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Chennai, Oct 28 (IANS) In a remarkable archaeological discovery, a set of nearly 1,000-year-old stone sculptures from the Chola period has been found near Kooteripattu in Villupuram district.
The ancient artefacts identified during a recent field survey by Villupuram historian Senguttuvan were located in and around Alagramam village, already known for its historical importance.
The discoveries include intricately carved images of a Vaishnavite goddess, a virgin and a Buddhist figure, each believed to be from around the 10th century AD. Experts say the discovery sheds new light on the religious diversity of the region and the artistic excellence that flourished during the reign of the Cholas.
The half buried idol of Vaishnavi Devi was found at Chekkady Street Junction. The goddess is depicted gracefully seated, with her four arms holding different attributes. The front hands are in Abhaya Mudra and resting on his thigh, while the rear hands hold the shankha and chakra, symbols associated with the divine power of Lord Vishnu.
The detailed carving and serene expression of the figure reflect the stylistic precision of early medieval Tamil art. Nearby, in the Chelliyamman temple complex, another rare idol of Kumari was unearthed.
She is shown sitting with one leg folded and the other hanging down, adorned with a warrior’s chain and ornate jewellery.
The pose and details of the figure highlight the influence of Chola craftsmanship and the iconographic traditions of the Sapta Matrikas (seven mother goddesses).
Adding further significance to the discovery, a Buddhist statue depicting Avalokiteshvara – the Bodhisattva of Compassion – was located at a Jain temple roadside.
The seated figure beneath a five-headed serpent points to the historical co-existence of Buddhist and Jain traditions in Villupuram. Senior epigraphist Vijay Venugopal said the discovery “confirms the once vibrant spread of Buddhism in this region.”
Archaeologist Sridharan has verified that all the sculptures date back to the Chola period and were probably part of a now extinct Shiva temple complex.
Historian Senguttuvan urged immediate steps for proper conservation and documentation, pointing out that a half-buried inscribed stone slab was also found nearby.
He appealed to the Archeology Department and local authorities to protect the site for future research and conservation.
–IANS
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