15‑Million‑Year‑Old Marine Fossils Unearthed in Mayurbhanj

Baripada, Mayurbhanj: A remarkable discovery of 15‑million‑year‑old marine fossils has been made in Odisha’s Mayurbhanj district, offering rare insights into the region’s prehistoric past.

The fossils, unearthed in Baripada, include shark teeth, vertebrae, fish bones, mollusc shells, and microscopic marine organisms.

Locals had long referred to these remains as “Asura Hadda” (demon’s bones), but scientists confirm they belong to the Miocene Epoch, when large parts of Baripada were submerged under a shallow sea.

The presence of shark fossils—nearly half of the fish remains—indicates a thriving underwater ecosystem dominated by apex predators.

Researchers believe the retreat of the sea, now nearly 60 km away, may have been triggered by climate change, geological shifts, or natural disasters.

The discovery raises important questions about Odisha’s ancient geography and climate history.

Experts are calling for the Baripada Fossil Bed to be preserved as a geo‑heritage site, with proposals to develop a fossil park and promote geo‑tourism.

As the only known Miocene‑era marine fossil site in Odisha, the find holds immense scientific, educational, and tourism potential.