Tamil Nadu Seeks ASI Approval To Excavate Seven Ancient Sites Linked To Sangam, Chola Eras

The Tamil Nadu state archaeology department has sought permission from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to excavate seven new sites across the state, alongside approval for the eleventh season of excavations at Keezhadi near Madurai, Times of India reported.

So far, only 4 per cent of Keezhadi’s Sangam-age cultural deposits have reportedly been unearthed.

The proposed sites include a Buddhist vihara at the Chola port town of Nagapattinam, a Sangam-era glass bead-making centre in Cuddalore, and sites where Roman gold coins were found in Coimbatore and Tenkasi.

Excavations are also planned at Iron Age sites in Adichanur near Tirukoyilur and Thelunganur near Salem, as well as a conch shell ornaments-making unit at Pattinamarudur in Tuticorin.

According to the ToI report, the state department will collaborate with the Field Museum in Chicago and IIT Gandhinagar to study glass beads and their links to Indo-Pacific trade.

Experts believe these sites could shed light on Tamil Nadu’s role in maritime trade, metallurgy, and cultural exchange.

Findings at Nagapattinam may reveal more about Chola naval expeditions, while conch shell workshops at Tuticorin are expected to confirm Sangam-era references to coastal craft traditions.

At Thelunganur, where a carbon-dated steel sword from 1200–1400 BCE was recovered, further work may reveal the global role of South Indian steel.

Archaeologists say these excavations could significantly expand knowledge of Tamil Nadu’s ancient industries, trade routes, and connections with the wider world.

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