Unearthing History: Mysterious Tunnel Discovered Beneath Ancient Dargah in Manchar

MANCHAR, PUNE – A captivating mystery has emerged from beneath the sacred grounds of a Dargah in Manchar, Ambegaon taluka, Pune district. During routine excavation work for a new building at the shrine of Saint Haji Sayyad Pir Mohammad Shah Kadri, workers unearthed a peculiar tunnel-like structure, sending ripples of curiosity and speculation through the local community.

The discovery, made over the past few days, immediately caught the attention of the Dargah committee members who promptly informed the Manchar police.

Officials, including Inspector Suresh Sable, swiftly arrived at the site to assess the situation and ensure that the intriguing find did not lead to any public disturbance.

Preliminary observations indicate that the subterranean passage extends approximately 20 feet, is about 10-15 feet deep, and measures 3-4 feet wide.

Its origins remain shrouded in enigma, sparking various theories among the local residents. Some believe it could be a forgotten connection to an ancient 'wada' (a traditional mansion) once located nearby, hinting at a hidden past. Others ponder if it served as a secret passage used by revered saints, adding a layer of spiritual intrigue to the discovery.

Historically, the land upon which the Dargah stands was once owned by a Hindu family, the Inamdars, who generously donated it for the construction of the sacred shrine.

This historical context further deepens the mystery of the tunnel's purpose and its potential link to earlier inhabitants or structures on the site.

The police have been proactive in maintaining peace and order in the area. Statements from the Dargah committee members and workers have been recorded, and a vigilant watch is being kept to prevent any untoward incidents or unauthorized entry into the newly discovered structure.

Inspector Sable emphasized the importance of community harmony, stating, "We have asked the Dargah committee to approach the Archeology Department to verify the nature of the structure. Until then, we are ensuring peace and no public disturbance."

Local authorities, including the Tehsildar, are also involved, closely monitoring the situation.

The next crucial step involves officially informing the Archaeology Department, whose experts will undoubtedly shed more light on the age, purpose, and significance of this fascinating underground passage. Until then, the tunnel beneath the Manchar Dargah remains a silent testament to untold stories, waiting patiently to reveal its secrets to the modern world, all while the community looks on with a blend of reverence and excitement.