Archaeologists have uncovered a significant 7th-century rock-cut temple in the remote Javhu Hills of Tamil Nadu. Attributed to the Early Pandyan dynasty, the shrine is dedicated to Lord Shiva and features unprecedented cobalt-blue mineral friezes that have remained remarkably vivid despite the passage of over a millennium.
The excavation revealed complex architectural carvings on the interior pillars, showcasing early experiments in Dravidian rock-cut techniques. Experts suggest that the use of cobalt-based pigments indicates advanced knowledge of mineral processing and long-distance trade during the early medieval period in Southern India. The site also contains a series of unfinished rock-cut cells, providing a rare window into the construction methods of ancient stone masons.