Context:
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has requested noted archaeologist Amarnath Ramakrishna to revise and resubmit his report on the Keezhadi excavations. The directive highlights the need for improved scientific accuracy and refined period classification in the documentation.
What is Keezhadi?
- Location: Keezhadi is situated near Madurai, along the Vaigai river basin in Tamil Nadu.
- District: Excavation site lies in Pallichanthai Thidal, Sivaganga district.
- Discovered: Systematic excavations began in 2015, after Vaigai valley surveys (2013–14) across 293 sites.
Excavation Highlights
- Scale: Only 1 out of the estimated 100-acre site has been excavated so far.
- Findings:
- Over 4,000 artefacts discovered.
- AMS carbon dating of charcoal indicates urban habitation by 200 BCE.
- Urban features: brick structures, ring wells, water storage tanks, beads, and graffiti-marked pottery.
- Evidence of trade links with North India and the western world during the Sangam Age.
- A uniquely decorated pot, significant for its artistic and cultural value, was also found.
Cultural and Historical Significance
- Urban Tamil Civilization:
- Strong evidence of an organized, literate, and trade-oriented Tamil urban society well before the Common Era.
- Challenges the traditionally North-centric narrative of Indian civilization.
- Literary Correlation:
- Classical Tamil texts such as Tiruvilayadal Puranam mention settlements like Manalur and Konthagai, now linked to Keezhadi findings.
- Craftsmanship and Literacy:
- Pottery with Tamil-Brahmi inscriptions points to widespread literacy.
- Artefacts reflect advanced metallurgy, bead-making, and ceramic craftsmanship.
Why the Report Was Recalled
- ASI cited the need for:
- Greater scientific rigor in dating and contextual analysis.
- Better clarity in chronological sequencing.
- Accuracy in classifying cultural periods and artefact functions.
