A hero stone believed to date back to the reign of Rajendra Chola I has been discovered near Pochampalli in Krishnagiri district, adding to the growing list of Chola-era archaeological findings in the region.
According to researchers, several hero stones and inscriptions from the Chola period have previously been identified across Krishnagiri district. As part of continuing efforts to document such historical remains, the Historical Research and Documentation Association, along with the Archaeological Research Institute, conducted a field study near the banks of the Penukundapuram lake.
During the survey, researchers identified a hero stone estimated to be around 1,000 years old. Preliminary studies suggest that the stone belongs to the period of Rajendra Chola and contains a carved figure believed to represent a local chieftain.
Researchers stated that this is the third hero stone discovered in the area, and further examination is currently underway to decipher the inscriptional letters engraved on the stone.
Scholars involved in the study said an inscription dated to the year 1134 was also found alongside the hero stone.
Speaking about the findings, researchers said they had been studying the hero stone for nearly a month. They noted that the structure and features of the stone appeared somewhat different from earlier discoveries in the region, prompting them to gather oral accounts from local residents.
According to information collected from the local community, the historical memory associated with the site has been passed down through five to six generations.
Researchers said local accounts referred to a battle that allegedly took place in the area in 1134. During their inquiries, they were told that forces linked to Rajendra Chola I and Rajaraja Chola I had arrived in the region to seize wealth, cattle, goats, stored goods, and agricultural lands.
According to the oral narratives documented by the researchers, a local ruler identified as Manibala of Mathamangalam resisted the invasion. Researchers said residents claimed that because of his resistance, the resources and wealth in the region were protected.
Further archaeological and epigraphical studies are expected to be carried out to verify the historical details connected to the newly discovered hero stone and inscription.
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