Neolithic Relics Unearthed at Lakkundi Boost UNESCO Bid

Excavations at Lakkundi village in Karnataka’s Gadag district have yielded relics dating back to the Neolithic period, significantly strengthening efforts to secure UNESCO World Heritage status for the historic settlement. The findings underline Lakkundi’s deep antiquity and layered cultural history, extending far beyond its well-known medieval temples.

Excavation at Kote Veerabhadreshwar Temple

The excavation, which began on January 16 at the premises of the Kote Veerabhadreshwar temple, is part of a renewed initiative to restore Lakkundi’s historical prominence. The discovery follows a recent incident in which villagers unearthed valuable artefacts while digging foundations for a house, prompting renewed archaeological attention. Located about 12 kilometres from Gadag town, Lakkundi was once celebrated as the “village of hundred wells and temples,” many of which are believed to remain buried beneath present-day structures.

From Lokkigundi to a Medieval Power Centre

Earlier known as Lokkigundi, the village is referenced in inscriptions from the 11th and 12th centuries, where it was compared to Amaravati, the legendary capital of Indra, for its prosperity. Lakkundi housed a “tankashale” or mint and flourished under the rule of the Chalukya, Yadava, and Hoysala dynasties. It served as the capital of Hoysala ruler Eradane Ballala in 1192 AD, reflecting its political and economic significance in the Deccan.

Religious Diversity and Architectural Legacy

Lakkundi was the karmabhoomi of Queen Attimabbe, a noted Jain philanthropist of the 11th century who commissioned temples, Jain basadis, and wells. While Jainism prospered, the village also sheltered 12th-century sharanas such as Shivasharana Ajaganna and Sharane Muktayakka, associated with the Bhakti movement of Basaveshwara. Though many monuments have vanished, records mention 13 surviving temples in the Kalyana Chalukya architectural style, along with intricately carved wells.

Important Facts for Exams

• Lakkundi is located in Gadag district of Karnataka.
• Neolithic relics indicate habitation predating medieval temples.
• The site flourished under Chalukya, Yadava, and Hoysala rule.
• Queen Attimabbe was a major Jain patron associated with Lakkundi.

UNESCO Push and Heritage Revival

The Karnataka government has revived long-pending excavation and conservation plans under Tourism Minister H.K. Patil. The Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation and the Archaeology Museums and Heritage Department have collected over 1,050 artefacts from local households, many now displayed in an open museum. The State has partnered with Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage to finalise a proposal to include Lakkundi and surrounding temples in UNESCO’s tentative list, with further surveys likely to expand the list of protected monuments.