Latest news with #ArchaeologicalSurveyofIndia
Asharq Al-Awsat
2 hours ago
- General
- Asharq Al-Awsat
Ancient Site Sparks Heated Political Debate about India's Past
The Keeladi village in India's southern Tamil Nadu state has unearthed archeological finds that have sparked a political and historical debate. Amid coconut groves, a series of 15ft (4.5m) deep trenches reveal ancient artifacts buried in layers of soil - fragments of terracotta pots, and traces of long-lost brick structures, BBC reported on Monday. Experts from the Tamil Nadu State Department of Archaeology estimate the artifacts to be 2,000 to 2,500 years old, with the oldest dating back to around 580 BCE. They say these findings challenge and reshape existing narratives about early civilization in the Indian subcontinent. With politicians, historians, and epigraphists weighing in, Keeladi has moved beyond archaeology, becoming a symbol of state pride and identity amid competing historical narratives. Yet history enthusiasts say it remains one of modern India's most compelling and accessible discoveries - offering a rare opportunity to deepen understanding of a shared past. Keeladi, a village 12km (7 miles) from Madurai on the banks of the Vaigai river, was one of 100 sites shortlisted for excavation by Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) archaeologist Amarnath Ramakrishnan in 2013. He selected a 100-acre site there because of its proximity to ancient Madurai and the earlier discovery of red-and-black pottery ware by a schoolteacher in 1975. Ajay Kumar, leading the state archaeology team at Keeladi, said the key finds are elaborate brick structures and water systems - evidence of a 2,500-year-old urban settlement. 'This was a literate, urban society where people had separate spaces for habitation, burial practices and industrial work,' Kumar said, noting it's the first large, well-defined ancient urban settlement found in southern India. William Daniel, a teacher from neighboring Kerala, said the discoveries made him feel proud about his heritage. 'It gives people from the south [of India] something to feel proud about, that our civilization is just as ancient and important as the one in the north [of India],' he said. The politics surrounding Keeladi reflects a deep-rooted north-south divide - underscoring how understanding the present requires grappling with the past. India's first major civilization, the Indus Valley, emerged in the north and central regions between 3300 and 1300 BCE. After its decline, a second urban phase, the Vedic period, rose in the Gangetic plains, lasting until the 6th Century BCE. This phase saw major cities, powerful kingdoms and the rise of Vedic culture - a foundation for Hinduism. As a result, urbanization in ancient India is often viewed as a northern phenomenon, with a dominant narrative that the northern Aryans "civilized" the Dravidian south. This is especially evident in the mainstream understanding of the spread of literacy. It is believed that the Ashokan Brahmi script - found on Mauryan king Ashoka's rock edicts in northern and central India, dating back to the 3rd Century BCE - is the predecessor of most scripts in South and Southeast Asia. Epigraphists like Iravatham Mahadevan and Y Subbarayalu have long held the view that the Tamil Brahmi script - the Tamil language spoken in Tamil Nadu and written in the Brahmi script - was an offshoot of the Ashokan Brahmi script. But now, archaeologists from the Tamil Nadu state department say that the excavations at Keeladi are challenging this narrative. 'We have found graffiti in the Tamil Brahmi script dating back to the 6th Century BCE, which shows that it is older than the Ashokan Brahmi script. We believe that both scripts developed independently and, perhaps, emerged from the Indus Valley script,' Kumar said. Epigraphist S Rajavelu, former professor of marine archaeology at the Tamil University, agrees with Kumar and said other excavation sites in the state too have unearthed graffiti in the Tamil Brahmi script dating back to the 5th and 4th Century BCE. But some experts say that more research and evidence are needed to conclusively prove the antiquity of the Tamil Brahmi script.
