On their 7th archaeological journey, the Sivagangai Archaeological Walking Group explored the archaeological sites of Madurai district and delighted in the experience.
Thiruvedagam
The group visited Thiruvedagam in Madurai district, the birthplace of Manickavasagar. The visit included the Tirumurai Nathar Temple with Vedavalli, the 100-pillared hall, and the sanctum dedicated to Manickavasagar, which is believed to be the site where he heard the anklet sound of Lord Shiva.
Thiruvedagam Ova Hill Tamil Inscriptions
They examined ancient Tamil inscriptions from the 2nd century BCE on Ova Hill in Thiruvedagam. The first inscription, "Pangadu Aridhan Kottupithon," is located on the top edge of the cave's overhang, while the second, "Upasan Barasan Urai Kottupithon," is etched underneath. They also marveled at red ochre spiral paintings over 4,000 years old and 2,000-year-old Jain beds.
Ladan Temple
The Ladan Temple at Yanaimalai, dedicated to Lord Murugan, is a rock-cut shrine with 8th-9th century inscriptions in circular Tamil script. These inscriptions provide insights into the era's cultural and religious history.
Jain Monks' Retreat
The group explored a retreat from the 9th-10th centuries CE, used by Jain monks who were known for their charitable works like providing shelter, medicine, and education. Highlights included grinding pits for medicinal preparation and carvings of Mahavira, Bahubali, Parsvanatha, and Padmavati.
Yanaimalai Tamil Inscriptions
On Yanaimalai, they observed 2,000-year-old Jain beds with Tamil inscriptions documenting the benefactors who created these resting places. One such inscription reads: "Iva Kunrathu Uraiyul Pa Thanthan Eri Aridhan Athuvayi Aritta Kayiban."
Yanaimalai’s Freshwater Spring
The group, guided by archaeologist Ravichandran, visited the natural spring at Yanaimalai, known for its pristine and sweet water, which they enjoyed.
Yoganarasimhar of Yanaimalai
The rock-cut shrine of Yanaimalai, dedicated to Lord Narasimha, dates back to the 8th century. Built during the Pandya period, an 8th-century Tamil inscription nearby records its construction by Madhurakavi, a minister of Parantaka Nedunjadayan, in 770 CE.
Release of the Archaeological Journey Guidebook
The Sivagangai Archaeological Walking Group publishes a guidebook for every trip. This guidebook for the 7th journey was released by former Assistant Director of Horticulture P. Elangovan and Muniswaran, the group's vice-chairman, and was received by former Cooperative Sub-Registrar Suresh.
Pulavar K. Kalirasa, founder of the group, explained the details of the sites visited. The event included participation from researcher S. Kaleeswaran, JCI Sivagangai President Hariharasudan, group field researcher Saravanan, Ganesan, and other enthusiasts from Chennai, Walajapet, Kanchipuram, and more. Over 45 participants joined the journey, coordinated by the group's secretary, R. Narasimman.