Workers digging rainwater pit, discover treasure

A rare 18th century treasure was discovered in a rubber plantation near Chengalaya in Kannur, India, while digging a pit to catch rainwater. The collection included gold and silver coins, gold necklaces, earrings, rings and other jewellery, including gold medallions and pearl necklaces.

The first reaction was fear and speculation. Some women feared that the container contained artifacts of black magic, while others feared it might be an unexploded mine. Their fears quickly turned to excitement, however, when they discovered that the container was filled with rare jewelry and old valuable coins: "While digging the pit, I noticed an old container and placed it next to it. Later, someone threw it away because they feared it was a bomb or involved in black magic," said a woman named Aayisha, who first discovered the jar.

After it was thrown away, the container became damaged and the artifacts partially spilled out of it: "We found shiny objects nearby and after further search we discovered gold coins and medallions. When we realised that it was real gold, we immediately informed the panchayat authorities who instructed us to leave the container untouched," added Aayisha another worker named Sulochana.

Chengalai village in Kannur district suddenly became popular because of the gold hoard; news of the find spread quickly and created considerable excitement. K. Krishna Raj of the Pazhassi Raja Archaeological Museum pointed out that the objects in the collection exhibit unique hallmarks dating back to the late 18th century, including Indo-French and Kannur Ali Raja markings. Some of the silver coins bear Arabic markings.

"Some of the coins are reminiscent of the Indo-French Puducherry coins, while others probably date back to the Ali Raja era of the Chirakkal dynasty. There is no doubt about the authenticity of the finds," added K Krishnaraj of the Pazhassi Raja Archaeological Museum in Kozhikode, adding that the coins matchand the beaded necklaces also seem to date from the same period.

K. Krishna Raj stressed the importance of a future comprehensive study to fully elucidate the historical context and significance of the hoard. Detailed investigation is crucial not only for understanding local history but also for illuminating the broader cultural and commercial context of the period. To protect against any illegal excavations, the police have cordoned off the area, especially after three more silver coins and some beads were discovered among the villagers.

Roman Nemec

Sources: newindianexpress.com, msn.com, mathrubhumi.com

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