Gadag (Karnataka) | Jan 16, 2026

The Karnataka government on Friday launched a large-scale excavation—described by officials as a “treasure hunt”—after gold ornaments were discovered during construction work in Lakkundi, a historic village in Gadag district known for its architectural heritage.

The decision followed an incident in which a local boy found a small copper pot containing gold ornaments weighing about 470 grams at the site of the Kote Veerabhadreshwara Temple and handed it over to the district administration. The ornaments are believed to be 300–400 years old. The boy was later felicitated by authorities for his honesty.

According to news agency PTI, the government has ordered a full-scale excavation at the temple premises. The operation is being jointly conducted by the Department of Tourism, the Department of Archaeology, Museums and Heritage, the Lakkundi Heritage Development Authority, and the district administration.

Heavy machinery, including JCBs, trucks and tractors, has been deployed at the site. Officials have demarcated a 10 metre by 10 metre area for excavation, which has been formally notified. An officer associated with the operation said 15 women and five men have been engaged for the work.

Lakkundi holds immense historical significance and was once ruled by several dynasties, including the Chalukyas, Rashtrakutas, Hoysalas, Kalchuris and the Vijayanagara kings. The village is also associated with the legendary philanthropist Danachintamani Attimabbe. Archaeology department sources said Lakkundi was historically a centre for gold coin minting.

Officials believe the region may still be rich in buried valuables such as gold, silver, diamonds, pearls, corals and cat’s-eye stones, citing historical records and previous findings. In November 2024, thousands of ancient artefacts were reportedly discovered during an exploration in the village.

Archaeologists have described the excavation as being of high historical importance, saying it could lead to the discovery of inscriptions, monuments, sculptures and ornaments linked to Karnataka’s medieval past, further enhancing understanding of Lakkundi’s cultural and archaeological heritage.

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