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Context:
A 13th-century stone inscription, also known as a "Veeragallu", was discovered in the Davanagere district (Karnataka) during the renovation of the ancient Kalleshwar temple.
The stone inscription provides an important understanding of the history of the region, particularly relating to the Sevuna dynasty, also called the Devagiri Yadavas.
The inscription (1283 AD) is made of charcoal stone and measures about 4 feet long and 2.5 feet wide.
It includes a five-line inscription that honours Ramachandra Chakravarti, a ruler from the Sevuna dynasty, who was known by the title Yadava Narayana Bhujbala Praudhapratapa Chakravarti.
According to archaeologists, the lower part of the stone shows two brothers, Bhoja Narayana and Vambhava, in the heat of battle. One brother is depicted beheading an enemy, while another enemy lies defeated. Carvings of cows nearby symbolize the cattle they were defending.
In the central area of the stone, the brothers are shown on a journey to Kailasa, the divine home of Lord Shiva. Here, heavenly spirits lift a vimana (celestial chariot), while musicians follow, celebrating the brothers' bravery. This part of the inscription highlights their journey to a divine kingdom, honouring their sacrifice.
At the top of the stone, the scene changes to Shivaloka, where the brothers are depicted in Anjalimudra (a pose of respect) worshipping a Shivalinga. This image suggests peace and glory, with the sun and moon in the background, symbolizing that their fame will last as long as these celestial bodies exist.
Archaeologists explained that the Sevuna dynasty was a Kannada-speaking kingdom that stretched across parts of present-day Karnataka and Maharashtra.
Initially, they served the Kalyana Chalukyas before becoming independent in the 12th century.
Ramachandra Chakravarti, the hero of the newly discovered inscription, ruled from 1271 to 1312 AD. He was known for his military victories and support of culture. During his rule, he built the Lakshmi Narayan temple near the Harihareshwar temple in Harihara to celebrate his achievements.
It is a historical and architectural site located in the village of Bagali, near Harpanahalli in the Vijayanagara district of Karnataka.
The temple’s construction spans the rule of two prominent Kannada dynasties:
The Kalleshwar Temple is famous for its intricate architecture
The temple is a masterpiece of Chalukyan art, characterized by:
The temple premises have yielded thirty-six old Kannada inscriptions from the 10th and 11th centuries, detailing donations and other historical events. These inscriptions provide valuable insights into the temple’s history and the socio-cultural context of the time.
The Kalleshwar Temple is protected as a monument of national importance by the Archaeological Survey of India.
Source:
PRACTICE QUESTION Q.Which dynasty is connected to the 13th-century stone inscription, also known as a "Veeragallu", discovered in Elehole village, Karnataka? A) Pandya B) Sevuna C) Vijayanagara Empire D) Rashtrakutas Answer: B Explanation: The 13th-century stone inscription, or Veeragallu, discovered in Elehole village, Karnataka, is connected to the Sevuna dynasty (also known as the Devagiri Yadavas). |
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