‘Chhaava’ sparks gold rush frenzy in Burhanpur as locals dig for treasure near Asirgarh Fort

As the mystery of the buried coins unfolds, the local administration faces pressure to balance public excitement with the need to protect historical artifacts and maintain order

PGurus Newsdesk

March 8, 2025

As the mystery of the buried coins unfolds, the local administration faces pressure to balance public excitement with the need to protect historical artifacts and maintain order

Rumors of Mughal-era coins spark unauthorized digging, authorities step in

A gold rush-like frenzy has erupted in Burhanpur, Madhya Pradesh, after rumors spread that Mughal-era gold and silver coins had been discovered near Asirgarh Fort. Armed with torches, sieves, and even metal detectors, scores of locals have been digging through soil in search of hidden treasure.

The speculation gained momentum after a JCB machine, engaged in national highway construction near a dargah, dug up soil that was later dumped in a local villager’s field. Reports emerged that ancient-looking metal coins had been found, with some even claiming to have unearthed valuable gold and silver currency from the Mughal period. Since then, people from nearby villages have been flocking to the site, hoping to strike gold.

Film reference fuels the gold hunt

Adding to the hysteria was a reference in the Vicky Kaushal-starrer film Chhaava, which described Burhanpur as a “gold mine.” The movie highlighted the city’s rich Mughal history, particularly its role in a major military campaign by Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. This mention seems to have reinforced local beliefs that treasure may still be buried underground.

Residents demand action as crowd grows

Locals claim that people are indeed discovering coins, yet the administration has not taken action to regulate or investigate the findings.

“Coins are being found, and the crowd is growing every night. People from other villages are arriving, and many claim to have found ancient currency. The government and administration are ignoring this. I informed the patwari, but no action was taken. Even the sarpanch is aware,” said Mohammad Wasim, a resident.

Historical significance of Burhanpur’s coins

Historians confirm that Burhanpur was once a flourishing Mughal city with a thriving mint for gold and silver coins. It was common practice for locals to bury their wealth underground during times of conflict. Given this historical context, experts acknowledge that authentic discoveries are possible. However, they caution that unregulated digging could result in the loss of invaluable heritage.

“It is true that such coins have been found in Asirgarh before. The administration must take this seriously, use scientific methods for exploration, and safeguard any historical treasures,” said Shalikram Chaudhary, District Archaeological Member.

Authorities consider restrictions on unauthorized digging

The opposition party Congress has urged local authorities to prevent chaos and regulate excavations. In response, the Burhanpur police have launched an investigation and may soon impose restrictions on unauthorised digging in the area.

Burhanpur Superintendent of Police, Devendra Patidar, assured that any illegal excavation will be strictly prohibited, and legal action will be taken if necessary.

As the mystery of the buried coins unfolds, the local administration faces pressure to balance public excitement with the need to protect historical artifacts and maintain order.

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