Dr. Ramaswamy Venkatraman, fondly called as Dr. V, is known as the Pitamaha of Intach Madurai chapter. One of the most remarkable historians that Madurai has today. Having been born in an affluent business family in Tuticorin, Dr.V followed his heart and took to teaching history that he continues to date.
He, along with an eminent archaeologist, has excavated more than 100 ancient sites. Some of the prominent discoveries include many Ancient Jain cave temples in & around Madurai, a Pallava sculpture in Mahabalipuram, the rock paintings in Kidaripatty, 8th century inscriptions of Koon Pandyan, the paintings in Alagarkoil and Perumal malai.
He is also known for connecting astronomy & iconography. He has published 8 books and 98 scholarly papers. He has more than 37 PHD students who have researched history and anthropology under him. His lectures to various organizations are uncountable. He explains stories of the mythology of each stucco in all the gopurams of the Meenakshi temple that will simply leave you stunned. At the age of 85, he still continues his research in Ancient Archaeology and Ancient Indian history.
An active founder member and resource person of INTACH, Dr.V also involves himself with CII,
Travel club and other NGOs. His positive energy, smiling face, simplicity & abundance knowledge attracts people of all ages to delve into the lost history of Madurai & understand it’s culture, lifestyle, traditions, art forms & heritage in a practical angle. A passionate historian, he is indeed a jewel on INTACH Madurai’s crown!