Comparative Analysis of Keeladi and Contemporary Indian Ocean Trade Sites

Abstract This report presents a systematic comparative analysis of the commercial and economic structures of Keeladi, Arikamedu, Pattanam (Muziris), and Alagankulam—four major archaeological sites in South India associated with Indian Ocean trade during the Early Historic period (circa 3rd century BCE to 5th century CE)123. The study explores whether Keeladi’s commercial organization was unique or part of a broader regional model that characterized ancient South Indian economic systems. Drawing from archaeological findings, literary sources, and recent scholarly research, the report employs the IMRD (Introduction, Methods, Results, Discussion) framework to synthesize evidence regarding urbanization, craft production, trade networks, and socio-economic organization at each site. The analysis reveals both shared patterns and distinctive features, contributing to a nuanced understanding of ancient South Indian participation in Indian Ocean commerce.