Astronomer Balabharathi has called for an archaeological investigation near Kalaiyarkovil, Sivaganga, where evidence of a megalithic structure has been discovered. He highlighted the significance of the site, similar to ancient structures found in Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka. A group of 50 members from the Kumbakonam Local History Research Society conducted field studies at various locations, including Kalaiyarkovil, Aranmanai Siruvayal, Thirumalai, Thirukoshtiyur, Ilaiyathangudi, and Iraniyur, and found several megalithic traces.
Following this, Balabharathi examined the stone arrangements in the Purachadai Udaippa region near Kalaiyarkovil, which he believes were used to understand the north-south movement of the sun. He noted that the area is surrounded by ancient settlements where people of the megalithic age, known for their black-and-red pottery, buried their ancestors in "Emakkadu" and arranged long stones as part of their rituals.
He explained that these structures were likely built to track celestial movements and are similar to other megalithic sites found in neighboring states like Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka. The excavation near Purachadai Udaippa also revealed artifacts like black-colored earthen vessels and black-and-red pottery, which could provide insights into the megalithic civilization's history if further archaeological work is conducted.
The study was led by A. Gopinath, president of the Kumbakonam Local History Research Society, with participation from archaeological researchers like Ramesh and Surendran. The team also visited historical sites in Karaikudi, Thirukkolakudi, and Boolangkurrichi to expand their understanding of regional history.
