Archaeologists have discovered a terracotta statue dating to the Chola period during an exploration along the banks of the Thenpennai River near Kavanur village, close to Panruti, in Cuddalore district.

The find was made during a surface-level archaeological exploration conducted in the riverbed area. Archaeologist Emmanuel, who documented the discovery, said the sculpture clearly reflects the stylistic and iconographic features associated with Chola-era craftsmanship.

The terracotta statue represents Durga, identified specifically as Vishnu Durga, and measures approximately 19.5 centimetres in height and 15 centimetres in width. According to Emmanuel, the sculpture displays a smiling facial expression and is adorned with a karandamagudam (tiered crown), kundalam earrings, and a sarapali necklace. The figure also features shoulder bangles and three bangles on each arm.

The deity is depicted with four hands. The upper right hand holds a chakra (discus), while the lower right arm is broken. The left hands hold a shankha (conch) and rest on the hip in a katthihastha posture. The statue also shows detailed half-saree drapery and a singhamukham (lion-face) motif at the waist, elements commonly seen in Chola-period religious terracottas.

However, portions of the sculpture have suffered damage over time. The legs, the lower right arm, and parts of the right side of the statue are broken, likely due to prolonged exposure and natural erosion in the river environment.

Despite the damage, archaeologists say the stylistic detailing, ornamentation, and iconographic elements firmly place the sculpture within the Chola period, highlighting the refined artistic traditions of the era. The discovery adds to the growing body of archaeological evidence pointing to active religious and cultural centres along the Thenpennai River basin during the Chola dynasty.

Further documentation and conservation measures are expected to be undertaken to study the statue in greater detail and assess its historical context within the region.

Source: Dinamalar

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The post Tamil Nadu: Chola-Era Durga Idol Unearthed Near Thenpennai River In Cuddalore District appeared first on The Commune.