What did a local raja stumble upon while intending to build a temple in 1796?

Ruins of Amravati Stupa

Every stupa carries a unique history, often revealing the process of their construction. But beyond that, these structures also hold tales of remarkable discoveries. In 1796, an incident unfolded when a local raja, with intentions to erect a temple, unexpectedly unearthed the ruins of the Amaravati stupa. His curiosity piqued by the hill-like formation, he hoped to find hidden treasures within. A few years later, in a different chapter of events, Colin Mackenzie, a British official, ventured to the site. Although he meticulously documented his encounters with numerous sculptures and created intricate drawings, these accounts never saw the light of publication.