Some Family Letters in Kharosthi Script from Central Asia
Summary
The article examines a collection of Kharosthi documents unearthed by Sir A. Stein during archaeological explorations in Chinese Turkestan, which were later published in the *Kharosthi Inscriptions* (KI). These 782 Prakrit records, found at the ruined sites of Niya, Endere, and Lowlan, were preserved on wooden tablets, leather, silk, and paper. The author argues that the epistolary style of these documents is perfectly Indian in character, rather than derived from China, as evidenced by its flowery and conventional phrasing. In support of this view, Prof. F. W. Thomas compares the ornate style with ancient Sanskrit works such as the *Malavikagnimitram* and the *Harsacarita* of Bāṇabhaṭṭa. The author notes that Tibetans later copied this style, showing a cultural influence, even though their alphabet was directly inspired by India. The documents refer to various types of private correspondence, including *pratilekha* (report or reply), *hastalekha*, *svastilekha* (health-wishing letter), *pravamānaga lekba* (sale document), *paramparā lekba* (letters concerning gifts), and condolence letters. The letters involve a wide range of personal relationships, including fathers, mothers, sons, daughters, brothers, sisters, friends, neighbours, tenants, and landlords. The frequent use of the term *priya* (dear), as in *priya bhrātṛ* (dear brother), often denotes a dear friend rather than a natural tie, even among high-status individuals. The article provides numerous examples of the introductory phrases and salutations used in these letters, detailing the respectful tone adopted by sons addressing fathers, and vice versa. It also highlights the peculiar respectful tone used when a father addresses his sons, and the mutual interest shown by parents inquiring about the health of their children. The article further explores letters exchanged between monks and brothers, as well as between females, such as sisters exchanging gifts. It also discusses letters between near relations, like brother-in-laws and a father-in-law addressing his son-in-law regarding the latter's forgetfulness in sending presents. The author includes examples of letters conveying happy news, such as the birth of a son, and a condolence letter sent upon the demise of a person. The latter reflects the contemporary view of death as a natural and unavoidable event, emphasizing the importance of virtuous acts and purity. The article concludes by summarizing the contents of these family letters from Central Asia, which provide valuable insights into the social, religious, political, and economic conditions of the region in the early centuries of the Christian Era. The author, R. C. Majumdar, submitted this paper to be read in the Section of the Indian History Congress held at Waltair in 1953.
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Conclusion
The Kharosthi documents unearthed in Central Asia provide invaluable insights into the social fabric of early centuries CE, revealing a society deeply influenced by Indian cultural norms. The analysis of family correspondence demonstrates that epistolary conventions, characterized by highly ornate and respectful language, were distinctly Indian rather than indigenous to the region. These letters, exchanged among various family members including parents, children, and siblings, frequently utilize the term *priya* to denote close relationships, though it sometimes serves as a conventional term for dear friends. The correspondence also highlights the natural acceptance of life events such as birth and death within the community. Ultimately, these records underscore a significant cultural continuity, illustrating the profound Indian influence on the region, which extended even to its Tibetan conquerors.