Recent archaeological assessments at the ancient port of Palur in Odisha’s Ganjam district have unveiled remarkable findings indicative of a sophisticated maritime settlement that thrived for over two millennia. These discoveries shed light on Odisha’s early trade connections with Southeast Asia and were presented at a recent archaeology conference at Utkal University, attended by international experts.
The excavation, carried out by the Odisha Institute of Maritime and South East Asian Studies alongside the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) from 2023 to 2025, revealed significant artifacts. Notably, red polished ware found at the site was fired at temperatures between 950°C and 1,000°C, surpassing the typical range of 500-600°C for ancient Odisha ceramics. Further scientific analysis is ongoing, involving collaboration with IIT Mumbai.
Among the artifacts were 363 potsherds marked with various symbols, including swastikas and floral patterns, which may indicate ownership or religious significance. Additionally, excavators unearthed beads, glass bangles, and ivory items, highlighting Palur’s integral role in extensive trade networks connecting eastern India with Southeast Asia. The findings suggest that Palur, identified with the ancient “Paloura” noted by the Greek geographer Ptolemy, was a vital maritime hub. This research opens new avenues for understanding Odisha’s rich maritime history and underscores the necessity for further excavations to explore the region’s ancient cultural connections.
