Official sources said that the idols, two to three feet tall, included those of Lord Nataraja, Vinayaka (Lord Ganesh) and other deities. A few decorative items were also unearthed along with the idols.
Thirteen panchaloha idols were unearthed at a private land in the famous pilgrim centre of Vailankanni in Nagapattinam district today.
Official sources said that the idols, two to three feet tall, included those of Lord Nataraja, Vinayaka (Lord Ganesh) and other deities. A few decorative items were also unearthed along with the idols.
The land belonged to Michaelswamy, head master of a primary school, who had commenced construction works there, and the workers while digging heard a metallic sound and informed him. Revenue and police officials were then informed.
Nagapattinam district collector C Munianathan said the district administration had informed the archaeological department about the find.
The collector said 13 panchaloha idols and 86 copper plates were unearthed three months back while renovation works were undertaken at the ancient Kamakshi Amman Samedha Kailasanathar temple at Kazhukkanimuttam village near Mayiladuthurai.
"The Kazhukkanimuttam findings proved to be one of the most exciting findings in recent times providing information about the Chola dynasty and the government had displayed them in the World Classical Tamil Conference held at Coimbatore (in June). Against this backdrop, the Vailankanni findings also assume importance," he said.
A large number of people visited the site at Vailankanni, and offered floral worship. The idols are now kept at the Nagapattinam taluka office.
The Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health is located at Vailankkani.
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