Devni Mori: A Historical Buddhist Site In Gujarat

Terracotta head of Buddha Devnimori

Excavations at Devni Mori, 2 km from Shamlaji in the Aravalli district in northern Gujarat, have revealed a treasure trove of architecturally and sculpturally rich Buddhist remains that include a Buddhist monastery dating back to 3rd-4th century AD. The excavations at this archaeological importance also yielded various artifacts, such as terracotta statues, inscribed caskets, pottery, and coins.

Devni Mori has been submerged under the waters of the Meshwo reservoir since the 1970s.Today, a Buddhist flag is hoisted on a pole in the middle of the reservoir which came into being due to the construction of the Meshvo dam in the late 1960s. The flag marks the location where the stupa once stood.

The excavation at the site was carried between 1960 and 1963 under the supervision of R N Mehta, S. N. Chaudhary and B Subbharao.

The relic casket of Devnimor

The discovery of the stupa in Shamlaji is a testament to the influence of Buddhism in the area during the early period of the Christian era. The discovery of cascade containing relics of the Buddha from the stupa has further enhanced the sacredness of the stupa and the place of pilgrimage for the Buddhists. The inscription on the casket says that it contains sacred ashes of Buddha.

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