Significant Archaeological Discovery at Kerala

Source: This post on Significant Archaeological Discovery at Kanhirapoil, Kerala has been created based on the article “Rock-cut footprints, human figure dating back to Megalithic period unearthed at Kerala’s Kanhirapoil” published in The Hindu on 22nd November 2024.

Why in news?

A major archaeological discovery has been made at Kanhirapoil, located in the Madikkai grama panchayat of Kasaragod district, Kerala. The find provides fascinating insights into the prehistoric culture of the region.

Details of the Discovery

1. A set of rock carvings was discovered on private property in Kanhirapoil, Kerala. These include 24 pairs of footprints carved into the rock and an intricately etched human figure surrounded by four circular pits.

2. Key Features of the Carvings: The carvings are believed to date back to the Megalithic period, approximately 2,000 years ago. They were created using iron tools.

The footprints range in size from 6 to 10 inches, indicating representations of both adults and children. All of the footprints are oriented westward.

3. Experts suggest that the footprints symbolize the souls of the deceased and were likely carved to honor them. However, local people believe that the footprints belong to a goddess.

4. The artistic style and symbolism of the carvings are similar to prehistoric rock art found in Avalakki Pera in Udupi district, Karnataka, and other sites in north Kerala.

5. Historical Context: The carvings offer valuable insights into the cultural and artistic practices of the region’s prehistoric inhabitants.

6. Similar artefacts and carvings have been found in other parts of north Kerala, such as Erikulam Valiyapara, Cheemeni Ariyittapara, Ettukudukka, and the renowned Edakkal Caves in Wayanad. These discoveries point to a shared cultural heritage in prehistoric north Kerala.

7. Implications: This discovery highlights the historical importance of the region and reinforces the need for further archaeological exploration.

8. It sheds light on the artistic expressions and cultural traditions of Kerala’s early inhabitants, inviting deeper studies into the ancient past of the area.

UPSC Syllabus: Art and culture