KANHIRAPOIL MEGALITHIC SITE: HISTORY

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.