A Vishnu idol believed to be around 500 years old was unearthed from the dry Palar riverbed at Puliyankannu village in Ranipet, Tamil Nadu.
The granite idol, about 2 feet tall and 1.5 feet wide.
Local historians believe it may belong to the Vijayanagara period, when temple construction expanded in the region.
The idol’s head was slightly damaged, while two arms, including the one holding the chakra, remained intact.
Under the Indian Treasure Trove Act, 1878, treasure found buried below one foot is treated as government property and must be handed over to the authorities.