The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has successfully deciphered an 11th-century Telugu inscription discovered in the dense Nallamala forest. The text provides vital insights into medieval land donations and religious customs.

Key Takeaways

  • ASI's Epigraphy Division decoded an 11th-century Telugu inscription from Nallamala forest.
  • The find was located near Satakodu village in Markapuram district.
  • The inscription details significant land donations for temple worship.

The Epigraphy Division of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) announced on Friday the successful deciphering of an ancient inscription. The text was copied during a specialized epigraphical survey conducted in the Nallamala forest between June 11 and 13, 2026. This discovery adds a crucial chapter to the historical record of the region.

Mr. K. Munirathnam Reddy, Director (Epigraphy) at ASI Mysuru, confirmed that the inscription was unearthed near Satakodu village in the Yerragondapalem mandal of Markapuram district. Written in 11th-century C.E. Telugu script, the inscription offers a window into the linguistic evolution of the Telugu language.

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Historical Significance

The deciphered text serves as a formal record of religious philanthropy. According to the inscription, Muttu Malaredi Nayaka donated eight 'putlu' of wetland and two 'mattars' of wetland located behind the Muttumalapadu tank. This donation was intended to fund worship at the temple of God Saptakotidevara during the auspicious occasion of Uttarayana Sankranthi.

Furthermore, the inscription records that Praralaya Peggada donated three 'khadukas' of land to the same deity. These records highlight the structured nature of land ownership and religious endowments during the 11th century.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that such epigraphical discoveries are vital for reconstructing the socio-economic landscape of medieval India. These inscriptions act as primary sources that validate oral traditions and provide concrete data on land measurement units and religious hierarchies.

This decipherment is a monumental step in understanding the granular details of medieval Telugu social structures and agrarian economy.
Did You Know?: Ancient inscriptions often used specific units like 'putlu' and 'khadukas' to denote precise land areas, reflecting a highly organized agricultural system.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Where exactly was the inscription found?
It was discovered near Satakodu village in the Yerragondapalem mandal of Markapuram district, within the Nallamala forest area.

2. What does the inscription describe?
It details land donations made by individuals for the purpose of performing religious rituals at the Saptakotidevara temple.