Archaeological Remains of the Kapili-Jamuna
Valley of Assam
Author:
Mrigakhee Saikia
Abstract:
The Kapili-Jamuna valley of Assam, situated in the modern districts of
Nagaon, Marigaon and Hojai in Central Assam is rich in archaeological
remains, especially, temple ruins and sculptures and has been a major seat
of cultural development, attracting human habitations since distant past.
Historically, the valley first finds mention in Allahabad Pillar inscription
of Samudragupta datable to 4th century CE. This inscription refers to the
Kingdom of Devaka (identified with the Doboka region of present Hojai
district) along with the eastern frontier kingdoms, such as Kamarupa
whose rulers paid allegiance to the reigning Gupta monarch. That the
area served as an important political centre as well as a thriving cultural
zone under the historical dynasties of early Assam, namely the Varmanas,
the Salasthambas and the Palas may be proved by the rich remains found
spreading throughout the valley. Almost all the major archaeological sites
of the valley such as, Jogijan, Mikirati, Doboka, Sankhyadevi, Shivpur,
Rajabari, Mahadeo-sal, Vasundhari, Kawai-Mari, Amtala, and Gach-Tal
are located in close proximity to the rivers, the rivers facilitating the
spread of different artistic traditions. Considering the historical and
archaeological significance of the valley, a detailed documentation and an
in-depth study of the remains is an utmost necessity which would evidently
throw light into various aspects of the socio-economic as well cultural
history of the region. The paper is an attempt in this direction.