Gold Jewellery Found During House Renovation in Karnataka’s Historic Lakkundi Village

A surprising discovery was made in Lakkundi village of Karnataka’s Gadag district when a family was carrying out an extension of their house. While digging the foundation, a Class 8 student noticed a copper vessel buried underground. Inside it were 22 gold ornaments, including necklaces, bangles and earrings.

Officials said the total weight of the jewellery is around 470 grams, with an estimated value of ₹60–70 lakh. The boy immediately informed village elders, who in turn alerted the police, the tahsildar and officials from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).

Gadag Superintendent of Police Rohan Jagadish said that officials reached the spot promptly, prepared a panchnama and took the jewellery into custody.

Superintending Archaeologist of ASI’s Dharwad Circle, Ramesh Malamani, inspected the site and clarified that the find cannot be termed a “treasure.” He explained that the ornaments were broken and no coins were found. According to him, in earlier times people often buried jewellery near the kitchen hearth inside their homes for safekeeping, and this discovery appears to be linked to that practice. Further examination will be conducted to determine the age of the ornaments.

The jewellery has been removed from the construction site and secured in a treasury. Construction work at the site has been halted and the area has been sealed. Authorities will decide, after investigation, whether the gold will be returned to the family or whether they will be given compensation.

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has directed district-level officials to review the matter.

Lakkundi village is well known for its rich heritage, historic temples and distinctive architecture, making the discovery even more significant.