Tamil Civilization

GS 1 – Ancient India

Context: The report Antiquity of Iron: Recent Radiometric Dates from Tamil Nadu states that iron usage in Tamil Nadu dates back to the first quarter of the 4th millennium BCE, marking the beginning of the Iron Age in the region.

About Tamil Civilization:

• What is Tamil Civilization?
  Tamil Civilization is one of the oldest known civilizations, with evidence of advanced urban life, trade, and metallurgy dating back over 5,300 years. It flourished along major rivers such as Thamirabarani, Vaigai, and Noyyal, forming a continuous cultural and economic network.
• Major Archaeological Sites & Their Significance:
  • Sivagalai (2953 BCE – 3345 BCE):
    A key Iron Age site with evidence of paddy cultivation (1155 BCE), skeletal remains, and iron tools, confirming early metallurgy in Tamil Nadu.
  • Keeladi (6th Century BCE):
    An urban settlement featuring Tamil-Brahmi inscriptions, a flourishing weaving industry, and advanced craftsmanship, reflecting early Tamil urban culture.
  • Adichanallur (3rd Millennium BCE):
    Known as the oldest burial site with gold diadems, microlithic tools, and Tamil-Brahmi potsherds, pointing to a highly advanced ancient civilization.
  • Korkai (785 BCE):
    Once the capital of Pandya kings, it revealed a shell bangle-making industry and trade links with the Gangetic plains, highlighting maritime trade.
  • Mayiladumparai (4,200 Years Ago):
    Evidence of early Iron Age presence in Tamil Nadu, with discoveries of memorial stones, Tamil-Brahmi potsherds, and Neolithic tools.
  • Kodumanal (2,000 Years Ago):
    A major industrial hub known for carnelian beads, inscribed potsherds, and Sangam-era trade, marking its role in ancient Tamil commerce.
  • Gangaikondacholapuram (11th Century CE):
    Former capital of the Chola dynasty, where excavations revealed palace ruins, copper bracelets, and medieval city structures, showcasing Tamil architectural grandeur.
  • Porpanaikottai (Sangam Age):
    Excavations uncovered Sangam-age fort ruins, iron nails, glass beads, and terracotta artifacts, indicating an advanced defense and trade network.
  • Pallavaram (Paleolithic Age, 1863 Discovery):
    One of the oldest inhabited locations, with evidence of prehistoric human settlements, hand axes, and terracotta sarcophagi, proving early human occupation.