The ongoing excavations at Barkur, one-time capital of the famous Tulu dynasty of Alupas in Kundapur taluk, around 25 km from Udupi, has shown beyond doubt that the Vijayanagar empire once existed at this place.

According to former Superintendent of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) Dr.Narasimhaiah, excavators have discovered the foundations of three mini palaces, two of which bear proof of having been occupied by local representatives, then known as Rajyapals, of the Vijayanagar rulers of Hampi, near Hospet, at present in Bellary district.

The identity of the occupants of the third palace is yet to be ascertained.

The excavation work at Barkur is being conducted by the M.H.Krishna Institute of Indology of the Bangalore-based Mythic Society over the last one month. According to Narasimhaiah, the excavations at the first two sites had revealed bathrooms, toilets, kitchens, court halls etc, being part of the mansions which are in much the same Vijayanagar architectural style found in areas where the empire had its sway.

Traces of five wells surrounding the palaces and water pools nearby, reflecting the Vijayanagar rulers’ proclivity for water sports have also been discovered. The kitchen is found to have contained a mortar.

The excavators have also discovered the remains of a stable near one of the palaces which Narasimhah feels may have been used by the Rajyapals to keep the horses they imported from Arab countries.

Records have it that as many as 28 Rajyapals represented the Vijayanagar empire at Barkur.

Another relic found at the site, (links with the Vijayanagar or any other dynasty are yet to be ascertained) is a stone inscription (Mastikallu) with an epitaph in honour of a woman who committed ‘Sati’ (death by immolation) with her soldier-husband.

Narasimhaiah said the excavations at Barkur is the first at the regional level, which he felt, augured well for historical research and would throw more light on important dynasties in the State.

The excavations in the State hitherto were limited to major historical centres alone.

Barkur is an important historical site in the coastal region, needing thorough study and research as to how and why so many dynasties settled for it as their capital. The excavation work, however, will be slow for want of skilled workers.

As mentioned in the Silver Jubilee Souvenir, of ICYM, Barkur by Mr. John Gonsalves, Adarsh Youth Association , Nagarmutt, undoubtedly is the offshoot of CYM. Barkur. It has been shaping the personalities since its inception . Recently AYA as it is popularly known, organised a Nagarmut ward get together and honored the elders from the ward and once again came out in flying colors , making the elders happy, who mixed with others in various games not withstanding their age, health . Under the motivation of Gurkar Sri Marshal Andrade, encouragement of Sri John Gonsalves, (one of the founder of AYA) and timely guidance of Sri Herald D’Souza (Ex President AYA) ,Adarsh Youth Association organized this event on 25^th May 2003 at Gurkars residence.

The function was simple but perfect of its kind. Fr Sylvester D’Souza( Parish Priest of Barkur), Sri Gerald Gonsalves vice president ,Parish Council, Kum Divya Furtado, President ICYM, Barkur Unit, Gurkar Sri Andrade and Br Vijay Lobo were at the dias.

Sri Alwyn D’Almeida, President Rotaract Club, Sri Patrick D’Silva, President Catholic Sabha, Sri John Cardoza, President of The society of St. Vincent De Paul, Sri George D’Souza , Gurkar of Hanehalli Vado attended the function.

Sri Gonsalves in his brief address remembered the earlier days of AYA and said if the youth and children are active in Nagarmutt, undoubtedly the credit goes to the AYA.

The programme of the day took off with a prayer song by AYA girls song followed by welcome dance by the children . Sri Alfred Furtado (Director AYA) welcomed the gathering. Sri Lancer Fernandes , President of ICYM, Kallainpur Varado, was honoured by Fr Sylvester D’Souza in typical Indian way. The cultural programme that followed was a medley of songs , dances and skits by the members was enjoyed by all.

Thirteen elderly ladies and gentlemen were honoured by the vicar.Mr. Baptist D’Souza, Mr. Richard Furtado, Mr. Raymond D’Almeida, Mrs. Benedict D’Souza, Mr. Bonaventure D’souza, Mr. Lawrence Fernandes, Mr. Julian Gonsalves, Mrs. Dulcine Fernandes, Mrs. Louisa Andrade, Mrs. Florine Gonsalves, Mrs. Severene D’Lima, Mrs. Rozina fernandes , and Mrs. Veronica Fernandes, were all happy and even participated in games conducted in the gathering mingling with the youngsters.

Mr. Sunny Suares& fly newly settled in Nagarmutt was welcomed to the vado. Mr Gerald Gonsalves said in his address that he had seen the unity ,co-operation, enthusiasm and hard work among the people of Nagarmutt. He complemented the AYA for its hard work for motivating the youngsters in the right direction. Mr Marshall Andrade thanked all those who were behind the success of the function.

Miss Prema Minezes, Mr. Lancer D’Almeida and Mr.Alfred Furtado aptly compeered the programme which ended at 6.p.m with light refreshments served with love. About 125 people from Nagarmutt actively participated in the function.

President, AYA, Nagarmutt. 28/05/2003.

The much awaited ICYM Silver Jubilee Souvenir was released during the morning Mass on Sunday, 18^th May 2003 at St.Peter’s Church Barkur. Rev. Fr. Sylvester D'Souza, Parish Priest released the souvenir and praised the people responsible for the publication of the souvenir which commemorates the 25 years of the fruitful existence of the ICYM Barkur, is a treasure of valuable articles, information about the Parish and reflects the activities of the youth.

Mr. Eric Soans, Editor-in-charge, Miss Divya Furtado, President, ICYM, Mr. Herald D'Souza, Animator, ICYM, Mr. Ivan Suarez, Treasurer, St. Peter's Association (Barkur) Mumbai were present during the occasion.