Question

Write a short note on the megalithic monuments of ancient Tamilakam.

Answer 1

Instructions: The answer to this question can be broken into 3 main parts:

1. Describe megalithic monuments.
2. Mention the different types of megalithic monuments.
3. Mention the various megalithic sites.

Solution:

• The people of ancient Tamilakam used to bury the remains of the dead people in urns. These urns were known as urn burials or nannangadi.
• People also used to place megaliths above these burials; therefore these burials are called megalithic monuments.
• There are different types of megalithic monuments like Cist, dolmen, kudakkallu, menhir, rock chamber, sarcophagus, stone circle, thopikkallu.
• Some of important megalithic sites that are located in south India are Adichanellur, Alagarai, Cheramanangad, Kodumanal, Marayoor, Pazhani, Thirukambaliyoor.