Thus, probably brimming with confidence, as the University continued in 1961-62, excavations uncovered the massive stupa structure, with chambers and ante-chambers on either side. On the northern wing, finely-carved stone pillars were found fallen over the floor of the antechamber while the floor level of the chamber was found as higher than the rest and reached by steps, thereby representing three phases of repairs and reconstructions. An octagonal brick pedestal which earlier held an image was found in the centre of the northern chamber, with a fallen image of crowned Buddha of Pala style in bhumi-sparsa-mudra. A lotus-shaped brick pedestal with floral design in red and black pigment over a white background, was found  in the southern chamber. The floors on either side of the stupa were found covered with ash and charcoal indicative of a fire. A pradakshina-path running around the main structure was also identified along with a headless inscribed figure of Buddha and other objects. In 1962-63, a chamber with a brick-pedestal carrying an image of Avalokiteshwara and a number of terracotta plaques representing various scenes were obtained from the debris overlying the floor. A thick deposit of ash and charcoal was found over different floors, again testifying to the destruction of the site by a fire.

To be continued...