Background of the Keeladi Excavation
- The Keeladi excavation site is located near the Vaigai River in Tamil Nadu.
- Initiated in 2014 by archaeologist K. Amarnath Ramakrishna, the site has yielded over 7,500 artifacts, including brick structures, wells, and drainage systems.
- Findings suggest the presence of a well-planned urban settlement dating back to around the 2nd century BCE, aligning with the Sangam period.
Relevance : GS 1(Culture ,Heritage)
Scientific Significance of the Findings
- Carbon dating and stratigraphy techniques were used to estimate the age of the site.
- The absence of religious symbols suggested a civic and secular lifestyle in the ancient settlement.
- The findings contributed to the understanding of urbanisation and literacy in ancient South India.
Submission of the Report
- In 2021, Mr. Ramakrishna submitted a 982-page report based on the first two phases of excavation (2014–2016).
- The report detailed the site’s chronology and the scientific methods used to date the artifacts.
ASI’s Request for Revision
- After reviewing the report for over two years, the ASI requested revisions in early 2024.
- The ASI raised questions regarding the dating and depth of the artifacts, seeking further scientific validation.
- Mr. Ramakrishna declined to revise the report, stating that it adhered to established archaeological standards, including Accelerator Mass Spectrometry (AMS) and stratigraphic sequencing.
Administrative Developments
- Mr. Ramakrishna was transferred to a different role in June 2024, moving from his previous post in Delhi to Greater Noida.
- His new position is within the National Mission on Monuments and Antiquities (NMMA).
Ongoing Work and Public Interest
- Since 2019, the Tamil Nadu State Department of Archaeology has continued further excavation and published its own findings.
- A museum dedicated to Keeladi has been established to display artifacts and educate the public.
- The site continues to attract attention from researchers, students, and visitors interested in ancient history.
Conclusion
- The Keeladi excavation has made a significant contribution to the understanding of early urban life in South India.
- Scientific discussions about dating methods and interpretation are part of the natural process of archaeological review and validation.
- The ongoing research aims to further uncover and preserve the historical and cultural insights offered by this important site.
