Megalithic burial chamber, possibly rock art discovered in Kasaragod Madikkai panchayat

Dr. Nandakumar Koroth, Head, Department of History, Nehru Arts and Science College, Kanhangad, and inspection of a megalithic burial chamber that was found in a laterite quarry in Madikkai panchayat, Kasaragod. | Photo credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

A megalithic burial chamber and possible laterite rock art, believed to be historical remains of an ancient settlement, have been discovered in Madikkai panchayat of Kasaragod district, shedding new light on the region’s archaeological heritage.

Rock art was found at Kannamkulampara, while a laterite burial chamber, partially damaged along its edge during laterite mining, was discovered at Theerthankara. The discoveries were made during surveys by local archaeological researcher Satheesan Kaliyam.

Local archaeologist Satheesan Kaliyam who discovered possible rock art on laterite stone. | Photo credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

Dr. Nandakumar Koroth, Head of the Department of History at Nehru Arts and Science College, Kanhangad, and a history researcher, visited the sites and confirmed that the chamber was a megalithic burial structure and that the engraved petroglyphs were man-made.

Similar discoveries

Dr. Koroth said the rock art at Kannamkulampara bears resemblance to similar discoveries at Ariyittapara, Kakkatt, Munnnad Molothum kavu, Amakkulam, Erikkulam Valiyapara, Kanhirapoyil, Ettukudukka and Ambalathara. Like these sites, the rock art is found on the banks of a natural water reservoir known as Pallam.

Possible rock art on laterite stone, which is believed to be the historical remains of an ancient settlement. | Photo credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

“The carving consists of two feet measuring about 10 inches in length and 6 inches in width, carved into laterite rock. Its style resembles that of other rock art sites identified in north Kerala.” he said.

Dr. Koroth said the tracks may have been carved into the hard rock using iron tools. The placement of carvings along the banks of natural water reservoirs has contributed to their preservation for centuries.

During the monsoon, the carvings remain submerged for extended periods of time, while their position also protects them from the direct impact of raindrops. The burial chamber at Theerthankara has an opening at the top, while both the opening and its interior are filled with topsoil.

Megalithic period

The latest discoveries are significant archaeological remains that offer clues to the life and cultural practices of the people who inhabited Madikkai during the Megalithic period.

Meanwhile, K. Krishnaraj, archaeologist and officer-in-charge of the Pazhassi Raja Archaeological Museum, said the rock art appeared to be domes, small circular bowl-shaped depressions made by humans on the rock surfaces. But he said more checks and studies are needed.

Senior archaeologist and former archeology professor Ajith Kumar explained that similar tracks were known from other places and could represent departed souls or sacred spirits in local folklore, while some of the formations could also be natural. It distinguishes them from domes, which are typically bowl-shaped depressions in the rock.

Professor Kumar said further study is needed to determine whether this depression is man-made or naturally formed.

Published – 15 Oct 2026 07:00 IST