In a remarkable archaeological discovery, the State Archaeology Department has embarked on a journey to unravel the mysteries hidden within ancient copper plates. These copper plates bear inscriptions of Thevaram hymns and were unearthed at the Sattainathar Temple in Sirkazhi in April of this year. This extraordinary find promises to shed light on the rich cultural and religious history of the region.

A team of seven experts from the State Archaeology Department, led by the esteemed R. Sivanantham, Joint Director of the department, has taken on the responsibility of studying and preserving these rare artifacts. These plates, considered to be invaluable, have been kept safely within the temple premises.

The story of this discovery is nothing short of fascinating. On April 16, 2023, during the renovation of the Sattainathar Temple, a total of 493 copper plates were unearthed, accompanied by several panchaloka idols. Among these, approximately 410 plates were found to be in relatively good condition, while about 80 were damaged. Due to the passage of time and exposure to the elements, many of the inscriptions on these plates had become unclear, obscured by layers of moss.

The initial phase of the project involves the painstaking process of cleaning these copper plates. Using established cleaning procedures, the team expects this phase to take around 10 to 15 days. Once the plates are cleaned, the true journey of discovery will begin as experts study the inscriptions meticulously. This endeavor aims to determine the dating of the copper plates and trace their origins.

What makes this discovery particularly significant is that it's the first time that copper plates inscribed with Thevaram hymns have been found. While palm leaf manuscripts containing the hymns of the three Saivite saints—Thirugnanasambandar, Thirunavukkarasar, and Sundarar—have been discovered before, this discovery provides concrete evidence of the practice of inscribing Thevaram hymns on copper plates. Furthermore, it's worth noting that Sirkazhi is the birthplace of Thirugnanasambandar, adding an extra layer of historical relevance to this find.

As the team works diligently to document these inscriptions, the broader archaeological community eagerly awaits the insights that will undoubtedly be gained from this treasure trove of history. This discovery not only adds a new chapter to our understanding of Thevaram hymns but also offers a glimpse into the religious practices and cultural heritage of the region.

In conclusion, the unearthing of these copper plates at the Sattainathar Temple in Sirkazhi marks a significant milestone in the field of archaeology and our understanding of ancient religious practices. As the State Archaeology Department continues its meticulous work, we can anticipate a deeper appreciation of the rich cultural tapestry of this region and the profound significance of Thevaram hymns in its history.