More brick structures, important features unearthed at Keeladi archaeological site in Tamil Nadu
Continuous brick structures were found across all nine quadrants during the 11th phase of excavation that began on March 18 this year
360° Perspective Analysis
Deep-dive into Geography, Polity, Economy, History, Environment & Social dimensions — AI-powered, on-demand
Context
The 11th phase of excavations at the archaeological site in Tamil Nadu has revealed continuous brick structures and over 1,300 artefacts. Conducted by the , these findings, including an open drainage system, terracotta pipelines, and various tools and ornaments, suggest a highly developed urban settlement and potential industrial activity during the Sangam era.
UPSC Perspectives
Historical
The ongoing excavations at , located on the banks of the , are crucial for understanding the urbanization of ancient Tamil Nadu, often referred to as the Sangam period. The discovery of extensive brick structures and a sophisticated drainage system challenges previous assumptions and provides concrete evidence of a highly organized, urbanized settlement. This pushes back the antiquity of the Sangam era, aligning it closer to the urbanization seen in the Gangetic plains. The artefacts found, such as semi-precious stones (amethyst, carnelian) and tiny gold ornaments, point towards a prosperous society with established trade networks, potentially both internal and maritime, a hallmark of the Sangam economy. For UPSC Prelims, remembering the location (Vaigai river basin), the agencies involved ( initially, now ), and the key findings (brick structures, drainage, specific artefacts) is vital.
Cultural
The material culture unearthed at offers a window into the daily life, technology, and art of the ancient Tamils. The presence of terracotta beads, spindles, iron tools, and ivory dice indicates a society with specialized craftsmanship and leisure activities. The discovery of pots, notably one with a fish symbol, is significant. The fish symbol is often associated with the ancient Pandya dynasty, suggesting political or cultural affiliations. Furthermore, the findings, particularly the inscribed potsherds found in previous phases (Tamil-Brahmi script), are pivotal in understanding the literacy levels and linguistic evolution of the region, emphasizing that a literate society existed in southern India earlier than previously thought. The site's findings continuously enrich our understanding of India's diverse and deep-rooted cultural heritage.
Methodological
The process of archaeological excavation and dating is a key aspect of this news. The shift from the to the highlights the role of state agencies in preserving regional heritage. The article mentions sending organic materials for carbon dating (specifically Radiocarbon dating or C-14 dating), a crucial scientific method used to determine the exact age of archaeological finds. This scientific corroboration is essential for establishing a reliable chronological framework for the Sangam period, moving away from purely literary sources to empirical, material evidence. Aspirants should understand the basic principles of these dating methods and the distinction between the roles of central and state archaeological bodies in heritage management.