Dynasty History of United Koraput

DYNASTY HISTORY OFUNITED KORAPUT (B.C. to 1250AD) DAS KORNEL First published 2017 @ Das Kornel 2017 All rights reserved. No parts of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted, in any form or by any means, without the prior permission of the author and the publisher. ISBN 978-93-5288-893-1 Published by Das Kornel, 2017 [email protected] [email protected] Mobile: +91 9437411576 Coverpage by Arjun Ojha Dedicated to Prof.N.K.Sahu, the eminent Historian of Odisha who contributed immensely to the knowledge of local History in Western Odisha and Emperor Kharavela Dr. Das Kornel Dr. Das Kornel was born in a Punjabi family at Jeypore (Koraput district) in Odisha State of India on 18th August 1948. His family came down during 1870 from Amritsar to Jeypore, then was under the Agency area of Visakahpatam in Madras Presidency and Jeypore as a State ruled by the Suryavamsi family; they have few documents since 1892. Dr.Kornel is a qualified Veterinarian with specialization in Animal Genetics and exercised his profession uptill 1999.He had an excellent accademic carrier and had earned Honours to his degree and 3 University Goldmedals and several prizes. He worked with Government of India in various positions since 1971 and took Voluntry retirement from the post of Director, CCBF in 1999.He was instrumental in establishing Indo-Australian Sheep Breeding Project, Hissar and Central Cattle (Jersey) Breeding Farm, Sunabeda, Government of India. He had established Frozen Semen Bank and Embryo Transfer Laboratory in CCBF, Sunabeda. He has worked with DANIDA as Danida Advisor for 10 long years and was the Programmee Coordinator (IC- SDC) Indo-Swiss Natural Resource Management Programme, Odisha for 4 years. Dr. Kornel has grassroots level experience of 25 years in Rural Sector Development.- Project and Programmes, especially the Poverty alleviation programmee areas in tribal dominant districts of Odisha. His early education and most service period were spent in Koraput district and for brief period in Bastar i district but from last eight years he is working with poor tribals of Mayurbhanj and Kenojhore districts of Odisha. He is associated as a Consultant to GALVmed, Scotland since 2009. The programmee is associated with two lakh fifty thousand house holds in Mayurbhanj and Kendujhar district tribal families spread across16 blocks of the said districts. The skills to raise small animals particularly the back yard poultry through trained Community Animal Health Workers is the strategy to alleviate poverty here. Some how, the life and culture of tribals fascinated him and thus he went deep into the subject. He has published about 44 papers in Animal Science and few books in Farming Systems, Socio-anthropology etc. and notably, Tribal Crops - Livestock Farming Systems in South-East India. Manohar Publishers, New Delhi. (2006). Tribal Culture Heritage and Cult .Gutob Gadaba Tribe of Orissa, (1999c) Modern Book Depot, Bhubaneswar; Tribal Culture. Koya Tribe in Transition, A.P.H.Publishing Corporation, New Delhi, (2006).This is a work based on Koya tribe of Malkangiri, Koraput, and the Bangladesh refugees who settled there. The study is spread across 22 years, and observations on Koyas to meet the challenges due to sudden influx of a modern world society have been detailed. Kornel started working on the livestock bio- diversity of Orissa as early as 1975 and in 1999 he published a book titled, Livestock and Poultry Genetic Resources in Orissa, and in 2006 along with Prof. S.C.Móhapatra and Prof. R.M.Acharya published the Indigenous Poultry Genetic Resources of Orissa, and Sheep and Goat Genetic Resources of Orissa: A Survey Report with Government of Orissa. He has also published a work entitled, Livestock and Poultry Dynamics in Tribal life based on the tribals of Koraput. Kornel also published two volumes of e-books entitled, Culture Heritage History and Historiography in Dandakaranya (BC to 1250AD)– vol. I, & vol. II – (2010). This is a detail work on tribal culture, local religion set up, history of people and history of Dynasties that ruled the region and the Historiography that was awaiting discovery here in United Koraput and Bastar districts of Orissa and Chhattisgarh states. Kornel and Dr. Giridhar Gamang published a detail work named, Lost Jaina Tribes in Trikalinga. This work depicts the former day Jaina tribals of Koraput and the monuments and antiquities that are found in the district. Das Kornel was the lead consultant to prepare the Livestock Policy and Plan of Chhattisgarh Government and it was approved by the CG governmemt and was also implememnted. Kornel worked for three years with FAO in India as FAO Associate Professional to South Asia Pro Poor Livestock Policy Programme (a joint initiative of NDDB and FAO) New Delhi. He was the author of Poultry Sector Country Review--- - India for FAO, Rome in 2008. Das Kornel is a reputed International consultant in Backyard Poultry Development and he is well known for his pioneering work on Biodiversity of Livestock and Poultry Resurces in Odisha. ii PREFACE Dandakaranya as known from Ramayana has been well defined and documented. The united Koraput district is a part of Dandakaranya of Ramayana fame. There are 62 tribal groups in Orissa and out of that 51 are in united Koraput district alone that constitutes 82 percent of the total tribal groups.The Tribals of united Koraput, represent to a wide stock of origin, and may have come down from various regions with time. They represent Austro-asiatic, Dravidian and Indo Aryan and mixed origin. They have maintained their own tribe group identity through various measures as social discipline and social orders. For all practical puroses this book mentions Koraput means United Koraput district i.e. Koraput, Nabrangpur, Rayagada and Malkangiri districts of Orissa. This volume has been carved out of the two volumes of Culture Heritage History and Historiography in Dandakaranya (BC to 1250AD), authored by Das Kornel as the request for separate volume of Tribal People History of Koraput grew. This book is mainly focuses the ‘Dyanasty History in united Koraput from BC to 1250 AD”. I have published another volume separately that gives insight into ‘Peoples History in Koraput’. Many dynasties invaded Koraput and ruled. They made history. They are Kharavella, Ikshvakus, Mayurias, Vakatakas, Nala, Western Chalukya, Cholas, Rastrakutas, Western Gangas, Pitribhktas, Panduvamsis, Pallvas, Konas, Telugu Chodas, and Kalachuris of Tripuri, Nagas or Chhindaka dynasty, Mathras and many more minor dynasties. The dynasties of Eastern Ganga and Eastern Chalukyas origined from Koraput district and ruled Kalinga and Andhradesa, respectively for long years. Kharavella established Risi Khebri of Hathigumpha fame and derived its man power for military from Korput then known as Vidydhar abode. It was the Atavi of Emperor Asoka. Nala dynasty ruled from Podagada of Umerkote, Nadapur was the centre of activity for many dynasty for centuries. Cholas had their headquarter at An-chola- gumma and An-chola also carved out Purvadesa and ruled it. The former in Tentulikhunti block of Nabrangpur and the later An-chola in the boarder of Borigumma. Chakrakote of Koraput block remained the bone of contention to W. Chalukyas, Cholas and Nagavmsis and many. It now stands as ruins. Bhairab singpur of Borigumma stands silent with its history of the past. Kalyan Singpur was the capital of Western Chalukyas of Kalyan branch in Koraput. iii The Koraput was also a part of Kalinga and was also known as Giri Kalinga and Paschima Kalinga in the pages of history. This was also the country of Trikalinga. This was also well known as Telinga and more so in Budhist literature. The tribal children are now going to schools and many are in Asram schools. The tribals have their identity and the future generation shall search their culture, history and their roots. This book will help them. Their history and roots shall give them the required strength to march in the process of development safely and in dignified manner. History will guide them. They shall not be lost. The history was built from the history that was recorded in the neighbouring Andhradesa, Kalinga, and the South Kosala and others. This took about 30 years of work. The inscriptions related were thoroughly studied and interpreted where required. The incidences like marching of army and capitals, dynasties ruling for time and period were considered for inference. After thorough study of relevant history texts a detail study of specific Dynasties was taken up along with study of original inscriptions as far possible in context to united Koraput district region as defined in the book. It was the personal advice of renowned Orissan historian of repute, Prof. Manamanth Das to make field studies to write history, otherwise it shall be like many others whose works did not last long; similarly Dr. S.N. Rajaguru was of the opinion that history should have evidences from inscriptions or else it will be a story only. So the above advices were carefully followed to carve out this piece of the history. Most important contribution was due to Prof. Somsekhar Rao and Dr.Kolleru Suryanarayana of Visakahapatnam who willingly gave hours to discuss the relevant history and historical evidences being close to Orissa and in particular the South Orissa history. They also suggested the authors and books of concern to my study which saved lot of my study time. In many instances they were ready to make available inscriptions and photocopies of articles when requested by me. This was very useful because I could save time. However my knowledge of anthropology in particular in context to Koraput and Bastar and practical experiences due to my birth in Jeypore, Orissa and by luck I had spent most of professional carrier in the region was most helpful to derive many things of interest, more so my knowledge of Tribal languages and culture was of significant advantage in the direction. This book starts with’Introduction of history in Koraput’ for the benefits of the reader. It gives introduction to the dynasties that came here or dynasties that were born here and ruled along with important events of history that took place. There is another separate chapted named,’Ancient and Changing Geography: Koraput’. It implies all that countries and states that emerged out in Koraput and iv more widely in Dandakaranya from BC to 1250AD. This will give a clear perception of history that the people of Koraput witnessed in the past. Historigrapical change incorporates new evidence and new way of looking at the existing history reports. Findings of new coins, inscriptions, archaeology, links historical and socio-linguistics along with aspects of oral-traditions have enriched knowledge of new history. In recent years history has increasingly drawn more evidence from archaeology. Orissa still houses a large number and range of societies and some of them are still very primitive. This living pre-history, underlines the continuity of cultural survivals. Attempts have been made here to bring the cross discipline like ethno- archaeology to correlate ethnographic findings with history. Thus field work has been the basis to bring together all elements of interest to form the history of the region and has been reported. Archaeological evidence has underlined the geographical significance to history, particularly the location of settlements and the movement of people and it still, to a greater extent can indicate the period of occurance.There are departures to earlier views as simultaneously the geographical regions continue to have historical activity. That is multiple centers share the same history. This phenomenon was witnessed simaltaniously during Sangma period of South India and also in Koraput region and has been reported in detail. These events are of most interest to historians. . Further a detail history has been built on the Dynasties and those rulers lived in the Koraput region in this volume. It is based on research notes of the past and a list of historiography has thus been built basing on practical field investigation and analysis of the Historical notes, mostly the disputed areas of importance. The political histories of different dynasties have been detailed with relevance to Koraput. The archaeology and inscriptions where available have been incorporated and reported. Two sepearte volumes entitled Jaina antiquities & monuments in Koraput and Hindu and Budhist antiquities monuments in United Koraput, respectively is being published. The authors are Das Kornel and Dr. Giridhar Gamang. Some how the beginning was from limited early works of Robert Sewell on archaeology in (Rayagada) Koraput, a detail study of Edgar Thurston and Rangachari and later works of many independent researchers including G. v Ramdas of Jeypore and Hira Lal from Bastar contributed to development of anthropology and history in Koraput. This work could not have completed without the encouragement of Dr. Giridhar Gamang. Dr. Gamang does not need introduction; he had represented the Koraput constituency for 9 times as Member of Parliament. He being a tribal himself has deep love and respect as well as knowledge of the local Koraput culture and tradition of the people and was very keen to record it; so that the future generation can maintain the values. We both were associated since early 70s and had several serious discussions on history, culture and heritage that the people have built since centuries in Koraput-Bastar. Koraput remained special to both us, not because we were born here but the people and their broad approach to life, their rich heritage value full of poetry, songs of life, dances and music fascinated most. I was practicing a profession for my living and twice I had to change it, so mostly the little free time and holidays that was available to me was devoted to these studies and research. In due course of time, it is natural to lose interest because many new issues creep up in life but luckily his inspirations and interest in the subject always renewed my interest. I am grateful to him. After long years of struggle this piece of work has come to this shape. I hope in future many will take forward this subject and more knowledge will enrich it. I am thankful to many friends in academics, tribal friends who willingly supplemented knowledge to this work. I had the privilege to use the published literature of many and my thanks are due to them. I am thankful to Jeypore and Bastar Museum for their help and co-operation.This research work is open and there are hypothesis which will require validation; so I believe in future, scholars and local knowledge base will take it forward to a logical conclusion. In future, I hope collaboration in the field of Koraput culture; history will come up with new partners from Chhattisgarh, Tamilnadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Orissa Universities and Research Institutions to enrich the field. There is an urgent need to collect the Tribal Folklores and poetry that are sung at home in festivals and in paddy fields by ladies for further study. Equally, there is a great deal to explore the caves of Koraput that will shed more light on religion and history and will also enhance the future tourism prospects in Koraput. Conservation of archaeological finds through private-public partnership should come in future as part of their social responsibility. Das Kornel Bhubaneswar November 2017. vi ABBREVIATIONS USED ARSIE Annual report of South Indian Epigraphy ASI Archaeological Survey of India CII Corpus Inscriptionum Indicarum DHNI Dynastic History of Northern India EI Epigraphia Indica Epi.Carn. Epigraphia Carnatika EA Epigraphia Andhrika, Hyderabad IA Indian Antiquary IE Indian Epigraphy by D.C. Sircar IHQ Indian Historical Quarterly IO Inscriptions of Orissa by S. N. Rajaguru Ins. Inscriptions JAHRS Journal of Andhra Historical Research Society, Rajahmundry JAIH Journal of Ancient Indian History Edi. By D.C. Sircar JAS Journal of the Asiatic Society, Calcutta JASB Journal of the Asiatic Society of Bengal, Calcutta JBORS Journal of the Bihar Research Society, Patna JKHRS Journal of the Kalinga Historical Research Society, Bolangir JNSI Journal of the Numismatic Society of India, Calcutta, Bombay and Varanasi JOR Journal of Oriental Research, Madras JORS Journal Orissa Research Society JRAS Journal of the Royal Asiatic Society of Great Britain and Ireland, London JRASB Journal of Royal Asiatic Society of Bengal, Calcutta MAR Mysore Archaeological Department OHRJ The Orissa Historical Research Journal, Bhubaneswar PHAI Political History of Ancient India by H. C. Raychoudhury, Calcutta PIHC Proceedings of the Indian History Congress RE Rock Edict (of Aasoka) SI Studies in Indology by V.V. Mirashi Sel. Ins. Select Inscriptions by D.C.Sircar SII South Indian Inscriptions SRE Special Rock Edicts vii Contents INTRODUCTION OF HISTORY IN KORAPUT ............................................. 1 DANDAKARANYA .......................................................................................... 1 Geographical location of Dandakaranya ......................................................... 1 Geographical Changes in Dandakaranya ........................................................ 2 Creative literature and knowledge in United Koraput ........................................ 4 EMERGING STRUGGLE FOR EMPIRE AND REGIONAL KINGDOMS IN PENINSULA & UNITED KORAPUT .................................................................. 6 Mauryas in South India ....................................................................................... 6 Eastern Gangas in Trikalinga ............................................................................ 10 Kubja Vishnuvardhana I: (Saka 526- C. 544-45) founder of Eastern Chalukyas ...................................................................................................... 11 Chola dynasty.................................................................................................... 13 Rajendra I to Kulottunga I ............................................................................ 14 Kulottunga I as Prince in Koraput –Bastar ....................................................... 15 Chakrakote ........................................................................................................ 16 Ancient Dandakaranya and Changing Geography: ............................................... 19 Koraput-Bastar-Kalahandi .................................................................................... 19 Physical Landscape ....................................................................................... 21 Epigraphic notes on Dandakaranya .............................................................. 24 Sangdrusne parichita bhuva dandakaranya bhagaha (29) ................................. 26 Puranic List of Rivers and Dandakaranya ............................................................ 26 TRILINGA, TELINGA AND TRIKALINGA -KORAPUT CONTEXT ........ 31 Historians and their views on Trikalinga ...................................................... 40 A T A V I .......................................................................................................... 45 VIDYADHARA TERRITORY ........................................................................ 48 NISADHA......................................................................................................... 50 MAHAKANTARA AND KANTARA............................................................. 53 CHAKRAKOTE ............................................................................................... 55 GIRIKALINGA ................................................................................................ 57 MASUNIDESA ................................................................................................ 58 KALINGA ........................................................................................................ 60 SOUTH KOSALA ............................................................................................ 66 DESIA DESA IN KORAPUT .......................................................................... 68 Lord Mahavira in Kalinga and Koraput ........................................................ 69 Ikshvakus ...................................................................................................... 70 Kalinga Emperor Kharvela in Koraput ......................................................... 70 Eastern Chalukyas in Trikalinga and Jainism ............................................... 70 Chhindaka Nagas of Chakrakote .................................................................. 71 viii KALINGA EMPEROR, KHARAVELA AND PRESENT KORAPUT DISTRICT ............................................................................................................................... 75 Kharavela and Rsi Khibira of Koraput as of Hathigumpha inscription: ........... 81 Kharavela’s Chief Queen from Vaijraghara (present Wairagarh of modern Chanda District of Maharashtra) ................................................................... 82 Kharavel’s second queen from Simhapatha .................................................. 82 Kharavela’s Vidyadhara abode and Koraput district .................................... 83 Geneology of Kharavela ............................................................................... 84 SAMUDRAGUPTA’S SOUTHERN EXPEDITION AND MAHAKANTARA COUNTRY ........................................................................................................... 91 RAMAGIRI ........................................................................................................ 101 Location of Ramagiri of Kalidasa ................................................................... 104 THE WESTERN CHALUKYAS AND CHAKRAKOTE, DAKISHNA KOSALA, KALINGA AND VENGI ................................................................. 115 Jayasimha II conflict with the Cholas ......................................................... 116 Somesvara I ................................................................................................. 117 Vikramaditya VI ......................................................................................... 118 Gangakunda, Vengi and Chakrakuta .......................................................... 118 KALYAN SINGPUR.......................................................................................... 122 Devagiri....................................................................................................... 122 DEVAGIRI REMAINS ...................................................................................... 124 IKSHVAKUS AND PRESENT DISTRICT OF KORAPUT ............................ 133 NALA DYNASTY IN KORAPUT KALAHANDI AND BASTAR DISTRICTS ............................................................................................................................. 137 Chronological account of Nala Kings ......................................................... 138 Nala Dynasty Inscriptions, Copper plates and Numismatics evidence ....... 140 Podagada Stone inscription of Skandavarman, son of Bhavadatta ............. 145 The Nala Rulers .......................................................................................... 146 Archeological Remains of Nalas ................................................................ 150 Religion and Archeology evidence ............................................................. 154 Art and Architecture and Remnants of Nalas in Podagada......................... 156 NALA REMAINS IN PODAGADA .................................................................. 160 PITRIBHAKTAS AND PITA BHATTRAS OF KORAPUT-BASTAR ........... 167 VAKATAKAS .................................................................................................... 169 PANDUVAMSIS OF SOUTH KOSALA .......................................................... 170 Lineage ........................................................................................................ 170 Territories under the Dynasty ..................................................................... 170 Udayana .............................................................................................................. 172 Mahasiva Tivara.................................................................................................. 174 Candragupta ........................................................................................................ 174 Harsagupta .......................................................................................................... 175 ix Sivagupta Balarjuna ............................................................................................ 175 EASTERN CHALUKYAS OF VENGI ............................................................. 178 Southern Expeditions .................................................................................. 186 Amma I, Vikramaditya II and Yuddamalla II ( A.D. 921-927) .......................... 190 Chalukya Bhima II (A.D. 927-945) .................................................................... 191 MATHARAS ...................................................................................................... 195 Rajendra I the Conqueror of Purvadesa ..................................................... 199 Rajendra I and Indraratha of Somavamsin.................................................. 202 Virarajendra and Eastern Ganga ................................................................. 207 Virarajendra and nephew Prince Rajendra Chola of Eastern Chalukya in Chakrakotam ............................................................................................... 208 Battle between Virarajendra and Vikarmaditya in Chakrakuta .................. 209 Jayasimha II of Western Chalukya and Sakkarakottam ............................. 210 Kulottunga Chola I and his stay in Koraput-Bastar Region ........................... 211 Kulottanga I’s sons ruling Vengi ................................................................ 222 Rajaraja II, Velanati Chief Gonka II-Kalinga invasion and Anantavarma Chodaganga................................................................................................. 225 Kalinga wars ............................................................................................... 226 Pradhani Family of Nowrangapur and relation to Eastern Gangas and Chola 233 PURVADESA..................................................................................................... 239 ANCHOLAGUMMA ..................................................................................... 242 ANCHALA ..................................................................................................... 244 GUMMA AND HISTORY ............................................................................. 247 EASTERN GANGA ........................................................................................... 248 Eastern Gangas and Western Gangas in Trikalinga ........................................ 258 ARCHAEOLOGICAL REMAINS RELATED TO EASTERN GANGA IN DANDAKARANYA .......................................................................................... 264 WESTERN GANGAS, EASTERN GANGAS: KALINGA AND TRIKALINGA (KORAPUT), KOSALA AND KONGA COUNTRY ....................................... 271 Relationship of Western Ganga and Eastern Ganga ....................................... 273 The Western Gangas and Koraput district ...................................................... 278 Rastrakutas and Western Gangas: Kalinga, Chitrakuta and Eastern Chalukyas .................................................................................................... 282 Trikalinga, Eastern Chalukyas of Vengi ......................................................... 284 SOMAVAMSIS AND KORAPUT .................................................................... 290 Kathargada and Somavamsis .......................................................................... 295 NAGA OR CHHINDAKA DYNASTY OF CHAKRAKOTA .......................... 297 Epigraphic records of Nagas or Chhindaka dynasty ................................... 300 Coins of Nagas ............................................................................................ 301 Seals ............................................................................................................ 302 x Genealogy ................................................................................................... 304 Political History .......................................................................................... 305 Relation between Kalinga, Utkala, Dakshina Kosala, Dahala, Chedi and Nagavamsi....................................................................................................... 307 Somesvara I and Janamejaya II of Kalachuri and Telugu Chodas ............. 308 Defeat of Naga kings in the hands of Jajalladeva I of Kalachuri................ 309 Rashtakuta Kings in Dahala and Chakrakotte ................................................ 309 NAGAVAMSI CHAKRAKOTE AND ITS LOCATON ............................... 314 NARAYANA TEMPLE, JEYPORE .................................................................. 319 BARASUR IN BASTAR DISTRICT ................................................................. 321 Dantwada in Bastar district ......................................................................... 321 KALACHURIS OF TRIPURI ............................................................................ 323 Kalachuris of Ratnapur (7) and invasion of Chakrakota and South Kosala ... 323 TELUGU CHODA IN CHAKRAKOTA AND SOUTH KOSALA .................. 326 Genealogy of Telugu Chodas of Bastar and South Kosala ......................... 328 ARCHAEOLOGY REMAINS OF BASTAR .................................................... 329 TELUGU IN DANDAKARANYA .................................................................... 332 Andhri ............................................................................................................. 333 TRILINGA AND TELINGA IN KORAPUT CONTEXT ................................. 334 Garh Dhanora and Telingi .............................................................................. 338 DYNASTIES IN SOUTH KALINGA................................................................ 341 The Matsys of Oddadi A.D. 1200-1470.......................................................... 341 PALLAVAS OF VIRAKUTA ............................................................................ 344 GANGAS OF JANTARNADU .......................................................................... 348 NANDAPUR ...................................................................................................... 351 Silavamsi Kings of Nandapur as per Inscriptions ....................................... 353 Hathigumpha Record and King Nanda ....................................................... 355 Pravhavati Gupta and Nandapur-Nandvardana .......................................... 356 Nanda or Nandodbhava family Ruling Jeypore-Nandapur ......................... 357 Nandivarman Pallavamalla and Nanndigrama............................................ 358 Bhatiporlu inscription and Nandapuram ..................................................... 359 Vyghraraja in Jeypore forest tract ............................................................... 359 Some Jaina Inscriptions and Trikalinga ...................................................... 359 Chalukyas of Vemulavada and Subaie (Nandapur) .................................... 361 Patasivaram inscription of the Chalukya king Tribhuvnamalla Vira.......... 362 Kalachuris of Tripuri as Trkalingadhipati................................................... 362 Kalachuris of Ratnapur and Nandavalli ...................................................... 362 Krishana Deva Raya of Vijayanagar Empire in Nandapur ......................... 363 Nandapur from People’s Account ................................................................... 364 Pandya Dynasty and Chellia Poraja or Konda Poraja in Koraput District . 364 Eastern Gangas in Trikalinga ...................................................................... 365 xi Eastern Chalukya in Trikalinga .................................................................. 365 Amma I, Vikramaditya II and Yuddamalla II (922-935) .................................... 366 Nadupuru in Pottapi-nadu ........................................................................... 368 Western Gangas in Kalinga (Nandapur) and Konga................................... 369 NANDAPUR ARCHAEOLOGICAL REMAINS ............................................. 377 BHAIRABA SINGAPUR ................................................................................... 383 ARCHAEOLOGICAL REMAINS IN BHAIRABA SINGAPUR..................... 386 INDEX ................................................................................................................ 389 xii Dynasty History of United Koraput 1 INTRODUCTION OF HISTORY IN KORAPUT DANDAKARANYA United Koraput was with in the territory of Dandakaranya.The name Dandakaranya derives from an alleged identity with the ‘Dandak forest’ of the epic ‘Valmiki Ramayana’, where the demon Dandak held his sway. Epic of Ramayana speaks that Lord Rama spent his precious 13 years in Dandakaranya until the abduction of the Goddess Sita. Geographical location of Dandakaranya As regards it’s identification of territorial limits, some consider this region as far as west as Nasik, the abode of Rama in the forest on the bank of the Godavari and suggest the coincidence of Dandakaranya with modern Maharastra. A few scholars, alternatively, claim that ancient Dandakaranya covered a very large area of Central India from which the forests have gradually been cleared by man In the maps of mid-19th century (1860), the Dandakaranya was a large triangular tract (fig I)(John,1960) (4). Dandakaranya region between 17. 50’-20. 30’ N and 80. 15’-84. 0’ E occupy about 89,078 square Kms that comprises of three states, e.g. the Bastar district of Madhya Pradesh, the Koraput and Kalahandi districts of Orissa as well as some parts of Andhra Pradesh including Yellavaram and eastern half of Chodavaram (Rampachodavaram) tahasils of East Godavari district, Chintapalli and Paderu tahasils of Visakhapatnam district and Salur and Parvatipuram tahasils of Srikakulam districts. The region extends for about 480 Kms from east to west and 320 Kms from north to south. In the Ramayana, Lord Rama tells his brother Lakshman on their way to Agastya‘s asrama as to how Agastya rendered the earth habitable by overpowering a demon. This may be indicative that the Aryan occupation of Dandakaranya happened due to Agastya’s success against the asuras and Tataka and her husband Sunda. The great forest of Dandakaranya had become unfit for human habitation because Bhargava had cursed it. Agastya’s presence brought back the fertility to soil; rains came and became fit for living of several groups of Aryan sages (rishis). The mountains and plateau of central India including the Dandakaranya, with their dense forests, tended to get bypassed by migrants and settlers for many centuries. The major settlements were along the more frequented routes from the northern plain south wards to the Deccan. These settlements made only a 1 Dynasty History of United Koraput 2 marginal impact on the forest dwellers until later centuries when encroachments into the forests for timber and elephants, as well as cultivable land, became more common. Central India was regarded as the major habitat of ‘tribal societies’ and forest peoples, even though such societies were scattered throughout the subcontinent. Pockets of these continue to the present. Geographical Changes in Dandakaranya The geography of Dandakaranya was first evident for Uttararamacharita, 2.14. Recent publication of J.P. Mittal (2006) has identified many places, ponds, hills and rivers cited in Ramayana and Puranos in Koraput-Bastar region The major part of evidence to Dandakaranya so far has come from geography and location of rivers, hills that continued appearing from Ramayana to many Purano and literature. The ancient history-geographical identity of undivided Koraput, parts of Kalahandi districts of Orissa, and partly the undivided Bastar district of Madhya Pradesh now in Chhattisgarh as has been found in various inscriptions, literature is denoted as Dandakaranya and from time to time many dynasties who ruled the area in part or full carved principality and was known by the following names  Atavi  Nisadha  Vidyadhara territory  Kantara and Mahakantara  Trikalinga  Telinga  Chakrakote,  Masunidesha  Jharakhanda  Purvadesa  Girikalinga  Paschimakalinga and  Konga 2 Dynasty History of United Koraput 3  Desia Desha or Country The adjacent countries were  Kalinga to its east  Dakshina Kosala to its north and north-west  Vengi to south and south-eastern end These represented fully or a small principality curved in the main land. The South Kosala appeared as distinct land. Sometimes this land came in as full or partial into the territory of Kalinga, sometime into Vengi occupation and South Kosala dominion. Several of the Southern dynasties came in to the present undivided Koraput and Bastar and won the said country and or carved small feudatory for them. They occupied the land thus owned or were compelled by their natural enemy kings. This has been seen with the Maurya Chandra Gupta, Samudra Gupta,Kharavela, Vakatakas,Western Gangas, Western Chalukyas, Eastern Gangas, Cholas, and Telugu Chodas mainly and even by Eastern Chalukya (Vengi)’s and so many others, may be Haihaya, Pallavas, Hoysalas and Rastrakuttas. Apart from kings forming kingdom, the religion interception did occur from time to time in the past centuries. The Jainism, Buddhism, Saivism and Vaishnavism in its original and modified sects, came into this land and established. It has been recorded that there are 51 scheduled tribes inhibiting Koraput district alone of the total 62 tribes recorded in Orissa. That implies 82 percent of the tribes group live in united Koraput alone. There is still more to redefine the tribes of Koraput. Bagata, Baiga, Banjara or Banuari; Bathudi, Bhottada or Dolada; Bhuiya or Bhuyan; Bhumia, Bhumij, Binjhal, Birhor, Bondo Poraja, Chenchu, Dal, Dharua, Didayi, Gadaba; Gandia, Gond or Gondo; Ho, Halva, Jatapu, Juang, Kawar, Kharia or Kharian; Khond, Kond or Kandha including Nanguli Kandha & Sitha Kandha;. Kisan, Kol, Kolha, Koli including Malhar, Kondadora, Kora, Korua, Kotia, Koya, Lodha, Madia, Mahali, Matya, Mirdhas, Munda, Munda Lohara or Munda Mahalis, Mundari, Omanatya, Parenga, Paroja, Pentia, Rajuar, Santal, Saora, Savar, Saura or Sahora; Shabar or Lodha; Sounti and Tharua. The Kondh, Sabara, Koya, Gadaba, Bhattra, Gond, Bhumia and Poraja are the major tribe groups of Koraput district. The following distribution as denoted does not count very minor tribes. 3 Dynasty History of United Koraput 4 Creative literature and knowledge in United Koraput Poetry as prose in Sanskrit was valued by elite, the court and aristocracy, they thus gave support. The oldest Sanskrit inscription that is found is the one standing at the Podagada of Umerkote in Koraput district. It was engraved by Nala dynasty king during 5th century A.D. It is well evident from the inscription that Sanskrit was the language of Nala court. Mahakabi Kalidasa of Ujjain (c.A.D. 400). an extraordinary dramatist and poet composed in Sanskrit, who is said to have composed Meghaduta (Cloud Messenger) in Ramagiri located in Koraput district of Orissa. Many eminent scholars have given their views basing on the geography and historical settings of the time. Poet Kalidasa describes in Raghuvamsa, canto X, how Vishnu lying on the great serpent in the ocean of milk with Laxmi gently rubbing his feet. was born as Dasaratha’s son for Ravana’s destruction; while Vakataka Queen Pravavati-gupta (5th Century), the atyanta-bhagavad-bhakta daughter of Chandragupta II, was worshiper of Bhagavat Ramagirisvamin( literally, the lord of Ramagiri ) who seems to be no other than Ram, son of Dasaratha. The suggestion is supported by the reference in Kalidasa’s Meghaduta to the foot-prints of Raghupati (Rama Dasrathi) on the Rama-giri Ugradityacarya, a Jaina teacher composed medieval medical text entitled Kalyana-Karaka at Ramagiri in Tri-kalinga. The Tri-kalinga country has been identified to be Bastar-Kalahandi- Koraput region.Ugradityacarya lived in 770- 840 A.D. and it is said that Ugradityacarya studied the science under his Guru, Sri Nandin at Mount Ramagiri. Ramagiri is described to be beautiful hill adorned with many Jaina caves, temples etc 4 Dynasty History of United Koraput 5 Lord Rama’s Feet in Pujariguda, Ramagiri, Koraput District, Orissa. Dharmkirit, a renowned Buddhist monk resided in Candralekhesvara at Padmapur in Gunupur of Koraput district as per inscription of the 7th century A.D. Dharmakirti composed Nyayabindu in Sanskrit to defend Dinnaya against Uddyotakara, who probably was his senior contemporary. He mastered the Sankhya philosophy and defeated the eminent teachers in controversies. He surpassed Dinnaya in his contribution to science of logic. He contributed another valuable work called Pramanavartika in his Tattavasngrha and also Padmana- vinischaya that was translated by Parahitavrata of Kashmir. Another Buddhist, Sthiramatti hailed from Dandakaranya became disciple of Vasubandhu and learned sastras from him. He studied both Hinayana and Mahayana philosophy and wrote commentaries on Vasubandhu’s Abhidharmakosa, Abhidharmasamichchaya and other works. He committed to memory the Ratnakntasutras and commented one of its texts, the Kasyspa- parivarta. He wrote disquisitions on Madhyantavibhaga and Vasubandhu’s Trimsika, both of which have been discovered in original Sanskrit. 5 Dynasty History of United Koraput 6 EMERGING STRUGGLE FOR EMPIRE AND REGIONAL KINGDOMS IN PENINSULA & UNITED KORAPUT Mauryas in South India Mauryas in the later part of 4th century B.C had covered a large part of the subcontinent, the focus being construction of Empire there by a single power. Chandragupta Maurya succeeded Nanda throne in c.321 B.C and founded the empire. He acquired the throne of Magadha and interaction with Greeks was initiated. As per Jaina tradition claims Chandragupta, towards the end of his life abdicated in favour of his son Bindusara and became an ascetic of Jaina. Along with a well known Jaina elder Bhadrabahu, and other Jaina monks and he left for south India. He ended his life by Sulakhanna process of Jainas. This story is associated to a site close to the Jaina centre of Shravana Belgola in Karnataka. Bindusara succeed him in about 297. B.C. and died in 272 B.C by the time he had already acquired a large part of the subcontinent. It is said that one area Kalinga (east coast Orissa) was hostile to Mauryan commerce thus interfering their path to Peninsula and South India. Bindusara’s son Ashoka whose later campaign (260B.C.) was more than just an event of military significance is well known in Indian history. It implies thus that Chandragupta Maurya had used the least resistant path, other than Kalinga to reach south, and the same path was used by Samudra Gupta in his south expeditions. Samudra Gupta (A.D 335-380) of the Gupta dynasty is well known from Nalanda plate of inscription. He is well known from his Allahabad Pillar inscription that was engraved on one of the stone pillars set up at Kausambi by Ashoka. He annexed several countries to build his empire. The Allahabad Pillar inscription has given very valuable information about Samudra Gupta’s south expedition. The Bodo Malis of Nandapur in Koraput district claim their origin to Allahabad, so it may be that they came with the vassal of Samudra Gupta. The route of migration can be corroborated to Allahabad pillar inscriptions of the Samudra Gupta. 6 Dynasty History of United Koraput 7 The Magodhia Goudos of Kalahandi – Koraput may have come after Chandragupta Maurya and may be with Samudra Gupta from Magadha. It is with a strong tradition that Jainism came into South India about the same time as Buddhism if not earlier. The Nasik cave inscription of Vasisthaputra Pulumavi indicates the conquest of Gautamiputra Satakarni .The inscription further indicates that he was the lord of the mountains like the Vindhyas, Rksavat, Parijatra, Sahya, Krsnagiri, Malaya, Mahendra, Svetagiri and Chakora. However, Sahu wrote the Malaya is Malayagiri in Dhenkanal district; Krsnagiri in the Ganjam, Mahendragiri of Ganjam. The Svetagiri is probably the Dhavalgiri in Puri district. The Chakora was identified with the Chakrakuta hill in Bastar district. However, we are inclined to believe it to be Chikma hill of Borigumma in Koraput district, about 40 kms from Bastar district. This is based on ancient Jaina it and note of Chikma Hathigumpha inscriptions of Kharavela, of first half of the second century B.C. mentions league of Tamil states that was 113 years at the date of inscriptions was a source of threat to Kalinga Kingdom. The said reference to Tamil country was after the Asoka Inscriptions. In the 11th year of his reign (c. 155 B.C) Kharavela is said to have destroyed a confederacy of Tamil sates – Tramiradesasanghatam. The same inscription mentions that Kharavela caused ‘numerous pearls in hundreds’ to be brought from Pandya to Kalinga, and perhaps also horses, elephants, jewels and rubies. The Bramhin settlements began around the middle of the millennium, the inscriptions were in Tamil with some Prakrit words, and this thus gives clue to the process of adaptations of the Ashokan bramhi scripts in south. This may be having been due to influence of Mauryan administration and together with the arrival of Buddhist and Jaina monks. Shangam corpse is a collection of anthologies of poetry on popular themes of the time speak on Tamil traditions. It is known that many centuries ago thrugh successive assemblies (Shangams) were held, and the last was in Madurai which speaks between 200 B.C and A.D 300. With the passing of Guptas, the focus shifted to south wards – Tamilaham. There were long years of conflict between the western Deccan and Tamilham. The kingdoms of the peninsula desired to control the entire water way particularly the Godavari and Krishna Rivers and Vengi lying in between the said rivers became the frequent bone of contention together with the fertile land of Raichur doab. 7 Dynasty History of United Koraput 8 Vakataka prince Narendra-sena succeeded his father, Parvara-sena in c.440 A.D. Nala king Bhavadatta-varman, ruling from Puskari, present-day Podagada in Umerkote region of Koraput District and border to Bastar district invaded and occupied the capital of Vakatakas during 445 A.D.After the death of Bhavadatta- varman Narendra-sena carried the war into Nala country and captured and devastated the Vakataka capital.Arthapati the successor of Bhavadatta varman was killed and later his brother Skanda varman recaptured the capital. Deva-sena succeeded in 475 A.D. by his son Hari-sena who is credited to be the most powerful ruler of Vakataka and gained victory over Gujarat, Malva, South Kosala, Andhra and Kuntala. At that period the South Kosala was in Nala dominion. The Vakatakas in the Western Deccan gave way to Chalukya power of Badami. The control over Karnataka was between Kadambas, Nolambas and Gangas. Kadamba control extended to the Konkan and the Eastern Gangas ruled in Orissa. The eastern Deccan bordering (South Kosala) other dynasties were the Sharabharpuriyas and Panduvamsis of Sabara lineage. The Tamilham areas of further south remained under the control of the Cheras, Cholas and Pandyas. From the middle of the sixth century, other a period of 300 years the Tamilham history of south is virtually a story of mutual conflict among the above there powers each seeking control of the neighbour’s empire. They were the Chalukyas of Badami, Kanchipuram Pallavas and Pandyas of Madurai. The Chalukyas first came into prominence as subordinate rulers to Kadambas but later they broke away as independent rulers. The Chalukyas of Vatapi / Badami moved north wards and annexed the kingdoms of former Vakatakas that was centered on the upper Godavari. Harsh was defeated by Chalukya King Pulakeshin II and that contained the power of the north. In the 3rd century A.D. Ikshavaku dynasty conquered the Krishna and Godavari. The rules of Ikshavaku ended with the invasion of the Pallavas. The Pallavas were responsible for the over throw of Kadamba rulers, south of Chalukya Kingdom. The earliest records denote the Pallavas ruling at Kanchipuram. Pallava resources refer to the sub-ordinate rulers, Udayana and Prithvi-Vyagrah as the chiefs of Sabaras and the Nishada. Mahendravarman I (600 – 630 A.D) is credited to be the Pallava ruler of later group who was responsible for the growing political strength. He begun his life as a Jaina but converted to Saivism by Appar. Besides the main house of Bandami / Vatapi the Chalukyas established themselves in two other branches, more or less independent to the main branch, the Chalukyas of Lata and the Eastern Chalukyas of Vengi. The Eastern Chalukyas and Gangas of Mysore together look sides in the conflict of the there kingdoms. 