Indian state experts have unearthed some 15 rare idols in the last 8 days from a temple site in Doni village, Tendukheda district, Damoh, reports The Times of India. 

These sculptures—most of them in remarkably pristine condition—date to the 10th–11th century, during the Kalachuri era.

The excavations there had begun in April.

Among the findings is a remarkably well-preserved statue of Ardhanarishvara — a uniqe composite from Shiva and Parvati — which is itself a rare phenomenon. A statue of Narasimha, the half-human, half-lion deity, was also uncovered, though the lower part of this sculpture was damaged.

In addition, the collection includes depictions of Nandi (Shiva’s divine attendant), Parvati, Vayu, and the god Brahma. All of the statues are made of red sandstone, and many experts believe they could be highly valuable on the international antiques market.

Work continued even on rainy days without interruption, with archaeologists examining the temple ruins at night to uncover the ancient treasures.

Such findings could significantly reshape understanding of Central India’s medieval temple art if researchers succeed in deciphering all the symbols and styles present in these sculptures.

Security at the excavation site has been reinforced, with plans to install fencing and round-the-clock surveillance to protect the statues from looters.