NDTV
5 hours ago
- General
- NDTV
No Hidden Chamber In Puri Jagannath Temple's Ratna Bhandar: ASI
Puri: The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) on Tuesday said there is no hidden chamber in the Ratna Bhandar of the Jagannath temple in Puri. The ASI has recently completed the restoration and repair of the Ratna Bhandar. In a post on X, detailing the restoration works, it said, "..there were no hidden spaces (in Ratna Bhadar)." The ASI said it was confirmed on the basis of a Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) survey. It said the Ratna Bhandar, or treasury, comprises two parts -- 'Bhitara' Ratnabhandara and 'Bahara' Bhandara, which are separated by an iron gate, locked from the outside. "After inspecting both the chambers, it was decided to take up a GPR survey to identify if there are any hidden chambers or shelves inside the walls or under the floor," it said. "The report of the #GPR survey conducted in September 2024 confirmed that there were no hidden spaces. Following the report, conservation began on 17 December 2024. It started with scaffolding in both Bhitara and Bahara Bhandara," it added. The Ratna Bhandar is attached to the northern entrance of the Jagamohana or assembly hall of the temple, the ASI said. Constructed from khondalite stone, Ratna Bhandar was intended to house the valuables of the Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, Devi Subhadra and Shree Sudarshana, it said. The conservation work was carried out at the Ratna Bhandar in two phases, from December 17, 2024, to April 28, 2025, and from June 28 to July 7. As part of it, the ASI team undertook de-plastering of the inner ceiling, corbels, niches, walls, and outer facade to assess the structure. "Damaged stones and loose joints were discovered. Joints were sealed, followed by chemical cleaning, both inside and outside," it said. The damaged stone pieces were replaced with new khondalite blocks matching the original profiles. All corbel stones were examined and replaced as needed, it added. The rust-damaged wrought iron beams in the niches were also replaced with stainless steel box beams, and grouting was done in various locations, the agency said. Ratna Bhandar's flooring was also replaced with granite stone over a cushioned sandstone base, ensuring slope for drainage and smooth door operation. The inner iron grill gate was also chemically cleaned and repainted with golden preservative paint, it said. The inner chamber of the Ratna Bhandar was opened after 46 years on July 14 last year for the repair work, and inventory.
The Hindu
7 hours ago
- The Hindu
Chennai Metro Rail Limited to do detailed feasibility study for setting up cable cars, ropeways in Mamallapuram, Ooty, and Kodaikanal
Imagine hopping onto a cable car and taking in the spectacular aerial view of the Shore Temple in Mamallapuram, the botanical garden in Udhagamandalam, or the Green Valley in Kodaikanal. Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) has started work to hire a consultant to carry out a detailed feasibility study to see if cable-propelled transport systems, such as cable cars and ropeways, can be set up in Mamallapuram, Udhagamandalam, and Kodaikanal connecting some of the popular tourist spots. For instance, at Mamallapuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the plan to check if it will be viable to operate a cable car or ropeway linking tourist hotspots such as the Shore Temple, Mamallapuram Beach, Lighthouse, Pancha Rathas, Krishna's Butterball, Arjuna's Penance, India Seashell Museum, Sculpture Museum, Tiger Cave, Mahishasuramardini Cave Temple, and Varaha Cave Temple. CMRL has invited bids seeking consultants for the study and also look into improving traffic management in Mamallapuram, Kodaikanal, and Udhagamandalam. In Kodaikanal, CMRL is looking at connectivity from the foothills to Kodaikanal Town while also linking tourist attractions such as Vattakanal Waterfalls, Green Valley Viewpoint, Guna Cave, and Moir's Point. In Udhagamandalam, the plan is to link locations such as the botanical garden, Rose Garden, Boat House, and Doddabetta Peak. After carrying out surveys, consultants suggest several alignment options and best routes that will attract a lot of traffic. They also study different technologies used in cable-propelled transport systems and determine the most suitable one. This aside, they will also do detailed traffic projections for 30 years, fare structure, financial models, among others. This project will need in-principle approvals from the Coastal Regulatory Authority and the Archaeological Survey of India. There will also be studies on the potential environmental consequences, socio-economic impact assessment, seismic and geological impact assessment.
