New Evidence of a Kushan-Period Ekamukha Shiva Linga from Uparala–Gularia, Bareilly “Gulariya gauri shankar shivling”

Abstract

This research paper presents a preliminary study of a remarkable Ekamukha Shiva Linga located in the Gauri Shankar Temple at UparalaGularia, Bareilly District (U.P., India). According to local tradition, this Shiva Linga was discovered from the ground, after which the present temple was constructed at the site. The object is made of red sandstone and features a distinct human face with three eyes carved in relief. A comparative study was undertaken with the Kushan-period Ekamukha Shiva Linga (Catalogue No. G.2) preserved in the Lucknow State Museum. Both objects exhibit striking similarities in material, style, and craftsmanship. Preliminary observation suggests that the Bareilly specimen belongs to the Kushan period (1st–3rd century CE). This study not only highlights a significant regional archaeological heritage but also reinforces the cultural and historical importance of ancient Ahichhatra, the capital of the Panchala kingdom. “The present paper is based on the author’s original field discovery and documentation of a previously unreported Kushan-period Ekamukha Shiva Linga.”