Date of the Kāñci‑Kāverī Expedition—A reply

This article re‑examines the date of the Kāñci‑Kāverī expedition conducted by Purusottama Gajapati of Orissa, responding to criticisms of the author's earlier work by Sri G. Ramadas and R. Subrahmanyam. Using epigraphic evidence and the Anka year system, the author argues that the expedition occurred between November 1467 and 1471, when Kapilendra was succeeded by his son Purusottama, rather than earlier or later dates proposed by other scholars. The paper refutes claims of a Hamvira interregnum between 1472–1476 by demonstrating that inscriptions show no gap between Kapilendra's death (January 1468) and Purusottama's accession (February or March 1467). It discusses contemporary inscriptions, including those from Srikurmam and Simhachalam temples, and scrutinizes the Māḍalā‑Pāñji chronicle to show that Kapilendra was still ruling during the 35th Anka year. By systematically analysing regnal years, the article situates the expedition within a broader context of dynastic politics, showing that Purusottama's southern campaign and subsequent return to the capital were driven by both territorial ambition and internal power struggles. The article thus revises the chronology of Orissan history and demonstrates the importance of epigraphy in resolving chronological debates.

Summary reviewed by a volunteer editor.