ASI Completes Epigraphy Work on Ancient Inscriptions in Thirukurungudi Temples

ASI Completes Epigraphy Work on Ancient Inscriptions in Thirukurungudi Temples

Sub: History

Sec: Medieval  History

Why in News

The Epigraphy Division of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has recently completed the estampage method of copying ancient inscriptions from three significant temples in Thirukurungudi, Tirunelveli district, Tamil Nadu. These inscriptions provide valuable insights into the region’s history, particularly during the Pandya and Vijayanagara periods.

Temples Involved: The inscriptions were copied from three temples:

Nambi Rayar Temple

Thirumalai Nambi Temple

Aniliswarar Temple

Inscriptions Collected: Approximately 25 inscriptions were copied over a period of 15 days using the estampage method.

Estampage Method:

A technique used by archaeologists to replicate stone inscriptions for detailed study.

Process:The inscribed stone is cleaned using a brush.

Paper Application: Pre-soaked maplitho paper is applied to the stone surface to capture the engravings.

Inking: Once the paper dries, ink is applied to highlight the characters of the inscription.

Details Recording: Information about the inscription’s location is noted on the back of the sheet for record-keeping.

Purpose:Allows precise replication of ancient texts for analysis and preservation.Aids in understanding historical rulers and dynastic history through corroboration with other sources.

Nambi Rayar Temple:Thirukurungudi, Tirunelveli district, Tamil Nadu.

Dravidian-style temple, part of the Vaishnavite tradition.

Lord Vishnu, worshipped as Nambi Rayar.

An important Divya Desam, one of the 108 Vishnu temples revered by the Alvars.Known for its architectural grandeur and historical inscriptions, including records of land donations for temple rituals.

Inscription describes the gift of tax-free land to the temple for the creation of a flower garden to supply flowers for temple rituals (pujas).

Inscription, written in Tamil, dates back to the Vijayanagara period, mentioning land boundaries during a king’s reign.

Thirumalai Nambi Temple:Thirukurungudi, situated in the Western Ghats near Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu.

Vaishnavite temple – Lord Vishnu, in the form of Thirumalai Nambi.

Set in a picturesque hill area, part of the Pancha Nambi Kshetrams (five sacred places dedicated to Lord Nambi).

Inscriptions reveal historical donations and local community involvement in temple management.

Aniliswarar Temple:Thirukurungudi, Tirunelveli district, Tamil Nadu.

Shaivite temple – Lord Shiva, worshipped as Aniliswarar.

Contains Pandya period inscriptions in Vattezhuthu script.Historical records mention donations like sheep for ghee to light perpetual lamps, reflecting ritualistic practices of the time.

Inscription is from the Pandya period, reflecting the religious and social practices of the time.

About Pandyas:Southern India, primarily Tamil Nadu.

From around 6th century BCE to 14th century CE.

Capital: Madurai.

Prominent Kings: Nedunjeliyan, Sundara Pandya.

Religion: Shaivism and Vaishnavism were prominent.

Contributions: Known for temple architecture, particularly Meenakshi Temple. Flourished in trade with Roman and Southeast Asian regions.

Decline: Overpowered by Delhi Sultanate in the 14th century.

About Vijayanagar:Founded in 1336 CE, lasted until 1646 CE.

Capital: Hampi.

Prominent Kings: Krishnadevaraya, Harihara, and Bukkaraya.

Religion: Patronized Hinduism, supported both Shaivite and Vaishnavite traditions.

Contributions: Known for prosperity, literature, and temple architecture (e.g., Virupaksha Temple). Prominent in trade and defense against Muslim invasions.

Decline: Weakened after the Battle of Talikota (1565 CE) against Deccan Sultanates.