Gardhanora: An Archaeological Repository of the Nala Dynasty of Chhattisgarh

Abstract

This paper examines Gardhanora (also known as Garhdhanora), a village in the Kondagaon district of Chhattisgarh, as the archaeological repository of the Nala dynasty that ruled parts of central India during the 6th century CE. Gardhanora has been identified as the ancient capital Pushkari (IAST: Puṣkarī), the political and cultural center of the Nala kingdom. Through an analysis of epigraphic evidence, archaeological excavations, architectural remains, and sculptural findings, this paper argues that Gardhanora represents one of the most significant but understudied early medieval sites in central India. The paper explores the historical context of the Nala dynasty, the archaeological discoveries at Gardhanora, the architectural and artistic traditions reflected in the remains, and the site's current status as a State Protected Monument. The identification of Gardhanora with Pushkari resolves a long-standing scholarly debate and establishes the site's crucial importance for understanding the political, religious, and cultural history of the Bastar region during the early medieval period. The paper concludes by addressing the preservation challenges facing this important archaeological site and its potential for future research.