The Hindu launches coffee table book on Harappan civilisation

At launch event, Tamil Nadu Minister Thennarasu calls for local people to do their part in preserving archaeological findings

A sense of ownership must be created among the local people about the importance of preserving the archaeological findings, particularly in lesser-known places, Thangam Thennarasu, Minister for Industries, Tamil Development and Archaeology, said on Tuesday while launching The Hindu’s coffee table book The Wonder That Was Harappan Civilisation at The Hindu office.

N. Ram, Director, The Hindu Group, received the first copy of the book. Lauding the extensive book that had intricate details on Harappan civilisation, Mr. Thennarasu said it would serve as an eye-opener.

Noting that there were several archaeological sites that faced disturbances and encroachments, he said local people must be involved in preserving the exquisite findings. Elaborating on the remarkable changes in archaeological explorations after progress in the Keezhadi excavation, he said more research needs to be done on the possible links of Keezhadi with Harappan civilisation.

The Minister pointed as examples the Adhichanallur excavations bearing several similarities with Harappan civilisation, and the punch mark coins discovered at Keezhadi site revealing trade links between north and south, remarking that there are many opportunities to establish Tamil Nadu’s links with the northern civilisation.

Citing epigraphist Iravatham Mahadevan who recorded similarities between the script in the Indus Valley and an early form of Dravidian language, Mr. Thennarasu said the State government has also allocated funds to research the possible links. Many puzzles about Harappan civilisation still need to be unravelled. Indus script and seals have been only partially deciphered and more explorations are essential to learn about the civilisation. Every archaeological excavation has provided new discoveries and artefacts right from the times of British archaeologist John Marshall, he added.

The 356-page book curated by T.S. Subramanian, former Associate Editor, Frontline, has about 600 photographs, maps and several illustrations. Besides articles by Mr. Subramanian, the book comprises articles by several scholars.

Appreciating the book as substantial work by The Hindu team, Mr. Ram recalled his involvement with the subject during a recent visit to the earliest site of Harappan civilisation. Other civilisations like Sumerian, Mesopotamian and Egyptian were better researched, he added.