8 Dynasty History of United Koraput 9 The founder of the Chalukya line was Pulakesin I. Pulakesin I’s son, Kirtivarman I (566-7 A.D) extended kingdom by war against Kadambas of Banavasi, Mauryan of Knokan and the Nalas who ruled Bastar and Jeypore Agency. The Western Ganga rulers Durvinita gave one of his daughters in marriage to Pulakesin, and she became the mother of Vikramaditya I. Pulakesin II made his younger brother Vishnuvardhana yuvaraja and left him in-charge of the capital and set into an extensive campaign of the eastern Deccan. He subdued South Kosala and Kalinga. After return, Pulakesin II (621 A.D) sent Vishnuvardhana to rule over the Andhra Country as Viceroy. He with the approval his brother found the Eastern Chalukya dynasty that ruled the Telugu country for over five centuries thereafter. In about 500 A.D. a new kingdom named Trikalinga was evident from the Jirjingi copper plate. J.K.Sahu wrote,” The ruler of the Eastern Gangas was established in the hilly region of Bastar after the fall of the Nalas at the close of the 5th century A.D. The dynasty is so called because Indravarman, its founder, belonged to the Ganga ruling family of Karnataka which after this came to be known as Western Gangas. Indravarman like Sarbhraja was probably a General in the army of Harisena Vakataka and was allowed to rule the hilly region which was the original country of the Nalas. He asserted independence after the sudden fall of Vakataka power.” The Eastern Gangas of Kalinganagara traced their descent from the Western Gangas who claimed belong to Ikshvaku family; perhaps of Nagrjunikonda .The founder of the Western Ganga line was Kongunivarman or Madhava I who probably ruled 300-400 A.D. with his capital at Kolar. Durnvita (540-600) conquered Punnad (South Mysore) and Kongudesa and maintained friendly relation with Chalukyas. However, the Kukkanur plate of Marasimha I during 968-69 indicates the presence of Western Gangas in Dhavala visaya and Gangapati-. The marriage between Santikara I of Bhauma king of Orissa and Tribhuvana Mahadevi, daughter of Rajamalla I of Western Ganga dynasty of Mysore, who ruled from 817-835 A.D. Prior to this inscription the relationship of Bhauma Kings and Western Gangas, is well established. Western Chalukya Pulakesin I’s son Kirtivarman I (566-7) expanded the kingdom by wars against the Kadambas of Banavasi, the Mauryans of Konkan and the Nalas. The Nalas ruled over a fair sized kingdom in the region of Bastar and Jeypore agency and their capital at the modern Podagada, located near Umerkote of Nowrangpur, Koraput district. Kirtivarman I ‘s son, Pulakesin II 9 Dynasty History of United Koraput 10 received first the submissions of South Kosala and Kalinga and then made his younger brother Vishnuvardhana yuvaraj leaving him incharge of the capital, he started an extensive campaign of conquest in the Eastern Deccan (10) The northern part of Koraput district and eastern part of Bastar district including southern Dakshina Kosala area was under the Mahakantara and Kantar zone. Thus in 4th century itself, Samudragupta Maurya crossed the kingdom during his southern military expedition. A detail political history has been given in the Nala chapter of this book. However, it can be said in short that, there has been speculations as regards the identification of the enemy who defeated the Nalas and destroyed Puskari, who was afterwards destroyed by Skandavarman. As there was apparently a struggle between the Nalas and Vakataka of the main branch and the enemy was identified with Prithvisena 11, who claims to have twice restored the fallen fortune of his family. Skandavarman may also have been the Panduvamsi king Nanna of South Kosala who had occupied the whole of Western Madhya Pradesh and is indicated in an inscription at Bhandak. The Chalukya king Kirtivarman I (AD 567 to 597) who claims to have subdued the Nalas some times represented his old enemy of the Chalukyas and to destroy their residences (Nilaya) and thus possibility it has got its name Podagada. In the Aihole inscription of Kirtivarman’s son, who can hardly be expected to have supposed the glorious achievements of his father, Kirtivarmana I is described as the “night of destruction “to Nalas, Mauryas and Kadambas, and also as having broken up a confederacy of the Kadamba Kings. Eastern Gangas in Trikalinga G.Ramdas of Jeypore was the first to publish his classical work ‘Chronology of the Gangas of Kalinga’.However, it is certain from Jirjingi plate which is the first copper plate source for the first evidence of Trikalinga and the Ganga king named Indravarman was assumed the title of Trikalingadhipati (Lord of Trikalinga). .J.K.Sahu wrote,’Jijjika in Vonkhara-visaya donated in the Jirjingi plat of Indravarman I refer to village Tunganna in Rupygvati-visaya and the village identified with Tung near Tekkali. So both Vankhara and Puspyavati were in Tekkali estate .I have examined the Jirjingi plate,No.2 published by S.N.Rajaguru and edited by R.Subba Rao,1928 and inclined to read it as Bododongar-visaya and Jijika village but not Vonkhara district as mentioned. Again, I identify the reference village with present day Jijingi village in north Umerkote close to Podagada of Nala dynasty reference and Bododongar in Bastar district. 10 Dynasty History of United Koraput 11 Kubja Vishnuvardhana I: (Saka 526- C. 544-45) founder of Eastern Chalukyas Kubja Vishnuvardhana was the younger son of Kirtivarman I and therefore, the younger brother of Pulakesin II. Pulakesin II sent Vishnuvardhana to rule over Andhra country as Viceroy and completes the process of conquest, which completed by 631 A.D. Then with the approval of his brother he found the Eastern Chalukyan dynasty of rulers, which ruled over five centuries the Telugu country. The Chipurupalli grant indicates that Kubja Vishnuvardhana was in Kalinga, very near the capital Kalinganagara, at the time of making this grant, probably fighting Indravarman III, son of Gunarnava, the Eastern Ganga king of Kalinga. It was probably that Kubja Vishnuvardhana died during the wars in Kalinga in the southern part of Visakhapatnam. Kubja Vishnuvardhana I rewarded 3 of his military officers, of which one Atavi Durjaya, born in the Matsya family who had fought for his master. He was the ainapti of the Chipurapalli grant of Vishnuvardhana I. The chiefs of the Matsya family ruled over a small tract of the country to the south-west of Visakhapatnam th district, with their capital at Vaddadi or Oddavadi. They flourished upto 13 century. Throughout the reign of Jayasimha I of Western Chalukya, the Eastern Ganga king of Kalinga seem to have been constantly at war with Vengi to regain their lost territories in the south. Kubja Vishnuvardhana conquered the Southern provinces of the Eastern Ganga Kingdom as far as the Nagavali and was under the control of his son. Simultaneously, the region of Jayasimha I witnessed the Western Chalukyan kingdom of his uncle Pulakesin II being overrun and his capital Badami sacked and burnt by the Pallava king Narasimhavarman I (A.D. 630-660), about the year 642. The Madras Museum plates of the king Vishnuvardhana I were dated 684, expressed by a chronogram possibly in 634 corresponding to A.D. 21 November 721. The Timmapuram plates of Vishnuvardhana I. Vishamasiddhi were discovered from village Timmapuram in the Saravasiddhi taluka of Visakhapatanam district in Madras Presidency. The plate was deciphered by Rai Bahadur Venkayya and reported by Prof. E. Hultzsch. This finding is of great significance to present Koraput district as it is. 11 Dynasty History of United Koraput 12 The inscription records a grant by Vishnuvardhana- Maharya Surnamed Vishamasiddhi, who was younger brother of Satyasraya Vallavha- Maharaja, the son of Kirtivarman. The grant’s donnees are not mentioned by name, but simply stated to have been forty Brahmanas of the Chhandoga School. E. Hultzsch wrote. “ The object of the grant was some land seems to be referred to in the Chipurupalle plates of Vishnuvardhana I, and the name has been read doubtfully as ‘Puki-Vishaya’; but, if the facsimile can be trusted. The engraver has written in reality Plaki-vishaye, which may be meant for Palaki-vishaya.” The learned author had not identified the village ‘Kumulura’ too. However, I believe from my study that it is ‘Puki-Vishaya’ as has been rightly mentioned in Ind. Ant. Vol. XX.p. 16, text line 13. This place is still called Puki. It is located in Dasmanthpur area in Koraput block of Koraput district. This Puki has a large population of Oriya Paikos at present is thus called Paika -Puki. Around this place there are Jaina vestiges and it was an ancient Jaina culture centre. The Kumulura village is near by present day Kumulura village with Brahmin families. It is in Nowrangpur region of Koraput district. In the 9th century the Pallavas succumbed to a combined attack from the Pandyas and their southern neighbours and those tributary to them such as the Chola.In the same period, Chola Adity I slew Aparajita and that was the end of the Pallava rule of Tondanad and whole of the Pallava Kingdom became Chola territory. The Cholas emerged as the dominant power in the south and thus Tamil identity forged in the peninsula. This was a period in south Indian history filled with corpus of inscriptions. It was a classical age of Cholas; it drew less on political authority move on the institution development with cultural reforms. Social institutions, religion, fine arts dominated the society and influence on South East Asia was evident. The core region of the control was Cholamandalam, the around Tanjavur up to the eastern ward, the Coromondal Kirtivarman II was the last ruler of Chalukya of Badami. His power was steadily undermined by the Rastrakuta prince Dandidurga. Dandidurga subdued the Gurjarjs of Malwa, the rulers of Kosala, Kalinga and Telugu Chodas of Srisailaim country The Cholas came in conflict with the declining Rastrakutas, who were replaced by Chalukyas of later period – rising to power in Western Deccan. The Deccan was divided into small Kingdoms, and Cholas were occasionally at war. The Yadavas of Devagiri (north Deccan), Kakatyas of Warangal were strengthening; 12 Dynasty History of United Koraput 13 further south there was competitions with Western Ganga, Hoyasalas of Dorasamdra (Karnataka ) as well as the Pandyas of Madurai and Cheras in Kerala. In their last days Cholas were weekend by incursions of Hoyasalas and Pandyas. Chola dynasty Towards the middle of the 9th century, a Chola chief conquered region of Tanjavur, the heart of Tamilham. In 907 A.D. Parantaka I, the first Chola dynasty ruler came to power and ruled almost half a century. He captured Madurai, the capital of Pandyas. The hostility between Pandyas and their allies Sri Lanka thus lasted for several decades. But Parantaka I saw defeat under the hands of Rastrakutas and lost the recently acquired northern districts of Chola kingdom. On the other hand Rastrakutas was losing ground due to Chalukyas who were once their subordinates. In the confusion the Cholas recovered the lost territories from Rastrakutas. Rajaraja I (985 – 1014 AD) the Chola power firmly established and his son and successor, Rajendra, consolidated the Chola kingdom in next half a century. Rajaraja attacked the alliance between Cheras of Kerala, Sri Lanka and Pandyas in order to break the trade monopoly held by these kingdoms with west Asia. By that time Arab traders had established in the west coast of India. The Cholas and later Chalukyas went on war to control the rich province of Vengi. Rajaraja I ruled jointly with his father for 2 years, and succeeded him in 1014. The policy of expansion continued with the annexation of Vengi from Chalukyas. Campaign against Sri Lanka and Kerala continued. Rajendra set out his nest expedition to the north, marching through Kalinga (Orissa) to reach the banks of Ganges. On way, in Vengi, the Chola forces defeated Vijayaditya and conquered the country and processed north towards Kalinga, probably because the Eastern Ganga ruler Madhukamarnava (1019- 38) had sided with Jayasimha. After seducing Kalinga the armies proceed to further north to Ganges. But with the advance of Chola army to north, trouble broke out in the rear and thus Rajendra I marched towards north and camped on the banks of Godavari and tried to secure the safe return of his army back. He celebrated the coronation of his nephew Rajaraja on 16th A.D. 1022. It is said that he carried holy water from Ganges back to his capital. He then began his overseas campaign involving navy and army against the kingdom of Shrivijaya in South east Asia. The campaign was successful, and trade interest of Cholas with China – India was secured. Rajendra then refocused his attention to conflicts within the peninsula, the Chalukyas reviving their interest to control Vengi. A Chola raid into heart of 13 Dynasty History of United Koraput 14 Chalukya territory, Kalyani was witnessed, and the same was avenged in 1050 A.D. by Chalukya king. The Cholas were generally aided by the Eastern Chalukyas which drew closer to Cholas by marriage alliances until at last one ruler Kulottunga I occupied both the Chola and Vengi thrones. The victorious army joined him soon after. The Chola ascendancy was weaning by the later part of 12th century AD. The Yadavas, Hoysalas and Kakatiyas were gaining strength over the gradual weakling Cholas. The main attack on the Cholas was from the west came from Hoysalas, the Pandya kings of Madurai, the old hostilities revived. This lead the Chola defense, in both western and southern boarders. As the 13th century A.D came, Chola power that wakened significantly. Hoysala king had inflicted much damage to Chola kingdom. Rastrakutas, further north in the western Deccan were gradually unseated by their subordinates, the Silaharas. They attained full power and gained monopoly our trade and were known as ‘Lords of the West’. Rajendra I to Kulottunga I Rajadhiraja assessed by his younger brother and yuvaraja Rajendra II lead an expedition against Somesvara (1053-4) at Koppam on river Krishna. Rajadhiraja fell mortally wounded, but Rajendra turned the battle in victory and crowned himself in the battle field and returned back to capital. There were several battles between Somesvara and his sons with Rajendra including the battle of Kudal – Sangama. Soon after Chola yuvaraja Rajamahendra and his father Rajendra II died, Virarajendra became the king (1063) Somesvara I prepared to defend the Chola attacks, thus counted on the help of his vassals, the Nagavamsi ruler Dharvarsha of Bastar and Eastern Ganga Vajrahasta III of Kalinga. He stationed a Paramara prince, Janantha of Dhara near Bezwada and engaged. Vijayaditya carried the war into the Chola country. After a great battle near Bezwada that ended with defeat of Chalukya, Virarajendra crossed the Krishna river and marched into Kalinga. He crossed Mahendragiri and reached Chakrakuta to crush the Nagavamsi king of present Koraput - Bastar region. The war was assisted by Vijayaditya, and Rajaraja, the son of Vajrahasta III, Vikaramaditya to Chalukya side where as Rajendra the future Kulottunga I on the Chola side. Unable to meet the army of Virarajendra, Somesvara I due to his illness took paramayoga by drowning himself in Tungabhadra river in 1068. 14 Dynasty History of United Koraput 15 Somevara I of Western Chalukya was an able diplomat and great warrior of his times. Somesvara I was succeeded by his eldest son Somevara II, but Virarajendra took over the throne from his brother. Vijayaditya made his submission to Virarajendra and ruled Vengi as his feudatory. Virarajendra married his two daughters, one to Vikramditya of W. Chalukya and the other to Eastern Ganga prince Rajaraja. Vikramaditya IV ruled independently the southern half the empire. This led to the settlement of eternal feud between Cholas and the Chalukyas for sometime Kulottunga I defeated Vikramaditya at Nangili in Kolar district and annexed Gangavadi. But Somesvara who co-operated Kulottunga I by attacking Vikramaditya’s rear was the worst suffer. He fell in the hands of Vikramaditya who threw him into prison and proclaimed himself King (1076). Kulottunga witnessed problems with Pandya and Kerala countries and Ceylon Kulottunga I as Prince in Koraput –Bastar At time of Kulottunga’s father’s death, his uncle Vijayaditya made himself the king of Vengi kingdom and kept prince Rajenrdra II (Kulottunga I) out of his inheritance. Thus alone and unaided Rajendra sought a life of adventure across Vengi frontier in the land of Cakrakuta (Koraput-Bastar) and overcame the treachery of his enemies, captured herds of elephants, levied tributes from the Nagavamsi king, Dharvarsa of Chakrakuta. Rajendra spent best part of his life in Koraput-Bastar from 1063-1070 A.D. He carved out for himself a small dominion beyond it in the Puvadesa, even if he did not gain full control over Chakrakote state and annexed parts of the Purvadesa to it. After making peace with his uncle Vijayaditya; and after the death of Saktivatman II, he bided his time hoping that in some manner he might gain the Chola throne for himself. He is said to have made his mark in Vayirkaram and Sakkrakkottam. This attracted invasion of Vikramaditya against Vengi and Chakrakote that was countered by Virarajendra’s campaign culminating in the battle of Bezwada that ended at Chakrakote. So Virarajendra and his army marched across Kalinga up to Mahendragiri mountain and beyond Chakrakote. At the death of Virarajendra, Vijaditya II pronounced his rightful claim to throne of Vengi and expelled Vijayaditya. On the other hand, Vikramaditya the Chalukya king installed Adhirajendra formally on the Chola throne but the Chola king lost his life in a popular rising and the vacant throne was Chola was captured by Rajendra II (Kulottunga I) 15 Dynasty History of United Koraput 16 As it appears from historical accounts, Chakrakote was the bone of contention and the south dynasties and the west made efforts to occupy the country. Chakrakote The Chakrakote has been mentioned in many inscriptions and various authors have given their arguments to identify the region and place. The Chalukyas of Vemulavada: Inscriptions of a later period and Vikramarjunavijayam trace the descent of the family from Vinayaditya-Yuddhamalla. He captured a fort called Chitrakuta, which was inaccessible. His son, Arikesari-I, is said to have conquered the kingdom of Vengi and Trikalinga during the time of Nirupama Dhruva, the Rastrakuta king who ruled from A.D. 780 to 793 (Kollipara Plates).The inaccessible fort of Chitrakuta, which Vinayaditya is said to have captured, is not identified. As there are a number of forts with that name in north and central India, its identification bristles with difficulties have been mentioned, was the opinion of Kolaru Surayanarayana. Again, in the inscriptions of Eastern Chalukya and Choda the name Chakrakote appears. Vijayaditya III of the Eastern Chalukya line, who ruled between 844 and 888 A.D, so far as is known appears to have been made raid and burnt Chakrakota.As said above, the Chola Rajendra Chola I (A.D. 1011-33) took Sakkara-Kottam While one of his successors, King Vira Rajendra I claims to have crossed Godavari, passed through Kalinga, and advanced against Chakrakota .Next the Chola king Kulottunga, while yet a youth cover his first laurels in battle by storming Chakrakota. This happened prior to 1070 A.D.and is mentioned in the Tamil poem Kalingattu Parani (x24) (5), and also in inscriptions Vikrama VI was probably the fifth raider, the sixth being Vishnuvardhana Hoysala in the 12th century. The Nagavamsis of Barasur (Bastar) were the lords of Chakrakote. Madhurakantaka occupied the throne of Chhindaka Nagas after King Dharavarsha Jagadekabhusana (c.1065 A.D.) But Madhurakantaka was soon ousted by Dharavarsha’s son Somesvara I, who was supported by Chalukyas of Kalyani while Madhurakantaka received help from Cholas. Somesvara I killed Madhurakantaka and is credited for his military activities such as burning of Vengi, the subjugation of Bhadrapattna and Vajra, and seizure of South Kosala. Many authors relate Bhadrapattana to Bahandak in the Chanda district but Bhabanipattana in Kalahandi cannot be ignored. The success of South Kosala was at the expense of both the Kalachuris and Somavamsis. The Somavamsis acknowledged the supremacy of Somesvara I. Telugu –Chodas were rewarded with governorship of a portion of South Kosala, as they were feudatory of Nagavamsis.At the time of the conquest of Vengi, it was under the rule of Chalukya-Chola Kulottunga I and his son Virachoda was ruling as a 16 Dynasty History of United Koraput 17 Viceroy.Somesvara I also came in conflict with King of Udra and Lanji and Lemna.The Kalachuri king Jajalla I claim to have seized Somesvara I in a battle and later released him. Gunda- mahadevi mother of Somesvara I had issued the Inscriptions of ------ had gifted land at Narayanpur for the Bhagabati temple. I am of the opinion that the said site of the inscription is present day Jeypore in Koraput district where most of the identities mentioned are coinciding. Somesvara I (W.Chalukya) and his feudatory, the Kakatiya Prola, raided Kosala, and conquered Chakrakota, in the Bastar State, after defeating the Naga king. At the death of Vijaditya (1076) of Eastern Chalukya, Kulottunga I sent his sons to rule Vengi as Viceroys: Rajendra Mummudi Chola (1076-8), ViraChola (1078-84), Rajaraja Chodaganga (1084-9), Virachoda again (1089-90), and lastly, Vikrama Chola (1092 – 1118). The chieftain of Kolanu entered into a league with Anantavarman Choda Ganga of Kalinga and rebelled against the viceroy. Kolanu was sacked and Kalinga was invaded by Vikrama Chola and Parantaka Pandya from south. Some year later in 1110, Anantavarman Choda Ganga withheld tribute to Cholas and second invasion of Kalinga was evident. This war was recorded as celebrated poems, Kalingattupparani of Jayangondar. The Chalukya empire disappeared at the end of 12th century A.D. and Chola tottered at the beginning of the 13th century. There were several small kingdoms in South Kalinga after 12th Century and ruled over by many a local dynasty. Such were the Matsyas of Oddadi, the Gangas of Jantarnadu, the Pallavas of Virakuta, the Silas of Nandapur, Matsyas of Madgole etc besides the Chalukyas and the Haihayas. All these dynasties had allegiance to the Eastern Ganga emperors whose control over Trikalinga or the Kalinga empire was never effective in this period and was definitely on the downward move in the latter part the local dynasties grew stronger as the central power grew weaker. Kalinga especially South Kalinga – was the invading ground for the conquerors from the south, west and north – the Cholas, the Chalukyas and the Muslims respectively. This sounds natural for the names of some of the dynasties – for instance the Gangas, the Matsyas, the Chalukyas, the Konas and the Pallavas are exactly same as those some of the major dynasties and subsidiary powers in South-India- suggesting, obviously their southern origin, though it is not possible to see when and how they separated from the major dynasties migrated and settled down in South Kalinga. This is the view taken by Yashoda Devi, the eminent historian 17 Dynasty History of United Koraput 18 who has contributed a great deal in the aspect. The subject requires more research and documentation in future It can thus be concluded that Nalas, Estern Gangas and Eastern Chalukyas origined in Koraput district in the past. Refernces 1.Culture Heritage History and Historiography In Dandakaranya Vol I—Das Kornel–(B.C. to 1250 A.D.) www.scribd.com/.../Culture-Heritage-History-and-Historiography- in- Dandakaranya-Vol-I 2.Culture Heritage History and Historiography In Dandakaranya Vol II--- Das Kornel–(B.C. to 1250 A.D.) www.scribd.com/.../Culture-Heritage-History-and-Historiography-in Dandakaranya-Vol-II 18 Dynasty History of United Koraput 19 Ancient Dandakaranya and Changing Geography: Koraput-Bastar-Kalahandi The ancient history-geographical identity of Dandakaranya studied and reported; and is limited to undivided Koraput, parts of Kalahandi districts of Orissa, and partly the undivided Bastar district of Madhya Pradesh now in Chhattisgarh.It is seen from various inscriptions, literature that the Dandakaranya region at various periods was also known by various names as following.  Atavi  Nisadha  Vidyadhara territory  Kantara and Mahakantara  Trikalinga  Telinga  Chakrakote,  Masunidesha  Jharakhanda  Purvadesa  Girikalinga  Paschimakalinga and  Konga  Desia Deasa Adjacent countries to Dandakaranya was--Kalinga to its east, Dakshina Kosala to its north and north-west; Vengi to south and south-eastern end There appeared small or larege principality curved in the main land of Dandakaranya but the South Kosala appeared as distinct land. 19 Dynasty History of United Koraput 20 From time to time parts of Dandakaranya came into the territory of Kalinga, sometime into Vengi occupation and South Kosala dominion. Several of the Southern dynasties came in to the present undivided Koraput and Bastar and won the said country and or carved small feudatory for them. They occupied the land thus owned or were compelled by their natural enemy kings. This has been seen with the Western Chalukyas, Cholas, and Telegu Chodas mainly and even by Eastern Chalukya (Vengi)’s and so many others, may be Haihaya, Pallavas, Hoysalas and Rastrakuttas. Apart from kings forming kingdom, the religion interception did occur from time to time in the past centuries. The Jainism, Buddhism, Saivism and Vaishnavism in its original and modified sects, came into this land and established. DANDAKARANYA AND KORAPUT-BASTAR The name Dandakaranya derives from an alleged identity with the ‘Dandak forest’ of the epic ‘Valmiki Ramayana’, where the demon Dandak held his sway. Epic of Ramayana speaks that Lord Rama spent his precious 13 years in Dandakaranya until the abduction of the Goddess Sita. Geographical location of Dandakaranya Dandakaranya region between 17.50’-20.30’N and 80.15’-84.0’ E occupy about 89,078 square Kms that comprises of three states, e.g. the Bastar district of Madhya Pradesh, the Koraput and Kalahandi districts of Orissa as well as some parts of Andhra Pradesh including Yellavaram and eastern half of Chodavaram (Rampachodavaram) tahasils of East Godavari district, Chintapalli and Paderu tahasils of Visakhapatnam district and Salur and Parvatipuram tahasils of Srikakulam districts (Singh,1995) (1).The region extends for about 480 Kms from east to west and 320 Kms from north to south. As regards it’s identification of territorial limits, some consider this region as far as west as Nasik, the abode of Rama in the forest on the bank of the Godavari and suggest the coincidence of Dandakaranya with modern Maharastra (Bhandarkar, 1957)(2). A few scholars, alternatively, claim that ancient Dandakaranya covered a very large area of Central India from which the forests have gradually been cleared by man (Deshpande, 1948) (3) In the maps of mid-19th century (1860), the Dandakaranya was a large triangular tract (fig I)(John,1960) (4). 20 Dynasty History of United Koraput 21 Physical Landscape Singh described the physical landscape of Dandakaranya and it runs,”Dandakaranya, on the whole, has an undulating topography with well- marked elevations and depressions. While the region, on the one hand, represents typical wide forest-clad plateaus and hilly tracts including highly dissected plateaus and the Abhujhmar Hills in the west and the Eastern Ghats mountains, known as Mahendragiri in ancient times after a peak of that name which is about 1500 m high, in the east, there are few extensive plains also comprising a part of Chhattishgarh Plain in the north and Godavari-Sabari Plain in the south west. The plateaus, however, are dominant landform of the region, covering about two- fifths of its area. Map of the Dandakaranya Region The plateaus extend throughout the region except for the portion of the Koraput district occupied by the Eastern Ghats. The hills abruptly rising on the eastern side 21 Dynasty History of United Koraput 22 gradually lower down on the west. The Ghats end at Koraput where the elevation is about 900 m which gradually decreases to about 600 m in the Umarkote region. They further lower to about 300 m and 200 m in the Paralkote and Malkangiri zones respectively. The plateau topography is most evident in the Bastar region; right from Jeypore ghat the long axis of Bastar Plateau stretches away for about 190 km at an elevation ranging from 550 m -750 m to Keskal Ghat where an abrupt descent to the Kanker Basin is observed and where the width of the plateau, approximately, varies between 80 km and 130 km. consequent upon almost general internal relief, the plateaus are slightly dissected with the existence of fretted scarps in the east and north due to the deep and narrow cutting by the tributary streams. But they are highly dissected on the west by the tributaries of the Godavari including the Indravati. The western dissected edge of the Bastar Plateau, lying to the north of the Indravati is marked by the Abhujhmar Hills which provide one of the richest iron ore deposits of the country at Bailadilla Range, but much of the Bastar Plateau is undissected, formed of the gneisses of the Dharwar and Cudappah Systems. The Bastar Plateau drops on all sides except in the south-east (bordering the Eastern Ghats), where they are considerably eroded to form the Godavari Plain. To the east of the well-marked scarp edge of the Bastar Plateau extends the Kalahandi Plateau ranging from 250 m to 300 m in elevation drained by the Tel, Udanti and other tributaries of middle Mahanadi, the Kalahandi Plateau tapers into the Tel Valley towards the north-east. To the north west of the region lies the Kanker Basin (450 m) a southward extension of the Chhattishgarh Plain, crossed by the few higher ridges of quartzites. Another extensive plain spreading in the south –western portion of the region, designated as Godavari-Sabari plain is drained by the tributaries of the Godavari, chiefly the Sabari and Sileru. This plain has undergone different nomenclatures by various scholars, notably Great Southern Plain and the Malkangiri Plateau. River System The drainage of Dandakaranya may be classified into two systems: (i) the Mahanadi river system in the north draining the northern parts of both Bastar (Kanker Basin) and Kalahandi (Tel Valley) districts and the (ii) Godavari river system draining about three-fourths of the region including the Central Plateaus and the Southern Plains; a part is also drained to the Bay by the Nagawati and the Vamsdhara rivers. 22 Dynasty History of United Koraput 23 The Mahanadi River System: The Tel, Jonk, Udanti, Hatti, and Sandul, the tributaries of the Mahanadi, drain a major potion of the Kalahandi district. The Tel and Jonk are the most important tributaries, rising from the hills of the Eastern Ghats. The Ret and the Udanti take their rise in the north-western hills of Nawapara tahsil of Kalahandi district and flow towards east. The Godavari River System: The Godavari, the biggest of the east-flowing rivers of the Peninsular India comes in contact with the south-western limit of the region for about 16 km where it coincides with the Bastar district boundary near Bhadrakali. Since the Godavari flows through high lands on both the sides, its valley is narrower at this place than in the lower reaches. The Indravati, a major tributary of the Godavari, flowing through the central part of Dandakaranya region, with about 41,665 km catchment area in M.P( Chhattisgarh) and Orissa rises at an altitude of 915 m in the Kalahandi district on the western slopes of the Eastern Ghats. It flows westward through Koraput and Bastar districts, turns south and joins the Godavari about 530 km from its source at an elevation of 82 m near Bhopalpatnam. At Chitrakot, about 40 km west of Jagdalpur, the Indravati, while descending from the quartztic sandstone to the Archaean granite and gneisses, makes a 30 m waterfall. Also it makes a few rapids towards further west from Chitrakot. The major tributaries to the Indravati are the Narangi, Boardhig, Kotari, Bandia and Nibra flowing from its right and Nandiraj as well as Dantewara from the left. On the north the Narangi and Boardhig drain the north-eastern plateau while the Gudra flows through the eastern Abhujhmar hills. The Abhujhmar hills lying between the Indravati, the Gudra and the Nibra exhibit radial drainage pattern. The southern tributaries of the Indravati, the Dantewara, Nandiraj, Berudi and Chintavager, smaller than the northern ones, drain the Bailadilla and Usur Hills as well as the slopes of the southern plateau of Bastar. The Kolab joins the Indravati, another important tributary of the Godavari, rising at an altitude of 1,372 m, in Sinkaram hill range of the Eastern Ghats, drains the southern uplands of the Dandakaranya region. The Sileru or the Machkund, a major tributary of the Sabari, rises at an elevation of 1,220 m and flows for about 306 km before joining the Sabari above its confluence with the Godavari. The Indravati and Sileru to gather cover a catchment area of about 20,427 km. the Kanger and Malengar are the two other important tributaries of the Sabari. The former rises at Tangiri and the latter in the Bailadilla hills. Both flow towards south to join the Indravati. The Kanger makes a water fall (45 m) at Tirathgarh while descending from the Cuddappah quartzitic sandstone. 23 Dynasty History of United Koraput 24 The Nagawati and the Vamsdhara rivers drain the easternmost pen plain of the region. The latter takes its rise in the Eastern Ghats near Ambodala in Kalahandi district and falls into the Bay flowing from north to south through the Parvatipuram and Salur tahsils of Andhra Pradesh. Most of the rivers of the Dandakaranya region are perennial through with highly fluctuating regime. Upper Indravati,upper Kolab, Sileru water is used for agriculture. The local nalas and streams are seasonal and dry up as soon as the monsoon ends. Dues to rapid run off and evaporation, the land is very quickly dried up after the monsoon. The topographical and stratigraphical features indicate that the region is mostly deficient in underground water resources.”(5) Epigraphic notes on Dandakaranya The geography of Dandakaranya was first evident for Uttararamacharita, 2.14. Sukla (1977) (6)in his work ‘Lanka Ki Khoja’ which means ‘The search of Lanka’ had placed his argument that greater Bastar is the Dandakaranya. Recent publication of J.P. Mittal (2006) has identified many places, ponds, hills and rivers cited in Ramayana and Puranos in Koraput-Bastar region (7). According to Kalidas’s Raghuvamsa 12.9 and 12.25 versus, Dandakaranya’s north boundry was the Chitrakutta forests and south boundry was the Godavari river. Chittrauta in Bastar has been identified as the place of description. The major part of evidence to Dandakaranya so far has come from geography and location of rivers, hills that continued appearing from Ramayana to many Purano and literature. Tripathy (8) had cited Ramayana and other literature there on and identified Indravati river of present day as Indarataya, a tributary to Sapta Godavari river and countries like Suktimata Khetra and Sapta Godavari Khetra. Mahendragiri or parbata: Ramayana (6.26.80) (9), Bhagabata purano (10.79) (10) Raghuvamsa (4.39) (11) of Kalidasa cite Mahendragiri of Dandakaranya. The Harshacharita (VII) (12) and Chaitanyacharitamruta describe Mahendargiri extending upto Madura in south. The Mahendragiri is the present hill located on the border of Orissa, Ganjam district and is close to Bay of Bengal and the height of the peak is 5000ft. On the basis of Vamsadhara river and Langulini origin, Hiralal was of the opinion that Mahendragiri eastern boundary of Dandakaranya and was with Bastar and Jaypore States. The Vamsadhara river is flowing 88 miles of Koraput district before entering Srikakulam district of Andhra Pradesh; Nagavali river is about 24 Dynasty History of United Koraput 25 151 miles long covers 63 miles of Koraput from its origin point. Nagavali is called Langulia from Srikakulam onwards. It is the puranic river Langulini. (13) Chitrakutagiri: In the early banabasa, SriRam first came to Chitrakuta. Chitrakuta is mentioned in Ramayana (Pyadhakanda, adhya 55) (14), Mahabharata (Banaparba, 85.58) (15), Bamanpurano (45.99) (16) Matsyapurano (114.25)(17) Padmapurano (adhya II Tirthamahatyams)(18) Bnagabatitika (7.6)(19). There are different views on the location of Chitrakuta of Mahabharata; some opin Banda district, Uttar Pradesh and Hiralal loc cit. believes it is the Bastar district, and he has laid his arguments (20). According to Sivapurano (Astama Khanda, daitia adhya) to the south west of Chitrakuta is thick forest, where from river Godavari is flowing (21). As per Ramayana (Ayodhyakanda, 56. 1-18) (22) Chitrakuta is the place where Mandakini and Malini rivers are flowing. The river Mandakini is north of the said hill, and SriRam stayed in the same hill. Agin Mahabharata (85.58- 9) (23) and Raghuvamsa (12-15; 13.47) (24) also cite that Mandakini is close to Chitrakuta. Hiralal identified Narangi river of Bastar to Malini.(25) However, I believe it is Chitrakuta of Nawrangur close to village Ancholaguma on the bank of Indravati river. The Mandakini is the present Indrabati river. Malini is the Muran river of present days, which is joining river Indravati. The description of Sivapurana, Chitrakuta may be present Chitrakonda located near Balimell river of Malkangiri (Koraput district) Ramagiri: Markandaya Purano mentions, Maharastra mahiskaha kalingaeshaba Sarbasha .|| Kaberiaha saha chausika attabhia sabaraicha yae.|| Pulinda bindhiamulika (ya) bidarva dandakaha saha.|| Parika molika scheva asamaka bhogovardhasaha. ||(26) The author Sircar has identified Kalinga to be Puri and Ganjam district of Orissa, Sabaran forts, Saoras of Ganjam and Visakhapatnam and Dandaka as the old name of Mahrastra identity especially the Nasika draft. 25 Dynasty History of United Koraput 26 Sircar cited, “Act I of Uttaramacarita by Bhavabhuti, who flourished in the 8th century A.D., is styled ‘the inspection of the painting’. It is said that a painter (chitrakara) painted along a walk (vithika) the experiences (carit) of the Iksavaku king Rama of Ayodhya in Dandakaranya, Kiskindha, Lanka and other places, according to the institution of the king’s brother Laksmana who had accompanied Rama to the forest.” (27) Another picture of the nature of a map in the same context is introduced by Laksmana to Rama and Sita in the following words; “Here is the tract (bhaga) of the Dandaka forest, known as Citrakunja vat, to the west of Janasa thana, haunted by the headless giant Danu; this is the site (pada) of the heritage of Matanga on the Rsyamukha hill, his again is the Savara women named Sramana; this is the celebrated lake called Pampa.”(28) Singhdhasyamha kabichidparto bhisanobhogorukhya || Sthane sthane mukhurokokubha jhadangalerute nirijharanam Ita tirthasriramagirisa ridgor ta kantara misraha Sangdrusne parichita bhuva dandakaranya bhagaha (29) (Uttaramacharita, 2.14) The Kalinga forest is described in the following verse, Vindhyadri- Citrakutadri-Kalinga-Dravid-asritams vanam Kalingakam name samudra-avadhi kirtyat. As per Mansollasa verse 1.2. 175-76. (30) This forest (Kalinga vanam), the Vindhya range, the Citrokuta hills and the Kalinga and Dravida countries and extended upto the sea (i.e. the Indian Ocean) Puranic List of Rivers and Dandakaranya Sircar mentioned, “Mandakini dasarna cha (i) chitrakuta tatheba cha (ii) Tamasa (iii) pipala srane (iv) karamad pisachika (v) Chtropola bipas cha (vi) manjula balubahini (vii) and Dandakaranya.”(31) i. The Mandakini river flows into the Paisuni near the Citrakuta hill, while the Dasarana is the modern Dhasan flowing past Sagar between the Betwas and the Ken . ii. Citrakutas is the same as the Mandakini or, more probably, a part of it (32). 26 Dynasty History of United Koraput 27 iii. Tamsa was classified to modern Tons flowing into Ganges below Allahabad (33). iv. Chtropola bipasa cha: The citropala is a branch of the Mahanadi in Orissa or Mahanadi itself below its junction with the Pyri (34). However, I belive that Citrakuta is the village close to Anchalagumma of Nabrangpur and about 2 km from the Indravati river. Indravati was known as Mandkini in puranic literature. The former authors could not identfy Tamasa; however Tamasa is a river 7 kms south of present Malkangiri in Koraput and known by the same name. Mahendra (a) Trisama rishikuliya scha (b) Ingsula tridiva sch ya (c) Langulini bansodhara (d) Mahendratanaya ha smuritaha (35) a) Rishikuliya still bears its ancient name. It flows into Ganjam district from Koraput district. b) Langulini is the river running through Sikakulam district in Andhra Pradesh (36). c) The Vamsadhara, still bears its ancient name, and runs through Kalingapatnam near Srikakulam (37). d) Mahendratanya is name of the river coming from Mahendra, the great hill of Paralakhamundi. The name still stands (38). Suktimati: (i) Rusikulejya kumari scha (ii) Mandaga mandabahini (iii) Kupa palasini scheba (iv) Suktamt prabhavaha strumetaha(39) The name of the Suktimat is preserved in that of the Sakti hills in Raigarh, Chattisgarha, and possibly in that of the Suktel river which joins the Mahanadi 27 Dynasty History of United Koraput 28 near Sonepur in Orissa. The name Suktimat was probably applied to the chain of hills that extends from Sakti in Raighar, Chattisgarha to the old Manbhum dist. by the Kumari and perhaps even to the hills in the Santal paraganas. 28 Dynasty History of United Koraput 29 References 1. Singh, R.L. (1995) Ed. India- A regional Geography, National Geography of India. New Delhi. pp.775-790. 2. Bhandarkar, R.G. Early History of Deaccan (1957), pp.11-12. 3. Deshpande, C.D. Western India (Dharwar, 1948). pp.99 4. John, Wyld. Geography to the Queen and the Prince’s consort, (London, 1960). 5. Singh, R.L. (1995).op.cit. 6. Sukla, H.L. (1977) Lanka ki khoj (in Hindi) Allahabad, 1992.. 7. Mittal, J.P. (2006) History of Ancient India. books google.co.in/books?isbn=8126906154 8. Tripathi, Sunderlal. Historical and Archaeolgical Aspects of Dandakaranya. Dandakaranya Samachar, Jagdalpur (Feb.8, 1970). 9. Ramayana (6.28.60), Nirnayasagar Press, Bombay. 10. Bhagabatapurano (10.79), Bangabasi Office, Calcutta. 11. Raghuvamsa (4.39) 12. Harshavamsa (VII) 13. Nagavali river is puranic Langulini, Sircar, D.C. Geography of Ancient and Medieval India: Puranic list of peoples. VII. Mahendr, p.61 14. Ramayana (Pyashakanda, adhya 55), Nirnayasagar Press, Bombay. 15. Mahabharata (Banaparaba, 85-58), Sircar, D.C. op.cit. 16. Bamanpurano (45.99) 17. Matsyapurano (114.25), Bangabasi Office, Calcutta. 18. Padmapurano (Adhya II Tirthamahatyams) 19. Bangabatika (7.6) 20. Hiralal, Sukla. Adibasi Asmita Aur Bikash., M.P. Hindi Granth Accademy. pp59. 21. Sivapurano (Astama Kahanda, daitiaadhya) 22. Ramayana (Ayodhyakanda, 56.1-8) Sircar, D.C. op.cit. 29 Dynasty History of United Koraput 30 23. Mahabhata (85.58-9) Sircar, D.C. op.cit 24. Raghuvmsa (12-15; 13.47) 25. Hiralal, Sukla.op.cit pp44-106 26. Ramagiri: Markandaya purano: Sircar, D.C. op.cit. IV Daksinapatha, p.39. 27. Sircar, D.C. op.cit, p.326-27; Chapter XVIII, Cartography cited-Ed. S. Ray, Calcutta, 1934, p.106. 28. Ibid. 29. Sircar, D.C. op.cit. The Eight Elephant Forests., p.336. 30. Uttramacharita, 2.14. 31. Ibid. III, Rksa, p.55 32. Ibid. 33. Ibid 34. Ibid 35. Ibid 36. Ibid. GAMI, p.61 37. Ibid 38. Ibid 39. Ibid. VIII, Suktimat, p.62 30 Dynasty History of United Koraput 31 TRILINGA, TELINGA AND TRIKALINGA -KORAPUT CONTEXT Trilinga, Telinga and Trikalinga as a geographical term have been of interest to the historians since long. The Trikalinga review and sequences basing on epigraphic sources and others have been detailed by G.Ramdas (1926 & 1928) (1) Acharya (1952) (2), Ms.Tripathi (1985) (3) and Ajay Mitra Shastri (1995).”(4). The assumptions of earlier scholars that the territory of Trilinga comprises three parts, viz, Northern, Central and Southern parts of Orissa and also by others that it meant three contiguous regions, such as Kalinga, Utkala and Kangoda have now proved to be wrong, as said by Tripathi, 1985. (5). On the other hand, scholars have taken it to mean a separate region suited to the western part of Kalinga. The inscriptions of Amma I clearly indicates that it was a forest country and the opinion of G.Ramdas has been rightly taken up and the suggestion that Trikalinga denoted the high or elevated hilly region situated contiguous to the country of Kalinga. So it can be located as per Tripathi (1985) in the present district of Koraput in Orissa and the western part of Bastar in Madhya Pradesh, the southern most part of the Kalahandi district. This was the finding of G.Ramdas. So it can definitely be said that this region forms southern border of the South Kosala kingdom of the Somavamsis, the South-eastern border of Tripuri kingdom of the Kalachuris, the northern border of the Vengi kingdom and western side of the Eastern Gangas of Kalinganagara. This hilly and forest regions of Koraput and Bastar which are even in the present day covered with dense forest, some of its areas are still inaccessible were considered to be one of the most important strategical units. This was also one of the reasons given by the historians that the enmity between the Kalachuris of Tripuri and the Somavamsis was possibly their respective claim over the possession of the Trikalinga region. In verse 2 of the Bahmesvara inscription Janamejaya has been described as lord of Trilinga (Trilingadhipati) and the conqueror of Odradesa. But Janamejaya’s copper plate grants mention that he had the title of Trikalindhipati and not Trilingadhipati. This inscription mentions in the last line that Udyotakesari had the title of Trikalingadhipati that was assumed by all his predecessors (6). The Trilinga has been identified and cited from the following epigraphic sources.  Akkalapundi grant of Singaya-Nayaka (7) of the year 1368 AD mentions Desastrilinganama and Trilingadesadhipat. 31 Dynasty History of United Koraput 32  Srirangam plates of Mummandi-nayaka (8) of the year 1358 AD gives the boundary of Tilinga, which is “to the West and the East, two famous countries Maharastra and Kalinga; to the south and the north Pandya and Kanyakuvja, it is that country which is called Trilinga”. The above two inscriptions belong to the same family.  Purle plates (9) of Indravarman the lord of whole Kalinga (Sakala Kalinga) mentions that the donee came from Tilinga and got land in Kalinga. The date of this plate was assigned to 631 AD (11). These inscriptions give a history of Trilinga from the 7th Century onwards upto 14th century AD. The Trilinga has been mentioned in Puranas and in Sankrit literature in Markandey Purano, Vayu Purano. According to Acharya, the Trilinga cannot be taken as a mistake for Trikalinga (12). G.Ramdas has quoted a verse from a work called Trilinga Gramma belonging to the 12th Century AD (13).  The Thana plate (10) of Ram Chandra of the year 1272 mentions the defeat of Tilingas (Tlingatunga-tarunmulana-damatavala). Trilinga from foreign sources  ‘Taranatha’ wrote Caldwell ‘repeatedly designates the Telugu country Trilinga’ and describes Kalinga as a portion of Trilinga and Kalingapura as its capital (14). Taranatha’s Tibetan History of the propagation of Buddhism in India’ was written in 1573 AD (15).  The Arab and Persian authors write Tilong and Tilingana (16).  Ptolemy’s (c.150 AD) writing has been translated as Triglypton or Trilingon. But it is bit surprising that only after the year 1000 AD the name of the country was met after Ptolemy. The above reference clearly shows that the antiquity of Trilinga is well established for a period of 1500 years from 15 AD from the time of Ptolemy to Taranatha.  Cunningham suggested that the Sankrit equivalent of the Greek Trilingon is Trikalinga and Trilinga (17). But Caldwell very rightly doubted this identification and wrote “General Cunningham thinks Telinga derived, not from Trilinga, but from Trikalinga, but this derivation of the word needs to be historically confirmed Kalinga and linga may probably in some way be connected, but the nature and history of connection have not as yet been made out”(18). Again elsewhere he writes “the foreign name Trilinga 32 Dynasty History of United Koraput 33 must have been the name by which the place was called by the natives of the place, whilst Triglypton or Trigly-phon must have been a translation of the name which had come into use amongst the Greeks. Hence the antiquity of Trilinga, as the name of the State, or of the capital city of a State, situated somewhere in India in Ptolemy’s time must be admitted to be established”(19).  McCrindle fully agrees with Caldwell and writes “The Andhras and Kalinga, the two ancient divisions of the Telugu people are represented by Greeks and Gangetic nations. It may be taken as certain that Triglyphon, Trilinga or Modolinga was identical with Telingana or Trilingam, which signifies the country of the three lingas. Pliny and Ptolemy fix the Telugu name and language as near the mouths of the Ganga or between the Gangas and the Godavari. Modo or Modogas equivalent to mudu of modern Telugu means three (20). McCrindle’s Ptolemy was published in 1885 and Yule and Burnell’s Hobson Jobson was first published in 1886 and from the following note on Telenga, it appears that the authors had not the occasion to take advantage of McCrindle’s views because this note seems to support the views expressed by Cunningham in his Ancient Geography of India which was published in 1871 was remarked by Acharya, P. (21).  The McCrindle’s researches on Ptolemy’s Geography were confined to the study and identification of places in India alone, but Girini’s researches on Ptolemy’s Geography were extened to further India and Indo-Malayan Peninsula. Girini writes that “the Andhras and Telengana in conjunction with their near relatives, the Kalingas, founded, it appears, in that region, kingdom consisting of three districts or separate communities called Tri- Kalinga or Trilinga, a name from which the town Telengana was derived and employed to designate the country of Kalinga proper, on the western side of the Gulf of Bengal, as well as the country of Mons or Telenga (Talaings) on the opposite shore, which had been colonized by them”(22). The identity of Trilinga with Trikalinga as said in the extract is attributed to the influence of Cunningham on Girini. There is no direct reference to or even tradition of Trikalinga, has been recovered in any of the works on this subject of the further India up till now.  The Burma colonisation by the people of Kalinga or Trilinga of India proper is forgotten to the extent that in Eastern India the traditions are even silent. The study of history in Burma, Siam, Combodia, Java etc. has dispelled the obscurity of the then history of Eastern India has become 33 Dynasty History of United Koraput 34 brighter now. Kalinga is mentioned as a civilised country in the Dhauli edict of Ashoka and the title of Kalingadhipati of Kharavela is found from Hatigumpha inscription (23).  “The coast of Kalinga appears to be that of the continent which commences with the Archipelago at an early date and emigration thither was most ripe; and the name appears to have been in great measure adopted in the Archipelago as the designation of India in general or of the whole of the peninsular part of it. Throughout the book of Malay historical legenda called Sijara Malaya the word Kalinga or king is used for India in general but more particularly for the southern parts”(24).  