Q1: What was the recent archaeological discovery in Nagaparamba?
A recent archaeological salvage excavation conducted by the Kerala State Archaeology Department at Nagaparamba, near Tirunavaya in Malappuram district, revealed a large number of megalithic "hat stones." These hat stones, known as Thoppikkallu in Malayalam, were used as lids on burial urns during the megalithic period.
Q2: What is the significance of the discovery?
The discovery of a significant number of megalithic hat stones is crucial in understanding the burial practices and cultural aspects of the people who lived over 2,000 years ago. The unique features of the recovered earthen urns and iron implements can shed light on the life and culture of that era.
Q3: Why is there a call for heritage status for Tirunavaya?
Local residents and enthusiasts believe that the discovery underscores the historic significance of Tirunavaya, located on the banks of the Bharathapuzha river. With numerous archaeological sites in the area, there is a demand to declare Tirun
Megalithic Period
Q1: What is the Megalithic period?
The Megalithic period refers to a historical era characterized by the construction of large stone structures or monuments. It is marked by the use of massive stones to create various types of structures, including tombs, burial chambers, and other architectural features.
Q2: When did the Megalithic period occur?
The Megalithic period varied in different regions and cultures, but it generally occurred during the prehistoric and early historic periods. It is often associated with the Neolithic and Bronze Ages, spanning from around 3,000 BCE to 1,500 BCE.
Q3: What are some common features of the Megalithic period?
During the Megalithic period, people created structures using large stones, such as dolmens (table-like stone structures), menhirs (upright standing stones), cairns (stone burial mounds), and thoppikkallu (hemispherical stones used as lids for burial urns). These structures were often associated with burial practices and are found in various parts of the world, including Europe, Asia, and Africa.
Q4: What was the purpose of megalithic structures?
Megalithic structures served various purposes, including burial sites for the deceased, ceremonial or religious activities, and marking significant locations. They provide valuable insights into the cultural and social practices of ancient societies.
Q5: Where can megalithic structures be found?
Megalithic structures are found in different parts of the world, including Europe (such as Stonehenge in England), Asia (India, Korea, Japan), Africa (Nubia, Mali), and the Americas. These structures reflect the diversity of cultures and their ways of memorializing the dead and commemorating important events.
Q6: What do megalithic structures reveal about ancient societies?
Megalithic structures provide information about the technological, architectural, and artistic skills of ancient societies. They also give insights into their religious beliefs, social organization, burial customs, and their connection to the landscape.
Q7: How are megalithic structures studied today?
Modern archaeologists and researchers study megalithic structures through excavations, analyses of artifacts, and documentation of their architectural features. These studies help unravel the cultural significance of these structures and shed light on the lives of ancient peoples
