Chennai. The Archaeological Department has achieved great success in Telunganur, the submerged area of Mettur Dam located near Salem district of Tamil Nadu. During the excavation, a complete ancient bowl of black and red color has been recovered from here, which is considered very important in terms of ancient history and script.
Signs of 3200 years old ancient script
This ancient bowl, discovered by the Archeology Department, has five graffiti (marks) inscribed from left to right. This is the longest series of marks ever recorded on artefacts found in this area. Experts believe that this discovery can provide important clues related to a writing system or script that is more than 3200 years old. Archaeologists estimate that it may be an early form of the Tamil-Brahmi script, dating back to the 6th century BCE.
Similarities related to Indus Valley Civilization
According to researchers, Telanganaur and Mangadu, located near Salem, are the twin sites of the Iron Age, dating between 1600 BC to 1200 BC. A study has also shown that there is about 90 percent similarity between the markings found at various sites in the region and the remains of the Indus Valley Civilization, which points to ancient cultural exchange.
Rare weapons and Iron Age remains
Not only pottery, but many rare and ancient materials have also been recovered from this historical excavation site. A 1.9 meter long iron spear, arrowheads, axes, swords, daggers and a possible ancient steel sword were also found here. Apart from this, Iron Age human skeletons and four different types of burial methods (pit, stone box, urn and coffin) have also been seen during the excavation, which gives evidence of a developed and diverse society living here.
