Experts examine 14th century inscription linked to Harihara II

UDUPI

An unpublished 14th century inscription located in Hardalli-Mandalli village of Kundapur taluk has drawn renewed attention due to the collaborative efforts of scholars and local history enthusiasts. Found at Kambalagadde in Manigeri Bailu, on the farmland of Shekhar Shetty, the inscription was initially studied by the late historian B Vasantha Shetty. However, the publication of his research was cut short by his untimely demise. The inscription came back into focus when heritage enthusiast Purnima Kamalashile informed GR Vaishali, a PhD researcher at Tumakuru University and assistant professor in the department of history at Government First Grade College, Bhatkal. Vaishali, along with Vivek Mityantara, a localite, visited the spot and Shashikumar Naik, a PhD scholar did the preliminary study on the inscription. This was followed by further study and interpretation by Shruthesh Acharya Moodubelle, a researcher in history and archaeology. According to Acharya, the inscription opens with a hymn to Lord Ganesha and Lord Shiva. It is dated to the reign of Harihara II (1377–1404 CE) of the Vijayanagara Empire and is carved on a granite stone slab.

The upper portion features solar and lunar emblems, a Shiva linga flanked by a devotee seated in padmasana, and depictions of a lamp and Nandi. The inscription, written in 14th century Kannada script, contains 34 lines, although the lower section was partially eroded. The text eulogises King Harihara II with his royal titles and records a land grant made in the Saka year 1312 (1390 CE), during the rule of Mallapa Wodeya in the Barakur kingdom. The grant was made to Chaudappa, son of Jain Madarasa of Kundugula, by Varadeshwara Edahali (son of Vasu Edahali) and Kotiswara Edahali (son of Narana Edahali), from Haradavalli of Nalvattu Naadu.