Archaeologists should simplify complex technical terms of findings for public understanding, says Vedachalam

Archaeologists should remain balanced, avoid bias and break down complex technical terms of findings into simple language for the understanding of the larger public, said veteran archaeologist V. Vedachalam in Chennai on Sunday.

Launching the book ‘The Dig: Keeladi and the Politics of India’s Past,’ by journalist Sowmiya Ashok, Mr. Vedachalam shared his experiences of excavating various sites during his tenure with the Tamil Nadu State Department of Archaeology and the challenges associated with the work.

He said the effort put in by archaeologists during excavations was immense. He also recalled his first visit to Keeladi in the mid-1970s and later with archaeologist Amarnath Ramakrishna, who headed the first two phases of the excavations, a few years ago and the difficulties they faced in obtaining permission from landowners.

Later, Ms. Ashok, in a conversation moderated by journalist Shabbir Ahmed, spoke about her experience over the past three years in bringing out the book. She said she had focused on the people who worked tirelessly at the excavation site and the communities living around Keeladi, capturing their voices and diversity.

She said reading Sangam literature, which describes the physical features of ancient Tamil society in detail, had been extremely helpful while writing the book. The book is divided into two parts with nine chapters including the author’s visit to various archaeological sites apart from Keeladi.