Megalithic rock engravings at Erikulam Valiyapara identified as cow and deer figures

A fresh inspection by the Kerala State Archaeological department at Erikulam Valiyapara in Madikkai panchayat has confirmed that the megalithic-period rock engravings discovered here depict the figures of a cow and a deer carved on a 20-square-metre hard laterite rock. The engravings, oriented towards the South, bear close resemblance to engravings earlier recorded at Ettukudukka and Ariyittapara.

The latest finding builds on discoveries made a month ago by historical researcher Nandakumar Koroth, Satheesan Kaliyanam, and University of Baroda students Asna Jiji and Anagha Sivaramakrishnan, who had reported carvings resembling a falcon and a snake. However, officials now say that the earlier interpretations were incorrect and that the engravings are actually those of a cow and probably a deer.

The inspection was carried out by a team led by K. Krishnaraj, Officer of the Pazhassi Raja Museum, Kozhikode, along with Archaeology department Excavation Assistant V.A. Vimalkumar, museum staffer T.P. Nibin and local archaeologist Satheesan Kaliyanam.

Mr. Krishnaraj says the discoveries add weight to evidence that Valiyapara was a significant site in the centuries-old tradition of rock art carved with sharp tool across red laterite formations stretching from Ratnagiri in Maharashtra to Wayanad in Kerala. The engraving indicates a shared artistic and cultural practice that spanned the western coast and its hinterland. The team documented various sections of the site and said photographs from different portions of the rock would undergo detailed analysis.

In addition, the department inspected footprint-shaped carvings near Kanhirapoil and several small cave-like structures etched into laterite formation in different parts of Madikkai panchayat. These features, officials say, could provide further insight into the prehistoric activity that once flourished in the region.

Experts believe that deeper scientific studies may reveal more engravings across the site. Highlighting the historical value of the region, local archaeologist Satheesan Kaliyanam urged the authorities to initiate measures to protect the Valiyapara rock, noting that increasing interest from researchers and students underscored its importance. He also pointed to the mushrooming of laterite quarries in the vicinity, warning that such activities posed a threat to the megalithic landscape spread across several acres.