Keezhadi Excavations

Keezhadi Excavations Latest News

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has asked Amarnath Ramakrishna, the archaeologist who led the Keezhadi excavations, to resubmit his excavation report after revisions.

About Keezhadi Excavation

• The Keezhadi excavation site is located near Madurai in Tamil Nadu, along the Vaigai River.
• It is a major urban Sangam-era settlement, estimated to date between the 5th century BCE and the 3rd century CE.
• It represents one of the most significant archaeological findings in Tamil Nadu since the Adichanallur site.
• Excavations reveal an urban, literate, and craft-oriented society, suggesting early urbanisation in South India independent of North Indian influences.

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Sangam Period

• The term ‘Sangam’ is derived from the Sanskrit word ‘Sangha’, meaning an assembly or association, and refers to Tamil literary academies under the Pandya kings.
• Sangam literature provides vital insights into ancient Tamil society, covering aspects like governance, economy, trade, war, social life, and agriculture.
• Key texts include:
  • Tolkappiyam (oldest Tamil grammar),
  • Pattupattu (Ten Idylls),
  • Ettutogai (Eight Anthologies),
  • Padinenkilkanakku (Eighteen Minor Works),
  • The three great epics (Silappadikaram, Manimekalai, and Civaka Cintamani).

Keezhadi Excavations FAQs

Q1: Where is Keezhadi located?
Ans: Keezhadi is an archaeological site near Sivaganga district in Tamil Nadu, situated on the banks of the Vaigai River.

Q2: What period does the Keezhadi excavation belong to?
Ans: The site dates back to the Sangam period (6th century BCE to 3rd century CE), revealing a highly urbanised civilisation.

Source: TH