Kumhrar Park’s remains draw CM’s attention, stresses conservation

Patna: Kumhrar Park, one of Patna’s most significant archaeological sites connected to the ancient Magadh empire, houses remains of a Mauryan-era assembly hall with 80 pillars, discovered during excavations carried out in 1912-15 and later in 1951-55. The hall’s ground plan consists of 10 rows of pillars from east to west and eight rows from north to south, with an interval of about 15 feet between each pillar and row, and faces south, a communique issued by chief minister’s office (CMO) said.

Over the years, due to development activities around the site and a rise in groundwater levels, the ruins became waterlogged, posing a threat to the preservation of the archaeological remains.


On the recommendation of a high-level expert committee, the excavated area was filled with soil and sand in 2005 to ensure conservation. At present, only some pillar remains are visible, while the excavated site of the 80-pillar hall remains covered, said the communique.

The Patliputra gallery located at Kumhrar Park displays the history of the ancient city of Pataliputra, its art and architecture, and artefacts and remains unearthed during excavations at the Kumhrar and Bulandibagh sites. The park is maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) under the govt of India.

Chief minister Nitish Kumar on Friday visited Kumhrar Park and inspected the historic and archaeological complex. Accompanied by water resources minister Vijay Kumar Choudhary, the CM toured different sections of the park, viewed the preserved pillar remains and information boards related to various excavations, and visited the photo exhibition housed in the Pataliputra gallery at Krishnadev Smriti Sabhagar.

During the inspection, officials informed the CM about the current maintenance arrangements under the ASI. Emphasising the need for systematic upkeep and better presentation of exhibits, Nitish asked state officials to write to the Centre seeking improved development and maintenance of the park. He said Kumhrar Park attracts history students and visitors from across the country and abroad, and its beautification and upkeep should reflect its historical importance.

CM’s principal secretary Deepak Kumar, secretary Kumar Ravi, district magistrate Thiyagarajan SM and ASI officials were present during the inspection.