By Tim Binnall
Researchers in India have unearthed dozens of sizeable stone jars and the origin as well as the purpose of the peculiar vessels is a mystery. The intriguing series of discoveries were reportedly made by scientists from the Australian National University as they were conducting field surveys of "densely forested regions" in the Indian state of Assam. As the normally routine process was unfolding, however, the team were taken aback when they began finding rather large jars protruding from the ground. Amazingly, they ultimately discovered a staggering 65 of the peculiar ancient objects spread out over four different sites.
The vessels are particularly vexing the researchers as they present an array of unanswered questions. "We still don't know who made the giant jars or where they lived," explained team member Nicholas Skopal, "it's all a bit of a mystery." Experts also say that the purpose of the odd objects is also something of a puzzle with the prevalent theory being that they were used for burial rituals as has been seen in the practices of ancient peoples in neighboring countries like Laos. The group now hopes to locate any additional 'jar sites' in the area so that the locations can be protected and the curious objects studied in order to unravel the mystery surrounding them.