News Tamil Nadu

Recovery Of 10th Century Rashtrakutas Inscription At Vallimalai Murugan Temple Vellore

May 17, 2024
The Commune

An ancient inscription dating back to the 10th century was discovered amidst the ruins at Vallimalai Murugan temple in the Vellore district. After being safely retrieved, it was entrusted to the care of the Vellore Government Museum.

Located near Katpadi in the Vellore district, Vallimalai has been the subject of archaeological interest. Prompted by reports of two neglected inscriptions belonging to King Krishna Kannaradevan III from the 10th century, the Archaeology and Revenue Departments jointly conducted a survey in the area.

Subsequently, two deteriorated inscriptions were unearthed near the Vallimalai Murugan temple. These inscriptions hailed the victory of King Kannaradeva from the Rashtrakuta dynasty during the 10th century.

Interestingly, both inscriptions conveyed identical messages in both Tamil and Kannada, recounting a significant historical event. In a fiercely contested battle called ‘Battle of Takkolam‘, the Rashtrakutas emerged victorious over the Cholas near Takkolam, close to Arakonam. Prince Rajaditya of the Chola dynasty perished in this conflict, leading to the northern regions of Tamil Nadu falling under Rashtrakuta dominion. During this period, King Krishna III was encamped at Melpadi and organized a literary competition. Gandadeva Appaiyan emerged as the victor and was rewarded with a village by King Krishna. These inscriptions provide detailed accounts of these events, including the demise of Chola princess Rajaditya during the battle at Takkolam. Intriguingly, even in this Rashtrakuta inscription, Rajaditya is referred to as ‘Yaanai Mel Thunjiya Devar,’ indicating his demise while fighting from the back of an elephant.

Over time, these historical artifacts were engulfed by the soil and damaged by creeping vines since 2011. On 15th May 2024, following the directive of Vellore District Collector Subbulakshmi, the Revenue and Archaeology Departments recovered these inscriptions. They were securely transported on a four-wheeler and handed over to Saravanan, the Curator of the Vellore Government Museum, for safekeeping and public display.

(With Inputs From Dinamani)

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