The members of Virarajendran Archaeological and Historical Research Centre following a tip-off discovered two sculptures believed to be from the 5th Century AD in Tiruppur, Tamil Nadu.

Sharing details of their find, the Director of the Centre S Ravikumar told Express News Service: “We received information from the administrator of Anjur Pandeeswarar temple and found two sculptures behind the Kottravai Temple. The sculptures are unique and are the earliest sculptures in the Kongu region. They are of Dwaara Balagais (gatekeepers) holding vensamaram (white chowry) in their hands.”

Elaborating on the sculptures, Ravikumar said: “One sculpture measures 150 cm in height and 45 cm in width. The dwara balagai is wearing ornaments including 'Idaikkachu' (waist garment), 'Kuzhai' (earring), 'Kandikai'and 'Sarapalli' (necklaces), 'Kadakavali' and 'Sudakam' (arm bands) and sports a crown.”

About the other sculpture Ravikumar revealed that it measures 120 cm in height and 60 cm in width and is seen in Cadhura Nadana (square dance) pose. “She is holding the 'Vensamaram' on her left shoulder. Both the sculptures are in 'Sathvika Thiru Uruva' (Calm divine) posture,” Ravikumar added.

Dr. R. Poongundran, former Assistant Commissioner of State Archaeological Department, said the findings are one of the oldest sculptures discovered so far in the Kongu region. On the issue of dating these sculptures he said, based on the style of the carving the sculptures it can be dated to the later 5th Century AD.

Also read: Water Seepage In Ellora Caves threatens priceless paintings