Kotul excavations in Maharashtra show site was a large trade hub during Satavahana period

“The site is of importance as it is located on the trade route of Satavahana period connecting the two major trade centres of Junnar and Nashik,” Dr P D Sabale, Professor in Geoarchaeology and Controller of Examination at Deccan College, said.

As part of doctoral study, Abhilasha Mishra under the guidance of Dr Sabale carried out a village to village geoarchaeological exploration for the whole Mula River. “The main aim of the excavation was to understand the cultural development of the site, study its role in ancient trade and reconstruct the history of the region,” Dr Sabale added.

Areca nut shape beads, terracotta ball and bangle unearthed in trenches

The excavation uncovered remains of residential structures mostly belonging to the medieval times. Pottery like red ware and drab black ware were also found. Besides, areca nut shape beads, broken fingers of human figurines, well-finished terracotta beads, terracotta ball and bangles were found. A metal coin too was found. The excavation also yielded skeletal elements of animals.

Ancient settlers ate green/yellow millets, protein-rich pulses

The excavation also threw light on the agricultural economy of the ancient settlers. For instance, the ancient settlers at Kotul subsisted on starch-rich cereal like rice; green / yellow/ foxtail millet, sawa millet and protein-rich pulses such as black gram, green gram, field pea and horse-gram. Besides, seeds of Indian jujube were also recovered from the site.