The Tali Inscriptions in the Cochin State and their Importance
Summary
The Tali Inscriptions in the Cochin State, located in the Vatalmidam of the Siva temple at Tali (eight miles west of Cheruvirutti), provide critical insights into the political and administrative history of early Kerala. These inscriptions, dating to the reigns of monarchs like Kétai Ravi, Indu Kétai (Kétai Varman), and Bhaskara Ravi, offer evidence of the extent of their rule, with references to regions as far as North Travancore and the Wynad plateaus. Notably, they mention Yakd-Iraiyar, a previously unknown king in South Indian epigraphy and history. The inscriptions also suggest connections to the Imperial Perumal Dynasty, reinforcing the idea of an All-Kgrala empire through scattered records across South Malabar and Cochin. Inscriptions No. 343 and 344, dated to Kétai Ravi’s 17th regnal year (c. 928 CE), provide a key clue for approximating his accession year, with No. 344 explicitly stating it was written in the Kali year 4,030 (928 CE). This aligns with other records, such as the Trppiinittura inscription, which places his reign until 941 CE. The inscriptions also highlight rare records of Indu Kétai and Bhaskara Ravi, with the latter’s inscription (No. 348) being the second found in Cochin State, challenging theories of duplicated monarchs. Constitutionally, the inscriptions reveal details of early local governance, describing the NityavicAirgéévaram assembly, comprising representatives from 18
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Conclusion
The Tali Inscriptions in the Cochin State offer a critical window into the political and territorial dynamics of the Imperial Perumal Dynasty, particularly through the identification of previously obscure rulers like Yakd-Iraiyar and the clarification of regnal timelines, such as Kétai Ravi's accession date. These findings challenge earlier assumptions about the dynasty's reach, suggesting a more cohesive and extensive sway across South Malabar and Cochin. The inscriptions' geographical spread and cross-referenced mentions in distant regions strengthen the case for an All-Kgrala empire, moving beyond romanticized narratives. Additionally, the unresolved questions surrounding Vi-Xo-fraspart and potential links to known rulers highlight avenues for further research. By bridging epigraphic and historical gaps, the Tali records enrich our understanding of Kerala's medieval sovereignty and its administrative complexity.