Exploring the Course of the Kaveri: A River That Shapes the South Indian Landscape
Puhar, also known as Kaveripattinam or Poompuhar, was a thriving port city located on the banks of the Kaveri River in Tamil Nadu. During its prime, Puhar served as a major trade hub and one of the early capitals of the Chola kingdom, playing a crucial role in Indo-Roman trade relations [1][5].
Key Treasures and Secrets of Puhar
Puhar's prosperity stemmed from its strategic location on the Coromandel Coast, connecting trade routes between Muziris on the Malabar Coast and other parts of the Roman world [1]. The city was a hub for trading precious stones such as garnet, carnelian, lapis lazuli, sapphire, and quartz [1].
References to Puhar can be found in Sangam literature, including classical epics like Silappathikaram, which describe the city’s bustling life, royal presence, and maritime activities [2][3]. Puhar was an alternative royal residence and chief port under the Chola dynasty, symbolising the Cholas’ naval prowess [2].
Archaeological excavations in the nearby region, including Kodumanal and other sites along the Kaveri, reveal advanced iron smelting technology dating back to around 500 BCE. Artifacts such as swords with sophisticated metallurgical features, beads, and pottery have been found, indicating high technical skill and trade specialization [1]. These findings suggest Puhar’s role as a centre of craftsmanship and trade links.
Puhar is also famous for its mythical submerged city status. Legend and literary texts mention that parts of Puhar were destroyed by floods or sea incursions, and some archaeological evidence hints at submerged remains off the coast. Although extensive underwater archaeology is still developing, this mystery of a once-thriving port partially lost beneath the sea adds to its allure [3].
Religiously, Puhar was a centre for the worship of Tamil gods and cults, including those related to the Pattini cult and Kannagi, further emphasising its cultural depth [2].
Summary Table of Important Points
| Aspect | Details | |---------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Location | On banks of Kaveri River, Tamil Nadu | | Era | Flourished mostly during early Chola period until medieval times (8th–13th century AD) | | Trade | Indo-Roman trade hub; precious stones and iron goods traded | | Archaeology | Advanced iron smelting (~500 BCE), beads, swords, pottery excavated | | Literary Mentions | Sangam literature, Silappathikaram | | Cultural Significance | Royal residence, nautical power, Pattini cult worship | | Mystery | Partial submersion and lost ruins add to secrets of the site |
In essence, Puhar’s "hidden treasures" are a combination of its archaeological artifacts, its strategic importance in ancient maritime trade, and its rich cultural legacy preserved through Tamil literature and folklore. The city’s submerged ruins and advanced ancient technologies represent key secrets inviting further exploration [1][2][3].
[1] Indian Express
[2] The Hindu
[3] Archaeology Online
[4] Britannica
[5] The Chola Dynasty
- The city's "hidden treasures" extend beyond archaeological artifacts, encapsulating Puhar's strategic importance in ancient maritime trade and its rich cultural legacy as documented in Tamil literature and folklore.
- Tracing Puhar's influence further, it allows us to explore various aspects of the city's lifestyle, home-and-garden décor, and travel experiences, stemming from its role as a hub for trade relations, nautical power, and religious pilgrimage.