Acharya wrote, “The geographical and ethnical names such as Sriksetra (25) Utkala (26) Kalingarattah (27) and Tilanga (28) in Burma shows the influence of the people of eastern India on the western side of the Bay of Bengal who established their colony there before the Asokan period. But we have not yet got any reference from Indian sources to Trikalinga in that period. The remark of the reviewer of the Gazetteer of the Pegu district is worthwhile quoting here in this connection. “The only city of Pegu is referred to in inscriptions of the eleventh and twelfth centuries as Ussa Pegu, and the identification of Ussa with Orissa has been placed beyond doubt in Mr. Duroiselle, the Government Epigraphist. The long debated question of the origin of the name Talaing may also be looked upon as settled. According to Mr.Stewart the non-inhabitants of the country were confounded by the Burmese with Indians from Kalinga (Taleing) and Orissa (Ussa)” (29).  Cunningham writes “the Mahabharata names the Kalingas three separate times and each time in conjunction with different peoples”(30). Sylvain Levi has discussed all the three appelations, which do not help us to find out the term Trikalinga from them. Asokaa’s Edicts only mention Kalinga and “after him under Kharavela, Kalinga became the centre of a powerful empire of which the Chief assumed the title of Chakravartin”(31). As Kharavela’s inscription omits Trikalinga it is unsafe to think of Trikalinga in these days. Pliny mentions Macco-Calingae, Gangarides Calingae as separate peoples from Calingae and this led Cunningham to write that the name Trikalinga is probaly old and was known as early as the time of Magasthenes, (4th Century B.C) from whom Pliny chiefly copied his Indian Geography (32). Cunningham’s chief sources of information on Trikalinga are the copper-plate grant from near Jabalpur in the Journal of the Asiatic Society of Bengal Vol.VIII, p.485 and Colonal Francis 34 Dynasty History of United Koraput 35 Wilford’s article on the Indian Geography published in the said Journal Vol.XX 1851 which was written as early as 1811 was cited by Acharya (1952). Wilford writes on Trikalinga,“Sri Karna Deva takes the title of king of Trikalinga or the three shores to the east, west and south of India. In his grant found lately at Benares he calls himself Sri Karna Deva King of Trikalinga or India”(33). “The sea coast of Calinga of India is divided into three parts emphaticaly called ricalinga or three shores. The first Calinga includes the seacoast about the mouth of the Indua; the second extends all round the peninsula; and the Gangetic shores, from Cuttack to Chatganh constitute the third. No emperor in India, would pretend to celebrity, and lasting fame unless he was the master of these three shores when he assumed the title of Tricalingadhipati, the lord-paramount of Tricalinga (34), Elsewhere in the same paper he writes: “This is a well known legend in India and these three towns are styled Tripuri or Traipuri under Tripurasura who was Tricalingadhipati and had a town in each Calinga. These were destroyed at once by unerring arrow of Siva who was standing in the district of Tipperah. One of these towns was to the east-wards of the Ganges, the other near Amaracantaca and the third to the west of Indua” (35).  The copper plate grant 41 of Vajrahasta V mention that his predecessor Gunamaharnava who came from Trikalinga Kingdom which was ruled by Gangas. Sahityadarpana, a treatise on Alamkara written by Visvanatha (early 14th Century AD) mentions that the then king of Orissa possessed the title of Trikalingabhumitilaka. From this it appears that the title was assumed by the Ganga kinga from 1038 AD to 1327 AD nearly for 300 years by the later Ganga king. The earliest reference to Trikalinga is met with in the Jirjingi copper plate grant of Indravarman I of the early Eastern Ganga dynasty of Kalinganagara, issued in the Ganga year 39 (665 AD)(36). He assumed the title of Trikalingadhipati, evidently after claiming Trikalinga or atleast a part of it to be under his control. The other ruler of this line of kings to assume the title was Mahasamantavarman as known from his Ponnuturu copper plate issued in the Ganga year 64 (790 AD)(37). These two rulers seem to have in their possession both the territories of Kalinga and Trikalings with the capital at Kalinganagara and sometimes at Dantapura where from the above two characters were issued. From this it can be derived that the present Dantewada which remained a place of history for Bastar and the relevance of the Dantewada temple since centuries may be the one to place 35 Dynasty History of United Koraput 36 Dantewada as Dantepuram and of Trikalinga and the Dantewada comes under the control of Trikalinga.This needs examination by future historians. After Samantavarman, the successor known from the records; who have issued the title of ‘Sakala-Gondramadhipati’. Kalinga is well known to comprise of the districts of East Godavari of the present Andhra Pradesh together with the Ganjam district in Orissa. The question may arise here as expressed by Ms.Tripathi did the expression ‘Sakal Kalinga’ mean to include the territory of Trikalinga also. But from the records of Gangas of Svetaka, who ruled almost contemporaneously the northern part of the Ganjam district with the present Chikiti as their headquarters in a semi-independent capacity under the Bhaumakaras of Tosali and Utkala, also often used the expression ‘Sakala-Kalingadhirajya’ and the title of ‘Sakala- Kalingadhipati’. It appears to indicate that there existed constant rivalries between both the Ganga families over the Kalinga country. But the Svetka had never assumed the title of ‘Trikalingadhipati’, thus evidently denoted a separate region, different from the whole of Kalinga (Sakala Kalinga) and which remained under the possession of the Eastern Gangas till atleast the end of the 8th century A.D. Trikalinga had gone out of control of the Eastern Gangas for long time, after Samantavarman, until it was recaptured by Vajrahasta III during about 1045-46 A.D. and thus in the possession of the Gangas, they are generally called the later Eastern Gangas or the Imperial line till at least beginning of the 12th century A.D. There are various copper plate grants of the Imperial Gangas, after Vajrahasta III that the title continued to be with his son Devendravarman-Rajaraja (1070-78 A.D) and then continued with Anantavarman Chodaganga (1078-1152 A.D)(38). But it was discontinued for sometime, indicating that Trikalinga reign was lost to the Gangas until Aniyankabhima II, the great-grandson of Chodaganga, who was the last king of this dynasty to assume the title, recovered it. The Chatesvara temple inscription (39) of his time records that Visnu, his minister claimed to have established the empire of the lord of Trikalinga, i.e., Anyankabhima III. After the reign of this ruler there is no history to indicate that, king of this dynasty nor the contemporary rulers of any other royal family have assumed this title. The Eastern Calukya inscriptions show that there was a kingdom called Trikalinga adjoining to Vengimandala. The Masulipatam plates of Amma I (918- 925 A.D) tell us that king Vijayaditya IV (918 A.D) ruled Vengimandla joined with Trikalinga forest (Trikalinga-tav-yuktam)(40). Likewise, we learn from the Kolavaram plates of Calukya - Bhima II that Vikramaditya II (sometimes after 925 A.D) held sway over both Vengi-mandala and Tri-Kalinga (sa-Tri-Kalingam Vengi-mandalam)(41). The inclusion of Tri-Kalinga, obviously a part thereof, in 36 Dynasty History of United Koraput 37 the Vengi Calukya Kingdom finds support from some unexpected literary evidence also. The following stanza into he colophon of the medieval medical text entitled Kalyana-Karaka by one Ugradityacarya states that the work was composed at Ramagiri which is described as adorned with structural as well as rock-cut temples and situated in the Tri-Kalinga country which was under the Vengi ruler (cited Itihasa, second edition:447). Veng-Isa-Trikalinga-desa-janana-prastutya-san-utkata-Prodyad-Vrksa-lata- vitana-nirataih siddhais = ca vidyadharaiah/ Sarve mandira-Kandar-opama-guha-caity-alay-alamkrte Ramye Ramagirav-idam viracitam sastram hitam praninam (42) As per Ajay Mitra Shastri, “This Ramagiri is apparently different from modern Ramtek near Nagpur which is generally believed to represent the Ramagiri mentioned in the opening stanza of Kalidasa’ and Megha-duta (Purva-megha, verse 1). We propose to identify it with the homonymous locality situated in the Koraput district of Orissa bordering the Srikakulam district of Andhra Pradesh, which alone would satisfy the description. The assumption of the title Tri- Kalingadhipati by the Somavamsins, who also called themselves Kosal-endra or ‘Lord of Kosala’, would show that Tri-Kalinga. It must be remembered in this connection that the Panduvamsins, who were lineal ancestors of the Somavamsins, also ruled over South Kosala and when under pressure from other powers they were forced to shift eastward and southward, they naturally moved towards the Kalahandi-Koraput-Bastar region. For some time they could have continued to hold a part of Kosala together with the adjoining area. And lastly, the assumption of this title by some later members of the Kalachuri dynasty as well as the continuation of its use by the later Eastern Gangas would show that it was a bone of contention among them as well as the Somavamsins and the Eastern Calukyas. Therefore, the region of Tri-Kalinga or a part of it must have been situated not very far from their territories. Any identification of Tri-Kalinga must satisfy this condition”(43). This supports the view that Trikalinga, obviously a part thereof, in the Vengi Chalukya kingdom. While considering the question of the location of Tri-Kalinga, Ajay M.Shastri continued, “The fact that in ancient times natural barriers like mountains, rivers and seas played an important role seems to have been ignored. Taking into consideration the above mentioned political facts together with the geographical factors, we may conclude that the region comprising the Three Kalingas had three distinct geographical features: (i) Eastern Ghats dividing Kalinga region into Western and Eastern parts; (ii) the Mahanadi and the Godavari forming the 37 Dynasty History of United Koraput 38 northern and southern borders of Western Kalinga; and (iii) the Indravati dividing the Western Kalinga into North and South Kalinga, North Kalinga between the Indravati and the Mahanadi and South Kalinga between the Godavari and the Indravati. With this geographical overview we may attempt to locate the Three Kalingas as follows: (i) South-Kalinga, bordered on the west and north-west by the Indravati, on the south by the Godavari and on the east by the Eastern Ghats, comprised southern portion of Koraput together with a considerable part of Bastar and a small region of north-West Srikakulam; (ii) North Kalinga, bordered on the north and west by the Mahanadi and on the south and east by the Eastern Ghats, consisted of northern Koraput and the adjoining south-eastern region of Kalahandi; and (iii) East Kalinga-bordered the west by the Eastern Ghats, on the south by Godavari till it meets the Bay of Bengal, on the north by the Mahanadi where it empties into the Bay of Bengal and on the east by the Bay of Bengal- includes the whole of eastern Srikakulam and Visakhapatnam together with the whole of Ganjam”(44). He further continued; “The above is only a very rough indication of the areas comprised in the three Kalingas, and it is impossible in the present state of disinformation to be more precise. Perhaps, none of the kings who assumed the title Tri-Kaling-adhipati controlled at any time of their rule the whole of Tri- Kalinga; but even capture of a part of it, temporary or permanent, was thought enough to justify the assumption of this title. This was true of the Somavamsins also as they could control only a part of Orissan region of Tri-Kalinga adjacent to South Kosala, viz., Koraput-Kalahandi-Bastar”(45). It is also interesting to see that during the first part of the 10th Century A.D., the Eastern Chalukya king Vijayaditya IV (918 A.D), son of Chalukya Bhima ruled Vengimandala together with the forest kingdom of Trikalinga for six months and passed away. This is revealed by the Masulipatam plates of the Eastern Chalukyan, Amma-I (918-25) (46). It seems after Vijayaditya the forest kingdom of Trikalinga asseed to the hands of the Eastern Gangas. But it also seems probable that the Kalachuris of Tripuri under the rule of Gangeyadeva and Karnadeva had shared a part of this kingdom with the Eastern Gangas of Kalinganagara. These ruling families probably occupied the western and southern parts of this forest kingdom, contiguous to Vengi and Kalinga the kingdom of the Gangas. During the first part of the 10th century A.D. the Kalachuri kings of Dahala, ruling from Tripuri, who were also known as the Hahayas assumed this title at least for sometime. Yuvaraja I claimed victory over the Kosala and probably 38 Dynasty History of United Koraput 39 Janamjaya I, but only Yuvaraja-I seemed to have taken part of Trikalinga and claimed the title. During his regime, Trikalinga is known to be in the possession of Somavamsis. Along with his subordinate ally Kamalaraja of Tummana, he is known to have defeated the king of Kosala and Utkala and assumed the title of ‘Trikalingadhipati’. His son and successor, Karnadeva is also known to have assumed the title, from his first known grant (Banaras grant), issued just one year after Gangeyadeva’s death in 1041 A.D. He was probably contemporary of the Eastern Ganga king Vajrahasta II of Kalinga. Probably the Somavamsis had captured the territory of Trikalinga from Karnadeva of Tripuri and from the time of Janamejaya-I, who was the first known powerful king of the Somavamsa and extended the kingdom east-ward in the Sonepur-Bolangir region of Orissa, the rulers of this family continued to assume the title of ‘Trikalingadhipati’ till the downfall of the dynasty during the time of Karnadeva, the last known independent ruler of this family. The claim of the title by the Eastern Gangas, the Kalachuris of Tripuri and the Somavamsis and their struggle over the possession of Trikalinga may tend to suggest that this geographical unit was situated quite contiguous to their respective kingdoms. Among the Kalachuri kings the following possessed the title of Trikalingadhipati (47): Gangeyadeva Vikramaditya (C.1030-40 A.D), Laksmikarnadeva (C.1040-70 A.D), Yasakarnadeva (C.1073-1125 A.D), Gayakarnadeva (1151 A.D), Narasimhadeva (1155-70 A.D), Jayasimha (1175 A.D) and Vijayasimhadeva (1180-95 A.D) Among the kings of Jejakabhukti dynasty only Trailokyavarmadeva Candella (1205-1247 A.D) assumed this title and his Rewa grant of 1240 A.D. mentions the title. The Paithan plate of Yadava king Rama Chandra of the Saka year 1193 (1272 A.D) mentions that Jaitungi I “slew the king of Trikalinga and seized the whole of his kingdom and rescued king Ganapati from the prison”. The above references clearly prove the existence of the Trikalinga kingdom on the north of the Godavari. It seems that this kingdom Its northern limit is said in the Mahabharata to be the river Viatarani (mod, Byterni), which river and the Kalinga people the Pandavas are described to have reached at the same time on their southward progress from Bengal in the course of pilgrimage. According to this 39 Dynasty History of United Koraput 40 account, Kalinga would include a considerable portion of Orissa. But the limits of the countries fluctuated from time to time and there is no certainty that the same river was the northern boundary of Kalinga also at the time of inscriptions some points which would indicate tht Kosala was included in the countries known as Tri-Kalinga (or the three Kalingas). The grantors of these charters have the title Tri-Kalingadhipati attached to their names, but not the title Kosalendra (lord of Kosala), although they were undoubtedly the masters of the Kosala country. Indeed, by the later title is not used along with their names nor is it joined to the title Trikalingadhipati, which is almost invariably prefixed to their names. This seems to show that the title Trikalingadhipati was thought sufficient by these kings to imply their possession of Kosala also. It is therefore, probable that Kosala; (i.e. Southern Kosala) was included in Trikalinga (three Kalingas). Thus we see that they possessed at least a part of Trikalinga and, therefore, the title Trikalingadhipati was not altogether an honorific one as thought by Mr.M.M.Chakravarti. I do not mean to say, however, that the whole of Trikalinga was under their rule” (50). Historians and their views on Trikalinga In 1926 and 1928 G.Ramdas discussed on the significance of the title of Trikalingadhipati and wrote, ‘Thus Trikalinga means ‘high or elevated or hilly Kalinga and signified in those days the region of the Eastern Ghats from the upper course of the Mahanadi to about the source of the Languliya river in the south. It cannot be understood to signify the country occupied by the Kalinga proper, Kongada and Orissa; nor does the affix ‘Tri’ means three’ (51). B.C.Mazumdar has interpreted Trikalinga as denoting three countries Kalinga, Kongada and Utkala. He has further identified Kongada and Kalinga with the modern Puri and Ganjam districts respectively (52). Pandit B.Mishra and Dr.R.G.Basak have accepted Mazumdar’s identification. Harekrishna Mahtab is in agreement with Ramdas and gave the boundary of Trikalinga to comprise of the entire region between the Rishikulya river and Languliya river with the Zamindari of Jeypore in Koraput and Bastar, Bolangir, Kalahandi and Sonepur districts and also the district of Sambalpur (53) R.D.Banerji wrote,’ The country of Kalinga was divided from very early times into three parts and was called Tri-Kalinga. The existence of the term Tri Kalinga in Sanskrit tempts us to accept Mudu Kalinga as a direct translation of the Sanskrit form or vice versa. The natural division of the northern extremity of the eastern coast of the Bay of Bengal is very well suited to the term Tri-Kalinga. 40 Dynasty History of United Koraput 41 The vast country of the western shore of the Bay of Bengal, which extended from the Delta of the Ganges to that Godavari was called Kalinga in the ancient times; but he also writes that Trikalingadhipati is “the high sounding title” and “the meaningless title” respectively (54).’ R.Subba Rao writes that ‘Trikalingas’ are Utkala or north Kalinga, Kalinga proper and Tel Kalinga or South Kalinga” and Trikalinga country “extended from the river Ganges in the north to the river Godavari in the South”(55). From the geographical existence of a country called Madhyama Kalinga in the Ganga inscriptions D.C.Ganguly is of the opinion that it “corresponds roughly to the modern Vizagapatam District. The designation was probably given to this province in order to distinguish it from south and north Kalinga which corresponded roughly to the modern Districts of Godavari and Ganjam respectively. These three divisions seem to have constituted the country known as Trikalinga” (56). R.C.Mazumdar’s note on Trikalinga is very illuminating and it runs as follows: “In Eastern Chalukya records of the 10th and subsequent centuries Trikalinga is distinguished from Kalinga and is obviously regarded as a place of less importance than Kalinga. Without entring into further discussion on this point I think we have to admit that we cannot take Trikalinga in the present record to denote the whole Kalinga, and that it was the designation of a separate region, most probably the hilly tract to the west of Kalinga”(57). H.C.Ray at first took the title of Trikalingadhipati as a conventional one. His notes on Trikalinga only refer to Pliny. He has also criticised the interpretation suggested by G.Ramdas. But in the map No.1 of Vol.II he has shown the position of Trikalinga as the very same as Daksina Kosala comprised in the modern area covered by the Ex-States of Kanker, Patna, Kalahandi, Sonpur and Baud and the Districts of Raipur in Madhya .Pradesh and Sambalpur and Ganjam in Orissa (58). P.Acharya (59) has discussed the question at length, though at one place he appears to be in agreement with Ganguli’s findings. Although V.V.Mirashi says Tri-Kalinga as ‘three Kalingas’, and he refrained from defining it and confined to that it was different from Kalinga, Kongoda, Utkala and Kosala (60). There had been controversies among the scholars of the location of Trikalinga, which had remained unsolved to a satisfactory degree. 41 Dynasty History of United Koraput 42 Almost all the rulers of the Somavamsa, whose inscriptions have been discovered, had assumed the title of ‘Trikalingadhipati’. According to some scholars, Janamejaya I, the first known Somavamsi ruler to assume the title of Trikalingadhipati, acquired the title only after he conquered the Sonepur region from the Bhanja ruler, Ranabhanja (61). The territory of Trikalinga must have covered an extensive region. We also come across references to Trikalinga country in two more epigraphical records of about the 12th century A.D. During the last part of the regime of Chodaganga of the Ganga dynasty of Orissa, perhaps a part of this territorial unit passed away to the hands of the Velamanti-Cholas under the able generalship of Ganga II, the father of Rajendra Chola II, who is said to have vanquished during about 1142-43 A.D., the lords of Marata, Lata, Karnata, Kuntala, Andhra, Kataka and Trikalinga during about the first part of the 12th Century A.D (62). It was evident from the Gangas, that a part of the territory, situated contiguous to the Vengi country, was captured. Further a ruler of another royal family claimed the title of Trikalingadhipati, though it seems for a short time only. The Rewa charter of the Kalachuri (1174 A.D) refers to this title known to have assumed by one Jayasimha, probably a later Kalachuri king of Tripuri. The grant was issued by one of his feudatory chiefs belonging to the family of the Kauravas of Karkkaredi (the present Kakreri, 28 miles north of Rewa), who were at first feudatories under the Kalachuris of Tripuri and later on of the Chandellas of Jejakabhukti (63). From the above references to the rulers claiming the title of ‘Trikalingadhipati’ it may be inferred that there was a keen contest among the several royal families of imperial status, such as the Kalachuris, the Gangas, the Eastern Chalukyas, and the Somavamsis etc. It may also be presumed on the above context that the territory of Trikalinga comprised a vast area situated contiguous to and surrounded by the kingdoms of the above ruling families. On the whole, Trikalinga was never under the control of any of the above ruling families for a long time. The Somavamsi rulers are only known to have continued to claim the title for generations and probably a major part of the territory of Trikalinga was under their control. 42 Dynasty History of United Koraput 43 Reference 1. Ramdas, G. (1926 & 28) JBORS, Vol.XIV, pp 539.ff JAHRS, Vol. 1, pp 16- 23 ff. 2. Acharya, P (1952) Trilinga, Trikalinga, Kalinga, Odra and Utkala, OHRJ Vol.I (1) 93ff 3. Tripathy, S (1985) “Royal Titles of Trikalingadhipati and Samasta- Gondramadhipati of the Early Medieval Orissa's Epigraphics. ORHRJ, Vol. XXXI, No.2, 324 p. 143 ff. 4. Shastri, Ajay Mitra, Inscriptions of the Sarabhapuriyas, Panduvamsins and Somavamsins, Part I, II. 5. Tripathy, S. OHRJ, XXXI, Nos. 2, 3 and 4, p. 143 ff. 6. OHRJ, Vol. XXXI, No. 2, 324 pp 143 ff 7. E.I. Vol. XIII, p.362 8. E.I. Vol. XIV, p.90 9. Ibid, Vol. XIII, p. 199 & 202. 10. Ibid, Vol. XIV, p.362 11. JAHRS Vol. VI, p.79. 12. OHRJ. Vol. I, No. 1 p.93 ff. 13. I.A. Vol. XLII, 1925, pp 35-37. 14. Caldwell’s Comparative Grammar of the Dravidian languages, 1913, p.28. 15. Ibid. p.9 16. Pre. Arya and Pre-Drvidian p.76. 17. Ancient Geography of India, 1924, p.524. 18. Comparative Grammar of the Dravidian Language 1913, p. 29. 19. Ibid. p.77 20. Ptolemy’s Ancient India by Mr. Crindle, 1927, p. 234 21. Acharya, P. OHRJ, Vol.I (1), p.98. 22. Gerini’s Research on Ptolemy's Geography of Eastern Asia, p.139 23. Hobson Jobson, kling, p.488 24. Goromo p.66 25. Ibid p.73 26. Ibid p.32 27. Ibid p.30 28. JRAS, 1918, p.150. 29. The Ancient Geography of India, 1924, p. 594. 30. Pre. Aryan and Pre-Dravidian, p.75 31. The Ancient Geography of India, 1924, p.594 32. Asiatic Research, Vol. IX, 1807, p 104 and 107. 33. JASB Vol. XX, 1851, p.233. 43 Dynasty History of United Koraput 44 34. Ibid. p. 484. 35. JAHRS, Vol. VI, p.71. 36. E.I., Vol. XXVII, pp 216, ff. 37. S.H, Vol.V. No. 1010, JAHRS, Vol. VII p.183; S, II, Vol. V. No. 1348. 38. E.I. Vol. XXIX, pp 121 ff 39. E.I. V, p 133, text-line 17. 40. S.I.I, I. 43. 41. Cited by Nathuram Premi in his Jaina sahitya aura Itihasa, second edi. 447. fn.1. 42. Shastri, Ajay Mitra, op.cit. p.183 43. Ibid. p. 184. 44. Ibid. p. 185 45. E.I. V, 133, text-line 17 46. Ray, H.C. Dynastic History of Northern India. Vol II. Haihayas of United and Central Provinces. 47. I.A, XVII, 225, E.I. 11, 298 48. E.I. Vol. 11, p. 298. 49. JB & ORS Vol. XIV, p.145. 50. JBORS, XIV, 547. 51. E.I. XXIII, p.70. 52. Mahtab, H. K. History of Orissa. 53. Banerji, R.D. History of Orissa p 1-3. 54. JAHRS, Vol.VI p.201, 203. 55. I.H.Q Vol. VIII p.29. 56. E. I. XXIII, p.70. 57. Ray, H.C. op.cit. Vol.I, 391 and 392 58. Acharya, P, OHRJ Vol. I (1) p. 109-116.59 &Inscriptions of the Kalachuri- Chedi Era, CII, 249, 262 et. 60. Rath, B.K., ‘Cultural History of Orissa’ p.59. 61. E.I., Vol. XXIX, pp 235 ff. 62. I.A., XVII, 232, text-line 6. 44 Dynasty History of United Koraput 45 ATAVI The word ‘Atavi’ also ‘ataviyo’ country has been mentioned in the Asoka Rock Edicts (R.E.) XIII, Shabhazgarhi, which is now in Pakisthan (1). This rock edict was edited by Buhler and Hultzsch, independently and has been mentioned by Sircar in his Select inscriptions. The said inscription of Asoka mentions clearly about his Kalinga war. There are two more Edicts, OSRE I and II, which elucidate the administrative policy of Asoka in the newly conquered provinces of Kalinga, as well as, his policy towards the unconquered Atavi people living beyond the borders of his empire to the west of Kalinga. The Rock Edicts XIII, L.V.7 and 8 runs as follows: L.V.7: Sata-bhage va sahasra - bhagan va (a) ja guru-matim v(o) Devanampriyasa Yo picha apakareyati ksamitaviya - mate va Devanamp (r) iyasa yam sako ksamanaye Ya picha atavi Devanampriyasa vijite bhoti ta pi anunetianunijapeti anutape pi cha prabhave L.V. 8: Devanampriyasa vuchati tesa kiti avatrapeyu na cha (ha) - mneyasu - ichhati hi D(e) vanampriyo savra-bhutana aksati Sa(m) yamam sama (cha) riyam rabhasiya - ayi cha mukha-mut(a) Vijaye Devanampriya (sa) yo dharma-Vijayo so cha puna ladho Devanampriyasa iha cha savesu cha amtesu. The translation of said edicts L.V 7 and 8.is “If any one does harm that may be pardoned by the ‘Beloved of the gods’ as far as it can possibly be pardoned. To those Atavi people, who are residing in the empire of the ‘Beloved of the gods’, he appeals and warns that the ‘Beloved of the gods’ has power in his remose, and he tells them to desist from (doing harm), as otherwise, they would be killed. He explicitly tells those people, “The kind Asoka himself desires that they should not have any anxiety because of him, they should be consoled by him, and they should obtain happiness and not sorrow from him.” Further, Asoka seems to have incorporated in his empire the costal plain of Kalinga with its long sea-board, but the wild country uplands to the west, known as Atavika territory was not annexed by him. That this territory was left unconquered and remained, as an outlying region is known from the S.R.Edict 11, where he speaks of the Atavika as the ‘unconquered frontagers’. 45 Dynasty History of United Koraput 46 After the annexation of Kalinga, Asoka could have occupied the Atavika the wild country to the west of Kalings, which was then probably the asylum of many national heroes of Kalinga. But the emperor eschewed the ideas of conquering the land by violence and conceived in its place the sublime idea of conquering the hearts of the Atavikas by love, remarked N.K.Sahu.(2) The R.E.XIII suggests that these officers were employed for cultural and religion missions in the lands of the frontier people and very probably an imperial envoy was also stationed in the territory of the Atavikas, who were regarded as ‘Anta Avijita’. The Antas are also described as Avijita, unpublished in K.R.E.I, also referred to R.E.11, where the alternative term pratyanta is also used and also in M.R.E.I, R.E.11 and their Edict shows that by the term Antas, Asoka meant people outside his dominion, both in India and beyond. This has been as per footnote by Radhakumud Mookerji. (3) However, Law (4) wrote, “Samudragupta made the ruler of the Atavika rajyas (forest kingdoms) his servants, and led an expedition to the south’. He cited that according to Dr. Fleet, the Atavika rajyas were closely connected with Dabhala i.e. the Jabbalpur region. (5) This is not tenable. Further, N.K.Sahu (6) wrote, “The Rock Edict XIII of (7) Asoka refers to the people of the Atava territory and very likely the same territory finds mention in the Allahabad Pillar inscription of Samudragupta (8) as ‘Sarvatavika rajya’. He further concluded, ‘The Nalas ruled over the Bastar-Koraput region which was a part of the ancient Atavika territory and later on became well known in the history as the land of Trikalinga. Subsequently, the name Trikalinga is found for the first time in the Jirjingi Grant of Indravarman dated 537 A.D. (9). In the Betul Plates Samksobha (10) these tracts have been described as ‘Astadasatavika -rajya’ and in the Early Medival copper plate inscriptions of Orissa they have been named ‘Astadasa (11) Gondramas’ Footnote: The word Atavi also Ataviyo, has been mentioned by Kautilya (XIII.5) where mentions two kinds of conquests, viz. (1) the conquest of the Atavyas or Forests, and (2) the conquest of settled territory (gramdi). 46 Dynasty History of United Koraput 47 References 1. Rock Edict XIII, Shabhazgarhi (Pakistan) Version, Inscription on the west face of the Shababagarhi rock in Kharas the script. It was edited by Buhler E.I. II, pp 246 f. Hulzsch, C.I.I. 1, PP 667. Sircar Slect Inscription, i, pp. 35. f 2. Sahu, N.K.Utkala University History. p.108 3. Mookerji Radhakumud (1995) Asoka. Motilal Banarasidas, New Delhi, p.165 4. Law, Bimala Churn (1973) Tribes in Ancient India. Bhandarakar Oriental Series No. 4. Poona. 5. E.I. VIII, pp. 284-7 6. Sahu, N.K. op.cit.p.108 7 Hultzsch, C.I.I, Vol.I, p.66 ff& E.I.., II, pp.246ff. 8. Fleet, C.I.I, Vol.III, p.6 ff 9. E.I.XXI, pp.281 f 10. E.I., Vol.VIII, pp 286-287 11. Ibid., Vol.XXVI, p.77 47 Dynasty History of United Koraput 48 VIDYADHARA TERRITORY The Vidyadhara territory, which probably extended over the present Kalahandi Bastar and Koraput region, was under the political sway of Kalinga. This land during the Kharavela period was being referred as Vidyadhara territory, which is the Atavika country of Asoka (1). N.K.Sahu wrote, “Hathigumpha inscription rightly calls their territory as ‘Ahatapurvam’ meaning never conquered in the past (2).” The second Chedi King Chetaraja, the King of Kalinga was the lord of Vidyadhara. As per Hathigumpha inscriptions, he had premature death in 49 B.C. The Line 5-6 translation says, ‘Then in the fourth year (His Majesty)... the Vidyadhara tract that had been established by the former kings of Kalinga had never been crushed before (3)’. Kharvela succeeded Chetaraja and ruled as Yuvaraja from 49 B.C. to 40 B.C. and was anointed in 40 B.C. The Hathigumpha inscription refers to the Vidyadhara settlements (Vijadharadhivasam) in connection with the military exploits of Kharavela in his 4th regnal years. It is indicated that Kharavela organised the strength of the Vidyadhara land and led a powerful army against the Rathikas and Bhojakas (4). The relation between the Vidyadhara family as mentioned by the Paumachariyam and the Vidyadhara settlements referred to by the Hathigumpha inscription. Before his second invasion of the Satavahana territory Kharavela organised the military sources of the Vidyadhara settlement (Vijadharadhivasam) which has been described by the inscription as an invincible land founded by the former kings of Kalinga. It was indicated that early literary works like Paumachariyam and Tilakamanjari (5) have designated the family of Meghavahana as Vidyadhara and as such it is generally assumed that the settlement made by the members of this family is known as the Vidyadhara territory. We find reference to eighteen Vidyadhara settlements with their sixty towns in the Jaina Jambuddivapannatti (6) and it appears that ‘Vijadharadhivasam’ of Hathigumpha inscription and ‘Vijjaharanagharavasa’ of the Jain work refer to the same territory. In some epigraphic records (7) a territory called ‘Astadasatavi rajya’ extending from “Baghelkhand right up almost to the sea coast of Orissa (8) is met with, and we (handarkar) to identify these eighteen forest kingdoms with the eighteen Vidyadhara settlements, associated with the Vaitadhya or the Vindhya range. N.K.Sahu (1984) wrote, “The Vidyadhara territory which was the same as the Atavi territory probably comprised the forest clad hinder land of Kalinga and Kharavela organised the fighting forces of that land for his campaign against the Satavahana Kingdom”. 48 Dynasty History of United Koraput 49 He further wrote, “The Rock Edict XIII of Asoka (9) refers to the people of the Atava territory and very likely the same territory finds mention in the Allahabad Pillar inscription of Samudragupta (10) as ‘Sarvatavika rajya’. The Vidyadhara territory which was the same as the Atavi territory probably comprised the forest clad hinder land of Kalinga and Kharavela organised the fighting forces of that land for his campaign against the Satavahana kingdom.” While the Atavi people fought for the defense of Kalinga in the famous Kalinga war of Asoka.” Reference 1. Sahu, N.K. ‘Kharavela’ Orissa State Museum, Bhubaneswar p.102 2. Ibid p.108. 3. Hathigumpha Inscriptions L 5-6, Ibid. p.336 4. Sahu, N.K. op.cit. p. 108. 5. Tilakamanjari of Dhanapala (Nirnaya Sagar Prem) p25.ff 6. Jambu divapannatti, 1-12 (See also Barna, Asoka and his inscriptions p. 85) 7. Khoh Copper Plates (528 A.D.) of Samkosyobha, Fleet, C.1.I, No.C. 111, p. 114 ff 8. Bhandarkar, G. R. Asoka p. 47 9. Hultisch, C.I.I. Vol.1, p. 66 ff 10. Fleet, C.I.I. Vol. 111, p. 6 ff Foot Note: The Paumachariyam of Vimalasuri (1) traces the ancestry of king Meghavahana to Rsabha who was ruling over some territory at the neighbourhood of the Vindhyas. In his later life, Rsabha relinquished the world dividing the kingdom between his two sons Nami and Vinami. Vimalasuri status that these two brothers well-versed in many Vidyas because of which they were called Vidyadharas(2).In the Tilakamanjari of Dhanapala (3) who flourished in the courts of the Paramara kings Munja and Bhoja.(4), we come across a Jain King named Meghavahana. According to this work the son and successor of Meghavahana had the epithet ‘Vidyadhara Narendra’ (King of Vidyadhara lineage). References to Foot note 1. The date of Vimalasuri is subject to dispute. He himself states that the work Paumachariyam was written 530 years after Mahavira’s Nirvana which would be 63 A.D. and scholars scribe it to the period from the 3rd to the 7th century A.D.(vide Romila Thapar, the Ramayana, India: History and Thought, p.235 and note 68 at p.248). 2. Paumachariyam (Varanasi 1962) V, 168-251 3. Tilakamanjari (Nirnayasagar Press);, p.25ff 4. The date of the Paramara kings are as follows: i) Munja - A.D. 914-995 ii) Sindharaja also called Navasahasanka (both of Munja) - A.D.995-1018 iii) Bhoja (son of Sindhuraja) A.D. 1018-1060 49 Dynasty History of United Koraput 50 NISADHA The word “Nisadha” means ‘Forest’. Nisadha is mentioned in ancient Indian writings like Veda, Purano, Mahabharata and Ramayana and it is mentioned with Kosala, which denotes as two adjacent geographical distributions. According to the Mahabharata, the capital of the Nisadhas was Giriprastha. The Nisadhas played an important part in the Kuruksetra war in which they remained with Pandavas, along with Mekalas, Kosalas and Dasarnas. But notwithstanding the celebrity of the Nisadha country as the kingdom of Nala, it is not difficult to ascertain exactly where it is located. It was thought to be not far from Vidarbha, the Nala queen, and Damayanti’s country. Wilson (1) and place the Nisadha countries in Vindhyas and Satpura hills to the north-west of Berar. The evidences from above sources it has been concluded that Koraput-Kalahandi districts, between Kosala and Vidarbha is the ancient Nisadha kingdom over which the Nala ruled. The famous Sanskrit grammar scholar Panini points out in ‘Astadhyai’ that Nisadha and Vidarbha are two adjacent countries (2 and 3) It is between 6th and 7th century A.D. The Nisadha has been ruled by Nalas. Thus, according to G.Ramdas and N.K.Sahu who have rightly identified Puskari i.e. modern Podagoda of Umerkote in Koraput district of Orissa as the capital of Nalas (4 and 5). This has been further strengthened by the evidence of the extensive ruins of a city of 3rd 4th century A.D., a copper plate grant of Nala king Arthapati which was issued from Puskari and stone inscriptions of his successor Skandavarman lying still in the ruins of the fort. Other Nala relics i.e. coins and epigraphs found are from Bastar- Durg and Koraput districts proves the fact. There has been reference to Nisadha and Nisadas, in the ancient Indian literature. Law (6), identified the Nisadhas and Nisadas to be origined from two different stocks, and said to be have been confounded by many. According to the Epic and Puranic traditions, the Nisadhas are said to have sprung from King Prthu, son of Vena (7). The Nisadha tribe has been identified to Nalas. It is described in Puranas and Bhagavatgita to have been the son of Atithi, grandson of Kusa, and the father of Nala (8). According to Vishnupurana (9) the ten kings of the Mekala country and nine of the Sapta Kosala country state to have been succeeded by the nine kings of the Nisadhas. They were all descendants of King Nala, and according to Vayu purana lived in the country of Nisadha (10). This king Nala of Puranas is most probably identical to the king Nala whose story has been referred in the Mahabharata (11). 50 Dynasty History of United Koraput 51 As per Mamata Choudhury (12) the Nisadas seem to have settled themselves over a widespread area, as various ancient texts have described them inhabiting regions in west, east, south and north. On the basis of the evidence derived from the Junagarh inscriptions (A.D.150), they possibly had their original settlement in Malwa around Dwaraka in the Western region and then migrated during the Epic period to the east along the Ganges beyond Kosala (13), as also to the South-West (14) (comprising the region between the Sarasvati and the Western Vindhya)(15), and the South-Eastern(16) regions of Madhyadesa. These tribes are: the Paripatras (17) (Pariyatras)- dwellers of the mountain Paripatra along with the Nisadas and the Kukuras; the Mahendra (18) dwellers of the mountain in the Eastern Ghat representing the Kalingas.Mahenragiri hill is still the epicenter of Sabara tribe and culture. With reference to Sabara tribe N.K.Sastri wrote, “Early in his (Mahavarman Rajasimha I, Pandya king, C.780 A.D) formed an alliance with Chalukya Vikramaditya 11, espoused the cause of Chitramaya, and after inflicting a number of defeats on Nandivarman Pallavamalla beseiged him a place called Nandigrama i.e. Nandipuram, near Kumbakonam. The able Pallava general Udayachandra, who encountered the Pandya forces in many battles, raised the seige of Nandigama, beheaded Chitramaya, and thus made the Pallava throne secure for his monarch. He also dealt with other enemies of Pallavamalla like the Sabara king Udayana and the Nisadha chieftain Prithivivyaghra who were probable acting in collusion with the Chalukya, Vikramaditya11. The invasion of Vikramaditya (735A.D), in which the Ganga feudatory Sripurusha also co-opted, was indeed the greatest danger that threatened the kingdom of Pallavamalla in the early years of his long reign (19)”. During the reign of Vishnuvardhana III, who was an Eastern Chalukya king, a Nisadha king named Prthivivyaghra had let loose a horse for performing the Asvamedha sacrifice (20). They seem to have occupied the southern part of the Eastern Chalukya; a dominion about the northern fringe of the Nellore district has been mentioned. 51 Dynasty History of United Koraput 52 References 1. Wilson, H.H. (8bs) Visnu Purana Vol. Vl.p.220 ff. 2 Sukla,H.L. Prachina Bastar. p 29-176 3. Bhandarkar, G.R. History of Deccan and JRASW 1903-4, P.48 4. Ramdas, G., J.B.R.S Vol. XXXIII, pt.I-II, pp. 33-42 also E.I.Vol, XXVIII p.12 5. Sahu, N.K. Utkala University History of Orissa, Vol-I, p-508 6. Law, Bimala Churn (1943) Tribes in Ancient India, Bhandarkar Oriental Series No.4, Poona. 7. Vayu P.62, 137-48, Brahmanda P., 11, 36, 158-73 8. Kurma P, 21.58, Bramha p, 8, 88 9. Vishnuparana IV Chp. 24,17 10. Vayu Purana Chp. 99, 376 11. Mahabharat 111 12. Mamata Choudhury (1977) Tribes of Ancient India, Indian Museum, Calcutta. 13. Ray Choudhury, H.C. (1) p.491; Br hat Sam, XIV,4 14. Raghu, IV; VI, 54 ef.also Wilson’s Note Vis P.Vol.II, P.179 15. Dey, N.L.Geographical Dictionary of Ancient & Medieval 16. Brhat Sam; XIV.10; Mark, P.LV III, 18: Manu.X.48; Vaikh.Smarta.Su, x.12 17. Rath 11, 50:83; 19; Law, B.C.p.99 18. Mbh; Sabha, P.XXX; 65; Santi P.LVIII, 93-97 The Nala story itself seems to have been much older than Mahabharata for it is referred to by Sita in the Ramanaya. 19. Sastri, K. Nilakanta. A History of South India. p-155 20. Ibid 52 Dynasty History of United Koraput 53 MAHAKANTARA AND KANTARA Literally ‘Kantara’ means famine, impassible road, deep forest, desert, a time of scarcity, bamboo etc. The name Kantara, Kantaraka or Mahakantara was first traced in Mahabharata. Mahakantara literally means a great forest. The Raipur Gazetteer puts the Mahakantara to be southern part of Kalahandi district, parts of Dhamtari tahasil, somewhere near Sihawa in Raipur district and much of Bastar district (1). H.C.Ray Choudhuri (2) wrote that the Mahakantara tract comprised the southern part of Kalahandi district and most part of Koraput of Orissa and Bastar tract of Madhya Pradesh. G.Ramdas (3) identifies the Mahakantara of the Prayaga Prasasti of Samudragupta with Jharkhanda. N.K.Sahu (4) puts forth that Mahakantara was then under a king named Vyghraja whom Samudragupta claims to have defeated. He continued to say that the territory of Mahakantara is very likely the same as the land of Mahavana referred in one Nagarjunikonda inscription and it comprises the modern Koraput and Kalahandi tracts. He further continued “There are instances to show that the hill and the forest region of Western Orissa, Chhattisgarh and south-east Bihar forms single cultural unity during the early historic times being known as the Mahakantara.”(5) The Allahabad Pillar Inscription enumerates Kosala along with the territories of the Daksinapatha and associated it with Mahakantara and the kingdoms of the Kalinga region (6). Mahakosala, Mahakantara and Kosala comprised the Western and the South- Western parts of the modern Orissa and the exact territorial limits of these three kingdoms are difficult to be determined. It seems that Samudragupta started his campaign from the Jumna valley more particularly from Kausambi and marching through the modern Rewa and Jabalpur regions entered into the territory of South- Kosala. After subduing Kosala, Mahakantara and Korala he could easily precede towards the Eastern coast through the ancient trade route that linked Kosala with Kalinga (7). 53 Dynasty History of United Koraput 54 Sahu wrote, “To the West of the Mathara Kingdom lay the Trikalinga territory which was probably known as Mahakantara comprising the modern Bastar, Koraput and Kalahandi region. It was this territory that the early Nalas rose to power by the time the Matharas flourished in Kalinga. Mahakantara served as an important buffer territory between the dominions of the Vakatakas and the Matharas, and as such, the Nala who played an important role as a bulwark against the Vakatakas, were a power friendly to the Matharas. (8)” There is also strong significance to the name of Mahakantara, due to repeated draught and famines like conditions of Kalahandi till date that may have been due to rain pattern and eastern Ghat geographical positions. References 1. Singh Deo, J.P. Cultural Profile of South Kosala, p.50 2. Ray Choudhuri, H.C.,Political History of South India.(1950) p.538 & Gazetteers of India, Orissa, Bolangir, Edt. Senapati, N., Cuttack, 1968, p.43 3. Ramdas, G., Indian Historical Quarterly. Vol.p.684 4. Sahu, N.K. Gazetteers of India, Orissa, Bolangir, Edt. Senapati, N., Cuttack, 1968, p.43. 5. Sahu, N.K. Utkala University History of Orissa, Vol. I, Bhubaneswar. p. 432- 33 6. CII, Vol.111, p.13. 7. Sahu, N.K. op.cit. p. 432 and 514. 8. Ibid.p.505 54 Dynasty History of United Koraput 55 CHAKRAKOTE The Chakrakote has been mentioned in many inscriptions and various authors have given their arguments to identify the region and place.The Chakrakote has been spelled as Sakkarakottam, Cakrakotya, Citakota, Chakrakuta, Chakkarakttam, Chakrakotta, Chakrakottam, Chakrakutam, Chkrakotam, Chakrakuta, Chakkarakkottam, Chakkrakote, Cakrakote, Ca-krakuta etc. by various literature and authors. The Chalukyas of Vemulavada: Inscriptions of a later period and Vikramarjunavijayam trace the descent of the family from Vinayaditya-Yuddhamalla. He captured a fort called Chitrakuta, which was inaccessible. His son, Arikesari-I, is said to have conquered the kingdom of Vengi and Trikalinga during the time of Nirupama Dhruva, the Rastrakuta king who ruled from A.D. 780 to 793 (Kollipara Plates).The inaccessible fort of Chitrakuta, which Vinayaditya is said to have captured, is not identified. As there are a number of forts with that name in north and central India, its identification bristles with difficulties has been mentioned, was the opinion of Kolaru Surayanarayana.(1) Again, in the inscriptions of Eastern Chalukya and Choda the name Chakrakote appears. Vijayaditya III of the Eastern Chalukya line, who ruled between 844 and 888 A.D, so far as is known appears to have been made raid and burnt Chakrakota (2) Then the Chola Rajendra Chola I (A.D. 1011-33) took Sakkara-Kottam (3). While one of his successors, King Vira Rajendra I claims to have crossed Godavari, passed through Kalinga, and advanced against Chakrakota (4). Next the Chola king Kulottunga, while yet a youth cover his first laurels in battle by storming Chakrakota. This happened prior to 1070 A.D.and is mentioned in the Tamil poem Kalingattu Parani (x24) (5), and also in inscriptions (6) Vikrama VI was probably the fifth raider, the sixth being Vishnuvardhana Hoysala in the 12th century (7). It would therefore, instead of “Rajakesarivarman (i.e. Kulottunga Chola I) conquered the king of Dhara at Chakrakota ‘read’ Rajakesarivarman conquered king Dhara (varsha) at Chakrakotta’ (8). According to K.A.N. Sastri, who mentioned Sakkarakkottam has been identified with Cakrakotya which finds mention in a Nagavamsi copper plate grant from Bastar dated A.D. 1065, and its modern representative is probably Citrakut or Citrakota, 8 miles from Rajapura where the copper plates were found. Rajapura, the capital of Bastar, is itself 22 miles north-west of Jagadalpur, on the bank of the Indravati river. (9) 55 Dynasty History of United Koraput 56 Accordingly Hiralal pointed out that Bhramanakotya was possibly an alternate name of Chakrakotya, which seems to survive in Ghumara, a name given to the fall of the Indavati at Chitrakota. (10) Somesvara I (W.Chalukya) and his feudatory, the Kakatiya Prola, raided Kosala, and conquered Chakrakota, in the Bastar State, after defeating the Naga king (11) However as per literature it is evident that there are different spellings of Chakrakota they are Chakrakota and Chakrakuta. I identify the Nagavamsi Chakrakota in the district of Koraput rather than Bastar. References 1. Kolaru Surayanarayana. History of the Minor Chalukya Families in Medieval Andhradesa.p-7 and 16 2. E.I. Vol.IV p.226 - Vijayaditya III 3. S. I.I.., Vol.II, and p.108 - Rajendra Chola I. p.120 note 3 4. S. I..I..,Vol.III, p.70 - Vira Rajendra I. p. 132 Kulottunga I 5. Kalingttu Parani (x24) Tamil poem 6. I.A. Vol. XXI. p 286 7. Kielhorn’s South List No.3960 8. Kielhorn’s South List No.756 9. E.I. IX pp. 178-9. 10. E.I. Vol.X. 24ff 11. The Struggle for Empire. The Nagas or Chihindakas, Bharatya Vidya Bhavan. p.216. 56 Dynasty History of United Koraput 57 GIRIKALINGA The word Girikalinga, itself is indicative of its location on hills. The Pedda- dugam plate of Sri Sattrudmanadeva was issued at Simhapura mentions Girikalinga. The plate was deciphered by V. Bhanumurti (1) and re-edited D.C.Sircar (2). It had 3 plates. The donees were Bramhins with names as Yajnasarman, Bappasarman and Sarvasarman of Kaundiya gotra. The topography is Basu-vataka (district?), Juha-grama (village), and Giri-Kalinga (Province?) Varhamana – ograhara (village). The site was never ever identified. I am definite that the said topography is the present Balimella suberv of Koraput district. Informants say that the Vardamanapura village is now located 2 km. from Balimella, still known by the same name. (I have not confirmed) The Juha village in at 5kms from Balimella, and the name remain unchanged. The Patuva grama or village may be the Patrali which is near to Tarlakota in the same region. Again, the said topography comes under the present Patrali Panchayat. It is thus concluded that Girikalinga was including the hill portion of present Koraput, part of Vizagapatnam (Paderu) and extended to Balimella and Malkangiri area, and beyond Govindapalli hills. Reference 1. Bhanumurti, V. J.A. H.R.S. Vol. XXI p. 159 ff 2. Sircar, D.C. E.I. XXXI, pp 89-96ff. 3. Rajaguru, S.N. Inscriptions of Orissa (c.600-1100 A.D) Vol. 11. p.237-241. 