Excavations in Tamil Nadu’s Pudukottai district have brought to light several significant artifacts from the Sangam Age. Archaeologists from the State Archaeology Department unearthed a gold stud, a bone point, and a carnelian bead at the Porpanaikottai site where a Sangam-age fort is believed to have once stood.
The most eye-catching discovery was a gold stud adorned with a floral design featuring six petals. Dating back to the Sangam Age, the ornament weighing 0.26 grams is speculated to have been used as a nose stud, revealing insights into the cultural practices of that era.
Meanwhile, a bone point and a broken piece of carnelian bead were discovered at a depth of 140-160 cm in another trench. The bone point, intricately carved and featuring pointed ends on both sides, is thought to have been used for weaving. The carnelian bead, a round-shaped red gemstone, is indicative of domestic trade and was possibly sourced from Gujarat.
The Porpanaikottai excavation, inaugurated by Thangam Thennarasu, the Minister for Finance and in charge of the Archaeology Department, has yielded over 150 artifacts, including potsherds, glass bangles, a terracotta lamp, a coin, and a spindle whorl. Additionally, a three-course brick structure was uncovered during the initial days of the excavation.
The site was selected for excavation based on studies conducted using Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) technology, which suggested the presence of a fort at Porpanaikottai. Within the fort, archaeologists believe there was a habitation mound covering an area of 1.26 hectares.
Currently, eight trenches, six of which are situated on privately-owned properties, are being excavated. The team, consisting of 35 workers under the supervision of Excavation Director T. Thangadurai, is focused on exploring the habitation mound area.
The discoveries at Porpanaikottai provide valuable insights into the art, culture, and domestic trade during the Sangam Age. Through diligent excavation and analysis, archaeologists continue to unravel the rich history of Tamil Nadu, shedding light on the lives and practices of our ancient ancestors.
