A Note on Rana Mokal’s Plate
By G. N. Sharma
Summary
This note describes and translates a copper‑plate charter issued by Rāṇa Mokala of Mewar in Vikrama Saṃvat 1482 (1425 CE). Dr. G. N. Sharma examines the physical characteristics of the plate—its dimensions, weight and Nagari‑Mahajani script—and notes that the engraving is neat and legible despite uneven letter size. The charter records a grant of the village Gundali in the pargana of Kelwara to Mandana, an architect (śilpakāra) who was responsible for constructing gateways, temples and palaces at Chittor and Kumbhalgarh. The document specifies the revenue privileges accorded to Mandana, including a monthly allowance and supplies from the royal household, and lists further benefits such as a share in taxes collected on festive occasions. Sharma interprets these details to show that by the fifteenth century the pargana had become an administrative unit in Mewar and that skilled artisans could receive substantial remuneration. The article concludes with a transcription of the Sanskrit and Rajasthani text of the plate, an explanation of its invocation verses and a discussion of the customary curse threatening anyone who revoked the grant. The note thus contributes to the epigraphic study of late medieval Rajasthan and illuminates the socio‑economic position of temple architects.
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Conclusion
The copper‑plate charter demonstrates that Rāṇa Mokala rewarded his chief architect with land, income and supplies, illustrating the high status enjoyed by craftsmen in fifteenth‑century Mewar. The document also sheds light on administrative terms and the spread of Nagari script in western India.