Time of India
12 hours ago
- Time of India
Sudha Murty Shines Light on Leh Palace: Why This 17th-Century Wonder in Ladakh Deserves a Spot on Your Travel List
While most of Leh itineraries include adventure activities and sleeping under the stars and bike trips, people often miss out on mentioning Leh Palace. The forgotten gem tucked away in the mountains echoes tales of a once-flourishing Himalayan dynasty. The 17-century palace is an architectural wonder and is doing rounds on social media thanks to the recently received a heartfelt love from author and philanthropist Sudha Murty . Calling it 'very peaceful' and 'beautiful,' she wrote on X, 'Leh Palace, an impressive 17th-century royal residence, stands proudly in Ladakh. It was constructed by King Sengge Namgyal and takes its architectural cues from the iconic Potala Palace in Lhasa, Tibet. Today, it has been transformed into a captivating museum, showcasing a remarkable collection of artifacts, intricate paintings and ancient scriptures. ' Let's have a closer look at the palace: Leh Palace is a hidden treasure offering a glimpse into Leh's golden past. The palace was built in the 17th century by Sengge Namgyal and served as the royal residence of the Namgyal dynasty. This kingdom ruled the mountains for centuries. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Pune: Unsold Furniture Liquidation 2024 (Prices May Surprise You) Unsold Furniture | Search Ads Learn More Undo A look at the palace and you'll be able to tell that its architecture is inspired by the Potala Palace in Lhasa, Tibet. In an interview, Sudha Murty said, 'People usually go to Leh and Ladakh and visit Pangong Lake. But there is a beautiful palace there. The king and queen of Ladakh still live there. That palace is more than 300 years old. Not many know about it. It is very peaceful. I liked that very much.' Her words are inspiring. She urged travellers to look beyond famous attractions and just focus on the lesser-known gems waiting to be discovered. Today, the Leh Palace might look a little worn-off, its grandeur is still conspicuous. Once here, you'll immediately be transported to the bygone era. The dimly-lit corridors and wooden balconies add to the whole experience. What to Expect The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) maintains the Leh Palace. As of now, the palace is partially restored and public is allowed despite much of the original palace in ruins. Here you can visit: Museum which showcases ancient murals, royal costumes, and weapons. You can enjoy gorgeous views of the Leh town and the Stok Kangri peak from the upper floors How to Reach By Air : The nearest airport serving the palace is the Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh. It is about 5 km from the city center and is located just above the Leh Bazaar region. It's an easy hike but taxis are also available. Best Time to Visit The months between May and September are considered the best time to explore Leh Palace. Perfect for exploration and photography! This is also the time when roads are snow free and accessible. Tips Carry comfortable mountain shoes. It's advisable to hire a local guide. So, if you're planning a trip to Leh-Ladakh in the coming time, make sure you add Leh Palace to your itinerary for an exclusive offbeat experience.
Time of India
a day ago
- General
- Time of India
Atsu seeks preservation of Ahom-era monuments in Sivasagar, revival of Pohugarh & Jamuna Lake
Dibrugarh: All Tai Ahom Students' Union (Atsu) on Monday sought urgent govt intervention for the preservation of Ahom-era monuments, resolution of waterlogging issues, and the revival of Asia's first natural zoo, Pohugarh. The student body also raised concerns over encroachment at Jamuna Lake, a centuries-old water body built during the Ahom dynasty at a press conference at the historic Rang Ghar in Sivasagar. Atsu Sivasagar district executive president, Madhujya Chetia, outlined key demands. "The Ahom monuments in Sivasagar are symbols of our heritage and pride. However, neglect and poor maintenance threaten their existence," Chetia said. The student body highlighted the need for scientific conservation of Ahom-era structures, including the Rang Ghar, Talatal Ghar, and Kareng Ghar. Chetia said these monuments witness heavy footfall daily, raising concerns about structural safety. "The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) must conduct a scientific assessment of the people-carrying capacity of these monuments. We need to know how many visitors these structures can safely accommodate at a time," he added. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 20 Highest Paying Degrees For 2025 Best Paying Degrees | Search Ads Learn More Undo Another pressing issue highlighted was the persistent waterlogging problem at Rang Ghar after heavy rainfall. The iconic amphitheatre, often called Asia's oldest surviving pavilion, suffers from poor drainage, leading to waterlogging. "Every monsoon, water accumulates on the Rang Ghar campus. It faces structural threats from accumulated water that seeps into its foundation. The govt must take immediate steps to improve drainage and prevent further deterioration," the Atsu leader said. He demanded the revival of Pohugarh, believed to be Asia's first natural zoo, established during the reign of Ahom King Swargadeo Rudra Singha. Once a thriving wildlife sanctuary, Pohugarh now lies in neglect. "Pohugarh is a testament to the Ahom dynasty's vision for wildlife conservation. The govt must restore it to its former glory and promote it as a heritage tourism site," Chetia said. The union raised alarm over illegal encroachments around Jamuna Lake, a serene water body built during the Ahom rule. The lake, once a vital water source, is now shrinking due to unauthorised constructions. "Jamuna Lake is part of our history, but encroachers are destroying it. The administration must clear all illegal occupations and protect this heritage site," Chetia added. Atsu has given the authorities a one-week deadline to respond to their demands and initiate concrete preservation measures.
