Was Keeladi, an ancient South Indian Civilised culture?

The Keeladi controversy refers to the political, historical, and cultural debates surrounding the archaeological excavations at Keeladi, a village near Sivaganga in Tamil Nadu, India. The conventional narratives of early Indian civilization that are centered on the North face challenges because these excavations have revealed evidence of an ancient urban civilization in southern India that dates at least to the sixth century BCE. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

 🏺 What is Keeladi?

 The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and the Tamil Nadu State Department of Archaeology carried out excavations at Keeladi, which revealed the following: A planned community in the city Brick structures and management of water Pottery with Tamil-Brahmi script

 Advanced craftsmanship in tools and ornaments

 Links to the Sangam era

 Radiocarbon dating suggests the site may be from as early as the 6th century BCE, around the same time as later phases of the Indus Valley Civilization and before the rise of the Mauryan Empire in North India.

 ⚔️ Why is it Controversial?

 Challenge to the Theory of Aryan Migration: Findings at Keeladi are seen by some as evidence of a distinct Dravidian civilization, possibly predating or independent of the so-called Aryan migrations into India.

 This potentially undermines the "Aryan-centric" view of Indian history taught for decades.

 Delay & Alleged Suppression by ASI:

 It was alleged that the ASI delayed reports, halted excavations, and transferred key involved archaeologists. Critics alleged this was an attempt to downplay the site's importance, possibly due to political reasons under the central government at the time.

Political Overtones:

Dravidian parties in Tamil Nadu (like DMK) have embraced Keeladi to promote Tamil identity and pride, asserting an independent Tamil civilization.

 The Keeladi findings are politically sensitive because many groups frequently promote a unified Vedic/Hindu civilization narrative. Academic Disputes:

 Some historians and archaeologists question the interpretation of findings.

 There has been discussion about the methods for dating, continuity claims with the Indus Valley, and conclusions regarding literacy and urbanization. 

📜 Key Developments:

 2015: Excavations begin under ASI.

 2016–2017: Findings generate excitement and controversy.

 2018: ASI reduces activity; Tamil Nadu government steps in.

 From 2019 onward, Tamil Nadu independently continues excavations at additional sites like Kondhagai, Agaram, Manalur, and Korkai. 2023: Keeladi museum opened; push for global recognition continues.

  Why It's Important Keeladi could rewrite Indian history, showing a sophisticated, urban, literate society in South India much earlier than previously believed. It also discusses regional identity, language politics, and Indian historiography's decolonization.