Navi Mumbai: A study, highlighting evidence of an ancient naval battle at Kharepatan in Sindhudurg district has drawn attention from historians. This new evidence strengthens Konkan’s maritime history. At the temple complexes of Kapileshwar and Kalbhairav at Kharepatan, the researchers identified the hero stone (Veergal) depicting a vivid naval battle scene.
The sculpture portrays two boats engaged in combat. This visual evidence suggests that organised naval warfare once took place at Kharepatan, indicating not only active maritime trade but also the presence of structured naval power and coastal defense mechanisms in the region. The research was conducted by local scholars Murari Bhalekar and Rishikesh Jadhav under the guidance of historian Dr. Anjay Dhanawade. Their research findings were presented at the 15th National Annual Conference of the ‘Konkan Itihas Parishad’ held at Vasai. A Veergal is a commemorative memorial erected in honor of warriors who sacrificed their lives while defending their village or region from enemies. Dr. Dhanawade estimates that the naval battle likely dates back to the mid-12th century. Researchers have expressed hope that with proper conservation and scientific preservation, the neglected heritage of Kharepatan could transform the region into an important historical and heritage tourism destination.
