The Archaeological Survey of India's epigraphy chief revealed that the earliest known inscription mentioning Guntur appears on the Pune copper plates of King Vishnuvardhana II, dated to 669 CE. The finding traces the city’s name evolution over centuries.
- First epigraphic mention of Guntur dated to 669 CE
- Copper plates record name variations: Kumturu, Gomturu, Gunturu
- Evidence illuminates medieval Andhra Pradesh’s linguistic and political landscape
Discovery Details
Dr. K. Munirathnam Reddy, Director (Epigraphy) of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), announced that the Pune copper plates issued by King Vishnuvardhana II of the Eastern Chalukya dynasty in his first regnal year (669 CE) contain the earliest known reference to Guntur. The plates show a linguistic progression from ancient forms such as Kumturu, Gomturu, and Gunturu to the modern name.
Historical Background
A 10th‑century Ederu copper‑plate inscription also records the city as Gomturu. This nomenclature persisted in regional inscriptions from the 10th through the 14th centuries, offering scholars a clear timeline of the city’s evolving identity under the Eastern Chalukyas.
Why This Matters
BozokMedia analysis shows that such epigraphic evidence is rare for South Indian urban centers, providing a concrete anchor for mapping socio‑political changes during the medieval period.
"These copper‑plate inscriptions validate Guntur’s ancient status, reshaping our historical narrative," Dr. K. Munirathnam Reddy stated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Does this discovery alter our understanding of Guntur’s early urban size?
A: Yes, it suggests Guntur functioned as a significant administrative hub as early as the 7th century.
Q2: Could similar early references exist for other South Indian cities?
A: Highly likely, as many Eastern Chalukyan rulers employed comparable copper‑plate grants.
