Scientists in Tamil Nadu have digitally reconstructed the faces of two men who lived approximately 2,500 years ago in South India, revealing physical traits that point to both regional and Middle Eastern Eurasian ancestry.
The project, which involved extracting DNA from ancient human remains found near the Keeladi archaeological site, is part of ongoing efforts to study the early origins and migration patterns of the region’s population.
The work marks a major milestone as scientists reconstruct ancient South Indian faces using advanced 3D imaging and genetic analysis. Researchers state that the facial reconstructions, based on skulls unearthed in Kondagai, located just four kilometers from Keeladi, offer a glimpse into the appearance of some of the earliest known inhabitants of South India.
A team at Madurai Kamaraj University carried out DNA extraction by drilling into a tooth from one of the two male skulls. Due to the fragile condition of the remains, the genetic material retrieved was limited and degraded. Despite this, the team aims to build an ancient DNA library that could help trace population histories across centuries.
Advanced facial reconstruction and international collaboration
In collaboration with the Face Lab at Liverpool John Moores University, 3D scans of the skulls were digitally reconstructed in the U.K.
Experts layered muscle, skin, and pigmentation onto the scanned data, using anatomical standards and current anthropometric data from residents of Tamil Nadu. The reconstructions blend forensic science with digital artistry to produce realistic craniofacial images.
Carolyn Wilkinson, director of the Face Lab, explained that humans are inherently drawn to faces and that visualizing ancient individuals helps foster a deeper, personal connection to archaeological discoveries.
Initial results reveal facial features consistent with ancient South Indian populations, but also reflect traces of Eurasian and Austro-Asiatic ancestry. Some characteristics suggest links to Middle Eastern Eurasian genetic lines, supporting theories of ancient migrations and cultural exchanges.
Professor G. Kumaresan, who leads the Department of Genetics at Madurai Kamaraj University, said the findings underscore the complexity and diversity of India’s ancient population. He emphasized that these reconstructions primarily reflect South Indian traits while also challenging the notion that early urban civilization in India was centered only in the north.
Keeladi excavations reveal urban life and cultural depth
Archaeological evidence from Keeladi supports the existence of a sophisticated urban culture around 580 BCE. It featured structures made of baked bricks, drainage systems, and evidence of literacy and trade.
Findings include agricultural tools, animal bones, and burial jars containing food grains and everyday items—suggesting both a developed society and ritual practices.
The reconstructions have sparked widespread online debate around appearance, heritage, and historical identity, reigniting conversations about caste, regional divisions, and South India’s role in early civilization.
This project follows earlier attempts to recreate ancient Indian faces, including a 2019 reconstruction at the Indus Valley site of Rakhigarhi, which lacked full-color detailing. Further research at Madurai Kamaraj University is underway to deepen the understanding of the Keeladi population’s ancestry.
See all the latest news from Greece and the world at Greekreporter.com. Contact our newsroom to report an update or send your story, photos and videos. Follow GR on Google News and subscribe here to our daily email!
