11th Phase of Keeladi Dig Reveals Continuous Brick Structures, Drainage System

The 11th phase of excavation at the Keeladi archaeological site in Tamil Nadu has uncovered continuous brick structures and more than 1,300 artefacts, according to the Tamil Nadu State Department of Archaeology (TNSDA). The site, located near Madurai in Sivagangai district, has been under excavation since March 18, 2024, with work focused on an area south of the on-site museum.

Ramesh Masethung, Director of Keeladi Excavations, said that brick structures were found across all nine quadrants dug in this phase. These structures extend westward and northward beyond the excavated area. Earlier excavations had found brick structures near the museum, but a subsequent adjacent area revealed no structural remains. The current findings mark a return of such discoveries.

In addition to the brick structures, a terracotta pipeline and a closed drainage system were identified in one quadrant. The artefacts recovered include clay hopscotches, terracotta beads and spindles, iron knives, chisels, swords, and nails. Semi-precious stones such as amethyst, carnelian, agate, banded agate, and ivory dice were also found. Tiny gold ornaments, each less than a centimetre in size, were unearthed as well.

Four intact pots were discovered, one with a handle and another bearing a fish symbol inscribed on its shoulder. Masethung noted that an open drainage system found in one quadrant suggests the area may have been an industrial zone, though confirmation awaits further studies. Organic materials from the site will be sent for carbon dating.

The excavation is expected to continue until September, depending on rainfall. This phase follows earlier work by the Archaeological Survey of India (first three phases) and subsequent phases by TNSDA.