11th-Century Vishnu Idol Unearthed During Pond Renovation in East Bardhaman

• An 11th-century Vishnu idol was recovered during renovation work of Basapukur pond in Palashan Saipara, Rayna, East Bardhaman.
• The idol, carved from black basalt stone, is 28 inches tall (33.5 inches with tenon) and 13 inches wide, featuring Lakshmi, Saraswati, Mrigaraj-Kunjar motif, Garuda, and Kirtimukha.
• Locals informed Rayna Police after the discovery, leading to the idol's transfer to Burdwan University Museum for preservation and research.
• Shyam Sundar Bera from Burdwan University Museum collected the idol from Rayna Police Station after completing all legal procedures.
• Despite some damage during excavation, the discovery highlights increasing public awareness and participation in preserving ancient artifacts.

Why It Matters: An 11th-century Vishnu idol was found in East Bardhaman, now preserved at Burdwan University Museum.