57 Dynasty History of United Koraput 58 MASUNIDESA The Tamil prasasti records transactions where Chola king Rajendra in his second phase of campaign, the march of his army through Kalinga and Odda to the Ganges. Rajendra himself advanced to Chakrakote through Godavari to protect the rear of the Ganges expeditionary force, because of the threats issued by the Kalinga rulers and Odda who were acting under the order of Chalukya Jayasimha (1). A much more detailed picture is as follows (2). “(He seized) Sakkarakkottam, whose warriors were brave, Maduramandalam destroyed in a trice (3), the prosperous city of Na-manaik-Konam with its dense groves (4), Pancap-palli whose warriors (bore) cruel bows (5), Masunidesa with its green fields, a large heap of family treasures together with many other treasures (which he carried away), after having captured Indraratha of the ancient race of the moon, together with (his) family, in a fight which took place (at) Adinagara (a city) whose great fame knew no decline; Odda-visaya which was difficult of approach on account of its dense forest defence, the good Kosalai- nadu, where Bramhins assembled. Tandabutti, in whose gardens bees abounded, (land which he acquired) after having destroyed Dharmapala (in) a hot battle.” Learned historian of repute K.A. Nilakanta Sastri gave his opinion, which runs as follows: “Sakkarakottam has been identified with Chakrakotya which finds mention in a Nagavamsi copper plate from Bastar dated 1065 AD, and with modern representative in probably Citrakuta or Citrakuta, 8 miles from Rajapura where the copper plate was found. Rajapura, the capital of Bastar, is itself 22 miles north-west of Jagadalpur, or the bank of the Indrabati river (6). Sakkarakkottam and the places that follow up to Masuni-desam have to be sought in the territory contiguous to the Vengi kingdom to the north-west of it. Masunidesam literally means the land of the snakes, the king of the Chindaka family represented by the Rajapura plates, called Naga-vamso-dhava (born of the cobra race), and Bhagavatipura-naressvar a (lord of Bhagvati, the best of cities); in a later stone inscription of Saka 1140, one of them is called Sri-bhuja gavara-bhusana- maharajulu, (7) the maharaja who was the ornament of the race of the best serpents. It is perfectly reasonable to suppose that by Masuni-desam is meant the land ruled by these kings. Or this assumption, Maduraimandalam, Namanaikkonam and Pancappalli must be sought in the same region and held to be part of Masunidesam. It may be noted that Cakrakota is itself called a mandala (8) like Madurai-mandalam, and that the donor of the Rajapura plates is called Madhurantaka.” 58 Dynasty History of United Koraput 59 He further continued, “The fact that Sakkarakottam was the first place taken by Rajendra’s army in the course of this campaign and that the king met his victorious general on the banks of Godavari on his way back at the end of the campaign imply that the Vengi kingdom had come back to the same relation of close subordinate alliance with the Cola empire which it has held in Rajaraja time (9)”. We are thus inclined to identify the area thus mentioned in the inscriptions as per analysis and proposals placed by K.A.Nilakanta Sastri. As per the description given in the said above inscription, the Masunidesa may be the Jeypore tract, extending into Bastar covering Indravati-Kolab, doab and Mathil-Kondakamberu area. This is the plain land and still the granary of the district. The Nagavamsi King of Chhindaka ruled this area. The Namanaikkonam may be the Naimgiri-Muniguda-Chatikona area located in Bisam-cuttack area of Rayagada. The Naimagiri-Chatikona area is the most dense groove locality. Well known horticulturists, Dongria Kondh tribe and Kuttia Kondhs inhibit it. The Panca-palli is the Panchapalli hill range above Potangi connecting the Kalinga region. The entry to this area (Koraput in ancient time towards Nandapur) was from Pachipetta, which was later in British period was a small Zamindar under Jeypore state. In Jeypore tract it was called Panchipetta Kabata, means Panchipetta door. The hill route from Panchipetta was to Sanki, Chandka, Pukali, Raisingi, Balda and then Nandapur. Reference 1. Tiruvalangadu plates of Jayasimha -S11, III p.399 v. In. See Ibid V 120p.400 and E.I. IX p. 233. 2. E.I. IX p.233 3. Hultzsch wrote: whose forts (bore) banners which (touched) the clouds’, but K.A.Nilakanta .Sastri commented that it has no support from the text. 4. The translation here is based on the reading in 176 of 1923: ‘Kamidai val anagar Namanaikkonamum’. 5. Another form has ‘Venjina Virar’ for Venjilai-virar’ 6. Hultzsch. S.1.1, iii p. 57, n.1. 7. E.I. XVI p.53 8. 185 of 1893 9. Read: pasadaip-palanr -masunidesam (S11, II 20 1.5 & p.108) 59 Dynasty History of United Koraput 60 KALINGA The name Kalinga, Trikalinga and Trilinga has been referred in several literatures. This has been the subject of research for long time. The ancient Kalinga Empire had included the whole of present Orissa and extended to neigbouring states from time to time. Kalinga Empire was spread has ‘appeared in several literature’. Megasthenes (1) refers to a territory Gangaridum Calingarum Regia (Gangetic Kalinga Kingdom) with the river Ganges as its north boundary. Pliny (2) suggested that the south boundary of Kalinga to be Cape Calinga. Yule (3) pointed it to be the mouth of the river Godavari. Thus Kalinga Empire was spread to Ganges as its northern boundary and to its south was the Godavari river. The eastern border of Kalinga was the Bay of Bengal, which was known as Kalinga Mahodadhi. The Western border was upto Amarkantak hill of the Vindhyas. The Amarkantak hill in Kalinga has been cited in Matsya (4), the Kurma (5) and the Skanda (6). The Matsya purano speaks that Kalinga was located both in Dakshinapatha and Madhyadesa. (7) Pliny (8) gives clear picture of Kalinga territory. He had divided it into three parts. The Gangarides Calingae that is apparently the same as Gangaridum Calingarum Regia refers to the region on the bank of the Ganges near its mouth. The Macro Calingae may be the middle or central Kalinga comprising of Utkala, Odra and Tosali region. Calingae was Kalinga proper. This may be called as the home land of Kalinga people. Pliny wrote on the basis of Megasthenes, which indicates that Kalinga had extended from Ganges to Godavari in 24 B.C. It is when Asoka conquered it. It is not well known when Kalinga was established. The Jaina Parisista Parvan (9) has shown that the minister of King Nanda conquered the whole Kalinga down to the sea. The fact is supported by Hathigumpha inscriptions of Kharavela (10), where it refers to the excavation of a canal in Kalinga by the Nanda King and the Kharavela restoring the Kalinga Jina, which had been seized by King Nanda from Kalinga. The Greek historians as Diodorus, Curtius and Plutarch state that Agrammes, the last Nanda king, who was also contemporary to Alexander the Great, was ruling over Prassi and Ganga ridae. The Prassi is the same as Prachya, the home province of Magadha and Gangaridae was the Gangarides Calingae, the part of 60 Dynasty History of United Koraput 61 Kalinga Empire near the mouth of the Ganges (11). It is also indicative that the central and southern part of Kalinga was lost from the Kalinga Empire. The rebel Chandragupta Maurya occupied the throne in 322 B.C. The classical writers never mentioned Chandragupta Maurya as King of Gangaridae, but Prassi continued to be the centre of his empire. (12) Ashoka destroyed the Kalinga Empire. He had incorporated the Gangetic portion of Kalinga, the Gangaridae of the classical writers to his mainland. The central part of Kalinga Empire, the Macco Calingae, which was Utkala, Odra and Tosala region, formed a separate state with its capital at Tosali near Dhauli (13). Kalinga proper in the south formed another administrative centre with its headquarters at Sampa near Jaugada (14). This thus after Asoka’s invasion of Kalinga there was reorganisation of Kalinga empire territory. The grammarian Panini, who may be taken to have lived more or less about 600 B.C., mentions only Kalinga in the east and knows nothing south of Narmada on the west except the country of Asmaka, near the headwaters of the Godavari (15). The following stanza is met in the Brahmanda Purana, of Orissa State Museum defines Kalinga and Tri-kalinga respectively as (i) the land between the Rsikulya and Jhanjavati and (ii) that between the Jhanjavati and Vedavati. The river Jhanjavati now origins from Koraput district whereas Vedavati flows to east boundary of Salur, a small town at the bottom of Eastern Ghat, and road entry point to Koraput from Andhra Pradesh. The Vedavati location referred by Rajaguru is incorrect (16). Rsikulgam samasadya yavad Jhanjavati nadi/, Kalingadesa prkhyato desana garhitas- tada// Jhanjavati samasadya yavad Vedavati nadi/, Trikalingeti Vikhyato...........// Ajay Mitra Shastri wrote, the dependability of these stanzas is not beyond doubt; they contain grammatical errors and the last eight syllables of the second stanza are lost. They may represent the narrow definitions prevalent at the time the manuscript was copied, viz. during the late medieval period. Anyway not much significance can be attached to these stanzas, particularly, as they go against the unimpeachable epigraphic evidence (17). However, S.N.Rajaguru reports the same stanza. 61 Dynasty History of United Koraput 62 Epigraphical and literary evidence points out that in ancient and medieval times, Kalinga, whether it was a part of Andhra or Orissa, always remained a separate political entity. The inscriptions of Later Eastern Gangas, Gajapatis from Simhachalam, Mukhalingam, Srikurmum and Narayanpuram point out land between Mahendra hill and Simhachalam was referred to Kalinga desa, Kalingamandala, Kalingavisaya, Trikalinga. Daksinadesa, Kalingavani, Trikalingavani, or Kalinga. D.C.Sircar wrote, “In early medieval period, it is only the kingdom of these early Eastern Gangas that was exclusively known as Kalinga, because, as will be seen below, the kingdoms in the Ganjam-Puri-Cuttack region assumed different names such Kongoda, Tosali, Udra etc, since the later part of the sixth century A.D. But the old name did not get time enough to became popular again as the successor of Anantavarma Codaganga soon transferred their capital to the Cuttack District (Orissa) far away from the Srikakulam region that had become famous under the name Kalinga during the many centuries’ rule of Early Eastern Gangas.....................................(18) The later E.Gangas records also make it clear that Kalinga and Trikalinga refer to one and the same region of which Kalinganagara (modern Mukhalingam), Srikakulam District was the capital. Thus in reference to the location of the Madhukesvara temple at Kalinganagara, we get the following expressions: Kalingavaninagari Sriman = Madhukesvaraya Sarvaya (19 a) Trikalingavaninagai Sriman = Madhukesvaraya etc (19 b) An inscription of Rajendra Coda 11 of Velanadu, dated S’1091 say, Purvambonidhi Kalahasti sikhari Sriman= Mahendracala Srisaliar = Valayikrta Andhra visayam (19) Bishop Caldwell notes: “Taranatha repeatedly designates the Telugu country Trilinga and describes Kalinga as a portion of Trilinga and Kalingapura as its capital (20). It should be noted that Anantavarma Codaganga, who had the title Trikalingadhipati, defines the limits of his kingdom, when he says that to his west was the ruler of Utkala and to his east the ruler of Vengi (21). 1. The ancient Kalinga country (roughly speaking the coastal land between the river Mahanadi and Godavari) was split up into a number of small 62 Dynasty History of United Koraput 63 states, which is disintegration of the Chedi Empire founded by Kharavela. (22) 2. The Allahabad pillar inscriptions mention Gupta emperor Samudra- gupta’s victory over the kings of these region i.e. the kings of Dakshinapatha and several others located in different parts of Kalinga.............but nothing is mentioned about their history related to their states and the name of Kalinga does not appear (23). It informs that 1) But the continued existence of Pithapuram in East Godavari, which was Pishtapura, and the Yallamanchili taluks of the Vizagapatam district, which was Devarastra, is proved from the above inscription. 2) A royal city named Simhapuram is mentioned in these records, historians have identified it to modern Singupuram near Chicacole. But this city is not found in Samudragupta’s inscription, thus indicates it flourished after middle of 4th century A.D. The conquest of Kalinga by Asoka (C.260 B.C) is one of the best known events of his reign and formed the turning point in his spiritual carrier. No wonder his edicts are found in Dhauli in the delta of the Mahanadi, and at Jaugada in the Ganjam district, then certainly part of Kalinga. Dhauli was perhaps the same as Tosali, the capital of Kalinga in those days (24). Kharavela of Kalinga states clearly that the territory of the Satavahana king Satakarni lay to the west of his kingdom. Kharavela defined in the second year of his reign by sending a large army, the Satakarni King II (25). In Kalinga the period following Samudragupta’s invasion is taken up by the rule of a lineage of kings who belonged to the Mathrakula. Seven kings bearing names ending with varman are known, from their copper-plate grants, although their genealogy is not forth coming. Pishtapura, Simhapura and Vagdh amanpura are among the places from which grants were issued. The language of the inscriptions is Sanskrit and the kings called themselves Kalingadhipatis and Paramamahesvaras (26). Roughly their period of rule extended from 375 to 500 A.D when the Gangas in north Kalinga, south Kalinga becoming part of Vengi, succeeded them. 63 Dynasty History of United Koraput 64 Village Sumandala in Khallikote, Orissa refers to Gupta suzerainty in Kalinga in the year 250 of the Gupta Era (A.D. 569-70). It also says that king Prithivi- Vigrha was ruling over Kalinga under Gupta suzerainty (27). The Sailodbhava king Sainyabhita II Madhavaraja II, one of his grants dated A.D. 619 invokes the name of Sasanka as his suzerain. The king issued this grant from the Jayaskandhavara of Kongoda and claims to have exercised sovereignty over the whole of Kalinga (28). According to Hiuen-Tsang Kalinga was south west of Konyodha (the present North Ganjam district) (29). The Odras appeared to have seized the northern parts of Kalinga before the time of Hiuen-Tsang, dividing the Kalinga Rajas south into the northern most outposts of the Telugu country in Vizagapatnam and a bit of Ganjam district (30). The Supreme lord of Kalinga in Vasistiputra Saktivarman whose Ragholu plates are in early southern alphabet and were issued from Pithapuram. The grant was made on Kalinga Visaya (31). 64 Dynasty History of United Koraput 65 Reference 1. McCrindle, Ancient India, p.137 2. Pliny’s National History (Trans. by Dr. Bostock and Riley) vol. II, pp.42-44 3. McCrindle, pp. 42-44 4. Matsya, CXXCIV, 12 5. Kurma II, XXXIX, 0 6. Skanda V, 3, XXI, 7 7. Matsya, Ibid, 31 8. Pliny, op. cit. pp.42-44. List of Indian Races quoted by Mc Cridle in Ancient India, pp-129f 9. Mc Cridle, Invasion of India by Alexander, pp. 221, 228 and Parisistha Parivar, VII, p. 81 10. E.I. XX, pp.87-88 Text lines 5, 12 11. McCridle op cit, p.136 12. Sahu, J.K. Historical Geography. In: History and culture of Orissa, Vol. I. p. 55 13. Sahu, N.K. Utkala University History of Orissa, WCI, Bhubaneswar 1964 pp. 284ff 14. Ibid. pp. 295ff 15. Astadhyayi of Panini (5th Century B.C.) 16. Rajaguru, S.N. Inscriptions of Orissa, Vol. II, pp.333-34. 17. Ajay Mitra Shastri cited N.K.Sahu, op.cit. 98, fn. 3 18. Sircar, D.C. Kalinga: In Classical Age, Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, Bombay pp. 211-217. 19. (a) S.I.I.V. 1039 (b) SI.I. V. 1101 (c) E.I. XXX. P. VIII 20. Ramachandra Rao, C.V. The Later Eastern Ganga and Somavamsi Gajapatis. 21. Majumdar, R.C. Outline of the History of Kalinga. Dacca University Studies, Vol. II No.1 pp.213 ff. 22. Ibid. 23. Sahu, N.K.op.cit. p.80. 24. Sastri, K.A.N. The History of South India p.86. 25 Ibid p.93. 26. Ibid p.106 27. E.I. XXVIII, p.79. 28. Rajaguru, S.N.op.cit.p.331-332. 29. Subramanian, K.R. Budhist Remains in Andhra Part-I, p.119-125. 30. E.I. XII, p.212. 31. E.I. XII, p.1. 65 Dynasty History of United Koraput 66 SOUTH KOSALA South Kosala had played significant role in Indian history. N.K. Sahu says that in the epic Kosala (South Kosala) is not included in the Daksinapatha, but Allahabad pillar inscription enumerates it (1). H.C.Raychaudhuri identifies the territory of Kosala state mentioned in Allahabad pillar to be the modern Bilaspur, Raipur and Sambalpur district of M.P. and Orissa (2). The Imperial Gazetteers of India cites the country between 19.50’ and 23.7’ north and 80.40’ and 83.38’ east with an area of 21,240 sq. miles as South Kosala. The area as of now is Durg,Raipur, Bastar, Raigarh, Surguja and Bilaspur districts of Madhya Pradesh; and Sundargarh, Sambalpur, Kalahandi and Koraput districts of Orissa.(3 ) There is very scanty history of South Kosala prior to the rise of Sarba Sarabhapuriyas, about the end of fifth century A.D (4). The available history indicates it to be a part of the Maurya and Satavahana empires. The Allahabad inscriptions of Samudragupta show certain Mahendra in the region as the ruler and defeated by him. It is presumed to be either a Nala or Sarabhapuriya member only. However, there is evidence to indicate that there was growing influence of Gupta era from the coins of Mahendraditya and Kramaditya (5). The Vakatakas king Narendrasena boastfully claims that the lords of Kosala obeyed him (6). But after the Sarbhapuriyas rise between the end of 5 th century and early 6th century A.D. the historical grounds became clearer. N.K.Sahu further wrote, ‘It is further known from the Vana Parva that the territory of Kosala was distinct from the kingdom of Vidarbha. The epic represents Nala, who was wandering with Damayanti in the Vindhyan forest, as pointed out the paths to Vidarbha and Kosala in the following words: “This path leads to Vidarbha and that one to Kosala beyond that to the South lays Daksinapatha”. (7) Chinese traveler Hiuen Tsang has described South Kosala in his accounts (8). He writes, “From Kalinga, he went by hills and woods for above 1800 li to Kosala. This country more than 6000 li was surrounded by mountains and was a succession off woods and marshes……….. The soil of the country was rich and fertile, the towns and villages were together.” 66 Dynasty History of United Koraput 67 Patel concluded that the above description refers to the Nala territory in the north- west of Kosala, i.e. modern Koraput, Kalahandi and Bastar region (9). Cunningham (10) identifies the Vidarbha and Berar region as South Kosala of the pilgrim’s account. Reference 1. Sahu, N.K. History of Orissa p.129. 2. Ray Choudhuri, H.C. Political History of Ancient India. 1950, p.536. 3. Imp. Gazetteer of India.Vol.X, p.202. 4. Watters, II, p.200. 5. Majumdar, R.C. and Altekar, A.S... The Vakataka-Gupta Age. p.85 &104. 6. E.I. IX p.271. 7. Van Prava, IVIII, 22.& Sahu, N.K. Gazetteers of India, Orissa, Bolangir. Ed. Senapati, N., Cuttack, 1968. p 43. 8. Watters, Book II, pp.200-08. 9. Patel, C.B. Dynastic History of Nalas.p.14. 10. Cunningham, Ancient Geography of India, p.520. 67 Dynasty History of United Koraput 68 DESIA DESA IN KORAPUT The tribal people living between Kolab and Indravati rivers and extending into Rayagada region in Koraput district of Orissa present themselves as “Desia loak”, where as they refer other population in the district as “Godia loak”. Kornel and Gamang (2009) have discussed the issue more vividly (1). They were of the opinion that the Godia people refer to Goudia people who came here in the past and are living in the region. Non-tribals look down the local tribals and utter the word’Desia” in a degrader sense. The Desia country and Desia people have relevance to Jaina identity but not as a mere society name with in a geographical limit as has been indicated by some authors like Strumpell (2001) (2) and others. On the other hand, Pfeffer (1997)(3) and Berger (2000)(4) indicated the importance to understand the Desia society to take into account the interrelationships between tribal, Scheduled Caste and other societies living in the area. The social relationships within Desia society are hierarchic, but the hierarchy in Koraput is of a different type than the one prevailing in caste society of coastal area, it cannot be discovered in the tribal hills at all. No estate of intellectual ritualists is opposed to the holders of secular power or segregated from the general peasant community’ (Pfeffer 1997) (5). The terms expressing status differences are also not the same as those of caste society. Status differences are expressed in the idiom of seniority ordering the different Desia categories internally into senior (boro) and junior (sano) sub-tribes and externally into senior and junior tribes. Some how, Pfeffer and Berger along with Strumpell described the Koraput inhabitants in the anthropological setting and described the hierarchy that exists in-between the tribes and other non-tribal population.The top hierarchy described by Berger point to the ‘Godia loak’. Desigana are found in the relevant Jaina records of the 10th – 11th centuries. Desigana is one out of the nine ganas known in the Jaina organization of the past. The Pustaka gaccha, which is an important branch of the order, is referenced to in the inscriptions. Govind Pai states that the country between the Western Ghats, the Karnataka country of architect and medieval times and the Godavari river was known as desi and the members of the Nandi-Sangha who settled in this area called their order as Desigana (6/8), clearly the word Desi is derived from the Sanskrit desa which means home land. Possibly the monks of the south, for it is frequently referenda to as a branch of the Mula Sangha on Kundkundanvaya, which was the oldest monastic order in Kantanaka”. 68 Dynasty History of United Koraput 69 Singh with reference to his studies of Jainas wrote, “The Desigana, variously known as Deisya, Desiga and Desika in the epigraphs from Sravana-Belgola and other places, emerged as an important monastic order of the Digambare monks (7). An epigraph of 860(8) described Trikalyogisa as belonging to the Pustaka gaccha, Desiya gana of the Mula Sangha. Ramesh has given a detail account of Desiagana that is known from the Western Ganga records. Kornel and Gamang loc.cit. with reference to Desiagana, and Nandi sangha; have identified two Gachchas in the close vicinity to Chakarokote of Nagavamasa reference in Koraput district and they are Narigachha and Barigachha, that survived centuries (9). The Dev Honjeru of Nandapur has been identified to the Honjore cited with relation to Nolamba-Pallava family and there is a Jaina temple (depilated) in Paliva village of Nandapur(10).The relevance of ‘handi’ suffix to village names like Papadahandi,Dhamanahandi,Chndahandi, Nandahandi etc has been enumerated in detail and these are possibly the past Jaina sub-centers of Nandi sangha and points to Nandi sangha and influence Jaina schools during the period of Amma II, the Eastern Chalukya who has fled into Kalinga(11). Korenel and Gamang loc cit. have also given several identities to Jaina relevant place in Trikalinga that has derived its name from Jaina teachers of the past (12). Two inscriptions from the Tumkur District in the Mysore States furnish interesting information testifying to the eminence of Padmaprabha Maladhari and his sphere of influence (13). The epigraph further states that Padmaprabha was a disciple of Viranandi Siddhanta-Chakravarti and that he belonged to the Mula Samgha, Desiyagana, Pustaka gachchha Kondkundanvaya and Vanada bali. In the centre of Jaina movement in Nandapur there is the village called Maladha and Virahandi exists in Kotapad, on the boarder of Bastar. This amply verifies the Desia influence of Kanada in Trikalinga. Lord Mahavira in Kalinga and Koraput Lord Mahavira’s travel to Kalinga is a well established fact; further it is strengthened due to his presence in present Koraput district in particular reference to Pithicampa, the name still refers to a cave in the heart land of Jainas in Nandapur (14), Panyabhumi is the same as of later Masunidesa of Nagavamsis, Sarvati in Nandapur, Majjhima Prava is the present day Majjhima gauri of Rayagada has been identified. The names of the places cited in Lord Mahavira are from various Jaina literatures (15). 69 Dynasty History of United Koraput 70 Ikshvakus Ikshvakus traveled down south from the north and are said have influenced the southern culture. They were known to be Jainas and a brief history of theirs and relation to Koraput region has been placed with logic in one of the chapters (16). Kalinga Emperor Kharvela in Koraput Kalinga Emperor Kharvela’s inscription at Bhubaneswar refers to Risi Khibira and it is identified to present day Risi Khibidi and Sondi Khibidi in Borigumma. The influence of Kharevela and with relation to Jainism is not known Eastern Chalukyas in Trikalinga and Jainism Amma II Vijayaditya VI (A.D. 945-970) On the death of Chalukya Bhima II, Amma II, his son by Lokambika, ascended the throne, overstepping his elder step-brother Danarnava, and assumed the name of Vijayaditya. The Savara chief had a very good relationship as it is seen during the Yuddhamalla’s period. The Rashtrakutas assisted the Savaras. Amma II is described as the lord of both Vengi and Kalinga and is known to have made the grants of lands in Parukonadu vishaya, Yellamandhili Kalinga in Visakhpatnam district. After Amma II had ruled for 11 years about A.D. 956, Badapa son of king Yuddhamalla drove him out of Vengi country. Badapa became king with the help of the Rashtrakuta king Krishna III (A.D. 939-67) (17) Unable to withstand the advance of the Rashtrakuta invasions, he (Amma II) abandoned the kingdom and saved himself by timely flight to Kalinga (18). The events of the last years of the region Amma II after his return from Kalinga are lost in obscurity. Inscriptions slightly later in date, however, throw some light on the concluding stage of the reign. I am of the opinion that Ammaraja II most probably lived in forest claded Trikalinga part of the Kalinga country and spent his time in spreading the Jainism in the region. The places like Ammaguda Ammagaon have been named after him? Amma II, of Eastern Chalukya followed a liberal policy in matters of religion. He gave liberal gifts to temples and other religious foundations. His personal faith cannot be deduced from his records. The Jaina ascetics of Nandi 70 Dynasty History of United Koraput 71 Addakaligacchhas and Kalamkha Saiva monks flourished in his dominions.(19) It was during the period of Amma II, probably the Jainism took strong root in Koraput district, particularly in Nowrangpur region, that can be verified from the places with suffix hanandi, like Papadahandi, Goriahandi etc. It is recorded that at Attili in Attilinadu visaya lived a celebrated Jaina muni Arhanandi who belonged to Addakaligacchhas. Among the lay pupils of Arhanandi was the queen of Ammaraja II, Chamekamba of the Patavardhani family (20). Vimaladitya (A.D.1011-1022) adopted Jainism in late old age. It was due to the profound influence of Trikala Yogi Siddhantadeva, a teacher of the Desiagana school of Jainas as his preceptor (21). The Jaina teacher was a Canarese person by birth and came into Andhra country, apparently at the invitation of king, Mummadi Bhima.The Jaina teacher resided in Ramathirtham, near Vizinagaram which appears to be one great Jaina culture and learning centre of that time (22). Arikesarin III, in Sabbi country Peddaperappadu plates (23) of Vishamasiddhi and Prabhani plates referring Arikesarin III, of 996A.D. are of interest to Trikalinga and especially to Nandapur region. The Arikesarin III‘s plate is pointing to ‘Sabbi country’ and we are of the opinion that it is the present Subaie in Nandapur. The argument is strengthened due to its Jaina relevance. Chhindaka Nagas of Chakrakote The Nagas or Chhindaka Nagas of Chakrakote ruled the region and South Kosala and we have identified the Nagavamsi Chakrakote in Koraput block and the ruins and the namstill stands. The Nagas were ardent followers of Jainism and Gunda Mahadevi of the family is known from the Narayanpal Inscription 1111 A.D(24) and the description of it is fitting to the Bhagvati temple of Jeypore and details of the evidences to the effect is given in one of the chapters. Nandi Puja of Jhodia Poraja is celebrated in the house of Janis the priest once in every three years. A detail account of the celebration is given in the book.Jahadia’s Nandi and Mail’s Bali and Raj’s Dashera is as a proverb is known to all. Nandi celebration is a Jaina celebration as we have mentioned has survived the time (25). This is a fertility cult of the past where replica of ‘Queen White Ant’ as sign of fertility is at the center of celebration. 71 Dynasty History of United Koraput 72 Pengo Porajas are the prajas of Vengi, Eastern Chalukyas and later to the Choda -Chalukyas Dynasty that commenced from Kulottunga I. The Pengo were Jainas of the past, like their master E. Chalukyas and they too have maintained the Jani institution so far. We have described the Bali celebration by Pengo Porajas(26). The Bali is celebrated by all ‘Desia Loak’ in Koraput district. It is puja to get bumper crop and good health and prosperity to all subjects and is also celebrated once in three years by the Bali Mutha villages though there are significant variations in celebration interval from tribe to tribe. Parenga Porajas of Nandapur region were possibly the prajas of Western Gangas, now living along the Issani Ganga river. The Parenga pujari still worships the Jaina shrines in the Tentliguda (Umbel) village (27). Bhumia tribe are said to be the Prajs of Somavamsis of Orissa (28). The Janis play important role in the Bhumia religious life. A Bhumia Pujari family worships the Phupugaon Jaina temple in Kundra block of Koraput. Konda Porajas other wise called Chellia Porajas are prajas of Pandya dynasty (Pandyas were otherwise known as Chellia) and they also celebrate Nandi and have the Jani institution (29). Amarapuram contains a good number of Nishidhi memorials one of which (30) refers to the teacher Prabhachandar Bhattaraka of Ingalesvara Bali of the Mula Samgha, etc. Another celebrates the demise of the preceptor Bhavasena Traividy chakravarti who was a terror to the disputants and belonged to the Mula Samgha, Sena gana (31). I am inclined put forth the presence and still continuing the culture of Nisadhi memorials among Jhodia Porajas, where memorial pillar is constructed for women members only. Nisadhi are small stone plates placed vertically on the ground after death of women members only, they can be seen in rows in a village or it can also be in a given crowded place. I have seen the Nisadhi memorials close to the Jhodia villages spread all over Koraput. 72 Dynasty History of United Koraput 73 Reference 1. Strumpell, Christian (2001) Industrialisation in a 'tribal zone' the Desia of Koraput and a Hydro-electric Power Plant. Adivasi, Vol. H 40-41, 1: Z, p.71- 81. 2. Pfeffer, Georg, The Scheduled Tribe of Middle India as a unit: Problems of Internal and External Comparison. In: Georg Pfeffer and Deepak K. Behera (eds.): Contemporary Society Tribal Studies. Vol. I. Structure and Process. New Delhi, Concept Publishing Company, 1997. 3. Berger, Peter, The Gadaba and the 'non-ST' Desia of Koraput, Orissa. Some Observations on their Interrelations. In: Pfeffer, George and Deepak K.Behera (eds.): Contemporary Society Tribal Studies, Vol. V. New Delhi, Concept publishing Company, 2001 (in print) Parry, Jonathan: Introduction. In: Jonathan Parry Jan Breman and Karin Kapadia (eds.): The worlds of Indian industrial Labour. New Delhi, Sage, 1999a. 4. Ibid. 5. Pfeffer, Georg op. cit. 6. Singh, R.B.P., Jainism in Early Medieval Karnataka. 7. E. I. VI, p.36. 8. J.A.I, no. 2, pp.65ff. 9. Dehera may be derived from Sanskrit 'Devagriha.' 10. S. I. I., Vol. IX, pt. I, 115. 11. An. Rep. on S.I. Epigraphy, 1917, Appendix O, No. 42. 12. Ibid., No. 40 and p. 113. 13. Ibid, No. 43. 14. Jawaharlal, G. Jainism in Andhra, p.137. 15. Kornel Das and Gamang Giridhar (2009) Lost Jaina Tribes of Trikalinga.p.88- 100 16. Jawaharlal, G. op.cit p. 137. 17. E.I., XIS, p. 142 18. ARE, Cp. 1 of 1916-17 19. ARE. Cp.11 of 1914-15, E.I.XII,p.16 20. E.I.Vol.VII.p.177 21. ARE. 1918pp.133.p.6 22. ARE. 832 of1918 23. Pedda purappadu Plates of Vismagiddhi, Bharti, Oct. 1983, 1984 and May 1985. 24. Gunda Mahadvi Narayanpal Inscription.E.I.IX.311ff, 161-162. 25. Kornel Das and Gamang Giridhar (2009) Lost Jaina Tribes of Trikalinga. p.194-209 26. Ibid. p218-240. 27. Ibid. p.241-249. 73 Dynasty History of United Koraput 74 28. Ibid. 29. Ibid.p.253-254 30. Ibid.p.120-121 31. Ibid. 74 Dynasty History of United Koraput 75 KALINGA EMPEROR, KHARAVELA AND PRESENT KORAPUT DISTRICT The Kalinga Emperor Kharavela was anointed in C.40 B.C. The history of Kalinga would have remained incomplete and obscure, but for the important epigraphic record of the Hathigumpha inscription of Kharvela. The contribution of many researchers for years and development in Kharavela history from Hathigumpha inscriptions, the recent work of N.K.Sahu (1984) titled ‘Kharavela’ and others given a good account Kharavela of Kalinga (1). A.Stirling was first to notice the inscription in the Hathigumpha of Udayagiri hill and in 1820 he conducted Colonel Mackenzie to the spot who prepared for him a lithograph facsimile of the inscription and it was published by Stirling in ‘Asiatic Researches’. (Asiatic Researches, (2) Vol.XV, pp. 313 ff.) In 1837 James Prinsep, then Editor, Journal of the Asiatic Society of Bengal, requested Lieutenant Kittoe to visit the ‘Khandagiri rock’ for re-examining the inscription of which the lithograph was published by Stirling (3). Towards the end of 1871, H. Locke, Principal, Govt.School of Art, Calcutta, accompanied by his students surveyed the caves of Khandagiri and Udayagiri hills and prepared the drawings. Alexander Cunningham made improvement of the reading of the Hathigumpha inscription in his ‘Corpus Inscriptionum Indicarum’, where he inserted a reduced photograph of the plaster cast taken by Mr.Locke (4). Consequently R.L.Mitra (1880) made further improvement on the reading of the Hathigumpha inscription and Pandit Bhagwan Lal Indraji was the first scholar to declare that the King eulogised in the Hathigumpha inscription was named Kharavela. He took the eye copy of the inscription in 1866 and got his reading published in the Proceedings of the VIth International Congress of Orientalists held at Leiden in 1885(5). George Buhler in 1895(6) and 1898 (7) proposed certain corrections in the text of the Hathigumpha inscription. 75 Dynasty History of United Koraput 76 In 1905-06 Sten Konow supported Indraji regarding his reading and interpretation of the inscription and accepted the theory of the Maurya era (8). But V.Smith in 1908 proposed that the Maurya era of the inscription may be synchronous or identical with the Seleuciden era of B.C.312 (9). In 1909-10 Prof.Luders published a summery of the Hathigumpha inscription and at the end of it noted “there is no date in this inscription” (10). K.P.Jayaswal made considerable improvement on the reading of the Hathigumpha inscription and attempted identification of the historical persons mentioned in the record. He claimed to have identified for the first time the King of Magadha who was contemporary of King Kharavela. According to him King Bahasatimita was no other than Pusyamitra Sunga who came to the throne in 185 B.C. and founded the rule of the Sunga dynasty in Magadha (11). R.D. Banerji published a “Note on the Hathigumpha Inscription” where he discussed on Maurya era and the date of Kharavela and also gave a summary of the inscription (12). In 1918, K.P. Jayaswal (13) personally visited the Udayagiri and Khandagiri hills to examine the contents of the Hathigumpha inscription on the spot. K.P.Jayaswal published and illustrated in the Journal of Bihar and Orissa Research Society in 1927 (14). The results of the new attempt as given by him are stated below: TRANSLATION (Line 1) Salutation to the Arhats (Arihats=lit. ‘Conquerors of Enemies,’ i.e. Jinas). Salutation to all the Siddhas. By illustrious Kharavela, the Aira (Aila), the Great King, the descendant of Mahameghavahana, the increaser (of the glory) of the Cheti (Chedi) dynasty, (endowed) with excellent and auspicious marks and features, possessed of virtues which have reached (the ends of) the four quarters, overlord of Kalinga. (L.2) for fifteen years, with a body ruddy and handsome were played youth some sports; after that (by him who) had mastered (royal) correspondence, currency, finance, civil and religious laws (and) who had become well-versed in all (branches) of learning, for nine years (the office of) Yuvaraja (heir apparent) was administered. Having completed the twenty-fourth year, at that time, (he) who had been prosperous (vardhamana) since his infancy and who (was destined) to have wide conquests as those of Vena. 76 Dynasty History of United Koraput 77 Map showing Kebirhi, Borigumma, Koraput district (L.3) then in the state of manhood, obtains the imperial (maharajya) coronation in the dynasty of Kalinga. As soon as he is anointed, in the first (regnal) year (he) causes repairs of the gates, the walls and the buildings (of the city), which had been) damaged by storm; in the city of Kalinga (he) causes the erection of the embankments of the lake (called after) Khibira Rishi, (and) of (other) tanks and cisterns, (also) the restoration of all the gardens (he) causes to be. (L.4) done at (the cost of) thirty-five-hundred-thousands, and (he) gratifies the People. And in the second year (he), disregarding Satakamni, despatches to the western regions an army strong in cavalry, elephants, infantry (nara) and chariots (ratha) and by that army having reached the Kanha-bemna, he throws the city of the Musikas into consternation. Again in the third year, (L.5) (he) versed in the science of the Gandharvas (i.e., music), entertains the capital with the exhibition of dapa, dancing, singing and instrumental music and by causing to be held festivities and assemblies (samajas); similarly in the fourth year, ‘the Abode of ‘Vidyadharas’ built by the former Kalingan king(s), which had not been helmets (bilma) cut in twain, and with their umbrellas and (L.6) bhingaras cast away, deprived of their jewels (i.e., ratana, Skt. ratna, precious objects) all the Rathikas and Bhojakas (he) causes to bow down at his 77 Dynasty History of United Koraput 78 feet. Now in the fifth year he brings into the capital from the road of Tanasuliya the canal excavated in the year one bundred-and-three of King Nanda............................. Having been (re-) anointed (he while) celebrating the Rajasuya, remits all tithes and cesses, (L.7) bestows many privileges (amounting to) hundreds of thousands or the City- Corporation and the Realm-Corporation. In the seventh year of his reign, his famous wife of Vajiraghara obtained the dignity of auspicious motherhood................. Then in the eighth year, (he) with a large army having sacked Goradhagiri (L.8) causes pressure on Rajagaha (Rajagriha). On account of the loud report of this act of valour, the Yavana (Greek) King Dimi (ta) retreated to Mathura having extricated his demoralised army and transport.................... (He) gives..............................with foliage (L.9) Kalpa (wish-fulfilling) trees, elephants, chariots with their drivers, houses, residences and rest-houses. And to make all these acceptable (he) gives at a fire sacrifice exemption (from taxes) to the caste of Brahmanas. Of Arhat.......................................... (L.10)........................ (He) causes to be built......... a royal residence (called) the Palace of Great Victory (Mahavijaya) at the cost of thirty-eight hundred thousands. And in the tenth year (he), following (the three-fold policy) of chastisement, alliance and conciliation sends out an expedition against Bharatavasa (and) brings about the conquest of the land (or, country)............. and obtains jewels and precious things of the (kings) attacked. (L.11)......................... And the market-town Pithumda founded by the Ava King he ploughs down with a plough of asses; and (he) thoroughly breaks up the confederacy of the T[r]amira (Dramira) countries of one hundred and thirteen years, which has been a source of danger to (his) Country (Janapada). And in the twelfth year he terrifies the kings of the Utarapatha with................................ thousands of (L.12) ...................... And causing panic amongst the people of Magadha (he) drives (his) elephants into the Sugamgiya (Palace), and (he) makes the King of Magadha, Bahasatimita, bow at his feet. And (he) sets up (the image) ‘the Jina of Kalimga’ which had been taken away by King Nanda..................and causes to be brought home the riches of Amga and Magadha along with the keepers of the family jewels of......................................... 78 Dynasty History of United Koraput 79 (L.13).......................(He) builds excellent towers with carved interiors and creates a settlement of a hundred masons, giving them exemption from land revenue. And a wonderful and marvelous enclosure of stockade for driving in the elephants (he) .........and horses, elephants, jewels and rubies as well as numerous pearls in hundreds (he) causes to be brought here from the Pandya King. (L.14)..............................(he) subjugates. In the thirteenth year, on the Kumari Hill where the Wheel of Conquest had been well-revolved (i.e., the religion of Jina had been preached, (he) offers respectfully royal maintenances, China clothes (silks) and white clothes to (the monks) who (by their austerities) have extinguished the round of lives, the preachers on the religious life and conduct at the Relic Memorial. By Kharavela, the illustrious, as a layman devoted to worship, is realised (the nature of) jiva and deha. (L.15).......................... bringing about a Council of the wise ascetics and sages, from hundred (i.e., all) quarters, the monks (samanas) of good deeds and who have fully followed (the injunctions)...................... near the Relic Depository of the Arhat, on the top of the hills ,........................ with stones .................. brought from many miles (yojanas) quarried from excellent mines (he builds) shelters for the Simhapatha Queen Sindhula .............................. (L.16) ............................. Patalaka ................ (he) sets up four columns inlaid with beryl ................. at the cost of seventy-five hundred thousands; (he) causes to be compiled expeditiously the (text) of the seven-fold Amagas of the sixty-four (letters). He is the King of Peace, the King of Prosperity, the King of Monks (bhikshus), the King of Religion (Dharma), who has been seeing, hearing and realising blessings (kalyanas)- (L.17) ...................... accomplished in extraordinary virtues, respector of every sect, the repairer of all temples, one whose chariot and army are irresistible, one whose empire is protected by the chief of the empire (himself), descended from the family of the Royal Sage Vasu, the Great conqueror, the King, the illustrious Kharavela. Cheti-raja-vasa: Evidently Cheti is the same as Chedi. The later Chedis, Kalachuris or Haihayas of Dabhala or Dahala were in occupation of modern Baghelkhand and Chhattisgadh in the mediaeval period. Before that in the 7th century the Kalachuris Sankaragana and Buddharaja were in possession of Malwa and the Northern Maharashtra until their conquest by the early Chalukyas of Badami. The Buddhist books mention Cheti as one of the sixteen great kingdoms or nations of Northern India. In the dynastic lists given in the Puranas, the 79 Dynasty History of United Koraput 80 Haihayas are a branch of the Yadavas. Pargiter thus states the origin of the Chedis. Vidarbha of the Yadava clan had three sons named Bhima Kratha, Kaisika and Lomapada. Kaisika’s son Chidi founded the dynasty of Chaidya kings in Chedi. From Chidi the name of the clan as well as that of the country became Chedi. In the Buddhist books Cheti is placed between Malla andVamsa indicating that the kingdom lay close to Kausambi in the Allahabad district, and it is very likely that modern Baghelkhand was originaly called Chedi. (Vasu, from whose line Kharavela’s family descended (1.17) was, however, not a Chaidya, but the conqueror of the Chedi country. He was fifth in descent from the Kuru who was the 72nd Aija (15). The Jaina Harivamsa-Purana also includes Vasu in the Aijeya list and as the son of the founder of Chedi-rsthra in the Vindhyas (16) Kalinga-raja-va(m)se: In the third line the details about Kharavela’s ancestry are made clear. He was born in the royal line of Cheti and was the overlord of Kalinga, but the dynasty to which he belonged was the 3rd dynasty of the kings of Kalinga. This dynasty was one of the Aila dynasties settled in Central and Southern India. The name Kharavela (probably, ‘one whose waves are brackish’= the Ocean) is unusual, and so is the name of the other king of the dynasty, viz., Kudepa (Manchapuri inscription). Kharavela is described to be an Aila or Aida, that is, of the Lunar House as opposed to the Solar. Pargiter holds that the kings of the Aila stock held the Ganges and the Jumna valleys from the Siwalik Hills to Magadha, the country between the Rajputana desert and the Berar, with the Panjab and Peshawar in the north and East Bihar and Bengal proper in the east. The town and country of Vidarbha is generally recognised to be the modern Berar. Khibira-isi-tala: We have examined these two words very carefully on the rock, estampages and casts. The reading is perfectly clear but no explanation seems to be possible unless Khibira is taken to be a proper name of a Rishi who excavated the tank or lake or after whom it was named. In that case, the phrase will have to be taken as referring to a particular tank while tadaga and padiyo will refer to artificial excavations. 1. The identification of the dynasty (Cheti-Chedi) of Kharavela. 2. The discovery of the historical datum regarding the invasion and retreat of a Greek king. 3. Solution or at any rate a stage nearing solution of the difficult line-11. 4. Fixity of the text of line-16, giving information regarding the loss of Jaina scriptures in the reign of Chandragupta and that no date in a Maurya era is to be found in the inscription. 