16th Century Copper Inscriptions Discovered in Tamil Nadu

A remarkable archaeological find has emerged in Mappedu village, Tiruvallur district. Two copper plate inscriptions from the 16th Century CE were discovered at the Sri Singeeswarar temple. This discovery occurred during a routine inspection of temple lockers. The lockers are managed by the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR and CE) Department.

Details of the Inscriptions

The copper plates are linked by a ring featuring the seal of the Vijayanagara Kingdom. This indicates their historical significance. The plates were promptly reported to the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) by T.R. Prakash, the Executive Officer in charge of the temple.

Historical Context

The inscriptions date back to 1513 CE, during the reign of King Krishandevaraya. He was a prominent ruler of the Vijayanagara Empire. This time was marked by cultural and architectural achievements. The inscriptions are written in Sanskrit and Nandinagari script, showcasing the linguistic practices of the period.

Content of the Inscriptions

The inscriptions document a royal gift. King Krishandevaraya donated the village of Vasalabattaka, later renamed Krishnarayapura, to several Brahmins. This act marks the king’s patronage of Brahminical communities. The inscriptions also detail the boundaries of the donated village, which was under the jurisdiction of the Raja of Chandragiri. The Raja’s territory is now part of Tirupati district in Andhra Pradesh.

Significance of the Find

These inscriptions are crucial for understanding historical land grants and the socio-political landscape of the Vijayanagara Empire. They provide insight into the administration and governance of the time. Such documents are invaluable for historians and archaeologists alike.

Preservation Efforts

The ASI and State Archaeology Department play vital roles in safeguarding these historical artifacts. They work to document and study such discoveries. Preservation ensures that future generations can learn from these treasures.

The discovery of the copper plate inscriptions at the Sri Singeeswarar temple is an important event. It enhances our knowledge of the Vijayanagara Empire and its cultural heritage. This find serves as a reminder of the rich history that lies beneath our feet, waiting to be uncovered.

Month: Current Affairs - October, 2024

Category: Art & Culture Current Affairs