In Tamil Nadu, careers in Archaeology, Epigraphy leverage love of history and language

Tamil Nadu's rich historical legacy is being studied through extensive excavations, but job opportunities for skilled professionals remain limited.

Tamil Nadu boasts a rich historical legacy. To study it, the State Archeological Department has undertaken extensive excavations to date.

Officials say there are many archaeological projects in the pipeline. Since the State is witnessing a flurry of activities related to Archaeology and Epigraphy, universities too are banking on it by providing flexible courses. But are there sufficient skilled professionals to undertake these projects? More importantly, is there enough job creation to support them?

Many ancient dynasties, including the Cheras, Cholas, Pandyas, and Pallavas, have influenced Tamil Nadu. These kingdoms bequeathed many paintings, crafts, architecture, and sculptures. They left behind many inscriptions in their temples and architecture.

Excavations, such as Keezhadi, Adichanallur, Thondi, Gangaikonda Cholapuram, and Sivagalai were done. Recently, the State’s Archeology department announced excavations at Korkai, the ancient port city of the Pandya Empire, to explore Korkai’s connections with other regions of India and its cultural links with the world. So there is still a lot to uncover about the State’s historical and cultural legacy.

Along with the push in archaeology, epigraphy is also being promoted. Recently, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. K. Stalin announced a cash prize of $1 million for anyone who successfully deciphers the Indus Valley Script.

While the number of prominent epigraphists is declining, and there is still a huge legacy of inscriptions to study, experts feel that limited job opportunities keep interested people at bay.

V. Vedachalam, an eminent Tamil epigrapher and historian, says that not many come forward to take this as a profession the way thousands opt to become doctors or engineers. Kalaikkovan, Director of Dr. M. Rajamanikkanar Centre for Historical Research, echoed similar views. Mr. Kalaikkovan says that it’s not that people are not interested in them, but that opportunities in this field are minimal. Jobs are limited to the State and Central archaeological departments. “Even if you were to take any State Government’s departments for Archaeology and Epigraphy, the total number of employees hardly goes over 200”, says Mr. Vedachalam.