ASI to Honour Babu Jagat Singh at Sarnath | Revised Plaque Ahead of UNESCO Nomination 2025

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The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is preparing to install a revised plaque at the historic site of Sarnath, near Varanasi, acknowledging Babu Jagat Singh a descendant of the Benares royal family for his early role in unearthing and preserving the site. This move represents a significant shift from the long-accepted narrative that credited British archaeologists with the discovery of Sarnath’s archaeological significance. The update also comes as India gears up for a UNESCO inspection following its formal nomination of Sarnath to the World Heritage List for 2025–26.

Historical Significance Of Sarnath

Sarnath holds immense religious and historical importance as the site where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. The complex contains ruins dating from the 3rd century BCE to the 11th century CE, and also has links to Jainism. The renowned Ashoka Pillar, which now serves as India’s national emblem, is a key feature of the site. Over the years, it has become a major destination for pilgrims and tourists, particularly from countries with Buddhist populations such as Japan.

Babu Jagat Singh: A Forgotten Pioneer

New historical evidence highlights Babu Jagat Singh’s contributions to Sarnath’s early excavations around 1787–88, well before British interventions. A member of the Chait Singh dynasty of Benares, Jagat Singh reportedly initiated digs at the site to collect construction materials. During these efforts, Buddhist relics were unearthed, bringing Sarnath’s religious and archaeological value to light. Some of these artifacts are now housed at the Asiatic Society in Kolkata. The revised plaque will acknowledge his pivotal role recasting him not as a looter, as earlier interpretations implied, but as the first to rediscover Sarnath's significance.

British Archaeological Efforts And Their Recognition

Until now, plaques at Sarnath have largely attributed the site's discovery to British officials such as Mr. Duncan and Colonel Mackenzie, who explored the site in 1798. Further systematic excavations were led by prominent colonial-era archaeologists including Alexander Cunningham, Major Kittoe, FO Oertel, Sir John Marshall, MH Hargreaves, and Dayaram Sahni. The ASI, which was established in 1861 under Cunningham’s leadership, began formal research and documentation at Sarnath thereafter. The updated plaque will integrate these contributions with the earlier role played by Jagat Singh.

Recent Archaeological Insights

Excavations led by B.R. Mani in 2013–14 brought forward new data indicating that Sarnath had continuous Buddhist activity even before the reign of Emperor Ashoka. These findings challenge the traditional belief that Ashoka solely elevated Sarnath’s religious significance. The new plaque is expected to reflect these recent scholarly insights, providing a more nuanced and comprehensive view of the site's history.

Sarnath's Bid For UNESCO World Heritage Status

Sarnath has been on UNESCO’s tentative list for nearly three decades. In its 2025–26 nomination, India aims to secure full World Heritage Site recognition, which would not only validate the site's cultural and religious importance but also enhance its international profile and tourism potential. This nomination aligns with India's broader efforts to promote its identity as the land of Buddha and showcase its deep-rooted spiritual traditions.

Correcting Colonial Narratives In Heritage Sites

The push to revise Sarnath’s historical narrative has been championed by descendants of Babu Jagat Singh, who have long advocated for fair recognition of his role. In the past, misleading or negative references such as labeling him a "destroyer" have been corrected. The family has also requested updates to interpretative boards and signage at the site. ASI’s response reflects a larger movement across India to reassess colonial-era accounts and ensure more balanced representations of Indian historical figures in the country's heritage discourse.

Conclusion

The new plaque at Sarnath represents more than just a name change it marks a restoration of historical justice. By acknowledging Babu Jagat Singh’s early contributions and incorporating modern archaeological findings, the ASI is working to create a more accurate and inclusive narrative. As Sarnath moves closer to potential UNESCO recognition, this effort also highlights India’s commitment to cultural authenticity, heritage preservation, and the decolonization of historical records.

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