The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has commenced the excavation of Hampi’s historic Pan Supari Bazaar, a vibrant marketplace from the Vijayanagara Empire era. Known as ‘Pedda Angadi Veedhi’ (Big Shop Street), this 1-kilometer stretch lies between the Hazara Rama Temple and Shrungarada Hebbagilu. Historical records reveal that this bustling market once traded gold, precious metals, and areca nuts.
In just 10 days, archaeologists have unearthed artifacts, including redware, greyware, porcelain potsherds, terracotta beads, and 15th-century copper coins, shedding light on the area’s rich trade history. The ASI has established three trenches over 650 sqm to further explore the market’s infrastructure and the lives of its patrons.
This initiative, backed by ₹7 lakh in funding, aims to uncover more of Hampi’s medieval heritage and bolster its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The findings are expected to provide new insights into the economic and cultural prosperity of the Vijayanagara Empire.