80 Dynasty History of United Koraput 81 5. That although no Maurya era is found, yet it seems that a clear reference to a Nanda era is met in the record of the 5th regnal year (line-6). He discussed the date of Kharavela and placed him in between 207 B.C. and 169 B.C. After that, K.P.Jayaswal and R.D. Banerji once again jointly examined the plaster cast and paper impressions and freshly edited and published the Hathigumpha inscription in the Epigraphia Indica in 1930(17). Prof.A.S. Altekar prepared 52 notes of the text, which were published at the end of the edited inscription before the translation of the text. Kharavela and Rsi Khibira of Koraput as of Hathigumpha inscription: In the meantime, Prof. B.M. Barua published his book ‘Old Brahmi Inscriptions in the Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves’ in 1929, where he edited the inscriptions with new readings and critical notes. His conclusions were (18) as following. However, the publication of Barua created confusion because of his attempt at conjectural restoration of the damaged and mutilated portion of the inscription. Barua later revised his mistakes and published in 1938(19) Barua later published another corrected version from his studies (20) which runs, “Among the new points to be noted in the edition, the first is the name of the capital of Kalinga. The inscription may be taken to mention Khibira as the name of the capital, or more accurately that of the city of Kalinga. Unfortunately, the name is not met with either in literatures or in any of the inscriptions. The location of the capital will remain a matter of dispute up till the discovery of definite evidence setting the question at rest. But one will look in vain for the site of the capital of Kharavela’s kingdom in the South, whether in Kalingapatam or near Chicacole. The inscription itself furnishes with two dates only, one of which is definite, while the other is tentative”. I have identified the site Khibira of Hathigumpha inscription to be located in Jeypore Sub-division of Koraput district, Orissa near the town Borigumma underneath the hills of Ranigad where there are two Khibiras - one is called Sondi Khibidi and the Risi Khibidi and there is also the evidence of an old temple. Jaina temples and idols are scattered in the surrounding region; with Bhairaba Singpur as the centre of activity. Ranigad reserve forest and hill is close by and the said hill has few caves where local people assemble once year and offer their prays. The desperate attempt of B.M.Barua to search for the capital of Kalinga under Kharavela was to a great extent fulfilled by archaeological excavations of Sisupalgarh. T.N. Ramachandran (21) is of opinion that Sisupalgarh may be 81 Dynasty History of United Koraput 82 identified either with Tosali, the capital of Kalinga under Asoka or with Kalinganagari the capital of Kharavela. He summarises the arguments in favour of both in the following words: The fort is well planned, fortified, square in shape, with two elaborate gateways for each side and several exists. Regarding Kalinganagara, Kharavela’s repairing in his 4th regnal year some sacred buildings called “the abode of the Vidyadharas” and building in his 9th regnal year a palace called Mahavijaya or the “palace of victory” and in the 12th regnal year building towers at home, are all events that perhaps happened in the fortress or city at Sisupalagarh. Kharavela’s Chief Queen from Vaijraghara (present Wairagarh of modern Chanda District of Maharashtra) The Chief Queen is very probably referred to in line-7 of the Hathigumpha inscription where she is called the Queen of Vajiraghara (Diamond Palace). R.D. Banerji (22) is inclined to identify Vajiraghara with Wairagarh in modern Chanda district of Maharashtra and in some medieval inscriptions (23) this place is found, referred to as Vayirakar. Vajiraghara is very likely the same as Vajravantadesa mentioned in the Kamasutra of Vatsayana. According to this work (24) Strirajya was located to the West of Vajravantadesa and as the Mahabharata (25) places Strirajya at the neighbourhood of Kalinga, Vijravanta was also not far away from Kalinga. It is further revealed from the Hathigumpha inscription that this Queen gave birth to a son in the 7th regnal year of King Kharavela. In the lower storey of the Manchapurigumpha (26) we find the inscription of Maharaja Kudepasiri belonging to the Arya Mahameghavahana dynasty. The Wairagarh is not very far off from the southern capital of Kalinga Khibidi (of Koraput) and Khibidi is just 20 Kms from Simhapatha from where the second queen of Kharvela hailed (Bhairaba Singpur). From Wairagarh to Bastar thence to Khibidi and then through Bhairaba singpur leads to the coastal Kalinga.The Bhairabasingpur pass was the gateway to ancient path for Kalinga. Thus geographical accounts also support the identification of R.D.Banerji’s theory. Kharavel’s second queen from Simhapatha Sahu (1984) wrote, “From the inscription, as well as, from sculptural representation King Kharavela is known to have two Queens. Line-15 of the 82 Dynasty History of United Koraput 83 Hathigumpha inscription refers to the Queen of Simhapatha (lion path) who was very likely his second Queen. Simhapatha may be the same as Simhapura that was the Capital of Kalinga during the rule of the Matharas in the 4th century A.D. The place is identified with modern Singupuram in Srikakulam district of Andhra Pradesh (27). The main wing of the upper storey of the Ranigumpha presents a long frieze narrating the thrilling circumstances under which Kharavela seems to have married the second Queen.” It has been further suggested by Sahu (1984) that the series of sculpture in the upper story of the Ranigumpha depict the scenes from the life of king Kharavela himself. they have respected the averts leading to the marriage of the king with has second Queen, the Queen of Simhapura.The Bhairaba Singapore near Borigumma has been identified by the present authors as the capital of Southern Kalinga in the 4th century A.D. and this was the entry path from the Western end and to the Kalinga and the coastal region and this was abrupt path to the hills, therefore, the name Simhapath, which means the lions path and to cross this entry point must have been a very difficult matter in those days and the name was derived from that and descriptions to this have been given elsewhere. The Risi Khibra is within 30 kms from this place as mentioned above. Kharavela’s Vidyadhara abode and Koraput district The Hathigumpha inscription refers to the Vidyadhara settlements (Vijadharadhivasam) in connection with the military exploits of Kharavela in his 4th regnal year. It is indicated that Kharavela organised the strength of the Vidyadhara land and led a powerful army against the Rathikas and the Bhojakas. The relation between the Vidyadhara family as mentioned by the Paumachariyam and the Vidyadhara settlements referred to by the Hathigumpha inscription requires further research, however N.K.Sahu has given critical examination of the issue and the problem. The forest clad hinterland of Kalinga known as the land of the Atavi people was left unconquered and during the rule of Kharavela we find this invincible territory known as the abode of the Vidyadharas. The Vidyadhara territory that probably extended over the present Kalahandi, Bastar and Koraput region was under the political sway of Kalinga. The coastal region, which was the most fertile and prosperous, was the main land of Kalinga and the Capital city Kalinganagari was located in that area (28). The aboriginal people in the hilly regions were probably classed among the Sudras and they constituted important elements in the army of Kalinga. The Savaras and the Pulindas fought valiantly in the army of Kalinga at the Kuruksetra battle, while the Atavi people fought for the defence of Kalinga in the famous Kalinga war of Asoka (29). The Hathigumpha inscription reveals that Kharavela organised the military resources of the territory of the Vidyadharas and 83 Dynasty History of United Koraput 84 with the help of the army of that land crushed the Rathikas and the Bhojakas in his 4th regnal year. Thus the tribal people constituted the strength of Kalinga through ages and the Hathigumpha inscription rightly calls their territory as ‘Ahatapuvam’ meaning ‘never conquered in the past’. This refers to Eastern Ghats. The Hathigumpha inscription reveals that Kharavela maintained a powerful navy. The Tamil confederacy, which was, then in existence since thirteen hundred years had also vigorous maritime activities and therefore, clash between Kalinga and the Tamil League in the open seas became inevitable. After the defeat of the confederacy the overseas trade of Kalinga must have flourished to a very great extent, what the historians think (30). This also is very well manifested the invasion of Tamil confederacy by Kalingadhipathi Kharavela, which has been clearly brought out by K.N.Sastri (1975) (31). According to him the inscriptions of Kharavela briefly mentioned in an earlier chapter contains the only early epigraphic reference to the kingdoms of the Tamil country after the Asoka inscriptions. Kharavela ruled in Kalinga in the first half of the second century B.C., and in the eleventh year of his reign (155 BC) is said to have destroyed a confederacy of Tamil states - Tramiradesasanghatam- which was 113 years old at the time, and had long been a source of danger. The same inscription records that Kharavela caused ‘numerous pearls in hundreds’ tobe brought from the Pandya to Kalinga, and perhaps also horse, elephants, jewels and rubies. In itself a difficult document, the gaps in the inscription and its extremely worn-out condition render its meaning very uncertain. Of the Tamil confederacy and its aims, of how it became a danger to Kalinga, and of the measures taken by Kharavela to avert the danger and the new relations he established with the Pandyan kings we hear nothing more from any other source. Geneology of Kharavela In the Hathigumpha inscription Kharavela not only declares himself as descendent of Rajarsi Vasu, but also indicates that he belongs to the family of Mahameghavahana (32). In the Manchapuri cave inscription (lower story) his son, Maharaja Kundepasiri also calls himself Mahameghavahana. The Tilakamanjari (33) further refers to the son and successor of Meghavahana and describes him as a ruler of considerable power. It has been pointed out above that according to Paumachariyam King Meghavahana belonged to the Vidyadhara family and that tradition was very likely followed by the author of Tilakamanjari. Rulers belonging to the family of Mahameghavahana (34) are known to have continued in the lst century A.D. The Guntupally inscription (Epigraphical 84 Dynasty History of United Koraput 85 Series, Hyderabad, 1968) in West Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh, reveals that a king named Sada, who on paleographical ground is assigned to the lst century A.D. belonged to the Mahameghavahana dynasty and was ruling over Kalinga-Mahisaka territory (Kalinga-Mahisakadhipati) (35). R.Subramanyam suggests that the King referred in the inscription may be identified with Mahameghavahana Maharaja Kharavela who is glorified in the Hathigumpha inscription (36). But D.C. Sircar refutes the identification with reasons (37). The problem has been made clear after discovery of the Velpuru inscription (38) in Guntur district of Andhra Pradesh belonging to the same period, which throws light on the rule of one Aira Maharaja Haritiputra Manasada. Here we get the name of King Manasada who is very likely the same as King Sada of the Guntupally inscription. The Aira Mahameghavahana king Manasada (Sada) belongs without doubt, to the line of Aira Mahameghavahana Kharavela and may be assigned to the lst century A.D. About the beginning of the 2nd century A.D. Kalinga was conquered by the Satavahana king Gautamiputra Satakarni and the civil war described by the Manimekalai (39) cannot be attributed to some period after that. According to this work Kalinga by that time was divided between these two-cousin brothers- Vasu and Kumara who were ruling from their respective capitals Simhapura and Kapila. Simhapura the capital of Vasu may be the same as Simhapura mentioned in Vrhatprostha grant (40) of the Mathara king Umavarman (360-395 A.D.) identified with Singupuram in Srikakulam district of Andhra Pradesh, while Kapila, the capital of Kumara may be the same as Kapilasapura referred to in the Mallar grant (41) of Mahasivagupta Balarjuna. It appears that Vasu ruled over the southern territory that was the main land of Kalinga, while the northern portion of the Kingdom was under Kumara. The Nasik cave inscription (42) of Vasisthiputra Pulumavi indicates the conquest of Gautamiputra Satakarni and as the restorer of the glory of the Satavahana family. The rule of Mahameghavahanas over Kalinga and Kosala region was very likely overthrown by Gautamiputra Satakarni who established the rule of his family in those territories early in the 2nd century A.D (43). His son Vasisthiputra Pulumavi who maintained the integrity of the empire and probably occupied the Andhra territory comprising the coastal region between the mouths of the Godavari and the Krishna succeeded him in 130 A.D. On his death which took place sometime after 154 A.D (44)., the Satavahana power suddenly declined and although their fortune revived for sometime during the rule of Yajna Satakarni (174-202 A.D.). Kalinga and Kosala did not continue under the Satavahana rule 85 Dynasty History of United Koraput 86 after Pulumavi. The Puranas reveal that scions of the Megha (Mahameghavahana) family again raised their heads in Kosala about the middle of the 2nd century A.D., while both literary and numismatic evidences point out to the rule of a foreign dynasty named Murunda over the Kalinga region (45). According to the Puranas nine generations of Kings belonging to the Megha dynasty ruled over Kosala before the rise of the Guptas (46). Moreover, the Meghas as known from their inscriptions ruled from the first quarter of the 2nd century A.D (47) upto the middle of the3rd century A.D. while the Meghas as known from available evidences ruled from the middle of the 2nd century A.D. to the middle of the 4th century A.D. About the middle of the 3rd century A.D. the Meghas were ousted from power by the Nagas who occupied the Kausambi- Ahichhatra region at the time when the Meghas were power in South Kosala and continued there for sometime even after annihilation of the Naga power by Samudragupta (48). The last of the series of the nine Megha rulers of Kosala mentioned in the Puranas was very likely King Mahendra who as known from the Allahabad pillar inscription was defeated by Samudragupta in course of his South Indian campaign. Vasu ruled from Simhapur over Kalinga region towards the close of the lst century A.D. and beginning of the 2nd century A.D. N.K.Sahu (1984) (49) has given a comprehensive chronology based on the analysis and interpretation of available materials, leaving the door open for further research is given below: 1. Abhichandra: The founder of Chedirastra in the Vindhyan region in c.20 B.C. in the Suktimati valley identified with the modern Suktel river in Balangir district of Orissa. 2. Vasu: Referred to in the Hathigumpha inscription as Rajarsi Vasu and as an ancestor of Kharavela. 3. Mahameghavahana: Liberated Kalinga from the hegemony of Magadha in c.72 B.C. and founded the Chedi rule in Kalinga. 4. Chetaraja: The second Chedi king of Kalinga and the lord of Vidyadhara (the Atavika territory). He had premature death in c.49 B.C. 5. Kharavela: Ruled as Yuvaraja from c. 49 B.C. to 40 B.C. and was anointed in the third generation of the Chedi kings of Kalinga in c. 40 B.C. Last known date was 27 B.C. 86 Dynasty History of United Koraput 87 6. Kudepasiri: Probably the son and successor of Kharavela. He is known from the inscription found in the main wing of the lower storey of the Manchapuri cave. 7. Kumara Vadukha: Probably the son of King Kudepasiri. He is also known from the inscription found in the right wing of the lower storey of the Manchapuri cave. 8. Galaveya: Known from Velpuru inscription. 9. Aira Maharaja Manasada: Ruler of Kalinga and Mahisaka in the lst century A.D. He is known from the Guntu-pally and the Velpuru inscriptions. 10. Vasu: Ruled from Simhapur over Kalinga region towards the close of the lst century A.D. and beginning of the 2nd century A.D. Referred to by the Tamil epic Manimekalai. 11. Kumara alias Kumara Varadattasri: Brother of Vasu (Sl.No.10) ruled from Kapila over Kosala region towards the close of the lst century A.D. and beginning of the 2nd century A.D. referred to by the Tamil epic Manimekalai and the Gunji Rock Inscription. 12-20Nine Megha Kings: Ruled over Kosala from the middle of the 2nd century A.D. to the middle of the 4th century A.D. referred by the Puranas and King Mahendrameha is referred by the Allahabad Pillar inscription of Samudragupta, is probably the last of the series of nine Kings. The Hathigumpha inscription presents achievements of Kharavela year after year upto his 13th regnal year and since no reliable records are available, as to what happened to this great king after that year. It is certain from the inscriptions of Chief Queen of Kharavela that Kharavela were succeeded by Aira Maharaja Mahameghavahana Kudepasiri. This is also supplemented by Hathigumpha inscription line 7. Rulers belonging to the Mahameghavahana family are known to have continued in the lst century A.D. The Guntupally inscription of West Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh reveals that a king named Sada belonged to Mahameghavahana family ruled in lst century A.D. over Kalinga - Mahisaka territory (Kalinga- Mahisakadhipati). This view was later strengthened after the discovery of Velpuru inscription in Guntur district of Andhra Pradesh as said above. 87 Dynasty History of United Koraput 88 - The Satakarni I had extended his suzerainty upto Krishna- Godavari, when newly crowned king Kharavela took his first military campaign against Satakarni territory located in Maharashtra region. - In the second year, his vast army marched without carrying the Satkarni and marched upto Krishna and stormed the city of Asika. This result is not known. - In 37 B.C. sometimes during 3rd regnal year, Satkarni breathed his last and this gave Kharavel opportunity for the decisive victory of the 4th regnal year. - Before his second invasion on the Satavahana territory, Kharavela organised the military resources of the Vidyadhara settlement (Vijadhara-dhivasam) which has been described by the inscription as an invincible land founded by the former Kings of Kalinga. This is Kalahandi-Bastar-Koraput land. This territory as per Rock Edict XIII of Asoka refers to the people of ‘Atair’ territory and as per N.K.Sahu very likely the ‘Sarvatavika rajya’ mentioned in the Allahabad Pillar inscriptions of Samudragupta. The army of Kalinga marched against Rathikas and Bhojakas respectively to the South and North of Nasik, the capital of Satavahana kingdom. As a result of this victory Kharavela’s suzerainty spread over Decan from sea to sea. - On the 8th regnal year, Kharavela lead an invasion against Magadha and marched towards the North stormed the fort of Godadhagiri (Gorathagiri) and seige of Rajagrha and proceeded to Mathura and Mathura and defeated the Yavanas. This was glorious and successful. - On the 10th regnal year, Kharavela undertook the second North Indian campaign and on 11th regnal year defeated enemies (not specifically described) and very likely the confederated Tamil States in south with whom Kharavela fought in the 11th regnal year. - The third north Indian expedition undertaken in the 12th regnal year. That year Kharavela proceeded with a vast army as far as the Uttarapatha (North-West India) wherever several thiefs submitted to him. On return, he encamped on the banks of Ganges, near Pataliputra. The King of Pataiputra, Brhaspatimitra was forced to surrender and pay obeisance at his feet. He brought back the image of Kalinga Jina with its throne that was taken away by King Nanda in the 4th century B.C. 88 Dynasty History of United Koraput 89 Thus within a short span of ten years (from his 2nd to 12th regnal years) Kharavela could achieve a series of brilliant victories extending his suzerainty from the North-Western part of India to the farthest extent into the South and fully justified the epithet ‘Chakravarti’ given to him in the inscription of his Chief Queen. Reference 1. Sahu, N.K. (1984) Kharavela. Orissa State Museum, Bhubaneswar 2. Stirling, A., Asiatic Researches, Vol. XV, pp 313 ff. 3. J.A.S.B. Vol.VI (1837) pp 1072-91 4. Cunningham, (1877) Inscriptions of Asoka, C.I.I: Vol -1 5. Mitra, R.L. Antiquities of Orissa, Vol 11-p1b ff 6. Buihler, George (1895) India studies, No. III. p.13 7. Ibid (1898) Origin of the Brahma Alphabet p. 13 ff 8. Archaeological Survey of India (Annual Report from (1890-96). p.166 9. Smith, V (1908) Early History of India, p.38, note-1, p.40, note, p-87, note-2 10. E.I., X. App, pp 160-61, No. 1345 11. J.B.O.R.S, III, pp 473-85, A further note on Hatigumpha inscription. 12. Ibid pp. 486-505, Note on the Hatigumpha inscription 13. Ibid, Jayaswal, K.P, A further note, P1,I. 14. Ibid, XIII, (1927), p.237 15. E.I., XX, pp. 71-89 16. Harivamsa, XVII,pp.1-17. 17. E.I..XX,pp 71-89. 18. Barua, B.M., O.B.I. Preface XII 19. Ibid. I. H.Q., XIV, Hatigumpha Inscription of Kharavel; pp 454-85 20. Ibid., pp 483-85 21. Ramachandran, T.N. (1951) Lecture delivered in the Indian Museum Calcutta, see also J.A.H.R.S., XIX, pp.146-48 22. Banerji, R.D. History of Orissa, Vol-I.p. 78. 23. The place is mentioned as Vayirakard in the Turi vulrriyur Adhi Purisvara temple inscription of the second year reign of Kulohungai. In temple pardana perumal at conjeeveram in soreferst to Kulottunga I’s victory Vajirakara and Chakraakotta while he was prince, i.e. before 1070 A.I) 24. Kamasutra, edited by Durga Prasad, p.130. 25. Santiparva, 4.7 89 Dynasty History of United Koraput 90 26. E.I.., XIII, p.160. 27. Sahu, N.K. (1984) Kharavela p.62 28. Ibid p.102 29. Ibid p. 108 30. Ibid p 129-30 31. Sastri, K.A.N. The South India History. 32. E.I. XIII, p 160 33. Tilakamanjari (Nirnaya Sagar Press) p. 25ff cited by Sahu,N.K.(1984) Kharavela. 34. Sahu, N.K. (1984) Kharavela p.77 35. Epigraphical series (Hydrabad, 1968) Guntapally inscription 36. Ibid. Subranarayns, R. Edit. Guntapally inscription 37. J.A. F.H. III, pl 182, pp 35-36s 38. E.I.XXXII, pp 82-87 39. Marimekalai, Ch. XXVI, See also the English trans. by A.S.P. Ayyar, p.82 40. E.I.XII, pp. 4-6. 41. Ibid. XXIII, p. 113 ff. and J.K. H.R.S.I, No.3 P 217 ff. 42. Ibid., VIII, p.60 ff, Arch. Suru. W. Ins. IV, p.10 43. Ibid., VIII, p.73. 44. Ibid., VII, p.71. 45. Sahu, N.K. (1984) Utkal University History of Orissa, Vol.1, pp 418-30 46. Pargiter, D.K.A. p.51 47. E.I.XXXI, (Bandhogarh inscription); E.I.III, p.306 (Ginj inscription) 48. Sahu, N.K. (1984) Kharavela, p.307. 49. Ibid. p 308-309. 90 Dynasty History of United Koraput 91 SAMUDRAGUPTA’S SOUTHERN EXPEDITION AND MAHAKANTARA COUNTRY (KALAHANDI-KORAPUT REGION) It was Fleet, Dubreail, Subramanian, Majumdar, Sircar, Sahu, Barnet, Vineent Smith, Jayaswal, Raychoudhuri, Rajaguru, and G Ramdas were the authors who studied the Allahabad pillar inscription of Samudragupta, which is dated back to 4th century A.D. and tried to solve the geographical location of the places mentioned. According to Allahabad posthumous pillar inscription of Samudragupta of the 4th Century A.D. Maharaja Samudragupta marched towards the Deccan after crossing over the countries of Kosala, Mahakantar and Kaurala. Following is quoted from lines 19-20 of the said inscription: Kai“Kausalak Mahendra, Mahakantaraka Vyaghraraja, ralaka Mantaraja, Paistapuraka Mahendra, Girikausturaka Svamidatta, Airandapallaka Damana, Kanceyaka Visnugopa, Avamuktaka Nilaraja, Vaingeyaka Hastivarmma, Palakkak-Ograsena, Daivarastraka Kuvera, Kausthalapuraka Dhananjaya. PrabhrtiDaksinaptha-raja-grahana- moksanugrahaprataponmisra-mahabhagyasya”(1). Dr.Fleet gives the translation of this page as follows: “Whose great good fortune was mixed with, so as to be increased by (his) glory produced by the former shown in capturing and then liberating Mahendra of Kosala, Vyaghraraja of Mahakantara, Mantaraja of Kerala, Mahendra of Pishtapura, Svamdatta of Kottura on the hill, Damana of Erandpalla, Vishnugopa of Kanchi, Nilaraja of Devarashtra, Dhanamjaya of Kusthalapura, and all the other kings of the region of the south...............”(2) Rajaguru wrote, “Fleet could not correctly identify the city of Kaurala, but tried to submit the name of Kerala which is a country, situated in the far south. Samudragupta passed through the countries of South Kosala and Mahakantara to arrive at Kurala. It suggests that he crossed over the river Tel at the district of Kalahandi before he entered into the forest region of the Ganjam Agency. This whole area, covered with dense forest, was called by the name Mahakantara. From there he came to the headquarters of Gumsur in Ganjam which, upto the present day, is known as Kulanda, probably a corrupted form of Kurala. 91 Dynasty History of United Koraput 92 Although the other places in the Allahabad-Prasasti were not recorded in accordance to geographical order, it was not so in the case of three contiguous territories, namely Kosala, Mahakantara and Kurala where Mahendra, Vyghraraja and Mantaraja were ruling the time of Maharaja Samudragupta. These territories were extended roughly from the present district of Raipur in Madhyabharat as far as Ganjam Agency in Orissa. At the centre of this tract was situated the country of Mahakantara, which may be located within the modern district of Kalahandi.” (3) He further wrote that only one copper plate inscription from Kalahandi region has been discovered so far, belonging to Maharaja Tushtikara (No.16). They have assigned it to 5th-6th centuries A.D. It was not established whether he was a Mahakantara king. (4) Subramanian wrote, “In the Deccan there was no strong and united empire in the middle of the fourth century A.D. There was no king so powerful as Gautamiputra Satakarni or the later Pulakesin II. The Kadambas has not yet risen. Perhaps the Vakatakas had not yet begun to expand southward as the first to do so was Prithvisena I whose son married the daughter of Chandra Gupta II (5). Some of the places and kings of Dakshinapatha contained in the Allahabad inscription have not yet been identified. The great Emperor is said to have captured and liberated (i) Mahendra of Kosala, (ii) Vyaghrarya of Mahakantara; (iii) Mantaraja of Kaurala, (iv) Mahendra of Paishtapura, (v) Svamidatta of Kauttura on the hill, (vi) Damana of Airandapalla, (vii) Vishnugopa of Kanchi, (viii) Nilaraja of Avamukta, (ix) Ugrasena of Palakka, (x) Hastivarman of Vengi, (xi) Kubera of Devarastra, (xii) Dhananjaya of Kusthalapura and all other kings of the region of the south.” Subramanian further wrote, “According to Dubreuil, all the states of the Deccan in the Allahabad inscription belonged to the East Deccan as Airandapalla” (6) (Amudalavalasa B.N.Rly) and Devarastra were in Ganjam and Vizagapatnam districts according to later inscriptions. But the states are not found in the inscription in any geographical order. Samudragupta’s march across W.Deccan would give completeness to his expedition and the location of five kings between the Mahanadi and the Godavari; three of them so near one another were not so likely. Next to Mantaraja of Kaurala which has been identified with the lower valley of the Mahanadi is mentioned the king of Pithapuram, Mahendray name. ‘Paishtapurakamahendragiri Kanthurakasvamidatta’ has to be spelt into Mahendra of Pithapuram and Svamidatta of Kotturu on the hill (7) etc. Kotturu is 92 Dynasty History of United Koraput 93 about 1 mile from Paralakimedi and has some ancient remains. So between Godavari and Mahanadi were two states with their capitals at Pithapuram and Kotturu. Between the Godavari and the Krishna did Hastivarman then rule the kingdom of Vengi? South of the Krishna were Ugrasena of Palakka (Palakkada, Nellore district) and Vishnugopa of Kanchi, Nilaraja of Avamukta is unidentified, while Kubera of Devarastra and Damana of Airandapalla may be identified as kings of Maharastra and Kandesh respectively. Dhananjaya of Kusthalpura is again unidentified. “ As per R.C.Majumdar (1988), “Samudragupta’s campaigns of conquest were not confined to N.India. He made one or more expeditions to the Deccan and defeated no less than twelve rulers. The defeated chiefs include Mahendra of Kosala (Durg, Raipur, Bilaspur and Sambalpur districts), Vyagraraja of Mahakantara (probably forest regions in Jeypore state, Orissa), Mahendragiri of Pishtapur (Pithapuram in the Godavari district), Hastivarman (the ana chief) of Vengi (modern Peda-Vengi, 7 miles north of Ellora between Krishna and Godavari), Ugrasena of Palakka (Nelore district) and Vishnugopa (the Pallava king of Kanchi (Conjeevaram in Chingleput district), king Damana of Erandapalla and Kuvera of Devarastra probably ruled Vizagapatam district. Four other kings, Mantaraja of Kaurula, Svamidatta of Kotturu, Nilaraja of Avamukta and Dhunanjaya of Kusthalapura cannot be identified with certainty. Although these four southern kingdoms cannot be located, it is clear that Samudra-gupta proceeded through the eastern and southern parts of Madhya Pradesh to Orissa and then advanced along the eastern coast upto the Palava Kingdom, probably beyond the city of Madras (Sathianathaier)”(8). D.C.Sircar (1988) wrote, “the Allahabad pillar inscription of Samudra-gupta, while describing Gupta Emperor’s victory over the kings of Dakshinapatha, speaks of several kings who have been located in different parts of Kalinga. They are Svamidatta of Kottura, Mahendragiri of Pishtapura, Damana of Erandapalla” (9). N.K.Sahu wrote, “Mahendra of South Kosala, Vyaghraraja of Mahakantara, Mantaraja of Korala, Mahendragiri of Pistapura, Svamidatta of Kotturu, Damana of Erandapalla, Visnugopa of Kanchi, Nilaraja of Avamukta, Hastivarman of Vengi, Urgrasena of Palakka, Kubera of Devarastra and Dhananjaya of Kustalapura. Among these rulers, the first six and eleventh one come under the preview of our discussion as they were ruling over the territories comprising Kosala and Kalinga 93 Dynasty History of United Koraput 94 regions. Kosala the territory of king Mahendra is without doubt the same as South Kosala comprising the modern districts of Bilaspur and Orissa. Contiguous with this kingdom was lying the territory known as Mahakantara which is according to the Mahabharata (10) extended from the East of Kosala upto the banks of the river Vena (Wainganga), a tributary of the Godavari. This territory is generally identified in the kingdom of king Vyaghra, father of Jayanatha belonging to Uchchakalpa family, who was a feudatory of the Vakatakas. Inscriptions of this king are found in Nach-ne-ki-talai and Ganj in Madhya Pradesh (10). But this king was the ruler of the Bundelkhand region, north of the Vindhyas and hence, cannot be classed with the rulers of Daksinapatha. Mahakantra appears to be the same as Mahavana referred to in two of the Amravati stupa Inscriptions (12) and may be identified with the wild tracts of modern districts of Kalahandi and Koraput (13). Vyaghraraja, the king of Mahakantra gallantly fought with Samudragupta but was ultimately defeated by him. If the tiger type coins, which depict the emperor Samudragupta as overpowering a tiger, were said to have represented this war, the victory over Vyaghraraja was considered a very significant one by the emperor himself. After defeating Mahakantara, Samudragupta defeated king Mantaraja of Korala, a territory which is identified by many scholars (14) with Sonepur region of Bolangir district. Barnet (15) suggests identification of this place with Kurala in South India and scholars like Vincent Smith (16) and Jayaswal (17) locate it in the territory on the banks of the Kolleru (Kottair) lake, but as pointed by Raychoudhuri (18) this place must be within the territory of Hastivarman of Vengi mentioned separately in the Allahabad Inscription. According to S.N.Rajaguru, Korala may be the same Kolaulapura pattana or Kokalavalapurapatlanam found in the records of Eastern Gangas of Kalinga and identified with the modern town of Kulada in Ghumsur Taluk of Ganjam district. But the name Kolaulapurapattana, which is the same as Kolahalapura, was the seat of the Western Gangas and has been identified with Kolar in Mysore. If Kollaulapurapattana is taken to be the town established by the Eastern Gangas in Kalinga and named after the original Kolahalapura of the Western Gangas, this town must be ascribed to the period much later than that of Samudragupta. The Sonepur region of Bolangir district that was contiguous to Mahakosala may be said to have represented the territory of Korala. The villages named Bada- Karala and Sana-Karala near Binka (Vinitapura of medieval epigraphs) are very likely the reminiscent of the name of ancient Korala. This region is located in the Ang river valley and is found rich in antiquities datable to both pre-Gupta and post-Gupta periods and also occupies an important position in between the territories of Mahakosala and Mahakantara”. (19) 94 Dynasty History of United Koraput 95 Mahakosala, Mahakantara and Korala comprised the Western and the Southwestern parts of modern Orissa and the exact territorial limits of these three kingdoms are difficult to be determined. It seems that Samudragupta started his campaign from the Jumna valley more particularly from Kausambi and marching through the modern Rewa and Jabalpur regions entered into the territory of South- Kosal. After subduing Kosal, Mahakantara and Korala he could easily proceed towards the Eastern coast through the ancient trade route that linked Kosala with Kalinga. (20) The territory of Kalinga as pointed out above, was no longer a unitary and compact State capable of offering a formidable resistance against the invaders. This territory was then divided into not less than four principalities, namely, Kottura, Erandapalla, Devarastra and Pistapura, each being under the rule of a petty chieftain. Svamidatta, the ruler of Kottura is said to be the first chief of this region to be defeated by Samudragupta. Kottur has been identified with modern Kothoor about 12 miles to the South of Mahendra hills, and after occupying this territory Samudragupta must have marched towards Erandapalla and Devarastra ruled respectively by Damana and Kubera. These two kingdoms have already been identified with modern Erandapalli and Yellamanchili respectively in Srikakulam and Visakhapatnam districts (21). The name Damana suggests that this king was probably an ancestor of Maharaja Satrudamana known to us as the ruler of Girikalinga or Trikalinga from the Peddaduggam Copper Charter (22). The god Damanesvara who was the tutelary deity of this family seems to have been installed by king Damana and from this consideration Damanesvara may be regarded as the earliest known Saivite god in Kalinga. The next ruler of the Kalinga region, encountered by Samudragupta, was Mahendragiri of Pistapura identified with modern Pithapuram in Godavari district. After subjugation of this territory the campaign of Samudragupta in Kalinga was successfully over and the victor triumphantly crossed the river Godavari and proceeded towards Vengi over which king Hastivarman was ruling. The Southern kings claimed to have been defeated by him are Hastivarman, the Salankayana king of Vengi (Peddavegi), Visnugopa, the Pallava king of Kanchi (Canjeevaram), Nilaraja of Avamukta (not satisfactorily identified), Ugrasena of Palakka (Palakkada in Nellore district) and Dhananjaya of Kusthalapura (identified with Kuttalur in North-Arcot district). The last three rulers are obscure figures in history and are not known to us from any other source, while Hastivarman and Visnugopa belonging respectively to Salankayana and Pallava dynasties, were famous kings in the South. Hastivarman is known from the 95 Dynasty History of United Koraput 96 Pedda-vegi grant (23) of Nandivarman II, where he is described as a conqueror of many battles and Visnugopa Varman I is also described in the grants (24) of his son as one who obtained victory and glory by dint of his valour and courage in many a battle. J.Dubreuil (25) has suggested that Samudragupta advanced as far as the river Krisna, was opposed by a confederacy of kings of the Eastern Deccan and being repulsed, abandoned his conquests in the Orissan coasts and returned to Magadha. Jayaswal is of opinion that the Southern potentates were grouped under two chief leaders, Mantaraja of Korala and Visnugopa of Kanchi and that Samudragupta fought his decisive battle in the Colair lake region. Such suggestion is no doubt speculative as it is contrary to the evidences of the Allahabad Inscription. But the statements in the inscription being of dubious nature, have naturally given rise to confusion and controversy. Harisena, the royal panegyrist who was also a Minister of Peace and War, seems to have no personal knowledge about the geographical location of the territories through which his sovereign led his campaign.” According to J.K. Sahu (1997), “Somudragupta marched from South Kosal towards Kalinga through Mahakantara and Korala (26). South Kosala is identified with the district of Raipur, Bilaspur, etc. of Eastern Madya Pradesh, where as Mahakantara included Bastar of Madhya Pradesh and Nowrangpur-Koraput with portions of South Kalahandi of Orissa. There is lot of controversy regarding the location of Korala. N. K. Sahu (27), identified it Bad-Karla and San-Karla near Sonepur. S.N.Rajaguru (28) holds that Korala is the same as modern Kulada in Ghumsur region of Ganjam Regarding the Kushan coin finds in Orissa, it was postulated to be brought to Orissa in 2nd and 3rd century or later to make up for the shortage of copper coins during the Gupta period (29). However S.C.Dey (1954) wrote; “One thing is worth noticing about the find-spots of these coins in so far as they relate to Bihar and Orissa. The coins have been found in Chotanagpur region, in Keonjhar, Mayurbhanj and the coastal region from Balasore southwards till Ganjam. If we remember the probable route of Samudragupta on the occasion of his Deccan campaign, we would not be inclined to take the finds as sporadic ones. I quote here from Smith’s Early History of India, the portion referring to Samudra Gupta’s campaign. ‘The invader, marching due south from the capital, through Chutia Nagpur, directed first his 96 Dynasty History of United Koraput 97 attack against the kingdom of South Kosala in the valley of Mahanadi, and overthrew its king, Mahendra. Passing on, he subdued all the chiefs of the forest countries, which still retain their wilderness and constitute the tributary states of Orissa and then backward parts of the Central Provinces. ...... Still advancing southwards by each coast roads Samudra Gupta vanquished the chieftain who held Pisthapura, the ancient capital Kalinga, now Pithapuram in the Godavari district as well as the hill fortress of Mahendragiri and Kottura in Ganjam whose territory lay on the banks of the Kotteru (Colair) lake (30).” Thus, according to Smith, Samudragupta came to Chotnagpur region from Pataliputra, then conquered South Kosala and the chieftains of the jungle region now comprised in western hilly tracts of Orissa, emerged on the along the coast and moved along the coast southwards passing through Ganjam. Though there is some divergence of opinion about the location of Mahakantara, it is fairly certain that Samudragupta conquered South Kosala comprising the region covered by the modern districts of Raipur, Bilaspur and Sambalpur. Then he passed through jungle region that most probably included the hilly regions of Orissa in the ex-States of Mayurbhanj and Keonjhar. His route to Ganjam and farther south, most probably, was along the sea-coast, as suggested by Smith. But as per J.K.Sahu,” there is no reason why Samudragupta should have to march to far off Sonepur or even to north Ganjam and then back to south Ganjam (Gajapati district) and Srikakulam. A close study of the march of Samudragupta leads us to believe that Korala must be somewhere in Koraput-Rayagada region. It is likely that the modern village Korada on the bank of Nagavalli in Rayagada close to the district of Srikakulam presents the ancient Korala of Mantaraja. After conquering Korala, Samudragupta entered Kalinga territory.”(31) As noted above, Kalinga at that time had been divided into a number of petty principalities. It is not improbable that Korala was also one of them. In that case, Korala would have been first State in Kalinga to face the Gupta onslaught. Mahendragiri of Pistapura, Svamidatta and Kottura and Damana of Erandapalli were other rulers of Kalinga whom Samadragupta defeated with the present village Kottura in Hirramandala Taluk of Srikakulam district.(32) Erandapalli is the present Erandpalli in the district of Visakhapattnam. All these places are now in Andhra Pradesh. The above discussion reveals that the undivided district of Koraput is the only district of Orissa, which lay on the route of the military expedition of Samudragupta. His march did not even touch the district of Ganjam. Some historian (33) identified Kottura with Kothur of Ganjam. (Gajapati district), about 97 Dynasty History of United Koraput 98 12 miles south of Mahendragiri. The village is the same as Kuttura of Mahendrabhoga Visaya donated by a Mathara king Umavaranm in his Devalapeta charter (34). If Svamidatta had been a ruler of this Mahendrabhoga, he would have been described as the Lord of Mahendra or of Kalinga and not of a small village like Kottura. In all probability, Kottura of Allahabad Prasasti who located in Srikakulam and was different from Kuttura of Mahendrabhoga.”(35) There is no doubt as remarked by several historians that Samudragupta travelled through South Kosala, then to Mahakantara (South Kalahandi-Nowrangpur of undivided Koraput district). The controversy due to Kairala and Kottaru in hill is agreed to. However, we propose Kurlu of Koraput district (Kurlu nandi or river which flows form the Ramagiri forest through Kundra and join Kolaba river) as the Korala of Mantaraja. The famous Kottur Zamindari of British period, was located on the banks of Indravati and a hill country in the west Bastar district of Madhya Pradesh itself. The S’Kosala, Mahakantara, Kottura and Kurlu are thus in contagious plane. The river Muran on Koraput hills joins the River Indravati and flows down through Nowrangpur and Bastar district to join Godavari. Around River Muran, the Vengi dynasty of Eastern Chalukya appeared. This has been seen from inscription of Chipurupalli grant. Around River Muran, there were villages with post fix ‘pustka’ like, still exist. This was one medieval Jain school. This further strengths the belief that River Muran gets its name due to Mauryas.All along Muran river are a large community of Magadha Gaudas. These Gaudas are the Yadavs of north and same Gaudas of south. They came from Magadha of present Bihar with Chandragupta Maurya vassal.Samudragupta avoided the resistance of coastal Kalinga and followed the path of Chandragupta to Deccan and further south. Map showing Kutru in former Basta State 98 Dynasty History of United Koraput 99 References 1. C.I.I., 111, p.7 2. Ibid pp 11-13 3 Rajaguru, S.N. Inscriptions of Orissa, pp.343-45. 4. Ibid. 5. Subramanian K.R. (1931) Buddhist Remains in Andhra.p.192 6. E. I., Vol. XII, p.212 7. Another interpretation is that Sramidatta was king of Pithapuram and Mahendragiri Kotturu. The Raghuvansam places the capital of Kalinga near the coast. So the question of identifying Kotturu (there is one on the coat also0 teems with difficulties. According to the poem Kalinga was very powerful and Mahendragiri was in Kalinga. According to the inscription Kalinga was divided. If Mahedra was lord as far as Kotturu in Paralakimedi where are we to locate the kings of Airandapalla and Devarashtra.. 8. Majumdar, R.C. (1988) Samudra-Gupta’s Conquest, The Classical Age, Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan.p.9 9. Sircar, D.C. (1988) Kalinga: Ibid. p.211. 10. Sabhave parva, XXXI 11. C.I.I. 111, p.233; E.I.XVII p.12 12 Burgess, Notes Amaravati - Stupa-Inscriptions, No.8 and 231 13. See J.A.H.R.S.I pp. 228-37 14. Dandekar, R.N - History of the Guptas p.51. 15 B.S.O.S. 11 p.569 16. E, H.I. 4th Ed. p. 300 fn.3 17. History of India p. 136 18. .Raychoudhuri, H.C., P.H.A.I. 1950-p.539 19. Sahu, N.K. Utkal University History of Orissa. Vol. I p.437 20. It was probably through this route that the Chinese pilgrim Yuan-Chwang travelled in the 7th century. A. D from the capital of Kalinga to the capital of Kosala, a distance of 1800 Li. 21. Dr. Fleet identified Erandapalla with Erandol in Khandesh and Devarastra with Maharastra. But J. Dubreuil has proved that these places are respectively identical with Erandapalli a town near Chicacole and Yellamanchili (Ancient History of the Deccan pp.58-60 and 160). Erandapalla has been mentioned in Sidhantam Plates of Kalinga (E.I.XIII p. 213) and Devarastra finds mention in Sringavarapukota Grant of king Anantavarman of Kalinga (E.I.XXVIII p. 564) 22 E.I.XXXI pp. 89-93. 23. Bharati-August 1224 24. E.I.VIII pp. 159 f; E.I. Vol. XV. pp 253f 25. A.H.D.pp, 60-61 99 Dynasty History of United Koraput 100 26. Allahabad Prasasti, CII, 111, pp 6f. 27. Sahu, N.K. op.cit. p.437 28. Rajaguru, S.N., Inscriptions of Orissa, II, pp. 343-45. 29. Journal of Numismatic Society of India, Vol.X, p.137 &Vol. XVI.p.216 30. Mangalam, S.J. Historical-Geography and Toponomy of Andhra Pradesh.p.190 and Jayaswal, P.K. History of India .p.130 31. Sahu, J.K. Historical Geography in Comprehensive History and Culture of Orissa.p.56. 32 Mangalam, S.J. Historical-Geography and Toponony of Andhra Pradesh (1986) 33. Sahu, N.K. op.cit. p. 435 34. JAHRS, X, p. 143-44; EI, XXVI, pp. 132-35. 35. Sahu, J.K .Comprehensive History and Culture of Orissa: Historical Geography.p.56-57. 100 Dynasty History of United Koraput 101 RAMAGIRI Ramagiri is located close to Baipariguda block in Koraput district of Orissa.It is extended with range of hills on the banks of the river Kolab, which flows from Nandapur down and meets the Indravati, before it joins the Godavari river.Ramagiri hill range has numerous caves discovered and waiting to be explored. The caves of Gupteswar is famous for its Siva linga that stands 5 feet high of stalagmite formation .People from Bastar and Orissa come together on Sivaratri day to celebrate.Boipariguda has the large concentration of Bhumia tribe that extend into Ramagiri and Mathili; where as the Matias are the majority in Mathili-Govindapalli area contagious to the Bhumias.However the Ramagiri, towards the Gupteswar has a large concentration of Dhuruva tribe that extend deep into Bastar district. Jawaharlal (1) wrote, “Ugraditya was pontiff of the Desigana, Pustaka gacchha, Pansogavalli-sakha of the Mula-sangha in the line of Kundakunda in Jaina organization. His guru was Srinandin and Lalitakiriti-Acharya was his colleague. He lived at Mount Ramagiri and studied the science. This Ramagiri has been rightly identified with the hill of Ramatirtham in the Vizianagaram district by J.P.Jain, (2) for; the modern Ramatirtham still contains Jaina caves, temples, etc.” He further wrote,’ like other Jaina preceptors, Ugraditya was reputed for his learing. He is the author of the Kalyanakaraka, a complete and original treatise on the science of medicine. It will be seen from a perusal of his Kalyanakaraka that Ugraditya was well acquainted with most of the earlier literature, both Jaina and non-Jaina, on the subject (3). Curiously we are informed in his work that ‘by order of his guru, Srinandin, whose feet were worshipped by Vishnuraja Paramesvara, Ugraditya wrote his work, Kalyanakaraka for the good of mankind, on the beautiful hill of Ramagiri… which was situated in the level plains of Vengi in the Trikalinga country (4).It is further learnt from the Hithita adhyaya (i.e. the extra chapter) of his work that he “delivered the discourse on the uselessness of meat diet in the court of Sri-nripatungavallabha Maharajaadhiraja which was adorned by many learned men and doctors”. Now scholars are agreed in identifying the Vishnuraja Paramesvara with the famous Eastern Chalukya monarch of Vengi, Vishnuvardhana IV (A.D. 762-99), and Nripatungavllabha with the Rashtrakuta Amoghavarsha I (A.D.815-77). Ugraditya thus seems to have lived in circa A.D.770-840. (5) It is not unreasonable to suppose that Ugraditya, having completed his work sometime in the last quarter of the 8th century A.D., visited Manyakheta and delivered his illuminating discourse in the 101 Dynasty History of United Koraput 102 court of Amoghavarsha I about A.D. 830-40, or still earlier. Thus, Ugraditya, being proficient in medicine and a staunch follower of the Jaina faith, must have succeeded in weaning away the people from meat eating by his admonitory discourses”. Ramatirtham The Ramagiri as mentioned above has been identified with Ramatirtham, particularly by historian of Andhra Pradesh. Ramatirtham is in the Vijayanagaram taluk of the same district. It is situated at a distance of 16 kms. from the town of Vizianagaram and can be reached by bus only. It still contains caves and numerous Jaina images on the hill. It is interesting to recall that ‘Ugraditya, the author of Kalyanakaraka studied the science under his guru, Sri Nandin at Mount Ramagiri. By order of Sri Nandin, whose feet were worshipped by Sri Vishnuraja Paramesvara, Ugraditya wrote his Kalayanakarka for the good of mankind, on beautiful hill of Ramagiri that was adorned with many Jaina caves, temples, etc. and was situated in the level plains of Vengi in the country of Trikalinga(6). J.P. Jain has rightly identified this Ramagiri, (7) with the modern Ramatirtham and the Vishnuraja Paramesvara with Vishnuvardhana IV (A.D.762-99). Thus Ramagiri (modern Ramatirtham) had become an important center for Jaina literary activities were remarked by Dr. Jawaharlal (8). He wrote,” Further, it is equally interesting to learn from an inscription engraved on the wall of the Durgapancha cave that Vimaladitya’s (A.D.1011-22) religious guru Trikalayogi Siddhantadeva of the Desi gana paid homage to Ramakonda with great devotion. It testifies to the eminence of Ramatirtham as a sacred resort of the Jaina religion then. It is further evident from other records that the place was an influential center of the faith from early times and a holy abode of pilgrimage for its followers. No doubt, at first Ramatirtham was stronghold of Buddhism during the early centuries of Christian era. For, numerous Buddhist remains have been unearthed here (9). It may not be wrong to assume that Jainism might have captured this place during the days of the decline of the Buddhist creed and converted it into a stronghold of its own during the heydays of the Eastern Chalukyas of Vengi. Still we can see the caves with Tirthankara images, and a large number of Jaina sculptures there”. Ajay M. Shastry (10) wrote “According to the Masulipatam plates of Amma I (918-925 A.D.), his predecessor Vijayaditya IV (918 A.D.) ruled over the Vengimandala together with the Tri-Kalinga forest (Vengi-mandalam Tri- Kalingatavi-yuktam (11). Likewise, the Kolavaram plates of Chalukya-Bhima II that Vikramaditya II (sometime after 925 A.D.) held sway over both Vengi- 102 Dynasty History of United Koraput 103 mandala and Tri-Kalinga, (sa-Tri-Kalingam Vengi-mandalam) (12). The inclusion of Tri-Kalinga, obviously a part thereof, in the Vengi Chalukya kingdom finds support from some literary evidence also. The following stanza in the colophon of the medieval medical text entitled Kalyana-karaka by one Ugradityacarya states that the work was composed at Ramagiri which is described as adorned with structural as well as rock-cut temples and situated in the Tri-Kalinga country which was under the Vengi ruler: Vinga-Isa-Tri-Kalinga-desa-janana-prastutya-san-utkata- Prodyad=vrksa-lata-vitana-nirataih siddhais=ca vidyadharaih / Sarve mandira-kandar-opama-guha-caity-alay-alamkrte Ramye Ramagirv-idam viracitam sastram hitam praninam//(13) This Ramagiri is apparently different from modern Ramtek near Nagpur that is generally believed to represent the Ramagiri mentioned in the opening stanza of Kalidasa’s Megha-duta (Purva-megha, verse 1). We (Ajaya M. Sashtri) propose to identify it with the homonymous locality situated in the Koraput District of Orissa bordering the Srikakulam District of Andhra Pradesh which alone would satisfy the description. The assumption of the title Tri-kalingadhipati by the Somavamsins, who also called themselves Kosal-endra or ‘Lord of Kosala’, would show that Tri-Kalinga must have abutted on or must have been very close to South Kosala. It must be remembered in this connection that the Panduvamsins, who were lineal ancestors of the Somavamsins, also ruled over South Kosala and when under pressure from other powers they were forced to shift eastward and southward, they naturally moved towards the Kalahandi-Koraput-Bastar region. For some time they could have continued to hold a part of Kosal together with the adjoining area. And lastly, the assumption of this title by some later members of the Kalachuri dynasty as well as the continuation of its use by the later Eastern Gangas would show that it was a bone of contention among them as well as the Somavamsins and the Eastern Chalukyas. Therefore, the region of Tri-Kalinga or a part of it must have been situated not very far from their territories. Any identification of Tri-Kalinga must satisfy this condition. While considering the question of the location of Tri-Kalinga, the fact that in ancient times natural barriers like mountains, rivers and seas played an important role seems to have been ignored (14). Taking into consideration the above- mentioned political facts together with the geographical factors, we may conclude that the region comprising the Three Kalingas had three distinct geographical features: (i) Eastern Ghats dividing Kalinga region into Western and Eastern parts; (ii) the Mahanadi and the Godavari forming the northern and southern borders of Western Kalinga; and (iii) the Indravati dividing the Western Kalinga 103 Dynasty History of United Koraput 104 into North and South Kalinga, North Kalinga between the Indravati and the Mahanadi and South Kalinga, North Kalinga between the Godavari and the Indravati. With this geographical overview we may attempt to locate the Three Kalingas as follows: (a) South-Kalinga, bordered on the west and north-west by the Indravati, on the south by the Godavari and on the east by the Eastern Ghats, comprised southern portion of Koraput together with a considerable part of Bastar and a small region of north-west Srikakulam; (b) North Kalinga bordered on the north and west by the Mahanadi and on the south and east by the Eastern Ghats, consisted of northern Koraput and the adjoining south-eastern region of Kalahandi; and (c) East Kalinga-bordered the west by the Eastern Ghats, on the south by Godavari till it meets the Bay of Bengal, on the north by the Mahanadi where it empties into the Bay of Bengal and on the east by the Bay of Bengal – includes the whole of eastern Srikakulam and Vishakhapatnam together with the whole of Ganjam. The above is only a very rough indication of the areas comprised in the Three Kalingas, and it is impossible in the present state of disinformation to be more precise. Perhaps none of the kings who assumed the title Tri-Kaling-adhipati controlled at any time of their rule the whole of Tri-Kalinga; but even capture of a part of its, temporary or permanent, was thought enough to justify the assumption of this title. This was true of the Somavamsins also as they could control only a part of Orissan region of Tri-Kalinga adjacent to South Kosala, viz., Koraput- Kalahandi-Bastar (15).” Based on the findings of Ajay Shastry I am inclined to locate Ramagiri of Koraput to be the place in Tri- Kalinga where Ugraditya lived. Location of Ramagiri of Kalidasa The location of Ramigiri as mentioned in Meghaduta has been the subject for research for several years and thus a good number of papers have been accounted so far; and they have been discussed in the following paragraphs. H.H.Wilson in 1843 translated Meghdutam to English and the first stanza runs as, I ’Where Ramagiri's cool, dark woods extend, And those pure streams, where Sita bathed, descend; (16) The above is the first stanza of the Meghaduta composed by Kalidasa in Sanskrit, and it mentions clearly the place called ‘Ramagiri’.The Ramagiri region is considered most sacred because Lord Rama with Sita and Lakhmana during their 104 Dynasty History of United Koraput 105 long period of vanabasa had spent most time in the said area. Since long there are standing controversies over the identification of Ramagiri of Meghaduta fame and different sites have been proposed by various historians and research scholars. K.D.Bajpai wrote, “The location of Ramagiri of Kalidas has been discussed for a long time past and several localities have been identified with it. V.V. Mirashi, followed by other scholars, has put forth the claim of Ramtek near Nagpur for its identification with Ramagiri. Sundarlal Tripathi and some others located in the Koraput district of Orissa. There are still others who have tried to put Ramagiri elsewhere (17).” Lord Rama’s Feet in Pujariguda, Ramagiri in Koraput district An Epic, Puranic and Historical setting of Dandakaranya has been reported by Sundarlal Tripathy. (18) He has reviewed Godavari river from all puranic, epic and literature sources and the location of Panchavati is forwarded to be at the configuration of Godavari and ---- at Bhadrachalam.This is in reference to Lord Rama, Sita and Lahmana banavasa in Dandakaranya. He has cited the views of eminent research scholars and historians as to the location of Panchavati. He has also taken into account the Balmiki’s puranic notes and then has seen it from the Kalidasa’s kabyas to find the geographical locations as described for Dandakaranya, more so for Panchavati and Ramagiri etc. Kalidasa has described Ramagiri in Meghaduta and that gives a clear description of its geographical and physical account. Sunderlal Tripathy has identified 105 Dynasty History of United Koraput 106 Ramagiri of Dandakaranya close to Bastar-Koraput boarder and on the bank of Kolab or the river Savari as it was known; has given enough of evidences from all source possible including the published literatures in detail to ascertain that Ramagiri of Koraput-Bastar is the one that Kalidasa has mentioned in Meghaduta. He has defined the geographical sway in Dandakaranya like Ramagiri and Panchavati and placed the different place components in logical sequence with its present name and given its present location in Dandakaranya as has been narrated in the Meghaduta (19). 