Located near the town of Sivaganga in Tamil Nadu, India, Keezhadi – an archaeological site is changing history adding new elements into the pages of history of India. The excavations at Keezhadi have revealed a significant amount of ancient artifacts and structures, shedding light on the history of the region.

The Keezhadi archaeological site is associated with the ancient Pandyan civilization and has provided insights into the urbanization and cultural practices of the region during the Sangam period (around 600 BCE to 300 CE).

The archaeological excavations at Keezhadi began in 2015 and have continued over multiple phases. The findings include pottery, bricks, beads, and other artifacts, as well as well-planned urban structures.

The discovery of well-laid-out streets, drains, and residential structures at Keezhadi suggests a high level of urban planning and organization during the ancient period. The site mainly gained attention due to the discovery of well-planned urban structures and a rich array of artifacts.

Archaeologists have uncovered a range of cultural artifacts, including pottery with intricate designs, jewelry, terracotta figurines, and tools. These findings contribute to the understanding of the material culture and daily life of the ancient inhabitants.

The artifacts found at Keezhadi indicate trade connections with various regions, including Rome and other parts of the Indian subcontinent, highlighting the site’s role in regional and international trade networks.

Some pottery fragments with Tamil-Brahmi script have been discovered at Keezhadi, providing linguistic evidence and contributing to the understanding of ancient scripts used in the Tamil region. Keezhadi is associated with the Sangam period, which spans from approximately 600 BCE to 300 CE.

The Sangam literature provides insights into the political, social, and cultural aspects of this period in South India. The excavations at Keezhadi challenge previous assumptions about the early history of Tamil Nadu, suggesting a continuity of urban civilization in the region.

No matter how much the excavation has proved its richness towards the cultural and literary development of ancient India civilization. The Keezhadi excavations faced initial challenges, including debates about the site’s historical significance and the need for further research. 

Over time, the site gained recognition and support from scholars and researchers, emphasizing its importance for understanding the ancient history of Tamil Nadu. The discoveries at Keezhadi challenge earlier assumptions about the historical development of Tamil Nadu, suggesting a continuity of urban civilization in the region.

Keezhadi has become a crucial archaeological site for scholars studying the ancient history of South India. The findings provide valuable insights into urbanization, trade, and cultural practices during the Sangam period, contributing to a broader understanding of the region’s history and contributing significantly to the broader narrative of South Asian history and civilization.