Recent Advance in South Indian Epigraphy
Summary
The 1924 report on South Indian epigraphy highlights significant archaeological and epigraphic discoveries. Key findings include a single Vatteluttu inscription from the early Pandyan king Maran Sadaiyan at Tirukéshtiyur, a site linked to the Vaisnava Alwars and the teacher of Ramanuja. Puttanangidi in Malabar revealed a South Indian-style shrine, contrasting with typical West Coast structures. At Alluru, near Hyderabad, an ancient Buddhist stupa and a 2nd-century CE Brahmi inscription were discovered, recording grants to a Buddhist Nikaya school. Two Eastern Ganga records (154 and 110 CE) and early Telugu verse inscriptions were secured, aiding dynasty reconstruction. A notable Cola inscription (No. 261 of 1923) provides the earliest known eulogistic introduction by a Cola king before Rajaraja I. Other Cola records detail endowments for Vedic recitations and a dispensary by Queen Kundavai-Pirattiyar. Pandyan inscriptions revealed taxation details and social disputes, including a feud between castes and untouchables. Over 700 inscriptions, including nine copper plates, were documented, with Vijayanagara records showing village assembly transactions. The report underscores advancements in deciphering historical administrative practices, religious endowments, and dynastic genealogy, particularly for the Colas, Pandyas, and Eastern Gangas.
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Conclusion
This year's epigraphic findings significantly advance our understanding of South India's religious and political history. The discovery of early Pandyan inscriptions at Tirukéshtiyur and the identification of Buddhist remains with Brahmi inscriptions at Alluru shed new light on ancient sectarian dynamics and regional cultural exchanges. The recovery of Eastern Ganga and Chalukya grants offers critical insights into dynastic chronologies, while the unique Cola inscription provides the earliest known eulogistic record of a Chola king, enriching our understanding of royal ideologies. These discoveries collectively enhance the historical framework of South Indian epigraphy, highlighting its enduring significance in reconstructing the region's complex past.