Madurai: The Keeladi excavation team has made a significant discovery in the ongoing phase 11 excavation, finding postholes filled with river sand at a depth of two metres. This technique, according to excavation director Ramesh Masethung, was a sophisticated method designed to prevent termite infestation and decay in wooden posts.
Ancient Termite Prevention Method
Retired archaeologist Santhalingam explained that these posts were used for erecting thatched roofs or sheds. “For example, a thatched shed was erected on the ‘thinnai’ (traditional raised veranda), and normally those pole holes used to be filled with river sand in order to prevent termite infestation. This method retains the strength of the erection,” he said.
Phase 11 Excavation Details
Phase 11 is being conducted on the southern side of the existing excavation site, revealing significant extensions to previously identified structures. To date, nine quadrants have been explored in this phase. Six of these quadrants contain complex structural activity, while others feature ring wells, terracotta pipelines, and dense clusters of vessels.
Ramesh Masethung stated that approximately 1,000 antiquities have been unearthed so far, comprising terracotta, iron, copper, and glass objects.
Discovery of Intact Pot
Earlier in May, a cluster of vessels was unearthed, including one big-sized red-slipped ware pot and a small-sized pot of black-slipped ware, along with some broken pieces of pots and partially broken red-slipped ware. All these clay artifacts were found intact from a depth of three to four feet.
“It’s significant that the artifact was found intact without any major damages, unearthed along with clusters of pots. The pot measures approximately less than one foot in height and 12cm in diameter,” the director added.
He stated that comparative dating indicates the pot dates back to the 3rd century BC and that similar pots have been excavated previously. The pot could have been made indigenously, and its discovery will help in the study of types of ancient wares. “We can confirm the usage of this pot only after the residue analysis,” he added.
