

Report on Archaeological Investigations