106 Dynasty History of United Koraput 107 Map of Dandakaranya –Chitrakuta showing path of Meghaduta of Kalidasa as per Sundarlal Tripathy Bajpai differed in locating the Ramagiri as has been pointed out by Sunderlal and wrote, “The regional geography in the Meghaduta of Kalidasa is chiefly concerned with the vast area of the present Madhya Pradesh. In the return journey of Rama from Lanka to Ayodhya, as described in the Raghuvamsa (canto XIII), also a large area of Madhya Pradesh is covered. Kalidasa takes unusual delight in describing the beauty of nature and the lively life of the people inhabiting the long stretch of land in this State from Ramagiri in the east to Dasapura in the west (Meghaduta, I, 14-47). Dasapura was the ancient name of Mandsaur in the extreme north-west of Madhya Pradesh (17).”The following observations of Bajpai are showing his view that Ramagiri can be identified with Rangarh in the Surguja District of Madhya Pradesh. (20) As regards the location of Ramagiri, it is more plausible to identify it with the hillock of Ramagarh in the Surguja district of Madhya Pradesh than with any other site was the opinion of Bajpai. The internal evidence, particularly from the Meghaduta, supports this identification. The hillock of Ramagarh, with the panoramic beauty around, tallies with its enchanting description given by Kalidasa in verses 1-4, 12 and 14 of the Meghaduta (21) Further in Canto XII of Meghaduta it is mentioned, “Short be thy farewell to this hill addressed; This hill with Rama's holy feet impressed;”(22) Sircar wrote,” The poet Kalidasa (c.A.D.400) describes in Raghuvamsa, canto X, how Vishnu, lying on the great serpent in the ocean of milk, with Lakhsmi rubbing his feet, was born as Dasaratha’s son for Ravana’s destruction, while the Vakataka queen Pravavatigupta (5th Century A.D.), the atyanta-vhagvad-bhaka daughter of Chandragupta II, was worshipper of Bhagabata Rama-grisvamin ( literally , the lord of Ramagiri) , who seems to be no other than Rama,son of Dasaratha. The suggestion is supported by the reference in Kalidasa’s Meghaduta to the foot prints of Raghupati (Rama Dasarathi) on the Ramagiri. (23)” I have discovered a pair of feet on a stone plate in Ramagiri in the village of Pujariguda that is worshipped locally. It is the lone pair of Feet in the region and is quite different in shape than that has been reported from various sites of Koraput district by Kornel and Gamang, 2009. In the same village lies the ruins of a fort that was built by Mohammedan rulers of South who had occupied the Ramagiri region and the Jeypore Kings had taken control after the defeat of 107 Dynasty History of United Koraput 108 the Mohammedan rulers. The erect stones and grave yard in the fort gives the indication that it was a Muslim ruler’s Fort. This has amounted to some loss of archaeology in the region is the local opinion. The following from Meghaduta gives glimpses of Ramagiri. The gentle breeze shall fan thy stately way, In sportive wreathes the Crane around thee play; pleased on thy left the Chataka, along pursue thy path, and cheer it with his song; And when thy thunders soothe the parching earth' And showers, expected, raise her mushroom birth; The swans for Mount Kailasa shall prepare, And track thy course attendant through the air. (24) Ramagiri of Meghaduta is bound by geographical details as described by Kalidasa. The description of Ramagiri as per Meghaduta still holds good to the Ramagiri in Dandakaranya. Kalidasa pointed out to the outburst of ‘Slindhara’ and it still continues in Sravana month in the region that is Sal forest red soil belt and this is called Sravana Chatu locally. Kalidasa mentions- Twabanamalikhia pranayakupitam dhaturagaha silaimatyaman’. It means the hill is made up of ‘dhatu’ and is made up of geru. The colour of Ramagiri hill is geru, pinkish shade. Ramagiri has been described.(25) On to the travel of cloud messenger in Meghatuda it refers to Chitrakuta on way from Ramagiri to Amarakuta and it runs as following described in Meghaduta. Next bending downwards from thy lofty flight, On Chitrakuta's humbler peak alight; O'er the tall hill thy weariness forego, And quenching rain-drops on its flames bestow; For speedy fruits are certain to await Assistance yielded to the good and great. (26) 108 Dynasty History of United Koraput 109 Temple having the Feet of Lord Mohammedan fort ruins, Rama, Pujariguda, Ramagiri Pujariguda, Ramagiri In Raghuvamsa, Kalidasa speaks of Pampasalil, Godavari river, Mandakarimuni Panchapsar, Saravanga ashram etc. including Chitrakuta waterfall and description of Nisara sundar parisfuta. It becomes clear from Raghuvamsa that the river Mandakini and Chitrakuta are in Dandakaranya.Mandakini is the present day Indravati river. (27) This was one of the basis that Sunderlal Tripathy made use of to prove his hypothesis that Ramagiri in Dandakaranya is the relevant place that Kalidasa used in his Meghaduta Eastward, where various gems, with blending ray, In Indra's bow o'er yonder hillock play, And on thy shadowy form such radiance shed, As peacock's plumes around a Krishna spread, Direct thy course: to Malas smiling ground, Where fragment tillage breathes the fields around; Thy fertile gifts, which looks of love reward, Where bright-eyed peasants tread the verdant sward. Thence sailing north, and veering to the west, On Amrakuta's lofty ridges rest; Oft have thy showers the mountain's flames allayed, Then fear not wearied to demand it's aid. (28) From Ramagiri, Kalidasa takes his cloud messenger to the north, then a little back to the south-west and again to the north to reach Amrakuta. The cloud passes over the fertile low land of the Mala region before reaching the heights of Amarakuta. In the region of Mala was situated the chief town of (south) Kosala, from where Kauslya, the mother of Rama, hailed. 109 Dynasty History of United Koraput 110 Bajpai again wrote, “The hill of Amarakuta and apparently the northern fringe of the river valley of Reva (Narmada) are described in no less than 6 verses (Meghaduta, I, 17 to 22). During its early course, the river is split up into several branches. This is described by the poet as ‘spread on the uneven Vindhyan hill like the streaks on an elephant’s body (Meghaduta, I, 19). It may be pointed out here that the cloud of Kalidasa is never asked by the poet to cross the river Rava (Normada) to reach Dasarna. While describing another big river Surabhitanaya (modern Chambal) in the Meghaduta (I, 47), Kalidasa clearly uses the word uttirya having crossed, which is not the case with the Nramada. In the latter case, the cloud has to go, for sometime, along the course of the river from Amarkantak onwards. This fact also goes against the identification of Ramagiri with Ramtek. In order to reach Dasarna from Ramtek, the river Reva has to be crossed. The description of Amrakuta by the poet tallies very well with the high-peaked Amarkantak and its beautiful natural environment. The direction from Amrakuta to the Dasarna janapada and its capital Vidisa is given almost straight to the west, and hence the poet for reaching that area suggests no change of direction. From Vidisa to Ujjain a diversion, vakrah pantha (Meghaduta, I, 27), is suggested. After Ujjain to Alaka the route is to the north, and hence no diversion is hinted at. (29)” Previously a few scholars like K.B. Pathak, M. Venkataramayya and V.K. Paranjape, identified Ramgarh with the Ramagiri of Kalidasa. The present author (Bajpai) has surveyed the area from Ramagarh in the Surguja district to the Tripuri-Bheraghat region in the Jabalpur district of Madhya Pradesh. He (Bajpai) has also studied the sites of the Koraput area in Orissa and the ancient remains at Ramtek near Nagpur. The chief reasons which go against the identification of Ramagiri of Kalidas with the site of the Koraput district or with Ramtek are briefly given below (30) (A) There are several sites known as Ramagiri in Orissa, including the one in the Koraput district on the bank of the river Khonlab supposed to be the ancient Sabari river). The existence of a Chitrakuta (apart from the one in the Banda-panna districts) in the Koraput district and that of Panchavati (on the confluence of the rivers Godavari and Indravati (ancient Mandakini) can also not be doubted. But the site on the Khonlab river does not indicate any archaeological potentiality to warrant its identification with Ramagiri of Kalidasa. At the same time, the internal evidence, as found in the Meghaduta giving the geography of the land 110 Dynasty History of United Koraput 111 from Ramagiri to Vidisa does not tally if we identify the above site with the Ramagiri of Kalidasa. (B) As regards Ramtek near Nagpur, there is no doubt that during the Vakataka Gupta Age it had become quite famous as a religious center. The art-relics that have been discovered in and around Ramtek bear eloquent testimony to the development of architecture and art, of a high order, in Ramtek during the Vakataka Age. But the identification of Ramtek with Ramagiri does not seem to be possible due to the following reasons: (i) The description of Ramagiri, as found in the above work of Kalidasa, does not tally with Ramtek, The flora and fauna of the area to the north of Ramtek are also quite different from those described by the poet. (ii) Had the forest area of the Chhindwara-Narashinghpur districts been familiar to the poet, he would have mentioned at least its lower region in his other work, the Raghuvamsa. In canto XIII of that work Kalidasa describes the return journey of Rama from Lanka to Ayodhia. The poet would have certainly mentioned Ramagiri (if it was Ramtek), where Rama had stayed with Sita and Lakshmana. No such description is, however, noticed in that work, whereas the asramas of several Rishis, Panchavati and the river Mandakini (present Indravati of Bastar) has been mentioned by the poet. Ramtek falls almost on the direct route from Sri Lanka and South India to Ayodhya. It is concluded that the findings of Sunderlal Tripathy (31) that the Ramagiri of Kalidasa described in the Meghaduta is located in Koraput district of Orissa close to the Gupteswara Cave Sivalinga Temple and is right on the boarder of Bastar district in Chhattisgarh State and is located in the Dandakaranya. Ample of evidences related to that described in Meghaduta has been cited and the present author have discovered a pair of Feet, as have been mentioned in Meghaduta as the foot prints of Lord Rama, still being worshiped in Pujariguda in Ramagiri vicinity adds to the argument. Ajay Mitra Shastri have identified the same Ramagiri where Acharya Ugraditya, a Jaina Guru wrote Kalyanakaraka, a treatise on medicines in 7th Century A.D. 111 Dynasty History of United Koraput 112 This Chapter is dedicated to the fond memory of Late Sri Sunderlal Tripathy of Jagdalpur, Bastar district for his life dedicated to people of Bastar, their culture and heritage, more especially to the Tribals. His contribution to Dandakaranya history and especially the papers like ‘Meghaduta Described Ramagiri and its Geography Review’ and inferences as well as the paper on ‘Dandaka, Chitrakut- Chakrakuta and Bastar-Koraput’ will remain as inspiration to future generation. Largest Siva Linga, Another Siva Linga, Gupteswara, Ramagiri Ramagiri Caves NB: Eminent personalities and Scholars have identified Ramagiri of Meghadutam in Koraput district. They are Dr. Ajit Tripathy, Author and Fmr Chief Secretary to Gov. of Odisha, Peetambar Panda of Balasore, Dr.Ananta Tripathy Sharma of Berhampur, Prof (Dr.) Prafulla Kumar Mishra, Vice- Chancellor, North Odisha University, Anadi Sahu, Fmr. Inspctor General, Gov. of Odisah and Member of Parliament, Dr. Sundarlal Tripathy of Bastar, Prafulla Chandra Tripathy and many more. Reference 1. Jawaharlal, G.Jainism in Andhra. p.130 2. Ramagiri of Ugraditya’s Kalyankaraka, PIHC, Nagpur session. 1950. Pp.127-33. 3. MAR 1922, p.23, See Kalyanakaraka, published in sakhiram Nemichandra Series No. 129. 4. Ibid, and also see J.P. Jain. The Jaina Sources of Ancient India. p.205. 5. J.P. Jain, op.cit. p.206 6. Ibid. p. 206 7. A.S.I, A.R, 1910-11, pp.78-87. 112 Dynasty History of United Koraput 113 8. Jawaharlal, G. op.cit. p.91. 9. Rea, A.R.A.S.I., 1910-11, p.75, PI. VLIII, No.20 10. Ajay Mitra Shastri Inscriptions of Sarbhapuryas, Panduvamsins and Somavamsins, part I,.pp.183-185. 11. E. I., V, 113, text-line 17. 12. S.I.I. I, 43. The Arumbaka grant of Bdapa states that Ammaraja II (945- 970 A.D.) at first ruled over the Vengi-desa joined with Tri-Kalinga, But later left for Kalinga where he ruled for fourteen year (EI, xix, 137). This has been taken as an evidence of a distinction between Tri- Kalinga and Kalinga (ibid. xxiii, 69); but here Tri-Kalinga may refer to the forest portion of the country while Kalinga may refer to the coastal region. 13. Cited by Nathuram Premi in his Jaina Sahitya aura Itihasa, second edition, 447, fn.1. 14. Even in these days of scientific and technological progress when many of the natural hurdles have been overcome their role in dividing the areas is not insignificant. 15. The following stanza met with in a manuscript of the Brahamnda Purna deposited in the Orissa State Museum defines Kalinga and Tri-Kalinga respectively as (i) the land between the Rsikulya and Jhanajavati and (ii) that between the Jhanjavati and Vedavati. Riskulyam samsadya yavad Jhanjavati nadi /, Kalingadesa prakhyato desana garhitas-tada // Jhanjavati samasadya yavad Vedavati nadi /, Trikalingeti vikhyato ..…. //. The dependability of these stanzas is not beyond doubt; they contain grammatical errors and the last eight syllables of the second stanza are lost. They may represent the narrow definitions prevalent at the time the manuscript was copied, viz., during the late medieval period. Anyway, not much significance can be attached to these stanzas, particularly, as they go against the unimpeachable epigraphic evidence. Hiralal Shukla, Pracina Bastar 79-86; S. Tripathy, “Royal Titles of Trikalingadhipati and Samasta-Gondramadhipati of the Early Medieval Orissan Epigraphs’, OHRJ, XXXI, Nos. 2-4, 143-151. 16. Wilson, H.H. (1843) Meghdutam (a English Translation of Kalidasa’s Meghaduta) http://www.google.co.in/search?q=%28Cloud+Messenger%29+by+Kalidas 113 Dynasty History of United Koraput 114 a+%28Translated+from+Sanskrit+by+H.+H.+Wilson%2C+1843%29&btn G=Search&hl=en&sa=2 17. Bajpai, K.D. in Ajay Mitra Sashtri, Ed., The Age of the Vakatakas. Publication Herman Publishing House, New Delhi-28. p.85-91 18. Tripathy, Sunderlal. Dandak, Chitrakuta-Chakrakote and Bastar-Koraput. p.72-124. 19. Ibid. 20. Bajpai, K.D. op.cit. 21 Ibid. 22. Wilson, H.H. (1843).op.cit. 23. Sircar, D.C. Vaishnavism: The Avatars of Vishnu (from Kalidasa’s Meghaduta, St.15): In Classical Age. p.422 24. Wilson, H.H. (1843).op.cit 25. Tripathy, Sunderlal. (1974) Meghaduta Barnita Ramagiri ki Bhogalic Punarvichar (in Hindi). ANC.IND. History and Archaeology, Sagar University, (Madhya Pradesh) p.1-38. 26. Wilson, H.H. (1843).op.cit 27. Tripathy, Sunderlal. Dandak, Chitrakuta-Chakrakote and Bastar-Koraput. p.72-124. 28. Wilson, H.H. (1843).op.cit. 29. Bajpai, K.D. in Ajay Mitra Sashtri, Ed., Ibid. 30. Ibid. 31. Sircar, D.C.Vaishnavism: The Avatars of Vishnu (from Kalidasa’s Meghduta, St. 15.) In Classical Age. 114 Dynasty History of United Koraput 115 THE WESTERN CHALUKYAS AND CHAKRAKOTE, DAKISHNA KOSALA, KALINGA AND VENGI The founders of Chalukya line was Pulakesin I, the name means ‘the great lion’ of Badami, Karnataka, (1) which was later known as Western Chalukya. Pulakesin’s son Kirtivarman I (566-7) expanded the kingdom by wars against the Kadambas of Banavasi, (2) the Mauryas of Konkan and Nalas-ruling present Bastar-Jeypore Agency.(3) At Kirtivarman I (597-8) demise, his son Pulakesin II was too young to rule, thus his uncle Mangalesa, Kirtivarman’s brother, held sway as vegent, but instead of surrendering Mangalesa sought to prolong his rule with a view to hand over the kingdom to his son in due course. Pulakesin II waged war against Mangalesa and killed Mangalesa in the battlefield and proclaimed himself the king (609-10). He attacked and over threw the Kadamba capital Banavasi and the Gangas of Mysore were compelled to acknowledge his suzerainty and married the daughter of Ganga ruler Durvinita who became the mother of Vikramaditya I. (4) Later Chalukyas represent Kirtivarman I as having destroyed the habitants of Nalas. The arguments of many scholars that Vakataka Harisena uprooted the Nala family in the same epoch and transplanted the Western Gangas in their territory is untenable. Kirtivarman I had also the title ‘the first maker of Vatapi’ suggests that Kirtivarman I began to build town with temples and other buildings. The first invasion recorded from south came through the Western Chalukya king Kirtivarmana I (597-8 A.D) to Nala capital, Pushapagiri, the present Podagadha of Koraput, close to Bastar. In the Aihole inscription, this has been described by his son Pulakesh II (5). Pulakesin II, son of Kirtivarman I of Western Chalukya, further followed the second invasion; who defeated Southern Kosala and Kalinga. It is said that Pulakesin II gave the charge of his capital in the hands of his younger brother, Kubja Vishnuvardhan then Yuvaraj and then started his campaign of conquer in Eastern Deccan. The southern Kosala (Pauduvamsis) and Kalinga made their submission first. Pithapuram was then attacked and reduced (6). This has been described in the Aihole Inscription (7) 115 Dynasty History of United Koraput 116 It was Kirtivarman I who had conquered the coastal belt of east and had formed the Vengi country. Kubja Vishnuvardhana, the second son of Kirtivarmana I and brother of Pulakesin II, ruled the Vengi. The Kubaja Vishnuvardhana’s family rule of Vengi in later times was known as Eastern Chalukyas (8). The conflict between Western Chalukya and Cholas was apparent, records of Taila II, Satyasraya to Jayasimha II. The conflict came from the Chola interest in Eastern Chalukyas matters. Jayasimha II conflict with the Cholas The Eastern Chalukya Vimaladitya, the brother of Saktivarman had married Kundavai, the sister of Rajendra Chola. Their son Rajaraja was to succeed to the Vengi throne. If this were to be allowed, then the Chola would grow stronger in the region. Thus to check this Jayasimha II planned to uphold the claim of Vijayaditya to the Vengi throne. Vijayaditya was stepbrother of Rajaraja, born to Vimaladitya by his second wife Melama or Medama of the Telugu Choda family (as per Konidena records) (9). Rajaraja succeeded to throne of Vengi in about 1018-19 A.D. Vijayaditya did not easily let go his claim for the throne, more so Jayasimha II supported him. It is stated in an inscription from Tanjore (10) that Rajendra Chola conquered Irattapadi from Jayasimha who turned his back and fled from Muyangi or ‘Musangi’. The Cholas deprived the assistance to Vijayaditya from Jayasimha II, thus Vijayaditya was obliged to flee from the country and seek shelter at the court of his ally, the king of Kalinga. The generals of Chola, Aryan Vikrama-chola Choliyavarayan followed him to Kalinga where he met resistance from the combined forces of the ‘Kalingas, Oddas and Telungas’ in a battle, though nothing is known about the final outcome of the contest, as known from Kottasivaram epigraphs. There was yet another important moves of Jayasimha II against the Eastern Chalukyas to uphold the cause of Vijayaditya. He also appears to have succeeded in his efforts. The Pamulavaka plates of Vijayaditya VII (11) state that after Rajaraja had ruled (Vengi) for a period of twelve years, he was expelled by his brother Vijayaditya and came to the throne by 1030-31 A.D. The Kalidindi grant of Rajaraja (12) seems to throw some light on this fact. The grant speaks of 3 Chola generals who laid their life in the battlefield; these Siva temples were built in their memory by Rajaraja. 116 Dynasty History of United Koraput 117 Somesvara I The accession of Somesvara I ushered in a brilliant period in the history of the Chalukyas of Kalyani, who attained power and glory in the reign of his son Vikramaditya VI. Bilhan’s Vikrankadeva Chairta helps us to study the period of Somesvara I to some extent, though it deals mainly with Vikramaditya VI. The year 1044 A.D. the very first year of his rule Somesvara I, saw the death of Rajendra Chola I and Rajadhiraja accessioned the throne. According to some scholars Rajadhiraja met Somesvara I five times in the battle field (13). In 1061 A.D., Rajaraja of Vengi succeeded by Saktivarman II, the son of Vijayaditya VIII (14). But Saktivarman could not rule for more than one year. He appeared to have died in a battle. The Karur inscription of Vija Rajendra mentioned that he had defeated Somesvara thrice. Of these three occasions, the second one refers to the battle fought against the Western Chalukya army that was in occupation of Vengi. The Charla plates of Virarajendra confirm this by saying that he conquered back ‘Vengi and Kalinga countries, which had been captured by his powerful enemies’ (15). Then Vira Rajendra helped Vijaditya VII, the stepbrother of Kulottunga I to gain the throne of Vengi. It is Kulottunga I who was the claimant for the throne of Vengi. It is proposed by K.V.Subramania Iyer that Kulottunga I was too young to press his claims, at that time. The battle of Kudalasangama appears to be the first battle of Somesvar I after being crowned. The Tamil records have described the battle in length. The two sons of Somesvara I, Vikramaditya and Jayasimha were in the battlefield. Somesvara I lost the battle, many generals of W.Chalukyas were killed (16). It speaks of one Singana of Kasalai was also killed. This is interest to us. This battle was during 1064 A.D. The next battle fought by Virarajendra against Chalukyas as per Chola records, ‘on the bank of an unnamed river’ in 1066 A.D. The details are not available. The Manimangalam inscription (17) says that the Chola had killed, in a battle, number of generals of Chalukya; thus this made the Chalukyas to invite Cholas to appear at appointed place Kudal (or Kondai). The Cholas came but Chalukya 117 Dynasty History of United Koraput 118 king did not; thus the Cholas attacked and destroyed the army of Chalukyas. Venkatrama Ayyar thinks that this was because Someswar was too ill to go to battlefield due to his illness (18). This fact has been corroborated by Bilhana who says that, “with the consent of his minister he had travelled to the sacred stream (Gadavari river)” when he found he is uncurable. Vikramaditya VI Somesvara I was succeeded by his eldest son Somesvara II in 1068 A.D. He ruled for 8 years. This period witnessed a struggle between him and his younger brother Vikramaditya VI. Vikramaditya VI at last crowned after long confusion between the brothers (19). Bilhana wrote, as a prince Vikramaditya VI started on a digvijaya after obtaining permission of his father. He finally conquered (20). This is based on Bilhana’s Kavya. Gangakunda, Vengi and Chakrakuta Gopal wrote (21); “However, that Vikramaditya and Virarajendra met on battle field near Chakrakuta appears to be correct. Soon after 1065 A.D. when Virarajendra extended invitation to defend Vengi, which he had determined to reconquer, Viramaditya must have produced there. But this fact is not mentioned in Chola records. At this period of time Kulottunga I, the successor of Virarajendra was in the region of the modern Bastar (1063-70 A.D), and possibly carved out for himself a small dominion beyond it in the Purvadesa, even if he did not gain complete control over the Chakrakuta state and annexed parts of the Purvadesa to it, as his inscriptions imply. Possibly this north extension of the influence of the Vengi, so closely allied to Colas, was the cause of Vikramaditya’s expedition against Vengi and Chakrakuta, counteracted by the campaign of Virarajendra culminating in the battle of Bezwada (22).But this period is really confusing, remarked K.A.N.Sastri. Vira Rajendra’s records narrate the victory he achieved in the battle fought near Vijayawada (23). Thereupon he returned back home and undertook an expedition to Ceylon. It is after this the Chola once again proceeded against Chakrakuta in the Bastar region. A battle was fought at Kondai (Kondapalli) and his victory there in was stated to have commemorated by the erection of the pillar of victory with the Chola emblem on it. In these exploits, the Virarajendra Chola appears to have been assisted by his nephew Rajendra the future Kulottunga. 118 Dynasty History of United Koraput 119 The events as per Bilhana, that Vikramaditya conquered Vengi and Chakrakuta, where after he had come as far as the Krishna when he heard of his father’s death and returned back. Thus the claims of Virarajendra are not tenable. Virarajendra Choda soon thereafter gave his daughter’s hand to Vikramaditya VI; and another daughter (Rajasundari) to the Kalinga ruler Rajaraja, the other ally on Vikramaditya’s side (24). Vikramaditya VI failed in his turn to prevent Kulottunga I from succeeding to the Chola throne, after his maternal uncle Virarajendra passed away. Thus Somesvara II, the elder brother of Vikramaditya VI joined hands with Kulottunga I. The Vikramaditya VI waged a war against Somesvara II and taken him prison. The Tirukkukkunram inscription of Kulottunga I dated in the 14th and 15th year of his reign, records his driving Vikkalan (i.e. Vikramaditya VI) out of Nagli (in the Kolar district) by way of the Marialur to the Tungabhadra river, and his conquest of the Gangamadala and Singanan by which he dominions of Jayasimha IV seems to be mean (25).Dr.Hultzsch says, “the Virudaraja of the Kalingattuparani, and the king of Kuntala whom Kulottunga claims to have defeated, is Vikramaditya VI. The war between these kings must have taken place before A.D. 1074-75”. With the accession of Kulottunga I, the Vengi passed on to the Cholas. He sent his son Rajaraja Mummadi-Chola as viceroy to Vengi (1076 A.D.); he stayed for one year there (26). The basis of Eluru copper plates, M.Somasekhara Sharma summarised that Western Chalukya and Eastern Gangas of Kalinga together invaded Vengi and Rajaraja Mumadi Chola faced boldly with the assistance of his feudatory Mummadi Bhima, and drove them out (27). The EasternGanga contemporary was Rajaraja Devendravarma who also passed away in Saka 999. He was married to the daughter of Virarajendra, Rajasundri and Antanta Chodagangadeva was born to this couple, and he was a minor. It is still uncorroborated fact that Mummadi Chola rendered all assistance to Kalinga to save from the attack of Western Chalukyas. His younger brother Vira Choda as viceroy of Vengi soon succeeded the Rajaraja Mecumadi Chola. He had two terms of his office, i.e. from 1084 to 1089 A.D. and.............. The second term was specially meant for saving the reign from war clouds as per Pithapuram plates of Vira choda (28). 119 Dynasty History of United Koraput 120 The history of Vikramaditya VI is not clear for this period, with relation to his efforts on Vengi. During second tenure of office Vira Choda faced an invasion of Somesvara, king of Bastar, described as Lord of Chakrakuta. It is summarised (29) that Paramara Jagaddeva might have rendered assistance to this king of Nagavamsa, since his Jainad inscription state that he defeated the King of Audha. It is further said that the king of Chakrakotta might have been provocated by Vikramaditya VI. But neither the Kuruspal record (30) of the Somesvara nor the Jaina inscription are dated nor it is not possible to fix the date of this invasion on Vengi. There are evidences that even from the time of Chalukya Somesvara I, regions adjoining the Vengi country like Kokipake-7000 were under the control of the Chalukyas.The Kolanupaka inscription(31) dated 1077 A.D. states that mahamandelesvara Sankaraganda was governing Kokipake-7000(32), refers to Tondaya-Chola-maharaja as the governor of that region. In 1066 A.D. we see Paramara Jagaddeva, in charge of this region, while Somesvara III, the Chalukya prince was the administrator of the area (33). This Kolanupaka may be identified with the present Kolyan Simhapur or Kalyan Singapur as called, located close to Rayagada of Koraput district in Orissa. This was an ancient seat of Western Chalukya. The archeological remains in the locality prove this. 120 Dynasty History of United Koraput 121 Reference 1. I.A. XIX, p.16; E.I. VI-I p.1. 2. E.I. Vi, pp.4-5. 3. Sastri, K.A. Nilakanta. A History of South India. P.148 4. Ibid 5. Ibid.p.148 6. Ibid.p.149 7 Ibid. 8 Sastri, K.A. Nilakanta., op cit.p.150. 9. S.I.I. VI, No. 684. 10. S.I.I. II, No.10, See also No.17. 11. JAHRS, II, p.287. 12. Bharati, XX, E.I. XXIX, pp.57ff. 13. Sastri, K.A. Nilakanta The Colas. p.222, 224-25 and 253-57. 14. The Eastern Chalukyas of Vengi p.246. 15. TAS. III, pp.147-48 (Verse 77). 16 S.I.I. III, No.20, 30 etc. 17. S.I.I. III, pp.68-69. 18. A.I. XLVIII, pp.139-40. 19. Gopal, B.R. The Chalukyas of Kalyana and the Kalachuris. pp.218. 20. Buhler (Ed.) Vikramankadevacharitam (1975). p.31. 21. Gopal, B.R., op.cit p.222. 22. E.I. XXV, p.249. 23. Gopal, B.R. op. cit. p.223. 24. Sastri, K.A.N. The Colas p.290. 25. S.I.I. III, No.69.p.144 26 Ibid. p.129 27. Sarma, M.S. in Vijmana-saravasuvamu (Telugu).p.192 cited by Gopal, B.R. The Chalukyas of Kalyana.p2.61. 28 E.I. V. Pp. 70 ff 29. Sarma, M.S.op. cit. p262 30. Ibid. 31. R.I.E., 1961-62, App.B.No.84 32. Parabrahma Sastry (Edi.) Select Epigraphs of Andhra Pradesh, No.18 33. Ibid.No.10 121 Dynasty History of United Koraput 122 KALYAN SINGPUR At Kalyan Singpur, close to Rayagada of Koraput, a cave temple is of archeological interest. The hill is called Devagiri. The hill top has damaged stone carved inscriptions, which was recorded by George Swell but could not decipher. Devagiri This is an unique single stone hill located close to Kalyan singpur, 48 Kms from Rayagada and 158 Kms from Koraput. The hill rises to height of 120.2 meters and is flat on the top and thus giving a shape like an egg. The top floor has perennial pools of water and is known as Ganga, Yamuna, Saraswati, Bhagabati, and Indradyaumna. There is a cave on the top, in the shape of an open jaw and a Siva linga is housed in it. At present there is a small collection of different deities like Siva linga, Vishnu and others placed safely in the cave. As per historical accounts, the predecessors of the Yadavas of Devagiri ruled over a country comprising Khandesh, Nasik, and Ahmadnagar Districts in the Bombay State, as vassals of the Rastrakutas of Manyakheta and the Chalukyas of Kalyana for more than three hundred years. The founder of this feudatory family was Dridhaprahara, who is said to have been the son of Subahu, king of Dvaravatipura, modern Dwaraka, in Kathiawar. Dridhaprahara flourished in the first half of the ninth century A.D., and established his capital at Chandradityapura, modern Chandor, in the Nasik District. His son and successor Seunachandra I founded a city called Seunapura and also gave the name Seuna- desa or Sevuna-desa to his kingdom after his son. It was situated on the confines of Dandaka, and included Devagiri, Seunachandra are referred to as the Sevunas in their own inscriptions as well as in those of their neighbours. A remote successor of Seunachandra was Karna, whose son Bhillama V was the first independent king of the dynasty (1).The geography as described above and its linkage to Dandaka makes it more sure that the Devagiri of Kalyansingpur has relationship to said Yadavas. D.C. Ganguly wrote, “Western Chalukya King, Somesvara I and his feudatory, the Kakatya Prola, raided Kosala, and conquered Chakrakota, in the Bastar district after defeating a king of Naga dynasty. It is unlikely that he came into clash with Virarajendra and Rajendra Chola I at Chakrakota. Prola claims to have defeated a 122 Dynasty History of United Koraput 123 chief named Bhadranga (?) Kadaparti, and killed Gonna, the chief of Purakuta. Vijrahasta V, king of Kalinga, suffered defeat at the hands of Somesvara I. (2).” Other way, as there is ample evidence which circle around Chakarakota in all possible way it is a confirmed fact that Kalyana branch of Western Chalukya had presence in present Koraput. So I conclude the present Kalyan Singpur derives its name from Kalyana branch of W.Chalukya and Simha refers to Jayasimha II. But in later period, Vikrama Chola in his short region of 1118 to 1133 A.D. freed the Southern Andhradesa from the yoke of the Chalukyas of Kalyani and E. Gangas of Kalinga with the support of his Andhra feudatories.(3) Gopal, B.R. mentions,” Even from the time of Chalukya Somesvara I, regions adjoining the Vengi country like Koollipake-7000 were under the control of Chalukyas. The Kolanupaka inscription (4) dated 1077 AD states that Mahandalesvara Sankaganda was governing Kollipaka-7000 division.”(5).This is also indicative of Kalyan singpur of Koraput. Reference 1. Ganguly, D.C. (1989) The Yadavas of Devagiri. The Struggle for Empire. The History and Culture of Indian People. Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, Bombay, p.185. 2. Ganguly, D.C. (1989) Later Chalukyas and Kalachuries of Kalyana. The Struggle for Empire. The History and Culture of Indian People. Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, Bombay, p.172. 3. Kumari, Krishna.The rule of the Chalukya-Chola in Andhradesa. P-56. 4. A.R.I.E.1961-62, App. B, No.84. 5. Gopal.B.R. The Chalukyas of Kalyana and Kalachuris, Prasaranga Karnatak University, Dharward.p-263. 123 Dynasty History of United Koraput 124 DEVAGIRI REMAINS View from Devagiri Hills Devagiri Hill, Kalyan Singpur,Rayagada Flat top of Devagiri Hills 124 Dynasty History of United Koraput 125 Hills in the shape of Siva Linga is believed Tanks over Devagiri to be behind the name Devagiri Tank over the Devagiri Hill Brusava over Devagiri 125 Dynasty History of United Koraput 126 Old Bricks Brusava over Devagiri Brusavas over Devagiri Brusava over Devagiri 126 Dynasty History of United Koraput 127 Brusava over Devagiri Brusava over Devagiri Unidenfied Images Brusavas over Devagiri 127 Dynasty History of United Koraput 128 Ganesha Image not identifiable 128 Dynasty History of United Koraput 129 Akapada Siva? Ganesha Visnu Visnu 129 Dynasty History of United Koraput 130 Kalyan Singpur Siva Temple images Ganesha in Kalyan Singpur Siva Temple Pair of Feet in Narayanpur Siva Temple 130 Dynasty History of United Koraput 131 Siva Lingas in Devagiri Siva Lingas in Devagiri Convex forehead of Brusa in Narayanpur (may be Karnataka origin) 131 Dynasty History of United Koraput 132 Sivalinga in Narayanpur Pair of Feet in Narayanpur Siva Temple 132 Dynasty History of United Koraput 133 IKSHVAKUS AND PRESENT DISTRICT OF KORAPUT Simhanandi was great figure in the early history of Jainism in Andhradesa. He became the leader of the Vakargachcha, established by Konda- Kundacarya (1).In Dasmanthpure area of Koraput sub-division, on the bank of river Muran there are two villages located close by and are named Barigaccha and Narigaccha respectively. I believe the name of the villages have survived the time and is giving evident to Simhanandi and Jaina influence of past.The Gacchas/ Gachahas are Jaina institutions of the past under the Mulasangha organization. Simhanandi appears to have taken active part in the contemporary politics and his name is connected with the foundation of the Western Ganga Kingdom of Talakad (2). The Gangas claimed descent from the Iksvakus and the founder were two princes by name Dadiga and Madhava. The probable date of the foundation of the Western Ganga kingdom is A.D. 350, (3). It may be recalled that the Pallavas destroyed the Iksvakus of Sriparvata about A.D 295 (4) and therefore it may be assumed that the Iksvaku brothers migrated to the south from the Sriparvata region (5). Iksavakus of Sriparvata were Vidikas and their queens patronized Buddhism. It may therefore signify that the Iksvaku princes, on the advice of Simhanandi gave up their side, became Jainas (6). The earliest known Ikshvaku King Vasishthiputra Santamula I (Chantamula) flourished about the second quarter of the third century, which was immediately after fall of the Satavahanas. Like the Kadambas and Chalukyas of later times, he is described as "favoured by Mahasena (Skanda-Karttikeya)." Santamula I had at least two sisters, the first of whom was married to a feudatory chief who had the style 'Mahasenapati' Mahatla vara and belonged to the Pukiya family. The King's daughter Atavi-Santisri was married to an official styled Mahsenapati Mahadandanayaka and reported to have belonged to the noble family of the Dhanakas. Some scholars have connected the word Pukiya with Pungi district covering parts of southern Guntur and the adjoining region. (7) 133 Dynasty History of United Koraput 134 Word 'Pukiya family', 'Puki visaya' and Pukali have been examined with relation to history of South. 'Pukiya family' is referred in Ikshavakus inscription and 'Puki- vishaya' in Chipurupalle plates and in Timmarapuram plates of Vishnuvardana I of Eastern Chalukyas. The Timmarapuram plate is giving definite evidence of Puki-vishaya in Koraput district, the former day Visakhapatnam Agency. It is further strengthened due to identification of Kumulura village in BhairabSingpur region that appears in the inscription of Chipurupalli grant, the Eastern Chalukya king Vishnuvardana I (8). A detail account is given in the Eastern Chalukya chapter in the present volume. There is a village named Attavi near the present day Jolaput in Koraput district, Orissa. The said village is with in the past Matsya kingdom of Madgole and here the historical famous Machkund or Fish pond is located. The matrimonial relation of Attava-Santisri with Ikshvakus and Pukiya family’Mahasenapati’ Mahatla as reffered above with the arguments I am placing the Ikshvakus were present in Koraput district. Ikshavaku dynasty and the relationship of Vishnuvardana I to Attava and Matsya family are further strengthening inscriptions findings and the location in Koraput region as per following findings. K.R. Subramanian (1931) with reference to Ikshvakus wrote, 'There was marriage relationship between the Ikshvaku and the dynasty of Vanavasi in the region of Bahubala, but it would appear that the Kadambas had not risen then into a ruling power.'(9) He further wrote that the above fact is mentioned due to, 'the new inscriptions introduce to us a number of new class like the Pukiyas, the Dhatakas, the Sagara, the Chaliki, etc. the last two being names of some of the princes. The Ikshvaku must have married into the local families. Chantisari married her brother's Senapati, Mahalalavara Vasishtiputra Skanda Sri of the Pukiya Clan and their son, was Skandax Sagaram naga…'The said reference is pointing to south Ishvakus'. N. Venkataramanaya (1950) wrote, 'Visnuvardhana I was a great soldier and capable general. He had under him was two capable lieutenants, the Pattavardhani Brahaman, Kala-Kampa and Buddhavarman of the Caturthakula, the founder of the Giri pascima or Kondapadamati family (10), who helped him to establish his authority in the Telugu country. Another chief called Atavi - Durjaya of the Matsya family is mentioned as the 'ajnapti' of his Chipurupalle Plate (11). He was probably the founder of the Matsya dynasty of Oddadi, and it is not unlikely that he accompanied the Chalukya army from the west-coast, and helped 134 Dynasty History of United Koraput 135 Vishnuvardhana I in reducing the forest tracts of Kalinga (Kaling = atavi) to subjection.'(12). It means Matsya dynasty ruled Atavi and Atavi was with in the territory of Matsya that means Machkund- Nandapur region of Koraput. We put forward the fact that there are two ancient villages in Koraput-sub- division; one is in the Dasmanthpur area (on hills) called Paiko Puki. The other place near to Perata village and very close to Koraput town is known as Poraja Puki. One has to cross the Kolab dam water to reach the village otherwise take a route from Paliva village to Poraja Puki village. This is amidst Jaina remains; surrounding villages are formed by Jhodia Poraja who call themselves as Bodo Poraja. The Poraja Puki is close to Nandapur, the former capital of present day Koraput region; so also Paiko Puki is not very far point from Poraja Puki. J. Ph. Vogel observes that 'it is interesting to meet with a line of rulers, settled in the Telugu country, which claimed descent from Ikshaku, i.e., Ikkhaku (=Skt. Ikshvaku), the mythical progenitor of the famous Solar dynasty of Ayodhya. It is well-known that not only Rama belonged to that illustrious house, but the Buddha, too, is called a scion of the race of Ikshaku (Pali Okkaka). It is clear, in any case, that these Southern Ikhakus were rulers of some importance, as they formed matrimonial alliances not only with the Maharajas of Vanavasa, but also with the kings, presumably the descendants of the satrap Chashtana, who resided at Ujjayini in Central India. The nomenclature of these Southern Ikhaku kings, coupling their personal names with metronymics like Madhariputa and Vasithiputa, seems to be a practice borrowed from the earlier rulers of the Andhra dynasty. It will hardly be necessary to quote the instance of Vasithiputa Siri- Pulumavi and Gotamiputa Satakanni. On the other hand, there are in these inscriptions certain expressions which are also found in the Prakrit copperplate grants of the early Pallavas. '(13). Iksvaku King Camtamula I and his grandson Ehuvula Camtamula II, and we believe from the above reports that present day village Kamata of Bhairabasingpur and another place called Charmula (a Jain temple of ancient day) have been derived. The Kamata area tribals have recently excavated one ancient Buddhist temple at Pakkanaguda. 135 Dynasty History of United Koraput 136 Reference 1. Jain, J.P. The Jain sources of the History of Ancient India. 2. Saletore, B.V. Mediaeval Jainism. 3. Desai, P.B. Jainism in South India. 4. Salthianathaiyer, HCIP III p 268. 5. Rama Rao, M. Iksvakus of Vijayapuri p.48. 6. Krishnarao, M.V. Jainism in Gangavadi QJMS XXIV p.48 ff 7. Majumdar, R.C. and Altekar, A.S. The Vakataka-Gupta Age, Cir-200-550 A.D. Motilal Banarsidass. Chapter IV, p. 5. 8. E.I. IX. p.317 9. Subramanian, K.R. (1931) Budhist Remains in Andhra. p. 87. 10. Venkataramanaya, N. (1950) The Eastern Chalukyas of Vengi. p. 57 ff. 11. SII, IV. 662. 12. Venkatramanaya, Ibid. p. 63. 13. EI.XX, p. 6. 136 Dynasty History of United Koraput 137 NALA DYNASTY IN KORAPUT KALAHANDI AND BASTAR DISTRICTS The Nalas ruled in Kantara-Kosal region in 4th-5th centuries. They claim to be descent from the Nishadha king Nala of the epic fame (1). Vayu-Purana and Brahmanda- Purana also support it. According to Matsya purana and Hari Vamsha, they belonged to the solar dynasty; but the Mahabharat narrates that they were of the lunar race. According to Rajaguru, 1958 the reigning period of Nala kings may be assigned to the 5th and 6th century A.D. and had continued till the Sarvhapuriyans and the Panduvamsi got supremacy over Madhyabharat (2). Nalas ruled over the land between river Wian Ganga in the west to the Indravati in the south and from the Eastern Ghats in the east to the Mekala region in the north. This territory was known to be the Nalas dominion, when they went at the height to the power but their original country was confined to the modern Koraput district of Orissa and part of Bastar district of Madhya Pradesh, may be a part of Kalahandi District of Orissa also (3). G.Ramdas has identified Pushkari i.e. modern Podagada in Umerkote of Koraput district in Orissa as the capital of Nalas (4) but Altekar did not agree to the proposal, on the other hand N.K.Sahu supported the findings of Ramdas.Thus it is reasonable to say that the Nalas ruled over the Koraput District in the 5th and 6th century A.D. and this was the Nalavadi Visaya referred in the Kurnool- grant (5) of the Western Chalukya king Vikramaditya I who owned about the middle of the 7th century A.D. We learnt from the Rithapur plates (6) of Bhavadattavarman, that afterwards he transferred his capital from Pushkari to Nandivardhana. The reason for the transfer is known from the Podagadh stone inscription where it is stated that owing to some trouble initiated by external enemies of the Nalas with Skanadavarman son of Bhavadatta, the town of Pushkari was desolated but was again restored to the normal position (7). It does not mention the enemy in clear terms. Some scholar also inclined to suggest that Nandivardan was the capital of Nala as stated above. It may be better to state that Nandivardan was the capital town of Vakataka kings of Berar as known from Puna copper Plate inscriptions of Prabhavati Gupta of her regional year 13 and the Rithapur inscription of Bhavadattavarman only indicates that the Nala king had succeeded in occupying the Vakataka capital for some time and started struggle between Nalas and Vakatakas (8). Hiralal has identified the Nandivardan with Nagavardan 13 miles north of Nagpur, but as has been also stated that Nandapur 34 mile north of Nagpur may be the old Nandivardan (9). 