More than 35 Ravana idols unearthed in Mysuru

The discovery of more than 35 idols of Ravana during archaeological excavations in parts of Mandya and Mysuru districts has surprised historians and archaeology experts, reviving interest in the region’s ancient cultural and religious history. The findings have sparked fresh discussions on the historical significance of Ravana worship in southern Karnataka.

Mandya and Mysuru are traditionally associated with episodes from the Indian epics. While Muthathi is believed to have links with the Ramayana, Pandavapura and Kunti



Betta are associated with the Mahabharata. Against this backdrop, the large number of Ravana idols unearthed in the region has attracted considerable academic attention.

According to experts, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) recovered around 15 to 20 Ravana idols during excavations carried out in Maddur, Malavalli and Mandya taluks. A similar number of idols were independently discovered by noted ancient history and archaeology scholar Prof. N.S. Rangaraju during his research in Malavalli, Bannur and T. Narasipura.