KATHMANDU: Archaeological authorities of Nepal have discovered over 2000 years old civilisation at Lumbini about 120 miles south-west of Nepal. Excavation on the site is being carried on for the last several months to prove that Tilou-Rakot headquarter of the Kingdom of Lord Gautam Buddha’s father was situated at the same place where Lumbini Township is at present.

Archaeological department said they have discovered one human skeleton, remains of other human and animal skeletons, some bronze and other statues which all date back to 2000 to 2200 years ago. Skeletons of human beings and animals were also found near a brick court yard. A beautiful copper peacock statue was also discovered ... and clay idols, human statues and coins. Some of them are said to be very valuable.... Coins are reported to have recently been dug out bringing the total number of coins found in the same area to 2253. All these findings prove that a big town existed at the site where Lumbini is situated. Nepalese ... claimed Gautam Buddha was born at the place where Lumbini Township is situated.... But some Indian historians disputed this...

Published in Dawn, March 14th, 2021