12th‑century Yadava pillar fragments found near Wardha settle cultural significance
Archaeologists reported fragments of a 12th century Mandir style pillar near the Vena River in Hinganghat, Wardha district, Maharashtra, about 70 kilometres from Nagpur. Identified by idol researcher Panchsheel Thul during a study of riverbank mandir sites, the pieces show intricate carvings linked to the Seuna or Yadava dynasty. Researchers suggest the pillar could be part of a sabhamandap or a front of a garbhagriha, with another fragment possibly the pedestal of a main pillar. The find underscores Wardha’s medieval temple architecture and could prompt further excavations to map a larger temple complex in the area.
Pillar fragments found near the Vena River, Wardha
Date-claimed attribution to 12th century Yadava dynasty
Intricate Mandir style carvings observed
Possible sabhamandap or garbhagriha pedestal remains
Indicates a potentially larger temple complex nearby
Jammu University to host Goonj 2026 youth festival; chancellor to inaugurate
The University of Jammu announced Goonj 2026, its flagship multi-genre youth festival to be held over two days. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, who serves as Chancellor, will inaugurate the event. Launched in 2024, Goonj aims to promote holistic student development, leadership and teamwork beyond academics. The festival celebrates creativity across arts, music, theatre and sports and fosters collaboration among university communities to showcase talent and institutional spirit. Organisers emphasise youth engagement, mentorship and the opportunity for students to explore talents beyond the curriculum.
Goonj 2026 announced by University of Jammu
Two-day youth festival; inauguration by LG Manoj Sinha
Launched in 2024; focuses on holistic development
Themes across arts, music, theatre, sports
Promotes collaboration and leadership among students
Zapotec Owl Tomb uncovered in Oaxaca reveals 1,400-year-old burial practices
Archaeologists in southern Mexico uncovered a remarkably preserved tomb dating to around AD 600 in San Pablo Huitzo, Oaxaca. The tomb belongs to the Zapotec civilisation, also called the ‘Cloud People,’ and offers unprecedented insights into Indigenous funerary rites and social organisation from nearly 1,400 years ago. Discovered in 2025 during investigations into looting, the burial site complements existing knowledge of Zapotec culture and its regional development in the Oaxaca Valley. The find highlights the long history of complex societies in Mesoamerica and their enduring heritage within modern Indigenous communities.
Discovery: Zapotec tomb in San Pablo Huitzo, Oaxaca
Dating: around AD 600, ~1,400 years old
Civilisation: Zapotec (Cloud People)
Found during 2025 looting investigations
Significance: insight into funerary practices and social structure