Archaeological Progress in Kerala
Summary
The Archaeological Department in Travancore (1927-1930) under Superintendent R. Vasudeva Poduval advanced epigraphical work and expanded into anthropology, ethnology, and architecture. An archaeological map of Travancore was prepared, marking historical sites like temples, churches, forts, and sea-ports. The department catalogued epigraphical records, including 138 inscriptions linked to 47 Travancore rulers, and examined temple chronicles (Gramthivalis) and royal collections like arms, coins, and manuscripts, including the Acyutariyabhyudaya chronicle. Three types of ancient colleges were studied: Sannyasi-Sabhamatams (Vedic theology), Sastra-Sabhamatams (secular studies), and Karma Sabhamatams (Vedic rituals). Plans were initiated to publish a systematic treatise on Kerala’s architecture, referencing texts like Tamirasamuccaya, Mianugalayacandrika, and Silparatna (a compilation from ancient Agamas). Megalithic monuments in the Devicolam Hills were identified but required further excavation. The reports also documented historical practices like ordeals, abolished in 1844, and noted Buddhist influences, including temples at Thiruvilai and Thakali possibly linked to Buddhist monks and medical practices. The department’s work emphasized systematic documentation and new research avenues. In a separate study, C.S. Srinivasa Iyengar analyzed imprecatory verses in copper-plate grants, tracing their ambiguous attributions to sources like the Mahabharata or vague references to "ancient verses," highlighting scholarly confusion in their origins.
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Conclusion
The archaeological department's two-year progress in Travancore highlights significant strides in systematic documentation and expanded research scope. The initiation of an archaeological map cataloging heritage sites and the shift toward comprehensive anthropological, ethnological, and architectural studies mark a departure from earlier epigraphy-focused efforts. Valuable insights emerged from analyzing temple endowments, classifying them into Vedic, secular, and ritual categories, and investigating Buddhist influences in Kerala's medical and religious history. The discovery of megalithic monuments and planned publication on regional architecture further underscore the department's commitment to uncovering Travancore's rich past. These advancements position the department to enhance historical understanding through organized records, innovative investigations, and interdisciplinary approaches, setting a framework for future archaeological exploration in the region.