Archaeologists have announced the discovery of a remarkably well-preserved 9th-century temple deep within the forests of Gadchiroli. The structure, attributed to the Rashtrakuta Dynasty, is dedicated to Goddess Mahishasuramardini and features an intricate stone sanctum that has remained largely untouched by the elements due to the dense canopy cover.
The excavation revealed a series of high-relief basalt carvings depicting the goddess in her warrior form, alongside friezes of celestial musicians and protective deities. Preliminary analysis of the masonry suggests a transition in architectural style between the early rock-cut traditions and the later structural temple movement that dominated the Deccan region. Local authorities are now working to establish a heritage corridor to protect the site from illegal encroachment and to facilitate further study of the nearby ruins.