CHENNAI: New research has shown that weavers during the Sangam period used natural, plant-based dyes such as indigo to colour their clothes. This discovery comes from a scientific study of organic compounds found at the Keeladi archaeological site and points to the presence of ancient textile dyeing units in the area.
Researchers from Madurai Kamaraj University (MKU) studied samples taken from pottery pieces, bricks, and soil found at the site. Their analysis revealed 14 different compounds linked to indigo, along with anthraquinone molecules. These chemicals form the base of some of the oldest textile dyes known to humans.
The findings suggest that people living in the Sangam age had advanced knowledge of textile production and dyeing techniques. The use of natural dyes indicates a well-developed craft tradition and supports earlier evidence that Keeladi was an important centre of trade, industry, and cultural activity in ancient Tamil Nadu.