Archive · 20 Sep 2026
Rare 10th-Century Ganesha Idols Showcase Parmar Artistry in Madhya Pradesh
A museum near Kasrawad has about 10 very old statues of Ganesha.
The statues were found in areas near the Narmada that were affected by submergence.
Experts believe they were made around the 10th or 11th century.
They are linked to the Parmar style of art.
Some statues show Ganesha sitting, while others show him standing.
One rock even has several forms of Ganesha carved into it.
The statues have detailed features such as large ears, long trunks and many arms.
Rain, wind and natural erosion have damaged some of the carvings.
Local people want the statues to be protected and explained properly to visitors.
Around 10 historic Ganesha idols are preserved at a hilltop District Archaeological Museum near Kasrawad.
The statues were collected from Narmada submergence areas, including Khargone, Barwani, Barwaha and Vodri.
Dating to approximately the 10th-11th centuries AD, the idols are associated with the Parmar art tradition.
The sculptures depict Ganesha in seated and standing postures, including multiple forms carved on a single rock.
Weather exposure and erosion have damaged some idols, prompting calls for scientific conservation, better displays and information boards.
- Who
- The District Archaeological Museum near Kasrawad preserves the idols; Sultan Anant Singh described their archaeological importance.
- What
- Around 10 ancient Ganesha idols associated with Parmar-era art are being displayed and preserved.
- When
- The idols date approximately to the 10th-11th centuries AD.
- Where
- At a hill near Kasrawad in Madhya Pradesh, with the statues collected from Narmada submergence areas including Khargone, Barwani, Barwaha and Vodri.
- Why
- The statues are significant examples of ancient regional art, religious traditions and history, but require protection from weather and erosion.
- Collection size
- Around 10 Ganesha idols
- Estimated period
- Approximately the 10th-11th centuries AD
- Art tradition
- Parmar art tradition
- Museum location
- A hill near Kasrawad, Madhya Pradesh
- Source areas
- Narmada submergence areas, including Khargone, Barwani, Barwaha and Vodri
- Conservation concern
- Several statues are worn or damaged by environmental exposure and natural erosion
- Requested measures
- Scientific conservation, proper display and historical information boards