History • Ancient IndiaHard
Analyze the metallurgical and industrial sophistication of the ancient Iron Age and Sangam civilization in Tamil Nadu as evidenced by excavations at Kodumanal: 1. Kodumanal served as a prominent industrial hub known for producing high-carbon crucible steel, locally termed 'Wootz', which was exported to West Asia and the Roman world. 2. The site has yielded numerous megalithic burial pits containing quartz, carnelian, and sapphire beads inscribed with early Tamil-Brahmi scripts. 3. Archaeological findings confirm that the settlement had advanced smelting furnaces utilizing forced air drafts operated by foot bellows, but completely lacked any evidence of ceramic production. Which of the statements given above are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only✓ Correct Answer
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
💡 Solution & Explanation
Excavations at Kodumanal in the Noyyal river valley have provided stellar evidence of ancient industrial prowess in Tamil Nadu, particularly in iron smelting, crucible steel making, and gemstone bead crafting. Thousands of graffiti-marked and Tamil-Brahmi inscribed potsherds along with semi-precious stone beads have been unearthed from burial complexes. However, statement three is incorrect because the site has indeed yielded abundant pottery including black-and-red ware and red ware ceramic industries, disproving the claim that ceramics were entirely absent. Such archaeological insights form vital material for regional historical evaluation.
More History Ancient India questions
- Which of the following Gupta rulers is known for defeating the Hunas (Huns) and saving the empire from their…
- In ancient Sanskrit literature and puranic texts, the region encompassing present-day Garhwal and Kumaon in…
- According to traditional legends and Buddhist chronicles, which legendary sage is believed to have visited…
- In the context of Sangam literature, which of the following anthologies primarily deals with 'Puram' poetry,…
- In the administrative lexicon of the early medieval South Indian kingdoms, particularly under the Pallavas,…