Sun Jun 29 11:37:23 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

New research from Liverpool John Moores University in England, analyzing skulls excavated from the Keeladi archaeological site, supports the antiquity of Tamil culture and civilization. The Tamil Nadu government is urging the Union government to release the Archaeological Survey of India’s Keeladi excavation report. Tamil Nadu Finance Minister Thangam Thennarasu criticized the Union government for allegedly suppressing Tamil history and heritage and stated that the new findings undermine these efforts. Chief Minister M.K. Stalin hailed the findings as scientific validation of Sangam literature.

**News Article:**

**Tamil Nadu Government Urges Release of Keeladi Excavation Report After UK Study Supports Antiquity of Tamil Culture**

**CHENNAI, INDIA – June 29, 2025** – The Tamil Nadu government is calling on the Union government to release the Archaeological Survey of India’s (ASI) excavation report on the Keeladi archaeological site, following new research from Liverpool John Moores University in England that reinforces the antiquity of Tamil culture.

The UK-based university’s study, which analyzed skulls unearthed at Keeladi and reconstructed facial features of individuals who lived approximately 2,500 years ago, provides further evidence of a sophisticated civilization predating previously understood timelines.

“I am filled with great pride and happiness over the research conducted by Liverpool John Moores University in England,” said Tamil Nadu Finance Minister Thangam Thennarasu, who also holds the archaeology portfolio. “This study once again highlights the antiquity of Tamil culture and civilization to the world.”

Mr. Thennarasu also criticized the Union government, accusing it of suppressing Tamil history and heritage. “Though the Union BJP government has deceitfully tried to suppress the history and heritage of Tamils, constructive scientific findings and the historical evidence emerging from the Keeladi excavations continue to defeat the Union government’s unjust and denials. I urge the Union government to at least now release the Keezhadi research report,” he stated.

Chief Minister M.K. Stalin echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the significance of the findings. “The way of life detailed in Sangam literature now stands scientifically validated through the findings at Keeladi,” he said in a social media post.

The Keeladi site, located in the Sivaganga district of Tamil Nadu, has yielded numerous artifacts providing insights into the lives of ancient Tamil people. The ongoing debate surrounds the interpretation and dissemination of the archaeological findings, with the state government emphasizing the need for transparency and a full release of the ASI report. The issue highlights the ongoing tension between regional cultural identity and national historical narratives.

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