ASI’s Underwater Quest to Unveil Lord Krishna’s Legendary City, Dwarka

India’s underwater heritage takes center stage as ASI revives its deep-sea exploration mission to uncover the lost city of Dwarka.

Reviving the Underwater Archaeology Wing

After nearly two decades, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has reactivated its Underwater Archaeology Wing (UAW) to explore the submerged remnants of Dwarka, the legendary city believed to have been founded by Lord Krishna. This ambitious project aims to provide archaeological evidence supporting the historical significance of the site, which is said to date back over 4,000 years.

A Pioneering Team on a Historic Mission

Leading this groundbreaking expedition is Professor Alok Tripathi, Additional Director-General (Archaeology) at ASI. A dedicated team of five archaeologists, including women specialists Aparajita Sharma, Poonam Vind, and Rajkumari Barbina, is actively working to map and document the submerged structures near the Gomati Creek. This marks the first time female archaeologists have been part of an underwater excavation mission in India.

Dwarka: Mythology Meets Archaeology

Dwarka holds a significant place in Hindu mythology as the city established by Lord Krishna after relocating from Mathura. Legends describe its grandeur, with golden palaces and elaborate infrastructure, which ultimately submerged into the Arabian Sea after Krishna’s departure. Past explorations have already revealed stone jetties, anchors, and remnants of an ancient port city, further supporting the belief that Dwarka was once a thriving maritime hub.

The Significance of the Exploration

This renewed effort is not merely about discovering artifacts; it is an attempt to bridge the gap between mythology and history. The findings could reshape historical narratives, offering deeper insights into ancient maritime trade, urban planning, and cultural exchanges of the era.

With this mission, ASI is not just uncovering the past—it is bringing history to life, one discovery at a time.