In search of ancient settlements and artefacts, the students led by Prof. Ravi, Department of Epigraphy of PSG College of Arts and Science have discovered astounding facts pertaining to ancient settlement and artefacts in the suburbs of our city.
An enthusiastic team of students from PSG College of Arts and Science have been exploring various places in the city in the intent of discovering ancient settlements who thrived here, a few hundreds of decades ago. The team in search of our roots led by Prof. Ravi have achieved another milestone in their excavation journey. They have discovered that 2500 years old human settlements at the periya Thadagam area.
Upon discovering the site, the entire team were awe-struck to witness the artefacts used by our ancestors which is deemed to be far superior in culture and technology when compared to the period they lived. The artefacts reveal that the group of settlements who thrived here where well developed culturally. The team also have predicted that the people in large numbers have lived here 2500 years ago as the place is rich in natural resources like red soil and abundant ground water.
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When speaking to SimpliCity he said, “This course is offered in only in 4 institutions in Tamil Nadu including PSG College of Arts and Science. Every year many enthusiastic students join the course at the college. History is important for all of us. We have to know our roots, traditions, culture and civilisation from which we have evolved which helps in preservation of our culture. We are exploring the history and the symbols it has left to us.”
“Our students from the department have conducted various researches on epigraphs and objects that were being used by people several years ago. They are also collecting objects of historical importance from various places all across Tamil Nadu. We are able to continue our research thanks to the continuous support in our endeavours from our college management.”
“We have conducted research at various places in Coimbatore. We have found various objects like Muthumakkal Thali (Burial Urn), terracotta vessels and vessels manufactured to process and store vegetables. During the course of our research activities we got information that objects of historical importance were discovered now and then in areas around Periya Thadagam. Myself along with my students have conducted a research at the sites near Periya Thadagam.
We discovered a 'Thaangi' inscribed with letters related to Tami Brahmi script. Archaeological scholars have confirmed that the findings are about 2500 years old. The 'Thaangi' was still in good condition with shine on it still visible which stands as an example of the skills of our ancestors. However, there was a difference of opinion about the meaning of the letters found the 'Thaangi'. They might have used this 'Thaangi' to perform poojas to the Gods' Ravi says.
'Threat to the treasure'
There were many more historical sites in and around Periya Thadagam which were destroyed due to under illegal soil mining activities. Since the area is full of red soil which is the main raw material for brick industries, brick kilns have occupied the area in large numbers posing a serious threat to underground artefacts. However, out team is working tirelessly to discover maximum artefacts in the near future, Prof. Ravi said.