The remarkable findings from the archaeological excavations at Keeladi have significantly altered the trajectory of historical research. Instead of focusing solely on burial sites, the spotlight has now shifted towards understanding vibrant community settlements, as highlighted by K. Amarnath Ramakrishna, Director of the National Mission on Monuments and Antiquities, Archaeological Survey of India.
During a captivating lecture titled “The antiquity of the Sangam-era Tamilian and archaeological excavations,” delivered at a Kalam literary organization event in Tiruchi on Saturday, Mr. Ramakrishna discussed the challenges faced in publishing his comprehensive report on Keeladi. He noted a particular demand from the Union Ministry of Culture to revise the dating of the site.
“It is fundamentally impossible to alter the timeline of Keeladi’s ‘Vaigai civilization,’ precisely because it is not a burial site. Carbon dating simply cannot be applied to a living, evolving civilization,” he asserted. He further explained, “Our discoveries unequivocally point to Keeladi as home to an advanced and sophisticated civilization. Expanding our exploration will undoubtedly unveil even more profound insights into Tamil Nadu’s rich and ancient past.”
The esteemed archaeologist emphasized Tamil Nadu’s immense potential for in-depth research into its historical roots, which could illuminate its remarkable achievements throughout history. He lamented that many archaeological scholars have become hesitant to engage with the public, but stressed that “for us in Tamil Nadu, archaeology serves the people, and its vital discoveries must reach them accurately and clearly.”
Mr. Ramakrishna critically observed that the tendency to romanticize history or inaccurately connect literary epics with physical sites is detrimental to building an authentic social record. He underscored the scientific rigor of archaeology, stating, “Archaeology provides irrefutable historical evidence, and as Keeladi has powerfully demonstrated, it elevates the status of the Tamil language and validates its profound historicity.”
He urged for meticulous documentation and deeper study of the intricate details found within Sangam literature. “Currently, our focus largely remains on existing literary works, lacking substantial archaeological evidence for comparison. It is crucial to avoid treating literary narratives as definitive historical proof without corroborating archaeological findings,” he advised.
Mr. Ramakrishna extended his gratitude to his dedicated colleagues at the Keeladi site for their systematic and thorough documentation of all discoveries. “The artifacts unearthed here serve as silent yet powerful witnesses to the history of our ancestors and our evolution as a civilization,” he remarked.
Following his insightful address, Mr. Ramakrishna engaged with students, patiently answering their questions about his pioneering work at Keeladi.