GPR Survey Reveals Ancient Subsurface Structures Beneath Puri’s Jagannath Temple Area

Puri: A Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) survey conducted as part of the ongoing Parikrama project around the Shree Jagannath Temple has uncovered significant underground archaeological features, indicating the presence of an extensive ancient settlement beneath the holy city.

The survey was initiated following public concerns raised during excavation work at Emar Math, where earlier discoveries had drawn attention to the area’s historical importance. Experts involved in the study have reported the presence of “substantial subsurface structural remains” extending beyond the immediate temple surroundings.

Previous excavation at Emar Math had revealed relics believed to date back to the Ganga dynasty period, including two broken lion statues. These findings prompted demands for a detailed scientific investigation, leading authorities to commission the GPR survey.

Sources familiar with the findings suggest that the report points to an ancient, possibly urban settlement spread across large parts of Puri. The buried remains are believed to extend beyond the Parikrama project zone, covering multiple locations and containing heritage structures and artefacts.

One of the most notable revelations is the indication of a possible underground passage connecting the temple to the sea, a concept long associated with local legends. The survey has also identified structural formations within a limited area of approximately 21.6 square metres.

In the designated ‘Area-H’—which includes the Emar Math zone and nearby sites such as Nrusingha Temple and Budhi Ma Temple, along with adjoining roads—at least 43 potential subsurface heritage locations have been detected.

The survey has further indicated the presence of artefacts such as clay and metal vessels, along with objects believed to have been used in daily life in earlier periods.

Although the findings have not yet been officially released in the public domain, they are expected to have significant implications for heritage conservation, urban planning, and future excavation efforts in Puri.

Authorities are likely to undertake further scientific studies and consult archaeological experts to assess the historical significance of the discoveries and develop a roadmap for preservation of the subsurface remains.