Rock-cut footprints, human figure dating back to Megalithic period unearthed at Kerala’s Kanhirapoil

Sub: History

Sec: Ancient India

Context:

A remarkable archaeological discovery has been made in Kanhirapoil, located in the Madikkai Grama Panchayat of Kerala.

Details of the discovery:

The discovery consists of 24 pairs of footprints, which vary in size from six to 10 inches, suggesting they represent both adults and children.
A human figure has been carved at the end of the footprints, accompanied by four circular pits surrounding the figure. The carvings are believed to date back to the Megalithic period.
The carvings were made using iron tools, indicating advanced tool-making skills of the period. The intricate nature of the carvings suggests high level of craftsmanship.

Cultural Interpretation:

According to archaeologists, the footprints likely represent the souls of deceased individuals and were carved to honour them. The footprints are all oriented towards the west, which may hold symbolic significance.
Local traditions interpret the footprints as belonging to a goddess.

Regional parallels:

The carvings at Kanhirapoil bear similarities to prehistoric rock art found in other regions:
- Avalakki Pera in Udupi district, Karnataka
- Erikulam Valiyapara in Kasaragod, Kerala
- Cheemeni Ariyittapara in Kerala
- Edakkal Caves in Wayanad, Kerala
These similarities suggest a shared cultural heritage among prehistoric sites in north Kerala and neighbouring regions.

Megalithic period:

Megalithic period refers to a period characterized by the use of large stones for monuments and burial practices.
While megalith is often used to describe a single piece of stone, it also can be used to denote one or more rocks hewn in a definite shape for special purposes.
The period coincides with the Iron Age in the Indian subcontinent.