Shravan Shetty is an Alumnus of Ohio University. He is an accomplished career coach and speaks extensively on employability skills, augmenting career competencies aligning to the future of work. He has designed, developed and deployed 3000 plus programs for educational institutions, Fortune 500 Companies as well as social sector organizations from Infosys , ITC , UNDP, UNICEF, United Nations to organizations such as TAPMI Business School , Monster Jobs Malaysia amongst others.He is an accredited Career Coach from NCDA , USA. He holds credentials in Transactional Analysis , NLP amongst others . He has served as jury member for Entrepreneurial and leadership programs for young people from schools, B-Schools to Aspiring Entrepreneurs. In 2023 he was shortlisted in amongst the top 100 Future Leaders In 2023. He has addressed schools on careers and leadership across India &the Middle East. In 2024 He received the Thrive 2024 award for Social Impact. He runs a series of workshops titled " Career Compass" for Schools.
Imagine walking in the footsteps of ancient civilizations, uncovering secrets hidden for centuries, and piecing together the puzzle of human history. Welcome to the captivating world of archaeology, a field dedicated to understanding past cultures through material remains.
Origins of Archaeology
Archaeology traces back to the curiosity of ancient Greeks and Romans, with early contributions from Herodotus and Strabo. However, archaeology as a scientific discipline only emerged in the 19th century. Initially associated with treasure hunting, it transformed when pioneers like William Flinders Petrie and Augustus Pitt Rivers introduced systematic methods. Today, archaeology is a rigorous field integrating sciences, humanities and advanced technology to reconstruct human history.
Branches and Interdisciplinary NatureArchaeology is enriched by interdisciplinary fields that help reconstruct ancient lifestyles, technologies and environments. Key branches include:
Archaeometallurgy studies ancient metal use and trade, while bioarchaeology examines human remains to learn about health and lifestyle.
Archaeobotany focuses on plant remains to reconstruct diets and environments, while geoarchaeology uses geological techniques to analyse site formation.
Maritime archaeology investigates submerged artifacts like shipwrecks and digital archaeology uses tools like 3D modelling to visualise ancient sites.
In addition, fields such as anthropology, history, geology and chemistry contribute insights into human cultures, technologies and their interactions with the environment. Together, these areas form a holistic view of past societies and their complexities.
Career Paths in Archaeology
Archaeology offers diverse career paths for those interested in exploring human history and preserving heritage. Key roles include:
Field Archaeologists: Specialise in excavations and analysis, often working with museums and government bodies.
Museum Curators: Organise and manage artifacts, educating the public on cultural heritage.
Cultural Resource Managers: Work with construction projects to ensure preservation of historical sites.
Academic Researchers: Conduct studies and teach, often based in universities.
Archaeologists may also specialise in areas like historical archaeology (studying ancient artifacts), maritime archaeology (investigating underwater sites), and epigraphy (analysing inscriptions). Other roles include museology, which focuses on organising and preserving museum artifacts, offering a way for the public to connect with history.
A Day in the Life of an Archaeologist
A typical day for an archaeologist might start at dawn, ready for fieldwork at a dig site. Tasks include surveying the area, carefully excavating artifacts, analysing and documenting findings, and collaborating with experts from various disciplines. Archaeologists also write research papers and share discoveries with the public, bridging ancient and modern worlds.
Challenges and Rewards
Archaeology isn’t just about unearthing relics—it’s about interpreting human stories. Challenges include funding constraints, conservation issues and interpreting complex data. The rewards, however, are profound: discovering new insights into human history, collaborating with diverse experts, and contributing to heritage preservation.
Getting Started in Archaeology
For those interested in archaeology, it helps to have a background in history, anthropology or related fields. Gaining field experience through internships and joining professional archaeological organisations are great first steps. Developing skills in languages, photography and documentation is also valuable, as these enhance fieldwork and artifact preservation.
In India, archaeology courses are offered by institutions such as the Archaeological Survey of India, Banaras Hindu University and Deccan College in Pune. Programs range from bachelor’s to master’s degrees, with specialisations in archaeology, museology and heritage management. Advanced degrees, including PhDs, are essential for teaching and conducting high-level research.
Indian Archaeology: A Rich Heritage
India's archaeological heritage spans millennia, with remarkable discoveries from the Indus Valley Civilization, one of the earliest urban cultures in the world. Indian archaeologists like Daya Ram Sahni and Rakhaldas Bandyopadhyay were pioneers, uncovering ancient cities like Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro.
Notable modern archaeologists, including Padma Shri awardees Dr. Sharada Srinivasan and Dr. Subbaraman S, have furthered our understanding of India’s ancient heritage. Dr. Srinivasan, an expert in archaeometallurgy, has conducted groundbreaking research on South Indian bronzes and ancient metal technology, shedding light on the craftsmanship of the Chola period. Dr. Subbaraman's meticulous excavations, especially at the Harappan port of Lothal, have revealed insights into trade networks, urban planning and daily life in the Indus Valley Civilization.
Conservation Efforts by Mr Subbraman S: Preserving Cultural Heritage
Conservation is crucial to archaeology, preserving artifacts and sites for future generations. Examples of conservation efforts include:
Angkor Wat, Cambodia: Teams work to stabilize structures, repair carvings, and prevent water damage. Techniques like laser scanning help document and restore this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Bamiyan Buddhas, Afghanistan: Although destroyed in 2001, conservationists have used digital reconstructions and 3D imaging to preserve the Buddha’s cultural legacy.
Brihadeeswara Temple, Tamil Nadu: Conservationists restore frescoes, carvings and stonework to maintain this ancient Chola masterpiece. Repairs are carried out with traditional techniques to preserve authenticity and counter natural erosion.
These efforts illustrate the essential role archaeology plays in protecting cultural heritage from environmental, human, and time-related damage.
To know more, read the book ‘Ajanta to Angkor Wat- A heritage conservation Journey’, by S. Subbaraman
Did you Know?
Dr. Sharada Srinivasan, a leading expert in archaeometallurgy, co-authored the book ‘India's Legendary Wootz Steel: An Advanced Material of the Ancient World’ with
Dr. S. Ranganathan. This work explores the history, science, and cultural significance of wootz steel, a highly prized, ancient Indian steel known for its remarkable strength and unique patterned surface.
The book delves into the production processes, trade routes, and the role wootz steel played in metallurgy, emphasising its impact on weaponry, particularly in the creation of Damascus swords. It combines historical research with scientific analysis, shedding light on how Indian metalworkers pioneered techniques that fascinated global markets and influenced material sciences. Dr. Srinivasan’s research contributes to a deeper appreciation of India’s metallurgical heritage and the advanced technologies of ancient artisans. There is an effort to reproduce the Wootz Steel
Conclusion
Archaeology is an exciting, interdisciplinary field that offers unique insights into human history. From uncovering ancient civilisations to preserving world heritage, archaeologists play a vital role in connecting us with our past. Whether through field excavation, museum curation or conservation, archaeology offers a wealth of career opportunities for students passionate about exploring history and protecting cultural legacies. Through archaeology, we honour and learn from the achievements, struggles and resilience of those who came before us, helping us better understand the world we live in today.