Gold ornaments unearthed in Lakkundi, Gadag district, have been assessed by experts as dating back 500-600 years to the Vijayanagara empire period. Weighing 466 grams, the artifacts are valued at ₹80 lakh based on current gold rates, though their historical significance could multiply that figure tenfold. The discovery occurred during house renovation work in January.
During excavation for renovating a house owned by the Ritti family in Lakkundi village, Gadag taluk, a copper container holding about half a kilogram of gold ornaments was discovered on January 10 at a depth of five feet. Prajwal Ritti was the first to spot the container, and the family promptly handed it over to local authorities.
The state government formed a five-member Treasure Evaluation Committee, headed by archaeologist M.S. Krishna Murthy, to assess the find. On Tuesday, the panel verified and evaluated the ornaments in Gadag, concluding they date to the Vijayanagara empire, around 500-600 years old. Speaking to presspersons, Mr. Krishna Murthy stated, “After verification of the size and design of the 466 grams of gold ornaments found in Lakkundi, it is estimated that they may be of the age of Vijayanagar empire. The common public did not use ornaments having faces of lion and keertimukh (face of glory). They appear to be ornaments made for offering to a female deity.”
The pieces include pearls, emeralds, and blue sapphires. He added, “According to the rate of gold, the value of the ornaments will be ₹80 lakh. However, since they are ancient, the value will be 10 times more.” The discovery garnered nationwide attention.
An ongoing excavation near Kote Virabhadreshwar Swami Temple in Lakkundi has uncovered Neolithic relics.