Marine Archaeology Growth in India: Tamilnadu's Coastal Heritage
By Shri. Natana Kasinathan
Summary
The growth of marine archaeology in India, particularly Tamil Nadu, has revealed significant historical maritime activities. Key western ports like Lothal (2500–1500 BCE) and later Barygaza (3rd century BCE) facilitated trade with Alexandria and Musiri, a Chera port linked to Sangam-era exchanges. Roman commercial ties are evidenced by Celuid, Phoenician, and Roman coins found in Karur and Eyyel. On the eastern coast, Tamil Nadu’s Arikamedu, Kaviripumpattinam, and Alagankulam hosted foreign settlements, with Chinese contacts dating to 2nd century BCE, confirmed by coin discoveries in Olaiyakunnap. Ports like Tamluk, Konarak, and Visakapattinam maintained trade with Southeast Asia and Sri Lanka, as noted in Sangam literature like *Pattinapalai*. Marine archaeology remains nascent, with initiatives like Dr. S.R. Rao’s offshore explorations at Dwaraka and Somanathaprabhas. Tamil Nadu pioneered underwater heritage preservation, conducting surveys at Pumpuhar, where divers located structures, shipwrecks, and artifacts like inscribed bricks and coins. Geophysical studies suggest submerged structures align with historical accounts of Indra festival neglect causing submersion. Similar explorations around Kanyakumari uncovered microlithic tools (20,000–10,000 BCE), hinting at a submerged continent, possibly "Lemuria," referenced in Tamil legends like *Iraiyanar Kalaviyal Urai*. The state plans further geophysical surveys using sonar and magnetometers to locate lost cities like South Madurai and Kabadapuram. These efforts underscore Tamil Nadu’s role in advancing marine archaeology to uncover India’s submerged historical landscapes.
Conclusion
The growth of marine archaeology in India, particularly in Tamil Nadu, has revealed extensive historical and cultural connections through offshore explorations and discoveries of submerged structures. Key findings include the identification of ancient ports like Pumpuhar, with evidence of foreign trade and settlements, and the detection of submerged structures through geophysical surveys. These explorations, supported by advanced technologies and international collaborations, have provided insights into Tamil Nadu's maritime history, including its role in ancient trade networks and the submergence of coastal cities. The discovery of artifacts, shipwrecks, and coins underscores the region's significance in early global commerce. Continued research and large-scale offshore operations hold potential for uncovering more of India's submerged heritage, enhancing understanding of its historical maritime landscape.