A recent discovery has unveiled new information about the historical links between the Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha temple in Simhachalam and the Eastern Ganga dynasty. Bishnu Mohan Adhikari, a 28-year-old epigraphist from Paralakhemundi, Odisha, has managed to decode inscriptions found on a pillar in the temple’s ‘Asthana Mandapam,’ which had previously eluded interpretation.
The inscriptions, arranged in two rows and three columns, are written in Odia and state: “Aatreya Gotravathi Sri Nilamani Pattamahadei Sada Seva Raghunathapur.” They reveal that Queen Gajapati Nilamani Patta Mahadei of the Eastern Ganga dynasty made a donation for the “Sada Seva,” or daily offerings, to the main deity, Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy. Additionally, the inscription notes the queen’s gotram, identifying her as “Aatreya Gotravati,” and mentions her royal domain, Raghunathapur, which was part of the Ganjam district under the Madras Presidency.
“Raghunathapur was a significant estate overseen by the Khemundi-Gangas of Paralakhemundi following the fall of the Eastern Kadamba rule. It stretched from Bendi to Kotabommali, with its capital situated in Tekkali, which is now part of the Srikakulam district in Andhra Pradesh,” Bishnu explained.
He pointed out that the Simhachalam temple has been a significant centre of worship and an important site for the Vaishnavite tradition for nearly a thousand years, alongside Sri Jagannath in Puri and Srikurmam in Srikakulam.
Bishnu explained that the main temple, an exemplary example of Kalingan Peedha architecture, was built in the 13th century during the reign of Gajapati Langula Narasingha Dev-I. Although the construction was overseen by Akthayi Senapati, the temple was consecrated by Langula Narasingha Dev’s son, Bhanudeva I, in 1268 CE. This temple, renowned for its architectural splendour, serves as a lasting tribute to the artistic and spiritual legacy of the Eastern Ganga dynasty. Bishnu further emphasised the historical connection between the temple and the Eastern Ganga dynasty, noting that the current temple was erected by an emperor from the same lineage. “This ruler, known as Chandra Kula sambhuta Aatreya Gotri Gajapati, belonged to a dynasty that governed Kalinga from the 6th century through the mid-20th century, spanning three distinct periods,” he added.
His recent finding at the Simhachalam temple is part of his continued work to uncover the temple’s epigraphic heritage. Bishnu, who started deciphering inscriptions during his teenage years, has honed his skills in interpreting these ancient texts. His linguistic abilities cover several languages, including Sanskrit, Telugu, Kannada, Hindi, Bengali, English, and his native Odia. “Before we began decoding the ancient inscription, we secured permission from the temple administration. I was supported by K. Saikumar, a member of the temple staff, who assisted in facilitating the process,” he added.
Alongside his work at Simhachalam, Bishnu has also managed to decode a 237-year-old copper plate that was recovered from a metal scrap dealer in Odisha.
