Copying Stone Inscriptions onto Paper - An Epigraphic Exercise

News Analysis: Copying Stone Inscriptions onto Paper - An Epigraphic Exercise

·      Recently, a team of epigraphists from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) undertook a significant project to copy stone inscriptions from the Thalishwarar temple in Kovilpalayam and other sites in the Tiruppur district of Tamil Nadu.

·      This exercise, involving the ancient "estampage method," is crucial for preserving historical data and gaining insights into the socio-political and cultural history of the region.

Key Highlights:

1.     Thalishwarar Temple Inscriptions:

o   Temple Overview: Thalishwarar temple, an ancient granite stone structure in the Kongu region, contains inscriptions dedicated to its presiding deity, Thaleekeeiswarar. The ASI identified eight significant inscriptions within the temple complex.

o   Inscriptions Details:

§  One inscription, in Vattezhuthu script, likely dates back to the 9th century, while the other seven, in Tamil, are from the 12th century.

§  The Vattezhuthu inscription consists of 12 lines on the Arthamandapam of the shrine and was deciphered by Prof. Y Subarayalu, revealing that the temple was built by the medieval Chera ruler Kokkandan Viranarayanan.

o   Historical Context: The inscription mentions that the temple, built by the Chera ruler, should be protected at all costs, and any damage to it would result in severe consequences for the perpetrator’s lineage.

2.     Significance of the Chera Dynasty:

o   Chera Rulers: The Cheras were significant rulers in South India, particularly during the Sangam period, governing parts of modern Kerala. Their capital was Vanji, and they were known for their seaports like Tondi and Musiri.

o   Cultural Impact: The inscriptions from the Chera period provide invaluable insights into the cultural, religious, and political history of the region.

3.     Methodology - Estampage:

o   Estampage Method: The estampage technique is a traditional method used by archaeologists to replicate inscriptions from stone surfaces onto inked paper. This process creates an exact copy of the inscription, allowing for detailed analysis and preservation.

o   Importance of Estampage: This method is crucial for preserving inscriptions, especially when the original stone inscriptions are vulnerable to weathering or other forms of degradation. It also allows for further analysis without causing damage to the original inscriptions.

4.     Creating Awareness:

o   Public Involvement: The exercise also aimed at raising awareness about the importance of epigraphy among the public and students. Experts emphasized the need for the public to alert the ASI if they come across any rare inscriptions, as these are primary sources for writing history.

o   Educational Outreach: Students from Bharathiar University were involved in the exercise, providing them with hands-on experience in the field of epigraphy.

5.     Role of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI):

o   Mandate of ASI: The ASI, under the Ministry of Culture, is responsible for archaeological research and the protection of India’s cultural heritage. It operates under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958, and the Antiquities and Art Treasure Act, 1972.

o   Epigraphy as a Discipline: Epigraphy, the study of inscriptions, is essential for understanding historical contexts, languages, and scripts. It provides a direct link to the past, offering insights into the lives, beliefs, and governance of ancient civilizations.

Conclusion:

The ASI's exercise to copy stone inscriptions at the Thalishwarar temple and other sites is a crucial effort in preserving India’s rich historical and cultural heritage. Through the estampage method, valuable inscriptions are not only preserved but also made accessible for further academic research and public education. The involvement of students and public awareness initiatives highlights the importance of collaborative efforts in safeguarding historical knowledge. As epigraphy continues to uncover the stories of our past, it remains a vital tool in understanding and preserving the cultural narratives that shape our present and future.

MCQs for Prelims Practice

1. What is the primary method used by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to copy stone inscriptions onto inked papers?

a) Lithography

b) Estampage

c) Block printing

d) Digital scanning

Answer: b) Estampage

2. The inscription in Vattezhuthu script found at the Thalishwarar temple likely dates back to which century?

a) 5th century

b) 7th century

c) 9th century

d) 12th century

Answer: c) 9th century

3. Who was the medieval Chera ruler mentioned in the Vattezhuthu inscription at the Thalishwarar temple?

a) Kulothunga Chola

b) Rajaraja Chola

c) Kokkandan Viranarayanan

d) Marthanda Varma

Answer: c) Kokkandan Viranarayanan

4. The Chera rulers, who are mentioned in the inscription at the Thalishwarar temple, were associated with which modern-day Indian state?

a) Tamil Nadu

b) Karnataka

c) Andhra Pradesh

d) Kerala

Answer: d) Kerala

5. What is the significance of the estampage method used by ASI in the context of preserving historical inscriptions?

a) It allows for the digital archiving of inscriptions.

b) It enables archaeologists to analyze inscriptions without damaging the original.

c) It creates a permanent ink copy of inscriptions for museum displays.

d) It helps in translating inscriptions into modern languages.

Answer: b) It enables archaeologists to analyze inscriptions without damaging the original.