137 Dynasty History of United Koraput 138 The genealogy of the Nala kings was workout by several authors including P.L. Misra, (10) S.N. Rajaguru, (11) N.K. Sahu (12) and G. Ramdas (13) from the valuable stone inscriptions and copper plate grants. The Kesharibeda plates of Arthapati was edited by G. Ramdas and re-edited by D.C. Sircar (14). The Rithapur plates (15) by Bhabadattavarman was edited by Y.R. Gupte and the Podagada stone inspiration of Skandavarman son of Bhabadutta was edited by C.R. Krishnamacharalu (16) and also prior to him D. R. Bhandarakar and Raja Bhadur Hiralal had reported the inspirations in their report (17). The 32 gold coins of 3 Nala kings were added by S.N. Rajaguru (18) and later Miss Tripathy (19) gave her observations. However there have been doubts with the genealogy of the Nala king. It has not yet been satisfactorily worked out. The work of P.L. Misra (20) is inclined to take king Mahendra of Kosala referred to in the Allahabad pillar Inscription as a Nala king. His argument that King Mahandraditya who issued Khairtal hoard of gold coins is identical with king Mahendra of Allahabad pillar Inscription (21), is based on a guess work and his suggestion that the name Mahendravarman sounds well with some of the Nala rulers as Bhavadattavarman, Skandavarman, etc is unwarranted was the opinion of N.K.Sahu (22). Chronological account of Nala Kings According to S.N. Rajaguru (23) that the Chronological account of the institutions of the Nalas is to be ascertained with the help of the writers named in as Chulla. In addition to the name of Arthapati and Bhavadattavarman of Edenga hoard; Sri Nasdanaraja and Stambha are known from revese coins and it is Varaharaj with the help of the Bhita seal and the gold coins of Bastar (24). The genealogy of the Nala Kings is prepared by Rajaguru is as following, Vrishdhvaja (of the Bhita-seal) Varaharaja (of the gold coins) Arthapati (Kesaribeda plate) Bhavattavarman 138 Dynasty History of United Koraput 139 Bhavadatta (Rithapur plate) Skandavarman (Podagadh stone inscription) Prthviraja Viruparaja Vilasatunga (Rajim stone inscription) Rajaguru has placed Arthapati as earlier than Bhavadattavarman; but the Rithapur inscription leaves no doubt that Arthapati was a son and successor of Bhavadattavarman. The genealogy of Nala King has been given by N.K. Sahu (25) that is as follows: Brsabhadhvaja (Cir-400 A.D.) of Bhita-seal Varaharaja (Upto Cir- 440 A.D.) of the gold coin Bhavadattavarman (Upto- 440-465 A.D.) Arthapatiraja (Cir 465-475 A.D.) Kesaribeda Plates of Arthapti Skandavarman (Cir- 475 to 500 A.D.) Podagadh stone inscription Prthviraja Viruparaja Vilasatunga (Cir- 700 A.D.) Rajim stone inscription 139 Dynasty History of United Koraput 140 The chronological account of the inscriptions of the Nalas is ascertained through the writer’s name in Kesaribeda plate inscription as Chulla, he styles as Rahasyadhikrta while in another Rithapur plate inscription he is called Rahasiniyukta (26). In addition to the name of Arthapati and Bhavadattavarman of Kesaribeda and Rithapur plates respectively, we get another name from their gold-coins. It is Varaharaja. With the help of Bhita-seal and gold-coins of Bastar, Rajaguru gave below a list of the Nala Kings: (27) The Nalas rose to prominence that their capital was at Pushkari (28) in the modern Umerkote Taluk of the district of Koraput. Nala Dynasty Inscriptions, Copper plates and Numismatics evidence The Nala dynasty and the chronological of the Nala kings are derived from the following inscriptions, inscriptions and numismatic evidences and are given as following. Numismatics and Nalas There are four coin hoards so far recorded, which is attributed to Nalas and their findings are as following: Edenga hoard of 32 gold coins of the Nala rulers in Kondagaon of Bastar district In 1939, a hoard of 32 gold coins of the Nala rulers was discovered in Kondagaon of Bastar district. The office of the E.C. Hyde, ICS, and Administrator Bastar State recovered; V.V. Mirashi has edited them. The coins were perfect and round. They were made up of thin sheet of gold. They are single die coins with design and legends embossed in relief on the obverse and the reverse is blank. Mirashi has divided into two groups according to size. The large coins were 10 number measures from 20 to 21 mm diameter and weight 19.7 to 24.6 gms each. The small ones numbering twenty-two are about 15mm in diameter and they weigh about 7.5 gms each. The small ones are numbering twenty-two. The obverse is divided into two parts by horizontal lines, one to three in number. In the upper half, a humped bull (Nandi) and crescent are seen. In the lower half is possibly the legend of the issuer. The figure of the bull is seen beautifully executed on the coins of Bhavdatta varman (29). 140 Dynasty History of United Koraput 141 Coins of Srivaraha (Varaharaja) There were thirty-two coins, of those twenty-nine coins belong to Varaharaja. They were classified by Mirashi (30); who showed to have 1st group of six larger coins based on device and legend. The obverse contains a circle of dots along the edge with humped bull facing left towards the crescent down below the horizontal line; the legend ‘Sri Varaharaja’ is inscribed in the box-headed character of 5th century A.D. In the other type, inside a circle of dots a couchant bull faces right with the crescent above its back. Below, the legend it reads ‘Srivaraha’ Coin of Bhavadattaraja There is one coin of larger variety contains the legend ‘Bhavadatarajasya’ in box- headed character. Other things of the coin are as above (31). Coins of Arthapati This hoard contains two coins; they are of two varieties in larger size of the king Arthapati (32). On the obverse, there is a circle of dots. Inside the circle along the edge, a couchant humped bull faces right with the crescent in front. Down below is the legend ‘Sri Arthapatirajasya’ in box-headed character. In the other variety the crescent is behind the bull. According to Mirashi, (33) the coins of ‘Varaha’ appear to be the earliest and that of Arthapati is the latest. He also doubts if these coins were meant for circulation and they may be token plaques. We know about Skandavarman from the grants and his father Arthapati, who had also issued the Kesaribeda grant. They belong to Nala dynasty. The name of Bhavadatta is also found in the rock inscription of Skandavarman, who is apparently his second son. However, as yet due is no mention of the name of ‘Varaha’ in epigraphic records. Mirashi and Sahu (34) accept him as a Nala ruler on the evidence of paleography, and he seems to be the predecessor of Bhavadatta (35). Kulia Hoard of Gold Coins A hoard of thirty gold coins was discovered at the village of Kulia in Durg district of Madhya Pradesh in 1977. It contains twenty-five coins of ‘Mahendraditya’ and five coins of Nala rulers. The Collector, Durg (36) had collected and lodged the gold coins in M.G.R. Museum, Raipur. However, B.C. Jain and L.S. Nigam have published the findings of the said coins (37). 141 Dynasty History of United Koraput 142 Of the five Nala coins as mentioned, two belong to Bhavadatta and one to Arthapati, who are also known from the Edenga hoard and the epigraphs. The rest two coins of this hoard introduce to two new rulers ‘Sri Nandanaraj’ and ‘Stambha’ they are identified as Nala rulers by Jain (38) and Nigam (39). We also find reference to one ‘Sri Nanda’ in the Palai and Gandibera (40) hoards of copper coins, which experts identify with ‘Sri Nandanaraja’ of this gold coin hoard. Coins of Bhavadatta There are two round shaped gold coins with diameter and weight of 21 mm and 1.775 gm., respectively. They are divided into two parts by horizontal lines. On the obverse, inside a circle of dots, as usual on the upper half, a couchant bull is facing right with the crescent behind it. In the lower half, there is the legend ‘Sri Bhavadattarajasya’ in the box-headed character of Brahmi. The reverse of the coin is blank. Coin of Arthapati The obverse is same as above the legend reads ‘Sri Arthapatirajasya’. It weighs- 1.565 gm. and has diameter of 20mm. Coin of Nandanaraja The coins are of gold. The diameter is 20 mm. and weighs 1.310 gm. The obverse is divided into two parts by horizontal lines. A circle of dots, which runs along the edge; in the upper half a couchant humped bull faces, left with six dots behind it. In the front of the bull, crescent is shown. The lower half the legend in box- headed character reads ‘Sri Nandanaraja’. Coin of Stambha The coin is made of gold, and has 16 mm. diameters and weighs 0.720 gms. The obverse is as above. In front of the bull there is a symbol and the legend reads ‘Stambha’ in the box-headed character of Brahmi. For the first time, Nandaraja and Stambha are known from these gold coins and they belong to the Nala dynasty (41). They may be assigned to the period after Skandavarman. 142 Dynasty History of United Koraput 143 Copper Plates and Inscriptions and Nala Genealogy In addition to the above, the discovery of 32 gold coins issued by Varaharaja, Sri Arthapatiraja and Bhavadattavarman discovered from Edenga, the village in Kondagaon Tahsil of Bastar district of Madhya Pradesh adds to the earlier discoveries. (42) The copper plates are: 1. Rithapur plates of king Bhvadatta verman (43) 2. Kesaribeda plates of king Arthapati (44) The stone inscriptions are: 1. Podagada inscriptions of Skanda Varman (45) 2. Rajim inscriptions of Vilasatunga (46) Rithapur Plates of Bhavattavarman The donor of the plates was Bhavattavarman, title of the plate was Maharaja, place of issue was Nandivardhana, topography refereed was Kadamvagiri (village) and issuing officers were Paddopadhyay’s son Voppadeva and second name was Rahsyadhikruta Chulla. Y.R. Gupte edited the plate. It was in Sanskrit (47). The find place of the plates was the village of Rithapur in the Morsi Taluk of the Amaravati District of Maharastra. These plates along with another set of plates of Vakataka queen Prabavatigupta were brought to the ‘Bharata Itihasa Samsodhaka Mandala’, Poona by Mahanya Dattaraja. It measured 7.3/11” x 3.5” in coverage. The ring and the seal are missing. The editor is of the view that on the paleographical the record may be assigned to the later half of the 5th century A.D. The following few line translations from Y.R.Gupte is given as below. (Lines 1-21) Perfection has been attained! Hail! From Nandivardhana. The illustrious Maharaja Bhavattavarman, whose banner bears the Tripataka (hand with three fingers stretched out or whose banner consists of three pennons) who is born in the lineage of the Nala kings,.............. 143 Dynasty History of United Koraput 144 (Lines 21-26) This copper plate charter, which in the abode of the virtue of increasing the sacred fame of his father and mother, has been caused to be made by the illustrious Maharaja Arthapati Bhattarka, who has been favored by the kindness of respectable people, so that.......... Kesaribeda grant of Maharaja Arthapati Bhattaraka The inscription was secured by G.Ramdas through Assistant Dewan of the former Jaypur Zamindary, Koraput district in 1944 from the village of Kesaribeda of Umarkote Thana of the Koraput district. He had published a small account of Nalas in the Telugu journal “Bharati’ of June, 1944. The inscription was edited by G. Ramdas (48) and later D.C. Sircar re-edited and published (49). The plate’s donor was Arthapati; Titles were Sri Maharaja, Bhattaraka, Tripatakdhvaja, Nalasrpatikul unvaya and Mahesvarmah- asenatisrshtarjayvibhava. The place of issue was Pushkari. The topography was Keselaka Grama (village). Ramdas writes. “Compared with Junagadh inscription of Rudradaman (50) those of our plates appear to be at least a century later.” He further wrote, “before the age of the Vishnukundins the royal charters were written with three lines each of the face. It may be taken that the charters with four lines on each of the face were of the times subsequent to A.D. 350, the east year of Samudragupta’s Champion.” The said inscription was engraved by Rahasyadhikrta Chaulla. The find spot of the grant plates is full of ancient ruins. The plates were found stung to a copper ring. According to G. Ramdas the circumference and ring as described are 7.4” and 2’. The plates measured 7.5” long and 1.5” wide. The corners have been trimmed and rounded off. The plates with the ring weighed 43.75 tolas (gms) and the ring alone weighed 6.75 tolas (gms). First face of the 1st plate is blank, the 2nd and 3rd are inscribed on both sides and set contains 14 lines of inscription (51). The letters used are scooped out variety of the box headed character of Central Indian script prevalent in 5th/6th Century A.D. The language of the character is Sanskrit and has been composed both prose and verse direction. The Keselaka Grama of the inscription has been identified by G. Ramdas with present Kesaribeda village, the find spot of the grant. The place of issue of the grant is Pushkari, which has been identified with present Podagada, revenue 144 Dynasty History of United Koraput 145 village Bhandariguda in Dabugaon Tahsil, formerly Umerkote Thana in Nowarangpur Sub-division of Koraput district (52). According to the grant Maharaja Arthapati donated Keseleka Gram to Durggarayya, Ravirayya and Ravidaarayya. Podagada Stone inscription of Skandavarman, son of Bhavadatta The donor of the inscription was Skandavarman; topography was Pushkari (town). C.R. Krishnamacharlu edited the inscription (53).The inscription was discovered in 1922 by G. Venkoba Rao, Asst. Superintendent of Archaeology, Madras. Podagada is a village in the Umarkote Police Station in the Koraput district of Orissa. The place is very close to Bastar district. The inscription still stands, at its find. It consists of thirteen versus and most of them are composed in Anushtup-Chhanda in Sanskrit. Rajim stone inscription of Vilasatunga The donor of the inscription was Vilastunga. It is in Sanskrit poetry. There are 29 verses. V.V. Mirashi had edited the inscription (54), but before him D.R. Bhandarkar had placed it to be of 8th century. Rai Bahadur Hiralal had also reported the inscription. The inscription consists of three stones, and is found at the left side of the Mandapa of Rajivlochana temple at Rajim, which is about 28 kms. from Raipur (Chhattisgarh). The learned editor writes, “Verses 10-12 are devoted to the glorification, equally conventional, of Prithiviraja’s son Viruparaja. Versus 14th mentions Vilastunga who was probably a son of Viruparaja. On paleoecological grounds Cunningham says that it belongs to not later than 8th century A.D (55) However Mirashi places it to about A.D. 700. Podagada stone inscriptions The Southern Archeological Circle, Madras lead by C.R.Krishnamacharlu and G.Venkoba Rao During 1922 discovered Podagada stone inscriptions and later edited the inscriptions. The inscription is still found lying on a hill on Podagada in Revenue village Bhandariguda, Dabugaon Tehsil of Koraput district and it contains 12 to 13 verses written in Sanskrit. 145 Dynasty History of United Koraput 146 The inscription speaks of king Skandavarman son of Bhavadatta of the Nala family, who re-established the city of Pushkari and made the gift of a holding and some money in the shape of ‘Bhrudaksina’ for feeding Brahmins and the destitute. It described the establishment of foot print (padmaula) of Lord Vishnu, for which the king made the grant. It was made in his 12th regal year on the 27th day of Baisakha. The inscription was written by Janturadasa son of Chauli. According to Krishnamacharalu the inscription belongs to later half of the 5th century A.D. Pushkari is identified with modern Podagada, which is full of antiquarian remains and ruins (56). G. Ramdas opines that Pushkari may be identical with the famous Puskara Tirtha of the Mahabharata (57) but S.N. Rajaguru did not agree to this view. It is stated by H.N. Sukla that the village Pushynel located in Bijapur Tahasil of Bastar District is correct form to place Pushkara (58) and representing the Nala capital city, which is without a solid basis. It is not out of place to identify Podagada now a forelone desolated place was once very prosperous and populated town and has been inclined to identify with Pushkari, the old capital of Nala which is opined by G. Ramdas, N.K. Sahu and S.N. Rajaguru. The Nala Rulers Vyghraraja In the middle of the 4th century A.D Samudragupta led his South Indian campaign; Vyghraraja, the Nala king was the ruler of Mahakantara and was defeated. (59). Vindyavedhana There is no definite evidence as to which Nala king ruled Kantara after Vyghraraja; however on a seal discovered from village Bhita, near North Allahabad that is belived to have been carried in the train of Bhavadattavarman’s pilgrimage to Prayaga as known from his grant. S.N. Rajaguru (60) has pointed out that one of the seals found at Bhita belongs to an early king of the Nala family. The seal in question contains the following legend-: ‘Sri Vindhyavevane mahasvara mahasenati srstarajasya Brsahvajasya Gautamiputrasya..............’ The appellation Mahesvara mahasenatisrsta rajasya’ is without doubt a conventional expression found in the records of the Nala kings. In the copper plate inscriptions of the Nalas the conventional epithets run as follows: 146 Dynasty History of United Koraput 147 Mahamahesvara mahasenatisrsta Rajya vibhavah Nalanrpavamsa Prasutah tripatakadhvajah etc’. For the use of similar epithets Brsabhadhvaja might be taken to be belonging to the Nala family. The seal in question has been described by Marshall to the 3rd. or 4th century A.D. and in view of it characters being similar to those of the Mathara and Salankayana chaters it may be attributed to about 400 A.D. The discovery of the seal at Bhita near modern Allahabad seems to be concluded that Brsadhvaja was a ruler of the region, but the metronymic expression- Gautamiputrasya- indicates that he belonged to a south Indian family .His seal might have gone over to Bhita in the train of Bhavdattavarman’s campaign against Nandivardhana and his march from the latter place to Prayaga where he donated grants to Brahmanas. If Brsabhadhvaja is regarded as a Nala king and his metronymic appellation are taken into consideration his territory may be assigned to the Bastar-Koraput area rather than to the Brita-Allahabad region. (61). Varaharaja He is possibly the next Nala ruler after Vindyavedhana, who is known from his gold Edenga gold coin finds from Bastar district. Out of the 32 gold coins, as many as 29 belong to Varaharaja, one to Bhavadattavarn\mana and two to Arthapati. (62) ……………The Vakataka rulers felt the growing strength of Nalas. They had acquired sovereignty over Koraput-Bastar region possibly since the time of Pravarasena I, who flourished during earlier period of 4th century A.D. (63). The Nalas attained position through consolidation where Vakataka Empire was under the regency of queen Prabhavatigupta (390-410 A.D.) and Nala king Varaharaja proclaimed independence and rose to great prominence. Bhavadattavarman It is very likely that Bavadattavarman was successor to Varaharaja.He is called Bhavadattaraja in his coins; in the Rithapur copperplates (64); is known as Bhavadattavarman and in Podagada Stone inscription as Bhavadatta (65). The conflict between Vakatakas and Nalas started during the rule of Narendrasena, son and successor of Pravarasena II and the Nala king who fought against Vakataka rulers, is known to be Bhavadattavarman. 147 Dynasty History of United Koraput 148 Bhavadattavarman defeated Vakatakas and marched as far as their imperial capital Nandivardhana and eventually occupied. Narendrasena forced retreat from his capital. It is believed that the Traikutakas of Southern Gujarat was hard pressing him, thus he could not stand to the aggression of Nalas. Sometime after this victory Bhavadattavarman left for holy Prayaga on pilgrimage where he donated a village named Kadambagiri for acquiring blessing on himself and his queen to Matradhyaryya of the Parasara gotra and his eight sons named Devrayya, Devadattaryya, Kumaradttarayya, Viradattaraya, Vasudattaryya, Gauridattaryya, Dhruvadattaryya and Durggadattaryya. This grant was made in the 11th regal year of king Bhavadattavarman. It so appears that Bhavadattavarman had occupied the capital Nandivardan about the middle of the 5th century A.D. It is clearly known form the Rithapur Copper Plate grant that Bhavadattavarman occupied the heart of Vakataka empire uptill end of his rule. He ruled an extensive area including Kosala and Kantara extending from Koraput to Berar (66) Arthapatiraja Bhavadattavarman was succeeded by his son, Mahajaja Arthapati.Rajaguru (67) had placed Arthapati earlier to Bhavadattavarman but D.C. Sirkar (68) was of the opinion that he ruled after Skandavarman.It is clear from Rithapur plates that Arthapatiraja was the son and successor of Bhavadattavarman. Arthapatiraja had to suffer serious consequences as the hands of Prthvisena II, son and successor of Narendrasena. The Balaghat Plate (69) of Pritvisena reveals the fact that this monarch rescued the fortunes of his family twice and the records however do not reveal as who the enemy was defeated by him. It is no doubt that they are the Nalas and king Arthapatiraja and the Traikutaka king Dharasena. Arthapatiraja faced crushing defeat under the hands of Prithvisena II and Nalas were expelled out of Vakataka dominion. The Kesaribeda Copper plate grant was made by Arthapati may after be his defeat from Nandivarman. The said grant was issued from his headquarters Pushkari donating the village Keselaka in favour of Durggarajya, Ravirayya and Ravidattarayya all belong to the Kautsva gotra. Prithvishna II seems to have marched against the Nala capital as a measure of retaliation and devastated Pushkari town. Arthapatviraja was killed in the battle some time about 475 A.D. 148 Dynasty History of United Koraput 149 At present at Podagada Pushkari there are six sati stones placed on a strategic location. The local folk story runs that six princes were killed in a battle. This is possibly that out of 8 sons of Arthpatiraja 6 sons lost their life. The folk stories continue to tell the pathetic end of king and queen during the war on Pushkari. They point out to a close by hill with thick forest where the king and his family members were hiding and unfortunately a pet parrot started telling that king and queen are hiding. Taking the clue from the parrot, the enemy searched for the king and his family who were then slained to death. This folklore still exists in pathetic poetry form in Podagada village, and retreated by tribals. Skandavanman Skandavanman ascended the Nala throne after the death of his brother king Arthpati Maharaja. He continued struggle with his enemies. The Vakatakas succeed in repulsing the attacks due to Nalas and Traikutakas but were unable to smash their power. The Traikutakas king Vyaghrasena, the successor of Dharasena remained as powerful threat to Vakatakas. The other side, Nala king Skandavarman struck back the Vakatakas from his territory. He restored and repopulated his capital Pushkari. His rock inscription was discovered from Podagada and is still in place. The final destruction of the city took place towards the close of the reign of Skandavarman about the year 500 A.D. Skandavarman was a contemporary of the Vakataka emperor Harisena of the Basim branch. The Ajanta inscription (70) reveals that Harisena had extended his supremacy and rule over Gujarat, Malawa, South Kosala, Andhra and Kuntala. This indicates that he had smashed the rules of Traikutakas and Skandavarman, and later sometime about 500 A.D. Skandavarman lost his kingdom to Vakatakas. This was the final blow, which effectively broke down the Nalas in Koraput- Bastar. The subsequent history of Nalas is not eventful. The Chalukya king Kirtivarman (566-598 A.D.) as described in the Aihole inscriptions as the night of doom to the Nalas (71). J.K. Sahu (72) mentions that a branch of Nala family migrated to the south and settled on the bank of Tungabhadra. There the Chalukya king Kiritivarman as said above subdued them. Subsequently, Vikramaditya I, the Western Chalukya monarch gave a crushing blow on them about the middle of the 7th century A.D. (73). We are inclined to believe that all the above events look place at Pushkari region only. This has been discussed with evidence in the proceeding chapters on Western Chalukya and Eastern Chalukays in Trikalinga and Kalinga. 149 Dynasty History of United Koraput 150 It is needful to speak that after defeat of the Nala king Skandavarman, Sarbhapuriyas rule was established in Kosala and part of the Nala kingdom in Kantara region the Eastern Gangas ruled which from that time came to be known as Trikalinga country (74). Another branch of the Nalas appears to have remained back in Western Kosala. An inscription of this branch is found on a slab of stone in the Mandapa of Rajivalochana temple at Rajim as stated above. The inscription is undated, but on paleographic grounds, it may be placed about 8th-9th century A.D. The inscription has faced erosion. It contains the names of three rulers, Prthviraja, Viruparaja and Villastunga in lines 7, 9, and 11 respectively. Their relationship in not known. If it is to be taken as a royal record, as per J.K. Sahu this branch of Nala family ruled over small principality in the upper Mohanadi valley as feudatories of the Panduvamsi Kings in 8th-9th century A.D.(75) Pandipathar copper plate inscription (76) Aska in Ganjam, reveals that a family of Nala was ruling during first half of 10 th century A.D. over Khindarisinga Mandala. The capital as mentioned was Bhimpur, which is identified with Bhimanagara of Ganjam. It is about 925 A.D. The donor king Bhimasena assumed imperial title Maharajadhiraja, which is indicative that he acknowledged nominal allegiance to his Bhauma overlord. Khindarisinga constituted the small estates of Ganjam. They were Dharakota, Saragada, Badagada and Soroda. Archeological Remains of Nalas Podagada The Nala strong hold was located on the hill fort, now called Podagada, which means burnt fort. Podagada is located at the distance of 23 kms. from Umerkote (Via Dhodra) and geometrically from Umerkote at a distance of 12 Kms. to its south. Podagada constitute a part of the revenue village Bhandariguda. Previously it was Umerkote Tahasil and at present it is a part of Dabugaon Tahasil. The ancient township was instituted on the left bank of Rivulet Singasari which joins the river Bhaskel near Nandpur in its hay days the city seems to have remained between the river valley Singasari and Nangi as evident from the part. The river Nangi flows 6 kms. to the north of Podagada and it is the Bhansagaon near Dhodra. Both these rivulets have originated from the hilly and forest region of Podagada, which is located at 2000’ altitude. Moreover the Podagada hill contains the remnants of forts and the rocky inscription rise to a high of 3043’. The hilly 150 Dynasty History of United Koraput 151 part of its strategy location resembles to the olden days fort locations for military purpose. Late G. Ramdas, (77) the historian and academician of repute from Koraput district, visited Podagada during 1948, and have given vivid survey account. He further viewed the antiquity of the place to the Epic and Purina age and was of the opinion that ‘Pushkari’ mentioned in Nala inscriptions was pointing to the famous Puskara Tirtha of Mahabharata’. The site of Podagada rock inscriptions is located amidst a formidable hill fort located on the top of the hill. There are still remains of brick and stone sculptures, parts of broken pillars, pottery and terracottas and bangles on the hill fort lying scattered here and there. Ramdas reported the discovery of an ancient stronghold of kings. There are traces of staircase built of stone slabs, leading to the fort from the ground. Traces of the gateway are also seen that leads to the top of the hill, which is a flat surface and quite broad. There are pottery, pieces of tile and burnt bricks lying scattered. There are a number of stones bearing holes, which are apparently meant for some short of indoor game. Similar holes are seen in the Vijayanagar Empire ruins in the south. These holes when closely examined have metal casting. Ramdas had reported a stone with the impression of the foot-print which was believed by him to be the original foot-print of Vishnu installed in the temples as warranted in the inscription of Sakndavarman. But at present this stone is missing from Podagada (78). But I have found the same footprint safe in Padagada and is now called ‘Gangaram’ by local people. The meaning of the word ‘Padamula’ is not very clear. Krishnamacharlu the editor of the epigraph has translated it as sanctuary and Rajaguru supported him (79). Some other scholars have identified it as temple. It seems to mean a ‘Vishnu Vihar’, which the king established with adequate arrangement for its maintenance and of which Vishnu was the presiding deity (80). In this connection G. Ramdas (81) said that he had noticed a stone slab, two feet in diameter with a slight depended depression of the man’s right foot. The foot print itself is about 12” long and its worn out condition together with the eroded stone gave the impression to him that it belong to the same age as the epigraph on the rocky hill. Probably it was the footprint of Vishnu, which was by Skandavarman. At Bolangir district of Orissa in Ranipur-Jharial there are very many sets of footprints in the temple complex, which were worshipped in esteemed reverence. It can also be of Buddhist relevance. Ranipur-Jharial was a ‘Tirtha’ with a beginning in 4th /5th Century A.D. and was within the Nala domain (82). Thus the ‘Padamula’ described in the grant might be really a foot-print of Vishnu, which was established in Vishnu Vihar as is evident 151 Dynasty History of United Koraput 152 from the donating of holdings along with immense ‘bhuridaksina’ for feeding the destitute and inmates. N.K. Sahu opined, ‘the foot print symbolises the dwarf incarnation of Vishnu and it appears that the idea of divine incarnation was popular in the Nala kingdom” (83). According to Patel (1990) who visited the area in 1985, who made a systematic exploration and study of the extent antiquities and relics, which impresses and beyond any doubt that Pushkari was a big flourishing city extended over the valleys of the twin rivulets Nangi and Singari in the Podagoda plateau. He has described as follows: “The formidable stronghold, as gleamed from the ruins was located on the hill and his presently called Podagada i.e. burnt fort suggesting its destruction by fire and sword of the enemies. The entrance or simhadvara to the fort was from the southern side, where we find brickbats and fragments of stone and burnt brick pillars and doorjambs. The bricks measure 8 x 4 x 2” and the doorjamb contain floral designs. A flight of steps leads to the stone slab containing the promulgation of Skandavarman at a height about 40 feet from ground level. Here we find remnants of an elaborate and massive gateway. G. Ramdas thinks that the colossal stone pillar supported the arch. Remnants of only one pillar are found and the local people say that elephants were tied to it in remote antiquity. The design of the pillar however, suggests that instead of arches the pillars supported a corbelled gateway, here was the 2nd gateway to the fort proper. Probably a temple was located here as well, as is evident from the pillar inscription and the ruins of the place. Another set of staircase spreads on to a height of 20 feet up to a flat surface, where traces of pottery, brickbats, floors and tiles are visible indicating the existence of some residential complex. From this plain ground a flight of steps now in utter ruins runs to the east down to the valley, where there were wells and source of water. To its west and north there is another extensive flat surface with ruins of pottery, tile, rammed floor, bricks and rubble wall. In one corner there exists an iron sword together with a few other iron implements such as nails, small trident and hooks and at present the local folks worship them. In the north and west the flat rock surface ends in precipitous fall perhaps a stone rubble wall had been constructed on these sides and the broken bricks walls represent the remnants of the fort palace complex. The pattern of this hill stronghold was very much alike to the yadava fort of Daulatabad. From this place one can have a clear view of the surrounding area for miles. Even now old vestiges may be seen spreading over the place, giving the impression of the one time bustling Pushkari city. A moat was encircling the whole formidable fortification the traces of which is distinctly visible even now and was being connected with the Singari flowing nearby. A pond exists near the southern entrance to the fort. In the north, beyond 152 Dynasty History of United Koraput 153 the moat another mountain is there, which was very probably used as the watchtower. At present at the foot of this hill stone sculptures of Bhairava, Hanumana, Uma-mahesvara and Ganesa were lying in a thatched cottage together with a heap of broken terracotta’s of horses, elephants, a horse rider and various divinities. To the east of Podagada hill on the valley of the rivulet that connects the moat and the river Singari near the present village of Bhandariguda we find extensive ruins of a township in the shape of pottery, brick bats, broken pieces of terracottas and wax bangles, tiles terracotta balls, beads of clay and semiprecious stone. The depressions running in straight lines amidst the ruins suggest the existence of road and streets. To the west, not very far from the fortification, a broken brick temple near two ancient tanks may be seen. Krisnamacharlu identifies the temple as a Siva Shrine. The roof has fallen and the walls and entrance have dilapidated and the entire complex is in utter ruin. To us it appeared that originally the temple was two chambered. From the study of the extent sculptures in its vicinity, it is probable to think that it was a Siva temple. It was originally built on a brick and stone platform as evident from its ruins. At present in the sanctum we find a Bhairava image and a lingam along with a Vrisabha. In front of the temple, the figures of Vrisava, Ganesa, worshipper couples, and memorial Sati pillars are found. In one of the later pillars, a warrior riding a horse and piercing a wild animal with a long spear has been depicted. To the north of this place at a distance of 1 km, we find another group of memorial pillars. Apart from these antiquities we find here pottery, brickbats, terracotta figures and balls, broken pieces of tile, beads of semi-previous stones and clay terracotta bangles, stone missiles and traces of houses, Vihara and places in profusion. This archaeological evidence is duly corroborated by epigraphic references. The Podagada stone inscription of Skandavarman, which is still standing on the hill fort in solitary splendor, speaks in laudable term that the king had restored and repopulated the city; apparently he seemed to have adorned the city with palatial buildings and residential sectors and fortification. The epigraph also states that he established the Padamula of Vishnu, which very probably indicates a Vihar of Vishnu to which a satra was also attached. In other Nala records we find reference to gardens and it is probable that Pushkari was also adorned with gardens and orchards. 153 Dynasty History of United Koraput 154 With the exuberance of religious institutions, satras, residential sectors, palaces and fortification, Pushkari appears to have been a bustling city of opulence as the seat of administration of the glorious Nala dynasty.”(84) Kesaribeda Village This Keselaka or present Kesaribeda is located at a distance of 25 Km. to the north-west of Pushkari i.e. Podagada near the river Tel. G. Ramdas visited the site in 1944 reported the existence of 5 mounds of rubble pieces of bricks and a tank of 100 yards square. According to Patel (1985) it is about 3 mounds containing pottery, brickbats, and pieces of terracotta bangles and stone pieces. Every year this place is being cleared more and more for cultivation. The present township has grown up all round the ruined village complex,. There is a village called Andhri very near to the spot, which probably retains the memory of Arthapati, who donated the village. (85) Ramdas made a trial excavation in one of the mounds and exposed a room 8’ x 4’ rectangular and build of walls 2 ft. thick Floor paved with bricks was also brought to light. Inside the structure was found a beautiful carved Vishnu image. Another mound near the tank yielded a room with walls 2’ height. Patel (1985) noticed two more ponds and many sculptures of Vishnu and Siva, now enshrined in small new temples. Their shape and carving they appeared to be the same age of that copper grants. The ruins spreading over a quite large area with tanks indicate that Kesaribeda was small town having temples and residential sectors. There is an old tank nearby. It is very old and can be ascribed to Nala period (86). In one of the Nala inscriptions that were discovered at Podagada it was dated in the 12th regal year of the king whose name seems to be Skandavaraman although the reading of the first part of it is beyond doubt. The king is described as the son king Bhavadatta of the Nala family, who is probably the same as Bhavadattavarman of the Rithapur grant. Skandavarman is said to have recovered the last royal fortune of his family and to have re-established the destroyed and deserted city of Pushkari. The city appears to have been situated in the Podagada region and probably was the capital of the Nala kings. The inscriptions also refer to the construction of a shrine (Padamula of Vishnu by Skandavarman may be at Podagada). Religion and Archeology evidence Some village, places as per inscriptions and coin findings in Nala ruled country. 154 Dynasty History of United Koraput 155 The Kesaribeda grant of Maharaja Arthapati Bhattaraka records the donation of the village ‘Keselaka’ to three Brahmins of Kaustsasa Gotra in his 7th regal year.Keselaka Grama of the inscription has been identified with present Kesaribeda village, the find spot of the grant. The place of issue of the grant is Pushkari, has been identified with present Podagada, now the recover village Bhandariguda in Dabugaon Tahasil, Umarkote of Koraput district. Patel (1990) proposed some of his views to identify the geographical locations as mentioned in the Nala records. The rivulet ‘Nangi’ which flows round Podagoda North-east direction is possibly of Nala relevance. The Bhandariguda seems to have derived its name from Bhavadatta, Nala king mentioned in the Rithapur grant and Podagada stone inscription of his son Skandavarman. (87) A village named ‘Andhi’ two kms. from Kesaribeda village may have derived its name from king Arthpati. Rithapur grant has identified Kadambagiri Grama to village Kalamba in Yeotmal Taluka of Maharastra by Y.R. Gupte (88). However, L.K. Panda (89) has located Kadambagiri somewhere in Koraput district, where the first Saiva acharya of Siddhanta system was a resident. This view is based on Rajaguru’s (90) suggestion that Kadambagiri, found mention in the inscription discovered inside the Jagannath temple complex of Puri is identical with Kadambaguha, the ancient Siva centre of the Mattamayura sect. The grant records donations made by the king of Kadambagiri, Jayantaraja of Matsya dynasty, who ruled in Koraput region during medieval period. However this view has been contradictory on various grounds. Krishamacharlu during 1922 visited Podagada and described the vast archeological wealth of this area. G. Ramdas visited in 1943 the said areas and remarked, “in almost all or in the vicinity of every village in this praganas (Podagada area) are found the vestiges of ancient civilization that was ramped here in the obscure antiquity.” (91) There are small wholes whose rims are made up of metal can be seen over the flat stone, This was some kind of table for a game which is similar to that of forts seen during Vijayanagar Empire. To its east, leads few steps to the valley where there were wells for water supply. There is one large stone with flat surface and has small heaps of ruins of pottery, tiles, bricks and rubble wall. To the north, at a distance of 1 km. we find another group of memorial pillars. It has bricks, terracotta figure, broken tiles etc. 155 Dynasty History of United Koraput 156 At present, the local inhabitants have constructed a small temple where they have collected Hanumana, Umaparbati idols and also Bahirava for worship. Art and Architecture and Remnants of Nalas in Podagada The hill fort of Podagada has been placed to 4th-5th century A.D. Nala rules. The brick bats, pottery traces, broken stair cases beautifully cut rock plates with well structured Sanskrit letters. It is Skandavarman whose fort stands at the centre of the ancient town amidst ruins Panel of Siva Parvati: Siva Parvati is in Yadava position. Siva is holding a ‘bilavafala’ in his right hand embracing Parvati in left hand. Parvati is holding Sivalinga in her left hand and ‘Ketaki’ flower in her right hand. Karikaya is placed to the right of Siva. Karikaya is with his peacock. This is small amount of evasion to the sculpture. Saivashrine: At the south-west of Podagada hill at about half km a Saiva shrine exists. It has twin old tanks and numerous sculptures are scattered. The Sivalinga and Saktipitha are missing. The shrine has a small mandapa in front, which is uncovered. Sculptures of the ruined temples and numerous stone sculptures are lying under a tree. They are Vrusabha, Gangesa, Linga, and Siva-Parvati. A large Yaksa has been discovered from the site and is now finds a puja place in a newly constructed temple. It is worshiped as Hanuman. Satipillars: The Satipillars are common in Nandapur, Narayanapatna, Papadahandi and also Podagada. The Sati commitment existed in Koraput district. The Sati Nadi of Jeypore in one such ancient names as well as Sati Khalo of Nararyanapatna still stand. The epigraphic evidence speaks that Nala rulers were ruled out due to fight between them and Vakatakas. The Sati pillars do justify their existence at Puskar. Vishnu sculptures: Apart from discoveries of G. Ramdas in 1944 at Podagada area, he reported about the find of a number of images of Bhairava, Uma- Mahesvara and Vishnu. They were beautifully executed and had assigned to Nala period. At Kesaribeda, Ramdas discovered a superb standing Vishnu image. He wrote, ‘the face of the image is beardless and the mouth and the eyes are smiling. The 156 Dynasty History of United Koraput 157 smiling appears dancing on the lips. The cheeks are dimpled and made the impression more enchanting’. Now this image is missing. I am inclined to believe Keselaka to be the Keskal town of Bastar, which is about 120 km from Podagada. At about 4 to 5 kms close to Keskal have ruins of Chaitias housing Sivalinga and Vishnu shrines. This was a recent finding and excavation by Bastar authorities. Further work will be required. Reference 1. Pargiter, D.K.A, p.51. 2. Rajaguru, S.N. (1958) Inscriptions of Orissa, Vol.I, Part II, p.109 ff. 3. Rao Krishna, B.V. E.I XIX pp. 100-104. 4. Ramdas, G. J.B.R.S.Vol.XXXIV, p.33-42 5. I.B.B.R.A.S. XVI, pp.225-235. 6. Gupte, Y.R. E.I. XIX, p.100-104. 7. E.I. XXI, p.153-157. 8. E.I. XIX, p.100-104. 9. Hiralal inscription of C.P. and Berar, Second edition, p.112. 10. Misra, P.L. Political History of Chhatisgarh p.16 11. Sahu, N.K (1962) The Nalas, OHRJ, Vol. XI, (2) p. 31 40. 12. Sahu, N.K op.cit. 13. Ramdas, G. J.B.R.S. Vol. XXXIV, Pts. i & ii, p.33-42. 14. Sircar, D.C. E.I.XXVIII, p.12-16. 15. E.I. XIX, p.100-104. 16. E.I. XXI, p153-157. 17. Bhandarkar, D.R. In Cousen’s Progress Report of A.S.W.I. 1903-104, p.46 18. Rajaguru, S.N. Inscription of Orissa, Vol. I, Part-II, p.109ff 19. Tripathy, S.A Note on the coins of Nagas of Chakrakotta. O.H.R.J.XXIX; 4.p.49- 65 20. Misra, P.L. op. cit. 21. Sahu, N.K. O.H.R.J. Vol.. XI, No.2 p.81 ff 22. Ibid. 23. Rajaguru, S.N. op. cit. 24. J.N.S.I., Vol. I, pp.29-35. 25. Rajaguru, S.N. op. cit 157 Dynasty History of United Koraput 158 26. Sahu, N.K. OHRJ, Vol. XI, Vol.2, p.36. 27. Rajaguru, S.N. op. cit. 28. Ramdas, G. op.cit. 29. J.N.S.I. Vol.I, pp.29-35. 30. Ibid. 31. Ibid. 32. Ibid. 33. Ibid. 34. J.N.S.I. Vol. I, pp. 29-30. 35. Sahu, N.K. op. cit. pp.506-519. 36. J.N.S.I.Vol I-II, pp.108-110. 37. Pracha Pratibha, Vol.V, Vol.I, pp.69-74. 38. Ibid. 39. Pracha Pratibha, Vol.V, Vol.I, pp.69-74 40. OHRJ, Vol.XXIX, Vol.II-III, pp.54-55. 41. Prachya Pratibha, Ibid. 42. J.B.R.S. XXXIV, pt. I Vol. II, p.19. 43. E.I. XIX, p.100-104. 44. JBRS XXXIV, pt. i & ii, p33-42. 45. E.I, XXI, p153-7f 46. E.I. XXVI, p.49-58f 47. E.I. XXI, p.103-7f 48. I.B.R.S., Vol. XXXIV, p.33-42. 49. E.I.XXVIII, p.12-16 51. JBRS, Vol. XXI, Pts. i & ii, p.33-42 52. Ibid 53. Krishnamacharlu, C.R. E.I.XXI, p.153-7ff 54. Mirashi, V.V. Rajim Stone Inscription 55 A.S.I.R.Vol.XVII, p.7 56 Krishnamacharlu, C.R op.cit 57 Ramdas, G. op.cit. 58. Sukhla, H.N.Prachin Bastar, pp.36-40 59. Sahu, N.K. op.cit; C.I.I. pp.6f line19-20 60 Rajaguru, S.N. op.cit 61 Ibid. 62 J.N.S.I.Vol I-II, pp.108-110. 63 E.I. XXI, p.103-7f 64 Ibid. 65 Ibid. 66 Sahu, J.P. Comparative History and Culture of Orissa: Minor Dynasty. p. 136 158 Dynasty History of United Koraput 159 67 Rajaguru, S.N. op.cit. 68 Sircar, D.C. op.cit. (E.I.XIX, pp100ff) 69 Balaghat Plate of Prithivisena E.I.IV, pp67ff 70. E.I.XXVI, 137ff; Hyd.Ar.S.No.14 71 E.I.VI.p.1 72. Ibid. 73. J.B.B.R.S. Vol. XVI, pp.255 ff 74. Jirjingi Plate of Indravarman (537A.D.) 75. E.I.XXVI, pp49ff 76 O.H.R.JPt.182, pp.79f.Vol.XI:2 77 Ramdas, G.op.cit. 78 Ibid. 79. Rajaguru, S.N. op.cit 80 Ibid. 81. E.I., Vol. XXIV, pp. 153-157. 82. Patel, C.B. Dynastic History of Nalas p.82-83. 83. Sahu,N.K.op.cit. 84. Patel, C.B. op.cit., p.158-169. 85. Sahu, N.K. op. Cit., p.518. 85. Ibid. 86. Ramdas, G.op.cit. 87 Patel, C.B. op.cit, p.161-163 88. Gupte, Y.R. E.I., Vol.XIX, p.102. 89. Panda L.K., Savisimmi Orissa, 1985, 90. Rajaguru, S.N. Inscription of Orissa, Vol.IV, p351 159 Dynasty History of United Koraput 160 NALA REMAINS IN PODAGADA Top of the Nala fort Hills on East of Nala Fort 160 Dynasty History of United Koraput 161 Nala Stone Inscription Podagada Entrance vertical stone where elephant used to be tied Collection of Nala Period Images in the Siva Temple, Podagada. Sati Stone Podagada. 161 Dynasty History of United Koraput 162 Remains of Podagada Remains of Podagada in the Forest 162 Dynasty History of United Koraput 163 Top of Podagada Fort Narrow Passage to Hill Fort Podagada Pond Nala Vishnu Paduka, Podagada 163 Dynasty History of United Koraput 164 Ganesha Durga 164 Dynasty History of United Koraput 165 Hanumana ? Siva Linga Un identified Image Siva & Parvati Un identified Image Siva & Parvati ? 165 Dynasty History of United Koraput 166 Un identified Image Durga Siva & Parvati Images Old Bricks on the Fort 166 Dynasty History of United Koraput 167 PITRIBHAKTAS AND PITA BHATTRAS OF KORAPUT-BASTAR A section of Bhattras, Pita Bhattra as mentioned above may have relationship to the Pitribhaktas dynasty who was ruling Kalinga from Simhapura. Thus the Pitribhaktas brief history is given as following. In Mathara Dynasty Saktivarman was succeeded by his brother Ananta Saktivarman and is known to have issued Andhvaraman copperplate, known as Madras Museum plates(1). We come across the title used to members of the same family as Bappabhattraka, Sakti-bhattaraka. J.K. Sahu has clearly pointed out the relationship of the words to their family lineage. He further wrote that in early times, the elder brother were also respectfully mentioned as bhattraka as is evident from the Malhar plates of the Sarbhapuria king Vyagharaja who is described as the son of Jaybhattaraka and younger brother (Anya) of Parvarbhattaraka.(2) D.C.Sirkar wrote, “A Maharaja named Uma-varman, who assumed the title Kaliagadhipati, issued charters from the cities of Simhapura, Sunagara and Vardhamanapura. The Brihatproshtha Grant, issued in the king’s thirtieth regnal year, shows that Maharaja Uma-varman had a long reign. The seal attached to his Tekkali grant is said to bear the word ‘pirtibhakta’. Maharaja Chanda-varman, lord of Kalinga, who issued the Tritthana and Komarti Grants respectively in his fourth and sixth regnal years, was probably the son and successor of Umavarman. These characters were issued from the city of Simhapura and the bear seals with the word Pitrabhakta engraved on them. It appears that the chief city of the kings Uma-varman and Chandavarman was Simhapura and that they used the word Pitribhakta as a sort of dynastic designation. The proximity of the regins of these two rulers is definitely indicated by the fact that while Uma-varman was served by an official named Matrivara, son of Haridatta, Matrivara’s son Rudradatta was in the service of king Chanda-varman.”(3) He further continued, “Another king of the same family seems to have been Maharaja Nanda-Prabhanjana-varman who’s Chicacole Grant bears the word Pitribhakta on its seal. He is described as “the lord of the entire Kalinga country.” His charter was issued from his vasaka at the victorious Sarapallika. Although Nanda-Prabhanjana-varman is associated with the Pitribhaktas of Simhapura, it is tempting to suggest that his name indicates Prabhanjana-varman of the Nanda family to which may have been related on the mother’s side. We know that a ruler of the Nanda dynasty of Pataliputra is associated with Kalinga in the 167 Dynasty History of United Koraput 168 Hathigumpha inscription of Kharavela. A Nanda or Nandodbhava family ruled in the Angul-Dhenkanal region of Orissa from the ninth century, and another branch of the family flourished probably in the Jeypore-Nandapur area of the Koraput District at a later date “(4). Simhapura, in the last grant of Simavarman is identified with Singapuram near Narasannapeta in Srikakulam. The shifting of capital from time to time indicates the continuous efforts of Umavarman for the extension of his kingdom remarked J.K.Sahu (5). References 1. EI XXVII, pp.175f 2. Sahu, J.K. Minor Dynasties. (Mathara, Eastern Gangas, Nalas and Sarbhapuriyas). Comprehensive History and Culture of Orissa, Vol.I.PartI .p-132-135 3. Sircar, D.C. The Pitribhata. -The Classical Age.Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan.p-212 4. Ibid. 5. Sahu, J.K. op.cit. p.-133. 