Lataka and Latya
By T. K. Joseph
Summary
The discussion in the text examines the origins of the Sanskrit word *iṣṭakā* (brick) and its Avestic counterpart *iṣtya*, proposing a Dravidian root *iṣṭu* as their common source. The morphological evolution of related terms—*leṣṭu*, *leṣṭā*, *eṣṭā*, *iṣṭakā*, and *iṣṭikā*—is outlined, alongside a semantic shift from "clod of earth" to "brick." The text questions the origin of the final *-k* in Sanskrit and *-yā* in Avestic, suggesting possible Sumerian influence or Dravidian innovation. Mr. Sarkar argues that Dravidians in the Ganges valley introduced brick technology to Aryans, while K. Oito Stein posits that the Dravidian *iṣṭiké* is a loanword from Indo-Aryan. Regional variations in brick terminology are noted: Malayalam uses *iṭa* or *iṭṭiya*, while southern regions favor *ceṅkal* (red stone) or *cutukaḷ* (burnt stone). The Tamil-Malayalam root *cut* (to bake) is linked to kiln terms *heka* (Malayalam) and *calai/cullai* (Tamil), with a possible connection to Sanskrit *culli* (fire-place). The text highlights the relatively recent adoption of bricks in Kerala compared to Tamil regions, where brick usage is more ancient.
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Conclusion
This study explores the etymological roots of Sanskrit *iṣṭakā* and Avestan *iṣtyā*, proposing a Dravidian origin for the term and its semantic evolution from "clod of earth" to "brick." The analysis highlights morphological shifts, such as the final *-k* in Sanskrit and *-yā* in Avestan, while questioning potential Sumerian influences or indigenous Dravidian innovation in brick-making. The discussion further examines regional variations in brick terminology across South India, noting the adoption of *iṭaka* in Malayalam and Tamil, alongside indigenous terms like *cenkal* and *cutukal*. The study underscores the interplay between linguistic borrowing and technological diffusion, suggesting possible connections between Dravidian and Indo-Aryan terms for brick and kiln. Ultimately, it raises unresolved questions about the origins of brick-making technology and its transmission in South Asia, emphasizing the need for further investigation into cultural and linguistic exchanges in the region.