Tag: RARE KANNADA INSCRIPTION

Context: A rare Kannada inscription was recently discovered in Haveri district, Karnataka. Date: Dated to 18th August 1539 CE. Significance: It is the first known inscription in Indian history to explicitly record a mass humanitarian disaster — documenting 6,307 deaths due to "bara" (famine/drought). Historical Importance Marks India’s earliest epigraphic evidence of the human toll from a natural disaster. Cultural context: After death, respects were paid to Lord Basaveshwara before burial — indicating ritual mourning and religious observance. Reinforces the value of inscriptions in reconstructing social, environmental, and humanitarian histories — not just royal narratives. About Inscriptions Inscriptions are texts engraved on stone, metal, or other durable materials. Serve as primary historical sources to commemorate: Royal decrees and land grants, Victories and donations, Religious rituals and public welfare efforts, Natural or social events (as seen in Haveri). Other Notable Inscriptions in Karnataka Maski Rock Edict (3rd Century BCE) Belongs to Mauryan Emperor Ashoka. First time Ashoka uses the title “Devanampriya” (Beloved of the Gods) along with his name. Crucial in identifying Ashokan edicts as belonging to the historical Ashoka. Aihole Inscription (634 CE) Composed in Sanskrit by Ravikirti, a court poet of Pulakeshin II (Chalukya dynasty). Records Pulakeshin II’s military achievements, including victory over Harshavardhana. Also describes Aihole as the “Cradle of Indian Temple Architecture.” Halmidi Inscription (circa 450 CE) Considered the oldest known inscription in Kannada language. Composed in early Kannada script and poetic style. Mentions Kadamba king Kakusthavarma. Contains 16 lines carved on a sandstone slab. Significance of the Haveri Inscription Shifts focus from kingship and conquest to people-centric history. Offers early documentation of: Climate-induced calamity (drought) Mass mortality and burial practices Community reverence through religious rites The Haveri inscription is a landmark in Indian epigraphy, highlighting human suffering and resilience in the face of natural calamities. It adds depth to our understanding of medieval societal responses to disasters — beyond royal or administrative actions.

Tag: RARE KANNADA INSCRIPTION

RARE KANNADA INSCRIPTION

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