A Neolithic-era ashmound, estimated to be 4,000 to 5,000 years old, has been completely destroyed near Sangankallu Hiregudda on the outskirts of Ballari. The site, located on survey number 160(B) under Sirivara Gram Panchayat in Moka Hobli, belonged to landowners Venkateshwarlu and Venkatarayudu. They flattened the mound while leveling the land to fill a pit, reportedly unaware of its historical importance.
Members of the Robert Bruce Foote Sangankallu Archaeological Museum visited the site and were stunned to find the ancient mound leveled. They notified the district administration and the Karnataka State Archaeology Department. Local authorities inspected the area following orders from district officials.
In 2012, the government declared Sangankallu and surrounding prehistoric sites in Sirivara and Kappagallu villages as protected zones. Development within 100 meters of these sites is strictly prohibited. However, this is now the third such mound to be destroyed, sparking concerns about negligence and enforcement failures.
Nikhil Das, Superintending Archaeologist of ASI’s Hampi Circle, expressed dismay, calling the incident tragic. He urged the Karnataka Archaeology Department to act swiftly and implement safeguards to prevent further losses.
What are ashmounds?
Ashmounds, unique to Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, date back to the Neolithic age. They were formed from layers of ash, animal dung, and burnt material, symbolizing early Nandi worship linked to agriculture and livestock.
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