Historian Raj Panneerselvam, accompanied by Aruppukkottai Sridhar and Thamarai Kannan, embarked on a riveting research expedition to Ulundurpettai in Kallakurichi district, driven by reports of an extraordinary find: a sculpture uncovered in the fields of Pilrampattu village near Neivanai.
Nestled amidst the verdant fields of Pilrampattu, just north of the Sesha river and sheltered by surrounding trees, lay a remarkable slab stone sculpture. Standing at about 5 feet in height and 4 feet in width, this stunning artwork depicted a female figure adorned with eight arms, unmistakably hailing from the Pallava period.
Upon meticulous examination and cleaning, experts discerned distinctive features, including a locally styled crown atop an oval-faced visage, adorned with thick lips and bhadra kundalams in both ears. The sculpture was bedecked with intricate ornaments—a string-like necklace, a chest girdle, shoulder bracelets, and arm bands adorning all eight arms.
The sculpture wielded various symbolic objects, including a discus, a sword, a bell, a conch, a bow, and a shield, each held with precision and purpose. Layers of bangles adorned its arms, while a trident and a lion graced its right side, a reindeer stood on its left, and soldiers flanked its feet, underscoring its regal presence.
Dating back approximately 1200 years, this Kotravai sculpture exuded timeless grace and power, serving as a poignant testament to ancient craftsmanship and spirituality. Despite the passage of centuries, it remained steadfast in its role as the guardian deity of prosperity, a timeless sentinel amidst the fields of Pilrampattu.
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