Hyderabad: The fifth set of copper plate inscriptions belonging to the Vengi Chalukya dynasty, issued almost 1,000 years ago by King Vikramaditya II, highlights the loyalty and valour of the Kakatiya chief Gundayya (also known as Manma Gunda), underscoring his prominence even as a feudatory under the Eastern Chalukyas.The fifth of nine sets of inscriptions recently discovered in Kodad village and preserved by the state heritage department. The inscription, now deciphered, is written in Sanskrit using the Telugu script and dated to Saka 848, Phalguna, Saurivara, corresponding to Saturday, February 24, 927 CE. According to Dr K. Munirathnam Reddy, director (epigraphy), Archaeological Survey of India, the five-leaf inscription is sealed with the symbol of a boar (Varaha). It records that King Vikramaditya II granted 12 ‘kandukas’ of land in Kodajenu (present-day Kodad), along with two hamlets — Ghattikallu and Bojjaprolu — to Gundayya, son of Erra and grandson of Gunda, in the presence of all mahasamantas at the royal palace during the Uttarayana festival. The grant was likely made to ensure protection for the kingdom. The inscription stated that all residents of the 300 villages in Kondapalli were required to remit one-sixth of their tax (bali), six cows, one ‘adaka’ of ghee and a pair of clothes (vastrayugalam) to Gundayya. The record was engraved by Srikantha Ranabharana. Dr Reddy noted that it is significant that two copper plate charters of Vikramaditya II were issued in the same year—Saka 848 (927 CE)—one marking his coronation and the fifth set issued for securing protection to the kingdom. “This inscription reflects how strong the Kakatiyas were even as subordinates,” Dr Reddy said. “Three of the five leaves are dedicated to Gundayya, detailing the remittances given to him rather than to Vikramaditya II, which highlights Gundayya’s importance.” In the inscription, Kakatiya Gundayya is praised as a brave, devout, charitable and loyal servant of the king—a skilled warrior and upholder of dharma, described as a protector of the people and embodiment of royal service.
Source link
