Sixty-nine ancient stone inscriptions dating back as early as the 9th century AD have been uncovered in the picturesque district of Kodagu, Karnataka. This monumental find, which was made during an extensive survey conducted by BP Rekha, curator of the Department of Archaeology, Museums, and Heritage, marks the largest and most significant collection of inscriptions found in the region in over a century. Rekha’s discovery is poised to enhance the historical understanding of Kodagu, offering valuable insights into its religious, political, and social past.
Rekha’s survey, which began in 2023, has been an exhaustive and methodical process, covering multiple regions of Kodagu, including Madikeri, Kushalnagar, and Somwarpet taluks. The inscriptions, which have been etched onto stone slabs, span an extensive timeline, ranging from the 7th century AD to the 18th century AD. This makes the findings crucial not only for understanding the specific history of Kodagu but also for filling in the broader historical narrative of South India.
The sheer scale of this discovery is extraordinary, as it represents the largest such find in the region since the 1886 work of British archaeologist B.L. Rice. Rice’s Epigraphia Karnataka—which documented 114 stone inscriptions—has long been a key resource for historians. Rekha’s work, however, provides a fresh perspective and a wealth of new material that is bound to be instrumental in furthering our understanding of the region’s past.
The Inscriptions: A Window into Kodagu’s Past
The newly discovered 69 inscriptions, which have been transcribed by epigraphy expert H.M. Nagarajarao of Mysuru, have revealed a treasure trove of information about the region’s ancient civilization. The inscriptions touch upon various aspects of life in ancient Kodagu, including religion, local governance, cultural practices, and social structures.
Several of the inscriptions discovered are of great religious significance, offering a glimpse into the diverse religious landscape of Kodagu centuries ago.
- Vasanthi Temple (Niluvagilu Village): One of the most fascinating finds comes from an inscription in Niluvagilu village, dating back to the 9th century AD. This inscription makes reference to the now-lost Vasanthi temple, a religious site that no longer exists today. The mention of this temple offers a rare glimpse into the religious structures that once graced Kodagu, allowing historians to piece together the region’s long-forgotten religious practices.
- The Story of Vendi (Edavare Village): Another significant 9th-century inscription found in Edavare village recounts the story of a man named Vendi, described as having “ascended to heaven.” This inscription not only marks the reverence Vendi held in the community but also bestows upon him the title “the Brahma of Kaliyuga.” The mention of such an exalted title suggests that Vendi was a highly respected and spiritually significant figure in the region’s cultural fabric.
- Jainism’s Influence: Jainism, a prominent religion in ancient India, is frequently mentioned in these inscriptions. A particularly notable find is a ‘Nishidhi’ inscription found at Kalthmadu in Virajpet. This inscription, installed by a man named Kanakasenaiah, commemorates his guru, emphasizing the role of Jainism in shaping the spiritual life of Kodagu. This inscription provides a rare example of the practice of honoring religious teachers through inscriptions.
The inscriptions also offer valuable insights into the social and political dynamics of the time, revealing details about individuals, communities, and the influence of powerful dynasties.
- Sirivangala (Shirangala Village): In the 11th-12th century AD, an inscription found in Shirangala mentions Sirivangala, believed to be the ancient name of the region. This inscription is significant because it also refers to the River Cauvery, a major waterway that has been central to the region’s culture and economy for centuries. The inscription further mentions individuals named Siriyamma and Kava Gowda, providing a glimpse into the social framework of the time.
- Rajendra Chola’s Influence: One of the most remarkable inscriptions discovered in Kodagu is the one found in Seegehosuru, which refers to Rajendra Chola, one of the most powerful rulers of the Chola Empire. This inscription suggests that the Chola Empire had extended its influence into Kodagu, underscoring the political reach of the Cholas. This discovery is significant because it illustrates the far-reaching authority of the Chola dynasty in South India, impacting regions beyond their core territories.
- Badiva of Kongalva (Basavanahalli Village): A particularly rare find is an inscription discovered in Basavanahalli, which mentions Badiva of Kongalva, the only known record of the Kongalva lineage in Kodagu. This inscription provides important genealogical information, further enriching our understanding of the region’s ancient social and political structures.
While these discoveries are a monumental leap in our understanding of Kodagu’s past, they also highlight the pressing need for preservation efforts. Many of the monuments and inscriptions uncovered during this survey are in a fragile state, and Rekha has emphasised the need for immediate preservation.
For example, in Somwarpet taluk, the remains of several ancient stone tombs are in ruins. These tombs, which date back to a time long past, are now in a state of neglect, with only five remaining in relatively good condition. Rekha has urged the authorities to take swift action to protect these monuments before they succumb to further deterioration.
In addition to the stone tombs, Rekha has highlighted the vulnerability of several other important monuments in Kodagu, including ancient palaces in Kanthuru and Aikola, as well as temples in Kaggodlu and Singatturu. The region is also home to several ‘heroic stones’ (Veeragallu), ‘Sati’ stones, and ‘kole’ stones, which are integral to understanding the historical and cultural legacy of the area. With many of these monuments at risk of being lost, Rekha’s report has called for urgent measures to safeguard Kodagu’s archaeological treasures.
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