During the ongoing restoration of an 11th-century Shiva temple in the Tirunelveli district, conservationists discovered rare inscriptions hidden behind layers of centuries-old lime plaster. These records detail a sophisticated system of veterinary medicine practiced during the Later-Pandya era, specifically focusing on the dietary and surgical care of temple elephants and livestock.
The restoration project, led by the State Department of Archaeology, involves reinforcing the granite pillars and the massive stone lintels. The discovery of these inscriptions is considered a major breakthrough for medical history, as it lists specific herbal formulations and rhythmic chants used during treatments. Researchers are now documenting the Tamil Vatteluttu script found on the sanctum's outer walls to preserve this ancient knowledge.