The recent discovery by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) at Keeladi, a small hamlet in South Tamil Nadu, has unearthed significant evidence that points to an urban civilization that existed along the banks of the Vaigai river during the Sangam era. This historic revelation also links back to the Iron Age, further development and potential affiliations with Indus Valley Civilization.
The Keeladi Findings: An Overview
Keeladi is situated in the Sivaganga district in South Tamil Nadu, just about 12 km south-east of the holy city of Madurai. The initial archeological excavations carried out in Keeladi from 2015 revealed that this place was once a hub of cultural, commercial, and societal activities during the ancient Sangam era.
Over eight rounds of excavations, more than 18,000 artifacts have been uncovered, further reinforcing the existence of an advanced civilization in this region. These unique pieces will be displayed in an upcoming museum in Sivaganga.
Key Discoveries at Keeladi
Many elements unearthed at Keeladi hint at a flourishing local industry. Heaps of pottery, made mostly from locally available raw materials, suggest a thriving pottery-making industry. Over a thousand inscribed potsherds have been found, indicating the long survival of the Tamil Brahmi script.
Signs of a weaving industry were also found, evidenced by spindle whorls, copper needles, terracotta seals, hanging stones of yarn, terracotta spheres, and liquid-holding earthen vessels. Other industries included dyeing and glass bead making.
The prosperous lifestyle of the Keeladi people is reflected in the discovery of gold ornaments, copper articles, semi-precious stones, shell and ivory bangles, and ivory combs. Gamesmen, terracotta and ivory dice, and evidences of hopscotch were also discovered, revealing their pastime activities.
The Significance of this Discovery and its Linkages with the Sangam Age
The Sangam age refers to a historic period in ancient Tamil Nadu, believed to have existed from the 3rd century BCE to the 3rd century CE. Recent findings at Keeladi have pushed back the start of the Sangam era to 800 BCE.
The discoveries made at Keeladi provide significant evidence bridging the gap between the Iron Age and the Early Historic Period as well as shine light on cultural developments of that time. This site is considered part of the Vaigai Valley Civilization and exhibits characteristics of an urban civilization, including brick structures, luxury items, and signs of internal and external trade, which showcases the industrious and advanced civilization that once existed here.
Potential Link with the Indus Valley Civilization
The unearthed artifacts from Keeladi have led academics to compare this site with the Indus Valley Civilization. Although there exists a 1000-year cultural gap between the two places, the Iron Age material found in south India bridges this gap.
The Controversy Surrounding Keeladi
Despite potential links with the Indus Valley Civilization, a lack of “significant findings” in the third round of excavation was seen as an attempt to downplay the excavation findings. However, after the intervention of the Madras High Court, the Tamil Nadu State Archaeology Department (TNSDA) took over the excavations.
About the Sangam Era
The word ‘Sangam’ is a Tamil form of the Sanskrit word Sangha, meaning a group or association. The Tamil Sangam was an academy of poets. Sangam literature provides information on the social and public life of that era, such as government, war, trade, worship, and agriculture.
Understanding Tamil-Brahmi Script
The Brahmi script was the earliest script used by the Tamils. In the late ancient and early medieval period, they evolved a new angular script, called the Grantha script, which modern Tamil is derived from.
The Vaigai River
The east-flowing Vaigai river basin is an important basin among the twelve basins lying between the Cauvery and Kanyakumari. This basin is bounded by the Cardamom Hills, the Palani Hills on the West and by the Palk Strait, and Palk Bay on the East.
These findings at Keeladi are not merely an archaeological breakthrough but also a treasure trove of information about the Sangam era’s socio-economic conditions and lifestyle. They provide valuable insights into the cultural heritage of ancient Tamil Nadu, filling many gaps in our understanding of South India’s historical timeline.