JI
Aryan Culture
Jinamanjari
Vol. 21 · No. 01
Dr.
Dr. Shrinivas V. Padigar is a distinguished historian, epigraphist, and archaeologist renowned for his extensive contributions to understanding India's early historical and cultural narratives, particularly in the Kannada region. Academic Background & Career Dr. Padigar earned his Ph.D. from Karnatak University, Dharwad, in 1985, where he later served as Professor and Chairman of the Department of Ancient Indian History and Epigraphy. He has held several prestigious fellowships, including the Infosys Foundation Karnataka Chair at BORI, Pune, a Senior Academic Fellowship from the Indian Council of Historical Research (ICHR), and a Charles Wallace Fellowship in the UK. He has also served as a visiting fellow at institutions like Deccan College and the University of Edinburgh. Notable Achievements • V Venkayya Epigraphy Award (2025): Dr. Padigar received this award for his exceptional contributions to Indian epigraphy, particularly for his work on Early Chalukya inscriptions. • Rajarshi Dr. Veerendra Heggade Award (2023): Recognized for his pioneering work in the field of epigraphy. • Dr. B.R. Gopal Epigraphist’s Award (2016): Honored for his significant contributions to the study of inscriptions. Major Publications • Inscriptions of the Calukyas of Badami (2010): A comprehensive work critically reinterpreting over 400 inscriptions from the Early Chalukya period. • Vishnu Cult in Karnataka (1996): An exploration of the evolution of Vishnu worship in Karnataka, based on inscriptions and sculpture. • Shravanabelagola: Jaina Cultural Heritage Area: A detailed account of the Jaina monuments at Shravanabelagola and surrounding sites, richly illustrated with photographs. Research Interests Dr. Padigar's interdisciplinary research spans epigraphy, art history, archaeology, numismatics, and religious studies. His work has illuminated aspects of Saiva and Vaishnava traditions, educational institutions, temple architecture, and sculptural iconography in the Deccan region.