KANHIRAPOIL
MEGALITHIC SITE: HISTORY
NEWS:
Prehistoric rock-cut footprints and human figure unearthed at Kanhirapoil in
Kerala’s Kasaragod
WHAT’S
IN THE NEWS?
A prehistoric discovery at Kanhirapoil, Kerala,
revealed 24 pairs of footprints and a human figure carved into rock, dating
back to the Megalithic period. The carvings likely honor the dead and resemble
similar rock art found in Karnataka and north Kerala.
Kanhirapoil
Prehistoric Discovery:
Location: Kanhirapoil, Madikkai Grama Panchayat, Kerala.
Discovery: 24 pairs of prehistoric footprints and a human
figure carved into rock.
Dating: Estimated to be from the Megalithic period (~2,000
years old).
Reported By: Satheesan Kaliyanam, confirmed by
archaeologist Prof. Ajith Kumar and historian Prof. Nandakumar Koroth.
Features of the Discovery:
- The
footprints range from 6 to 10 inches, representing both children and
adults.
- The
footprints are oriented to the west and are accompanied by a human figure
and four circular pits.
Significance:
- The carvings
are believed to honor the dead, possibly reflecting ancient funerary
practices.
- Local belief
connects the footprints to a goddess.
Similarity to Other Sites:
- The discovery
shares similarities with prehistoric rock art found in Udupi (Karnataka)
and the Edakkal Caves (North Kerala).
Cultural Insights:
This discovery sheds light on the artistic and cultural heritage of ancient Kerala, particularly related to burial rituals and symbolic art.