Daijiworld Media Network- Udupi
Udupi, Oct 17: In a significant archaeological study, two ancient inscriptions from the Vijayanagara-Tulu dynasty period have been thoroughly examined at the Bandarakeri Math in Barkur. With the blessing of Sri Vidyeshatirtha Swamiji, this unique study was conducted by Dr G V Kallapur, founder-director of the Sriniketan Museum and Keladi Rani Chennamma Study Chair, and Shrutesh Acharya Moodubelle, deputy director.
The inscriptions, written in the Kannada script, had not been documented previously and provide fresh insights into the history of the region. Both are carved into granite stones and currently remain fragmented. The inscriptions reference key figures from the Vijayanagara period, including Krishnadevaraya and Achyutaraya, who ruled during the 16th century.
One of the inscriptions, dating to 1519-20 AD, mentions Vijayappa Odeya, governor of Barkur under Krishnadevaraya. It commemorates a donation made during a lunar eclipse, with references to Raghuvara Teertha Swamiji and Sri Gopinath Deva, and includes a Jain invocation.
The second inscription, from the time of Achyutaraya, records a land grant by Kondamarasa Odeya to the deity Sri Gopinath. This inscription, dating to 1539 AD, sheds light on the extended rule of Kondamarasa Odeya, updating the historical record of his governance beyond previously known dates. The donation of 40 Varaha coins and the regions of Neelavara and Tekkatte are also mentioned.
These discoveries provide new dimensions to the understanding of the Vijayanagara-Tulu dynasty's presence in Tulu Nadu, particularly in relation to Barkur’s historical importance. The inscriptions also offer valuable details about religious donations, land grants, and governance during the time.
The study was supported by the Prachyasanchaaya Research Center, Udupi, under the direction of Prof S A Krishnaiah, along with contributions from local temple staff and archaeological students. These findings are expected to inspire further research into the region’s rich heritage.