Chennai: Scientific dating of archaeological samples has confirmed that iron was used in Tamil Nadu as early as the mid-third to fourth millennium BC, pushing back the region's Iron Age by nearly 2,000 years.

The findings, detailed in the report Antiquity of Iron: Recent Radiometric Dates from Tamil Nadu, were based on samples from Sivagalai, Adichanallur, and Mayiladumparai, analyzed at leading laboratories, including the Birbal Sahni Institute, Lucknow, and Beta Analytic, Florida.

The results establish that iron was in use over 5,300 years ago, with evidence of early smelting technology. Experts hailed this as a turning point in Indian archaeology, reinforcing Tamil Nadu's historical significance.

Cambridge University's Professor Emeritus Dilip Kumar Chakrabarti noted that the discovery challenges previous beliefs that India's Iron Age began in the 6th century BCE. Former ASI Director General Rakesh Tiwari called it a “historic event,” highlighting Tamil Nadu's role as an independent center of early metallurgy.

Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, who released the report, emphasized the pride this brings to Tamil heritage. He also laid the foundation for the Keeladi open museum and a museum at Gangaikonda Cholapuram, further strengthening Tamil Nadu's archaeological legacy.