168 Dynasty History of United Koraput 169 VAKATAKAS A short note on the Vakataks, especially related to the events in Koraput region has been described as following Narendra Sena (C 440 to 460 AD) Parvara- Sena was succeeded by his son Narendra Sena by c 440 A.D. The debacle, which temporarily overwhelmed the Vakataka family in the reign of Narendra Sena was the invasion of its dominions and occupation its capital by be the Nala King Bhavadatta- varman, ruling in Bastar state (1) The victory of Bhavadatta-varman may be placed in 445 A.D. After the death of Bhavadatta-varman, Narendra Sena carried the war into Nala country and captured and devastated the capital. Arthapati, successor of Bhavadatta-varman was probably killed in the war and his brother Skanda-varman repopulated the Capital. (2) Sarva-sena, a younger son of the Parvara-sena I, founded the Basim branch of Vakatakas in 330 A.D. (3).Parvasena I ruled 60 years. One Devasena of the Vakataka family was succeeds in 475 A.D. by his son Hari- sena, who was the most powerful ruler of the dynasty. He conquered Gujarat, Malava, South Kosala, Andhra and Kuntala (4) South Kosala was under the rule of Nalas. The above information is mostly from Majumdas, R.C. and Altekar, A.S. The Vakataka- Gupta Age. References. 1. E.I. XIX, p. 102. 2. E.I.XXI, p.153; XXVI, p.52. 3. E.I. XXVI, p.137ff; Hyd.Arch.Seri. No.14 4. Hyd.Arch.Seri. S. No.14.,p.11 169 Dynasty History of United Koraput 170 PANDUVAMSIS OF SOUTH KOSALA A major ruling dynasty of the Chhattisgarh region of Madhya Pradesh after the Sarabhapuriyas was Pandavamsis of South Kosala. Lineage Natesa Ayar (1914) showed Udayana of the Pandava as of Sabara lineage (1). The Lakneswar Temple (Kharod) inscription of Indrabala, calls the family sasi-kula or lunar lineage was the oldest records of the Panduvamsis. (2) A lunar origin for the dynasty is claimed in some other records also. As per Pt. Nilakanta Das, “Uddiyana seems to be a Buddhistic terms meaning Yana or the way of religious thinking and practice by the Uddas or the land inhabited or influenced by them. These Uddas appear to be a race of the Savaras or the Austrics greatly influenced by some Dravidians or at least the rudiments of the Dravidian language in later times” (3). Territories under the Dynasty All Panduvamsis family records so far discovered, with the exception of the Kalanjar inscription of Udayana were reported from the Chhattisgarh region. The Panduvamsis lays its claim to lordship of the Kosala country and the king assuming the title Kosaladhipati, ‘Lord of Kosala’ (4). It is the Adhabhara grant of his son Nannaraja II that he is described as having earned the over lordship of the entire Kosala, Utkala and other mandalas (provinces) by of his own merit (5). Mahasiva Tivara extended Panduvamsi power to east and was only temporary. The Senkapat inscription of “Sivagupta shows that a part of the Vidarbha region of Maharashtra was within the Panduvamsi control (6). It is believed by some that the Chanda region of Maharashtra formed a part of the kingdom of the early members of the Pandu dynasty and it was from here that they invaded Kosala (7). This view is based on the impression that the inscription of the time of Nannaraja (8) referring to the restoration by Bhavadev, the fourth brother of Nannaraja, of a decayed Buddhist temple originally built by a king named Suryaghosa was found at Bhandak in the Chanda District. There has been much uncertainty and debate about the actual provenance of this inscription. A group of historians believe that it was Bhandak of Chanda District of present Maharashtra and others believe it to be Arang of Raipur in Madhya Pradesh to be the place of origin, this of course is based on evidence of arguments base. 170 Dynasty History of United Koraput 171 It was Rev. Stevenson first published the inscriptions and Bhandak was given as its find spot (9). Cunningham also attributed it to the same place. Hira Lal (10) D.R. Bhandarkar (11) Moreshwar G. Dikshit and D. C. Sircar (12) did likewise. According to Kielhorn’s information, however, the inscription was brought to the Central Museum, Nagpur, from Ratanpur (Bilaspur District, Madhya Pradesh) (13). V.V. Mirashi also initially accepted the view that it hailed from Bhandak and believed that Tivaradeva’s predecessors were ruling from that locality (14). But shortly thereafter he felt convinced that the stone bearing the inscription was found somewhere in Chhattisgarh and that the notion that it belonged to Bhandak was founded on erroneous information (15). Later, on the testimony of Vinayakrao Aurangabadkar, (16) and Y.K. Deshpande (17) pointed out the inscription actually stood originally at Arang, about fifty kilometers’ south-west of Sirpur in the Raipur District of Madhya Pradesh. At the behest of Richard Jenkings, British Resident at Nagpur from 1807 to 1826, Aurangabadkar, who was in the former’s service, undertook a tour of Chhattisarh and submitted to him a report on the inscriptions in Chhattisgarh which is at present in the India Office Library, London (18). According to this report, Aurangabadkar found the slab bearing the inscription of Bhavadeva Ranakesarin affixed to a large temple at Aring, may be Ar linga, i.e., Arang. However, D.C. Sircar still thinks that this inscription originally came from Bhandak, not Arang. N. Natesa Aiyar mentions of “The Chinese pilgrim Hiuen-tsang, who visited India towards the beginning of the seventy century A.D., mentioned a line on Budhist Kings ruling at Bhandak.” Ajay M.Shastri has given the above account and has been described here Capital The copper plates discovered so far related to Panduvamsis were all issued from Sripura, which was the capital of South Kosala during the reigns of the Sarbhapuriya chiefs, Sudevaraja and Pravaraja and also continued for Panduvamsis. The Sripura, was probably Sarbhapua of Savaras and Sri was prefixed when Vishnu / Buddhist worships patronised by the Chief is the opinion of many. This is found elsewhere also. The stone and copper-plate inscriptions of the family discovered so far supply the following genealogy:- 171 Dynasty History of United Koraput 172 Udayana Indrabala Name lost Nannadeva Isanadeva 123 (Names are lost) Bhavadeva Ranakesarin Tivaradeva (or Mahasiva- Candragupta Tivara) Nannaraj II Harsagupta = Sivagupta- Vasata,Ranakesari Balarjuna daughter of n Sivanandin King Suryavarman of Magadha As has been pointed out earlier (19), the Panduvamsis of South Kosala were probably related to their counterparts in Mekala. V.V. Mirashi postulated that Udayana, the first known member of the Panduvamsa of Kosala, was probably a son of Bharatabala, also known as Indra, who was till recently regarded as the last Pandava king of Mekala (20). Some relationship between these two lines cannot be denied, there are good many difficulties in regarding the Panduvamsis of Kosala as the lineal descendants of the Pandavas of Mekala (21) We may, therefore, regard the two families as collaterally related to each other, the exact relationship being indeterminable in the present state of our knowledge was remarked by Ajay M. Shastri. Udayana It is mentioned that Udayana was the first member of the Panduvamsa of Kosala. There is no inscription of Udayana by himself and he is referred to in a couple of inscriptions of his descendants, viz., Arang stone inscription of Nanna I (no. III: I) and one of the Sirpura stone inscriptions of the time of Sivagupta Balarjuna (no. III: XIII). He had erected a brick temple of the god Bhadresvara (Siva) (22) at Kalanjar (23). It is thus concluded that Udayana ruled over a principality including Kalanjar and adjoining area in Central India. The present state of 172 Dynasty History of United Koraput 173 knowledge is not sufficient to ascertain if he was in South Kosala. His successors conquered the Chhattisgarh region. He had at least two sons; (i) Indrabala and (ii) his younger brother whose name has been lost (24). His relationship, if any, with king Suryaghosa who, according to the Arang stone inscription of Nanna I, built temple of Buddha, which was later, restored by Udayana’s grandson Bhavadeva Ranakesarin. Udayana’ Successors His eldest son Indrabala succeeded Udayana. He was the first member of the family who definitely ruled over at least a part of Kosala. A mutilated Kharod (Bilaspur District) Laksmanesvara temple inscription states that Indrabala had destroyed his enemies (25). The rise of Harsavardhana may have forced him to move away from his kingdom to Kosala where after the fall of the Sarbhapuriyas it had total political chaos, which enabled him to carve out a small principality for himself. The order of succession after Indrabala is still unsolved. Indrabala’s younger brother in the Arang inscription of Nanna I indicate that ruled over a part of the Pandava kingdom in Kosala and was succeeded by his youngest son Bhavadeva. It can be concluded that either both Bhavadeva and Isanadeva ruled over parts of the Pandava kingdom of Kosala as subordinates under Nanna I or all the three, viz., Nanna I, Bhavadeva and Isanadeve, ruled independently and ultimately Nanna I succeeded in becoming the master of the whole of the Pandava kingdom. How this happened is one unsolved question. Bhavadeva was also known as Ranakesarin (literally, ‘a lion in the battle’) on account of his killing the maddened elephants of the enemies; the Viruda of Apriya-vaisika, ‘one disdainful of prostitutes’; and Cintadurga, by causing anxiety (cinta) to his enemies and difficult to break (durga). He patronised Buddhism and maintained the Buddha temple built by Suryaghosa and repaired and the monastery attached to it was whitewashed and adorned with stepped well, gardens, etc. (26). Isanadeva was a follower of Saivism. A Sirpura stone inscription of the time of Sivagupta Balarjuna indicates that he covered the earth with Siva temples (27). 173 Dynasty History of United Koraput 174 Mahasiva Tivara Nanna I was succeeded by his son Mahasiva Tivara. It is known for his copper- plate charters. The seal-inscription describes Tivaradeva as ‘Koshaladhipati or the lord of the Koshala, while in the text of the charters themselves he is said to have acquired the over lordship of the whole of Kosala (prapta-sakala-adhipatya) (28). The Adhabhara plates of Nannaraja II inform that his father Trivaradeva and acquired mastery over the whole of Koshala, Utkala and other provinces by of his own merit. That the claim to have achieved possession of Utkala, etc., is not totally unfounded is indicated by the fact that Nannaraja, the issuer of the charter, himself is credited with the possessions of the province of Koshala alone. It appears that Tivaradeva had tried to take advantage of the struggle for succession in the Sailodbhava kingdom and apparently gained success. This new acquisition did not last long by the fact that Tivara’s son Nannaraja himself did not lay any claim to the Utkala-mandala. Tivaradeva was a follower of Vaisnavism (29) and bore the sectarian title of parama-Vaisnava, i.e., a devout worshipper of Vishnu. Tivaradeva was most admired and the greatest ruler of Panduvamsis. He brought the entire Kosala country under his rule and it remained right up to the end of the dynasty. He conquered the Sailobhava kingdom of Kongoda, though only for a while, of his political control over the adjoining region of Orissa. Nanna is said to have ruling the entire Koshalamandala. The mission of reference to the Utkala-mandala, which is mentioned in connection with his father’s dominions, indicates the loss of Utkala either before to or during his reign Like his father Tivaradeva, Nanna II also was a follower of Vaisnavism and enjoyed the sectarian epithet parama-Vaisnava. Candragupta There is no record of the reign of Candragupta himself, but known from his grandson’s reign. D.C. Sircar proposed to identify Nannaraja mentioned in the Senkapat inscription of the Sivagupta Balarjuna with the homonymous father of Mahasiva Tivara and Candragupta. 174 Dynasty History of United Koraput 175 Harsagupta Candagupata was succeeded by his son Harsagupta who is known from references in many records, of the reign of the next king Sivagupta Balarjuna. Harsagupta was a Vaisnava and is said to have worshipped Achyuta all the time. The construction of a temple of Vishnu in his memory is also a pointer in the same direction (30). Sivagupta Balarjuna Sivagupta Balarjuna, son of Harsagupta ascended the Panduvamsi throne. He had a long reign of not less than fifty-seven years (31). He had a younger brother named Ranakesarin who is said to have helped him in his conquests (32). His son Sivanandin and maternal uncle Bhaskaravarman are also known. Two villages mentioned in the Lodhia plates of the fifty-seventh years of Sivagupta’s reign, Vaidyapai and Khadirapadra, have been located in the Sambalpur or Kalahandi reign of Orissa (33) indicating thereby the inclusion of at least of portion of the eastern part of Kosala in his kingdom. The ruins of Sirpur in Raipur (Chhattisgarh), of Ranipur-Jharial in Balangirpatna and Belkhandi in Kalahandi district (Orissa) are believed to have preserved the glories of his rule. Sivagupta changed the religion and reverted back to Saivism and was styled Parama- Mahesvara. He himself donated a village in favour of a Buddhist establishment and a private benefactor provided for a free feeding house for the Buddhist monks (34). As stated above, Sivagupta Balarjuna’s mother built a temple of Vishnu, the same as the so-called Laksmana temple at Sirpur. The last ruler Sivagupta Balarjuna is the last known Panduvamsin monarch of South Kosala, and absolutely nothing is known of the fate in the eighth century A.D. From a stone inscription found in a wall of Rajivalocana temple at Rajim, about twenty- eight miles south by east of Raipur, records the erection of a temple dedicated to Vishnu by the Nala king Vilasatunga. The inscription mentions Vilasatunga’s father Viruparaja and grandfather Prthviraja also. It is evident that the region round Rajim in the Raipur district was under Vilasatunga at the time of the construction of the temple in question, which is undoubtedly the same as the modern temple of Rajivalocana. The record had been assigned to about the eight century A.D. on paleographical grounds (35). Thus, it appears that the Nalas, who were the neighbours of the Panduvamsis on the south in Umerkote region of Koraput district, took advantage of the decline of the Panduvamsin power after 175 Dynasty History of United Koraput 176 Sivagupta the Vilasatunga succeeded in capturing the Raipur region from Sivagupta’s weak successors. Whether Vilasatunga’s rule was confined to the Raipur region or he annexed some other parts of Chhattisgarh also cannot be determined in the present state of inadequate knowledge. Be that as it may, the fact remains that after Sivagupta we get no trace of the presence of Panduvamsis in the Chhattisgarh region forming the western part of South Kosala, which passed successively under the Nalas, Banas and Kalachuris, and they are found ruling in western Orissa, which corresponded, to the eastern part of Kosala. I am of the opinion that Panduvamsis had their influence upto Indravati river. The present findings of Buddhist temple in Pakanaguda near Kathargad in Koraput along with discovery of identical Buddha terracotta seal as that of the Ghasiram museum, Raipur is indicative of it. The Pakanaguda village is having majority of Sabara tribe settlement. Ajay Mitra Shastri has published his extensive study in ‘Inscriptions of the Sarabhapuriyas,Panduvamsins and Somavamsisins’in two volumes (1995);Motilal Banarsidass,New Delhi and I hope the volumes are most useful to those readers who want to know in detail. References 1. Aiyar Natesa (1914) A Historical Sketch of the Central Provinces and Berar from the Earliest Times. p.9-10f. 2. Mirashi, V.V., Studies in Indology, i, 258, fn. 1 and Nos. III:II, 16-17; III, line 16; IV, text-line 16. 3. No. III: V, text-line 5-7. 4. No. III:XV, text-lines 6-7, verse 7. 5. Majumdar, R.C., and Altekar, A.B. (e.d.), The classical Age, 221. 6. No. III:I. 7. JBBRAS, i, 148ff 8. CASR, ix, 127. For Cunningham’s reasons for the attribution of this inscription to Bhandak, EI, xxiii, 116-17. 9. IA, XXXVII, 208, fn.20; 1xii, 163; ICPB, 13, no. 14. 10. Bhandarkar’s List, No. 1650. 11. EI, XXI, 34, XXXIII, 256. Sircar’s view. 12. JRAS, 1905, 618. 13. EI, XXII, 17. 14. Ibid, XXIII, 116-18. 15. E.I, XXVI, 227; XXXIi, 252-54; Studies in Indology, i, 251-52. 176 Dynasty History of United Koraput 177 16. As stated by Mirashi, Vinayakrao Aurangabadkar’s report was supplied by Y.K. Deshpande. A.J. Rajurkar, Candrapuraca Itihasa (Marathi), foreword by Y.K. Deshpande, 4-5, cited by Ajay Mitra Shastri. 17. MSS. No. Marathi D, 46. Cited by Ajay Shastri, part I, Inscriptions of the Sarabhapuriyas, Panduvamsins, and Somavansins, Ind.Coun. of Hist. Res; New Delhi. 1990. 18. Records of Tivaradeva and Nannarajadhiraja in verse 40 of the Arang stone inscription. 19. Studies in Indology, i, 235-36. 20. supra, 122-6. 21. See Mirashi, V.V. Studies in Indology, i, 236. 22. Kielhorn in EI, iv, 257, fn.4; JRAS, 1905. 23. Sirpur lithic record No. III:XIII, verse 2. 24. Mirashi, V.V. see note 950 above. Vide also Hira Lal, ICPB, 125, no 208. 25. The Arang inscription of Nanna I (no. III:I) 26. No. III:S.I.I. I, verse. 3. 27. Nos. III:II, text-lines 16-17; IV, text-line 19. in III:III text-line 16. 28. No. III: V, text-lines 5-7. 29. No. III: V, text-lines 8-9 (prapta-sakala-Kosala-mandal-adhipatyah). 30. No. III:XI, verse 20. 31. No. III:XI, verse 12; Hira Lal, ICPB, 110, no. 183. 32. No. III:IX, text-line 13. Archaeological Survey of India, Western Circle Progress Report for 1904, 49, no. 2015; 33. E.I. XXVII, 322-23; JKHRS, i, 265-66 34. No. III: XII 35. E.I.XXVI, 49-58 36. V.V. Mirashi, Studies in Ideology, i, 260 177 Dynasty History of United Koraput 178 EASTERN CHALUKYAS OF VENGI The history of Eastern Chalukyas of Vengi has been well brought out by B. Venkatakrishna Rao (1973) (1), N. Venkataramanayya (1950) (2), D. C. Sircar (1988) (3) and others. The work of B. Venkatakrishna Rao was published later date but it was completed far earlier. Most of the materials in this review have been taken from other authors as well as from the above mentioned historians and inscriptions. The copper plate grants of Eastern Chalukya dynasty were published in five grants belonging to the kings Narendra-mrigaraj or Vijayditya II, Amma I or Vishnuvardhana VI, Chalukya Bhima II or Vishnuvardhana VII, Amma II or Vijayaditya V and Vira Choda or Vishnuvardhana IX. The Chipurupalli grant of Pulakeshin II is of most vital to the origin of Eastern branch of Chalukyas. The Udayendra plates of Nandivarmana II, the Timmapuram plates of Vishnuvardhana I, the alas plates of Vijaditya I, Maliyampundi grants of Amma II, the Attili grants of Chalukya Bhima I are the most important ones and source to the E. Chalukya history. Introduction About the beginning of the seventh century A.D., when Chalukya Pulakesin II of Western Chalukya dynasty began his conquests on the northern Kalinga country was governed by a Brahmanical dynasty called Vishnukundins. The northern Kalinga or the Kalinga country proper was ruled by a family Gangas, usually the Eastern Gangas of Kalinganagara, who founded a small but independent kingdom in the break-up of the mighty Vakataka Empire in the last quarter of the Fifth Century. The Eastern Gangas were said to be originally vassals of the Kadambas. The king of Kalinga at this time appears to be father of Danarnava, Indravarma III, who reigned between A.D. 595-620. Kubja Vishnuvardhana I: (A.D.633-650) Kubja Vishnuvardhana was the younger son of Kirttivarman I and therefore, the younger brother of Pulakesin II. Pulakesin II sent Vishnuvardhana to rule over Andhra country as Viceroy and completes the process of conquest, which completed by 631 A.D. Then with the approval of his brother he found the Eastern Chalukyan dynasty of rulers, which ruled over few centuries the Telugu country. 178 Dynasty History of United Koraput 179 The Chipurupalli grant (4) indicates that Kubja Vishnuvardhana was in Kalinga, very near the capital Kalinganagara, at the time of making this grant, probably fighting Indravarman III, son of Gunarnava, the Eastern Ganga king of Kalinga. It was probably that Kubja Vishnuvardhana died during the wars in Kalinga in the southern part of Visakhapatnam. He mentions of two vishayas in the grant. One is Palka vishaya and the other is Dimile vishaya. Kubja Vishnuvardhana I, rewarded 3 of his military officers, of which one Atavi Durjaya, born in the Matsya family who had fought for his master. He was the ainapti of the Chipurapalli grant of Vishnuvardhana I. The chiefs of the Matsya family ruled over a small tract of the country to the south-west of Visakhapatnam district, with their capital at Vaddadi or Oddavadi. They flourished upto 13th century. (B.V. Rao. History of the E. Chalukyas of Vengi, p 85). Map showing Timmapuram plates of Vishnuvardhana I denoting Kumulura village near Paika Puki and Chakrakote, Koraput district 179 Dynasty History of United Koraput 180 Throughout the reign of Jayasimha I the Eastern Ganga king of Kalinga seem to have been constantly at war with Vengi to regain their lost territories in the south. Kubja Vishnuvardhana conquered the Southern provinces of the Eastern Ganga Kingdom as far as the Nagavali and was under the control of his son. Simultaneously, the region of Jayasimha I witnessed the Western Chalukyan kingdom of his uncle Pulekesin II being overrun and his capital Badami sacked and burnt by the Pallava king Narasimhavarman I (A.D. 630-660), about the year 642. The Madras Museum plates of the king Vishnuvardhana I were dated 684, expressed by a chronogram possibly in 634 corresponding to A.D. 21 November 721. The Timmapuram plates (5) of Vishnuvardhana I. Vishamasiddhi were discovered from village Timmapuram in the Saravasiddhi taluka of Visakhapatanam district in Madras Presidency. The plate was deciphered by Rai Bahadur Venkayya and reported by Prof. E. Hultzsch. This finding is of great significance to present Koraput district as it is. The inscription records a grant by Vishnuvardhana- Maharya Surnamed Vishamasiddhi, who was younger brother of Satyasraya Vallavha- Maharaja, the son of Kirtivarman, the grand son of Rana Vikrama and the great-grandson of Ranaraga of the Chalukya family. This short pedigree established the identity of the donor of this grant with Vishnuvardhana I. Vishamasiddhi, the founder of the Eastern branch of the Chalukya dynasty. That he was the younger brother of Satyasraya, i.e. the Western Chalukya king Pulakesin II, and the son of Kirtivarman II. Prof. Hultzsch concluded that, at the time of this grant, Vishnuvardhana I was still a dependent on his elder brother, the Western Chalukya king Pulakesin II. He preferred to be a worshipper of Bhagavat (1.10); i.e. Vishnu, and resided at Pithapura (1.1), the modern Pithapuram in the Godavari district. In the Aihole inscriptions the capture of this fortress is ascribed to his elder brother and sovereign Pulakesin II. The grant’s donnees are not mentioned by name, but simply stated to have been forty Brahmanas of the Chhandoga School. E. Hultzsch wrote. “ The object of the grant was some land seems to be referred to in the Chipurupalle plates of Vishnuvardhana I, and the name has been read doubtfully as ‘Puki-Vishaya’; but, if the facsimile can be trusted. The engraver has written in reality Plaki-vishaye, which may be meant for Palaki-vishaya.” The learned author had not identified the village ‘Kumulura’ too. However, I believe from my study that it is ‘Puki-Vishaya’ as has been rightly mentioned in Ind. Ant. Vol. XX.p. 16, text line 13. This place is still called Puki. It is located in Dasmanthpur area in Koraput block of Koraput district. This Puki 180 Dynasty History of United Koraput 181 has a large population of Oriya Paikos at present is thus called Paika -Puki. Around this place there are Jaina vestiges and it was an ancient Jaina culture centre. The Kumulura village is near by present day Kumulura village with Brahmin families. We are thus inclined to postulate that the Bissama-Cuttack in the Rayagada, which was within the scope, for Western Chalukyas may have been named after Vishamasiddhi and thus it is Bissama-Cuttack. It records the grant of the village of Musinikonda in Toka Natavadi vishaya, to the Jaina temple Nadumba vasati by Ayyana Mahadevi at Bezwada, through the Jaina teacher, Kalibhadracharya of the Kaurigana and the Sangh-anvaya. The ajanpti of the grant was the queen, Ayyana Mahadevi herself, a queen of Kubja Vishnuvardhana; and curiously enough the record was sealed with the seal of Vishnuvardhana himself. The king, who issued the charter, was however, Vishnuvardhana III, son of Mangi Yuvaraja and a grandson of Vishnuvardhana II. Vishnuvardhana III (A.D. 719-755) This will give an account of the war between Eastern Chalukya king Vishnuvardhana III and the Nandivermana II, the king of Pallavas, who was a hereditary enemy to both Western Chalukyas and the Eastern Chalukyas (6). The said Pallava king had an eminent military officer named Udayachandra, who claimed victory over northern region probably the vicinity of Nellore district and also says to have persuaded and defeated the Nisada Chief Prithivivyaghra, who was ruling the Nisada area, may be the present Koraput was also known as Nisada. He claimed to have defeated the Nisada Chief who was following an aswamedha sacrificed horse and probably this Nisada king was evidently a vasal Vishnuvardhana III and the Udayachandandra claims that he had defeated and sent back the Nisada king to Chalukyan dominion back. This indicates the positive relationship of Eastern Chalukyan relationship with Nisada, or present Koraput. However, the Nisadha chief mentioned Prthivivyaghra were of Nellore district said by N. Venkataramanayya. Vishnuvardhana I who ruled between 755- 772 A.D. had the period when the Rashtrakutas over ran great empire and their history was marked with the conflict of Western Chalukya Rastrakutas and the Western Gangas. This was also the history during the Eastern Chalukya king after the death of Krishna I of Rashtrakuta king A.D. 770. His two sons Govinda II and Nirupama Druva made the history of Koraput area and the history of Rashtrakuta king. Vishnuvardhana forces interference in the affairs of Rashtrakutas during the regime of Druva I only rekindled the hostility flame and the Rashtrakutas looked upon the Chalukyas of Vengi with hatred of a natural enemy. 181 Dynasty History of United Koraput 182 The relations between the Eastern Gangas of Kalinga and the Chalukyas of Vengi were not apparently strained as before from the days of Vijayaditya-Bhattaraka, or probably from the last days of Vishnuvardhana III. The cause for this change seems to lie in the rise of a new power of the Rashtrakutas in the west and the disappearance of the supremacy of the Westen Chalukyas of Badami. During this period, beginning with the middle of the eighth century A.D. Vengi and Kalinga seem to have combined against the Rashtrakutas in order to assist the Western Chalukyas of Badami in the latter’s attempt to retain sovereignty in the west. The kingdom of Kalinga was, at this time, ruled by Anantavarman III, the donor of the Alamanda plates (7), dated in the 304th year of the Ganga era, and son of Maharaja Rajendravarman I. There is one small village called Alamanda on the plateau of Eastern Ghat hills of Koraput, which was in a strategic location, and we believe the grant was issued from there only. Vijayaditya I (A.D. 755-772) On the death of Visnuvardhana III, Vijayaditya I, his son by his chief queen Vijayamahadevi, ascended the throne. Vijayaditya I appears to have been a powerful king; but very little is known about his achievements; and his inscriptions as well as those of his successors give no information of any historical importance. One important event which happened during the period of his rule, though unconnected with the affairs of Vengi, must be noticed here, as it exercised a profound influence in subsequent years on the fortunes of the Eastern Chalukya royal family. A few years after Vijayaditya’s accession to the throne of Vengi, a dynastic revolution broke out in the neighbouring kingdom of Karnataka, which resulted in the overthrow of the Chalukya dynasty of Badami. The Rastrakutas, who had been the feudatories of the Chalukyas of Badami ever since the foundation of the kingdom about the middle of the 6th century A.D., rose up, under the leadership of Dantidurga, against Kirtivarman II, overthrew his authority seized his throne, and made themselves masters of Karnataka. The disappearance of the friendly house of Badami, and the emergence in its place of the new Rashtrakuta power upset the political equilibrium of Southern Deccan. Vengi, which enjoyed comparative peace, since the time of its conquest under Pulakesin II, was drawn into the vortex of an inter-dynastic struggle and became the arena of warfare between the Chalukyas and Rashtrakutas during the succeeding two centuries. Vijayaditya I appear to have ruled in peace until almost the end of his reign. Although Dantidurga is said to have conquered the neighbouring kingdoms of Kanci, Kosala, Kalinga and Srisaila, Vengi does not find a place among the states conquered by him (8). 182 Dynasty History of United Koraput 183 At the end of his regime of Vijayaditya, the Rashtrakutas became more aggressive and invaded Vengi from west. The Western part of Vengi was the hills of Giri Kalinga upto the dominion of Chakrakota that is the present Koraput district, thus this place also came into the savage of wars. Krishna I paternal uncle and the successor of Dantidurga sent a large army completed very successfully. It is stated in the Alas Plates dated A.D. 769 that the king of Vengi, i.e. Vijayaditya I, unable to resist the invading Rashtrakuta forces saved himself by the cession of his treasury, forces, and his country (9). Vishnuvardhana IV (A.D. 772-808) Vijayaditya I was succeeded by his son, Visnuvardhana IV. Very few records of his reign have come down to historians. The Permanjili and the Karumuru Grants, which probably belong to his, offer no historical information. And his long reign would have remained a blank in the Eastern Chalukya history, but for valuable references in the contemporary Rashtrakuta inscriptions. He was involved in a protracted war with the Rashtrakutas, and played an important part in politics of his own day. At the time of his accession to throne, Vishnuvardhana IV must have been a feudatory of the Rashtrakutas, as a consequence of his father’s defeat in the hands of Rashtrakutas during the last years of his reign. Soon after his coronation an opportunity appeared itself to regain the lost independence. Krishna I died in A.D. 772, and his eldest son Yuvaraja Govinda II, succeeded him on the throne. This however, roved to be the sign for the outbreak of a civil war in the Rashtrakuta dominions, as Dhruva Nirupama Dharavarsa, Govinda’s younger brother, disputed the right of his brother to sit upon the throne, and rebelled. This Dhruva won over to his side many of the nobles’ of the kingdom and Govinda II turned, in his difficulty, to Vishnuvardhana IV and the other neighboring monarchs from whom he had formerly exacted tribute and solicited their help. The defeat of Govinda II and the enthronement of his rival Dhruva in his place got disaster on all his allies, and Vishnuvardhana IV who had rendered him valuable help was one of them. Thus, as soon as Dhruva settled the affairs of his kingdom, he organized an expedition against Vengi, and sent an army under the Lemulavada Chalukya chief Arikesarin I. The conquest of Vengi and Trikalinga by Arikesarin I is referred to both in the Parbhani Plates and the introductory section of Pampa’s Vikramarjuna Vijayam. Though the former makes it appear that Arikesarin affected the conquest of these countries on his own account, Pampa clearly shows that he had undertaken it on behalf of his master, Nirupama Dhruva (10). The treaty was concluded, according to the terms of which he probably had to agree to acknowledge the supremacy of the Rashtrakuta monarch and pay him tribute. It was further improved by a marriage alliance. Vishnuvarchana IV gave 183 Dynasty History of United Koraput 184 his daughter Silamahadevi in marriage to Dhruva, who was pleased to make her his chief queen (11). The royal houses Vengi and Malkhed were thus united for the first time in their history. As a consequent of which there was peace between the two kingdoms until the death of Vishnuvarchana IV in A.D. 806. Vijayadittya II (A.D. 808-847) Vishnuvardhana IV left two sons, Vijayaditya II and Bhima Saluke, daughter Silamahadevi, who, as stated above was the chief queen of the Rashtrakuta king, Nirupama Dhruva, death, Vijayaditya II, as the eldest son of Vishnuvardhana IV and their proclaimed himself the king after his father’s death. But Bhima Saluke, his younger brother claimed to the throne. He with the help of the Rashtrakuta monarch taken forcible possession of the kingdom and thus precipitated a civil war. It lasted for a period of twelve years. The main events of this are briefly described in the inscriptions of his successors. In the Staluru Grant of his grandson, Gunaga Vijayaditya III, it is stated the he (Vijayaditya II) scattered; the forces of the Gangas, built one hundred and eight temples dedicated to Siva. According to the Ponangi Plates of the same king, Vijayaditya II fought with his enemies one hundred and eight battles (12). The Attili Gant of his great grandson, Chalukya Bhima I, however, omits the reference to the commanders of Vallabhendra in this connection, but mentions in their place the forces of the Southern Gangas who fought on the side of Bhima Saluke (13). It is thus obvious that the struggle was bitterly contested and that Vijayaditya II had to fight for every inch of the ground he recovered from the enemy. Vijayaditya III or Gunaga Vijaditya (A.D. 844-888) Vijayaditya III or Gunaga Vijayaditya, is (he) commonly referred to in the inscriptions of his descendants. He seems to have ascended the throne in A.D. 848-49 after the short reign of his father (Vijayaditya II). He was the most powerful of the early Chalukya rulers of Vengi, who had long reign. During his regime the Eastern Chalukya power reached to the zenith of its glory, and the Vengi kingdom attained the widest extent. Vijayaditya III was frequently at war with his neighbours almost from the very beginning of his reign. The reign of Gunaga Vijaditya once again brought importance to the Eastern Ghats, and made history. Here after the role and important participation of tribes living on these difficult terrains became clearly visible, and showed their vital role during and after Amma II (945-970). The history of Vijayaditya’s wars and the circumstances under which he came into conflict with his enemies are generally unknown. 184 Dynasty History of United Koraput 185 War with Amoghavarsa I: After his victory over Rahana, Gunaga Vijayaditya came into conflict with the Rastrakuta monarch, Amoghavarsa, even though they were related to each other by ties of kinship. It may be recalled that Gunaga’s mother, Silamahadevi, was the first cousin of Amoghavarsa I, being the daughter of his paternal uncle, Indra, the founder of the Gujarat branch of the Rashtrakuta family (14). The circumstances under which the relation broke war were obscure. The Eastern Chalukya inscriptions are almost silent on this war; probably due to the disastrous consequences, including the loss of their independence. Rashtrakuta records no doubt say that Gunaga Vijayaditya was engaged in a war with Amoghavarsa I about the middle of the 9th century A.D., and the defeat in battle he was obliged to acknowledging the latter’s supremacy (15). The invasion of Gangavadi; Gunaga Vjayaditya’s expedition against the Gangas is mentioned in several Eastern Chalukya copper-plate grants including, the Maliyampundi Grant of Amma II (16). This is also supported by the evidence of the Attili Grant of Chalukya Bhima I, which, while associating Mangi laid the other Eastern Chalukya inscriptions with the Gangas, mentions in juxtaposition to them the Kalinga Gangas or the Gangas of Kalinga. The Rastrakuta dominancy on Western Gangas and relationship with Eastern Chalukyas of Vengi with their neighbour Kalinga had much to derive the basic empire growth, thus in the present study details has been given for the rulers. Gunaga Vijayaditya was obliged to embark on the expedition by the command of Amoghavarsa-I to whom he became a subordinate. In the Masulipatam Plates of Vijayaditya III (17), it is said that the king made the gift of the village Trandaparu to the Brahman Vinayadi Sarman as a reward for the marvellous advice, which he gave to the king on the battle-field suggesting the method of putting Mangi to death. Taking advantage of the confusion in the Rashtrakuta dominions caused by the invasion, Gunaga Vijayaditya proclaimed his independence and declared war upon Krishna II. The main incidents of this war described in several Eastern Chalukya records. The Sataluru Grant (18) of Gunaga Vijayaditya himself, which belongs most probably to the last years of his rule, alludes to his conquest of the Rashtrakuta kingdom and the establishment of his suzerainty over the whole Daksinapatha including the Trikalinga country. The first campaign, Pandaranga, the general was leading Gunaga Vijayaditya’s armies, is said to have seen the back of king Kannara i.e., Krishna II in the battle 185 Dynasty History of United Koraput 186 and put down the pride of another king called Sankila; he is also said to have entered, at the head of his army into Kiranapura, Dahali-niruta, Dalenadu, and Acalapura (19). The Attili Grant of Chalukya Bhima I, which is contemporaneous with the Dharmavaram epigraph, furnishes some more facts of his war. Gunaga Vijayaditya, it is stated, set fire to the cities of Kiranapura and Acalapura besides Nellurpura and acquired the title of Tripura-martya-Mahesvara, won a victory over Krishna in a battle, extracted silver from the Gangas of Kalinga, took elephants from the ruler of Kosala and plundered the gold of the Pandyas and the Pallavas (20). The Kandyam Plates of Danarnava, and the Penneru the Pabhuparru and the Telugu Academy Plates of Saktivarman I mention besides Krishna and Sankila, a certain Baddega among Gunaga’s enemies to whom, however, he is said to have promised security from molestation (21). And lastly Pithapuram inscription of Mallappadeva, Gunaga Vijayaditya, burnt a place called Cakrakuta, restored to Vallabhendra his own exalted position and received elephants from the king of Kalinga (22). The information from the inscriptions cited above shows clearly that the Eastern Chalukya army not only overran the Rashtrakuta dominions but also penetrated into Dhalla, a nine-lakh country, which was situated between the Bhagirathi (i.e., Ganges) and the Narmada. Throughout this war, Krishna II appears to have been dogged by misfortune (23). Southern Expeditions The history of the Tamil country during the closing years of the 9th century A.D. is far from clear. The relations between Aditya I, the real founder of the Chola kingdom of Tanjore, and his Pallava overlords were not always friendly. Assailed by the Pallava or the Pandya or by both together, Aditya might have turned in his difficulties to the north and solicited help from Gunaga Vijayaditya. The statement in the Attili Grant of Chalukya Bhima I, that Gunaga plundered the gold of the Pandya and Pallava lends to this view. The second campaign against Krishna II: This is but a continuation of Gunaga Vijayaditya’s war against Krishna II described earlier. Venkataramanaya (24) (1958) wrote; “Why Gunaga Vijayaditya was obliged to invade Dahala, the home of the Haihaya kings of Cedi, is far from clear. It may be explained in a satisfactory manner campaign, lost control over his hereditary dominions and had taken refuge at the court of his ally and brother-in-law Sankila, the ruler of Dahala, However, that may be, the expedition set out from somewhere in Vengi, and marched westward through the well known passes in the Eastern Ghats towards Dahala. The route passed through two or three independent kingdoms, which lay between Vengi and the Cedi territory, and it was necessary to subjugate them to secure a passage for the army. Gunaga Vijayaditya, like the later Chola 186 Dynasty History of United Koraput 187 emperors who set out from Vengi for the conquest of Central and Northern India, had to begin his campaign by the subjugation of Kalinga. Of the three divisions into which Kalinga was divided from ancient times, two, the Central and the Southern, called the Madhya and the Daksina- Kalingas respectively, were in the possession of the Eastern Chalukyas, since the time of Kubja - Visnuvardhana (25). Therefore, the Kalinga Ganga subdued by Gunaga Vijayaditya must have been the independent ruler of North Kalinga, probably Devendravarman, and the donor of the Cidivalasa Plates or his father, Bhupendravarman. The steps, which the Eastern Ganga had taken to defend his kingdom, are not known. It is, however, certain that he ultimately suffered defeat, and had to purchase peace by surrendering his wealth and war elephants.” He further wrote, “The victory over the Kalinga secured for him the passes in the Eastern Ghats, commanding the route along which he had to march. This enabled him to cross the mountains safely and reach the open country which lay on the other side of the Ghats without incident.” This clearly indicates the Eastern Ghats separating the plain land of coastal side as well as the plain lands of Koraput district. It was probably here that he came into conflict with Baddega, whose territories lay on his left flank. Baddega, though like Gunaga Vijayaditya was a Chalukya by birth, came of a different stock, and was a firm supporter of the Rashtrakuta power. He was, as pointed out by the Government epigraphist, a Western Chalukya prince an ancestor of Arikesarin II, the patron of the Kannada poet, Pampa (26) and flourished about A.D. 941-42. Yuddhamalla I, the founder of the family, migrated, as stated in an earlier context, from the Spadalaksa country in Rajaputana to Northern Telingana, where he carved out a small kingdom for himself and settled down at Bodhan in the Nizamabad district of the Hyderabad State. The seat of his family, however, was shifted further east to Lembulavatika or Lemulavada, the modern Vemulavada, in the Karimnagar district during the time of his successors. Baddega was said to be a great warrior and a powerful prince. His exploits have been described at length in Vikramarjuna Vijaya of Pumpa and the inscriptions of his descendants (27). The records belong to late stage of his career, and do not mention his relations with Gunaga Vijayaditya; whereas the Eastern Chalukya records spoke of his defeat in the battle and were compelled to sue for peace. The sway of Baddega extended perhaps to Bastar, the ancient Chakrakuta - mandala, which was situated immediately to the north-east of his dominions on the other side of the Godavari” The learned author of this book are putting Bagdari a place with ancient archeological remains, on the bank of the river Kolab may be Baddega as has been denoted here. This may be the site at Baddega and present Bagderi of Koraput, very close to Bastar. Venkataramayya further wrote “It may be remembered that Bastar, though situated at present in the Central Provinces, was 187 Dynasty History of United Koraput 188 included in Telingana until the fall of the Kakatiya monarchy in the first quarter of the 14th century A.D. and the Lemulavada chiefs, who were the masters of the territory on the south bank of the river Godavari, might have exercised some authority over it. If this surmise is not altogether wide of the mark, it may be presumed that the conflict arose out of Gunaga Vijayaditya’s attempt to seize the fort of Cakrakuta, which stood at an important strategic point, on the route of his march. Though nothing is known about the details of the warfare, two facts stand out clearly, viz., that the Chalukya army succeeded in taking the fort of Cakrakuta which they reduced to ashes; and that Baddega, worsted in the battle and unable to offer further resistance, sued for peace. Gunaga Vijayaditya, who had no desire to drive the defeated prince into desperate opposition, assumed an attitude of conciliation, and appears to have won him over to his side by promising to leave him in the undisturbed possession of his territories (28).” Gunaga Vijayaditya then moved on with his army to Kosala, where probably a member of the Sarabhapura family, which supplanted the Sripura line and ruled in Kosala for a while who opposed Gunaga Vijayaditya’s advance and suffered defeat and had to make peace by giving up his war elephants and other valuables (29). Then, Gunaga Vijayaditya reached at last Dahala, the objective of his expedition Pandaranga, the general of Gunaga Vijayaditya, according to the Dharmavaram epigraph, entered, at the head of his army, Kiranapura, Dahala, Niruta, Dalenadu and Acalpura (30). With the capture of Acalpura, the modern Ellichpur of Berar Gunaga Vijayaditya’s war with Krishna II came to an end. It was a brilliant military success. Gunaga Vijayaditya ruled for three or four years Dahala; but they were uneventful. He died in A.D. 891 after a long reign of forty-four years, full of honour. It is very clear from this expedition of Gunaga that the route from the coastal area on the hills of Easter Ghats through which he traveled to Chakrakuta and then to Kosala was a dominion of Kalinga and this was most probably the Girikalinga. So in this case, there could have been a route he could have got in through Narsipat area to Paderu and then to Nandapur, or may be Panchipetta to Nandapur and then decent down from the hills either at Bhairava Singhpur or Kathagadh; Bhairabasingpur or Borigumma that could have been the base. But I think on the hills he assumed interference from other allied kings of Kalinga empire and therefore, he took most probably the route by coming to Srikakulam district, from there to Narainapatna to Kothagad or Bhairabasingpur of the present day. It is very clear that this route was operation able for invading the army from time immemorial and the civilisation were always looking for a route a route with least 188 Dynasty History of United Koraput 189 resistance from the enemy, and resistance from the point of big rivers. This can be concluded that the Vijayaditrya crossed through the Koraput district and went into the Bastar district and then to the Kosala and Dhala countries. Chalukya Bhima I, or Visnuvardhana VI (A.D. 892-922) On the death of Gunaga Vijayaditya, Chalukya Bhima I, his nephew, the son of his younger brother Yuvaraja Vikramaditya, ascended the throne. The most important aspect in his period was that after the death of Vijayaditya, Rashtrakutas became active and successful at first. Chalukya Bhima I, if we may trust the records of the Lemulavada chiefs, fell into the hands of the enemy in some unspecified battle, was defeated at the hands of Baddega. Pumpa states, in his account of the Lemulavada family that Baddega, the grandfather of his patron, Arikesari II, seized, as if seizing a crocodile in water, Bhima had won frame as a great warrior. The same statement is repeated in the Parbhani Plates of Arikesari III also. As Baddega suffered defeat at the hands of Chalukya Bhima’s uncle and predecessor, Gunaga Vijayaditya in the Dahala campaign, there can be no doubt that they were contemporaries. Baddega was, as said already, was a faithful feudatory of Krishna II, His estates lay immediately to the north of the Ranamarda territory, it is natural that he should have accompanied the expedition, and played an important part in the invasions. The success of the Rashtrakutas was, however, short lived. Kusumayudha, the ruler of the Ranamarda country quickly retreated with his forces, and may be with Chalukya Bhima supporters inflicted a crushing defeat and thus chased them back to their own country. Taking advantage of the confusion that was prevailing in the enemy’s camp. Chalukya Bhima perhaps affected his escape from captivity at this juncture and joined his family. Vijayaditya IV Kollabhiganda (A.D. May 922-November 922) On the death of Chalukya Bhima I in A.D. 922, his eldest surviving son, Vijayaditya IV surnamed Kollabhiganda or the slayer of the heroes who opposed him ascended the throne. The reason as to why Vijayaditya IV had to lead an army into Kalinga immediately after his accession to the throne, it is not possible to ascertain. The Eastern Gangas probably became restive, and had to be kept under control. The activities of Vajrahasta, the son of Gunarnava or Gunamaharnava, who must have been ruling about this time probably called for a demonstration of military strength. At the time of Vajrahasta’s accession, Kalinga was divided into five principalities, each of which was governed by an independent chief. Vajrahasta wrote to all these principalities and create the united kingdom of Kalinga (31). This naturally clashed with the interests of the Eastern Chalukyas, whose sway was extended 189 Dynasty History of United Koraput 190 over a large part of the country. The Chalukyas thus probably lost their sovereignty over the bulk of Kalinga either during the last years of Chalukya Bhima I or immediately after his death. Gunaga Vijayaditya, it may be recalled, reduced to subjection the entire land of Kalinga, and became the lord of Trikalinga country. Chalukya Bhima I succeeded, not withstanding his pre- occupation with the Rashtrakuta wars, in keeping his hold over a large part of his uncle’s Trikalinga conquest, if not the whole of it. The gift of the village of Tini (Tuni) situated in the Devarastra of the Elamancili Kalingadesa shows definitely that his authority was recognised in the Madhya or the Central Kalinga (32). Vijayaditya IV is said to have ruled only over the Trikalinga-atavi or the forest tracts belonging to Trikalinga in addition to his ancestral kingdom of Vengi (33). This indicates clearly the Vijayaditya IV was ejected from the whole of Kalinga with the exception of the forest tracts attached to it. It was probably to re-establish his supremacy over that country that he led an expedition to Kalinga Vijayaditya is generally credited to have won victory at Viraja, but the Inangaru Grant of Rajaraja II, no doubt, a late document of the Chola-Chalukya period, states that Vijayaditya captured the city named Viraja and departed to the world of the Gods (34). The Trikalinga-atavi country was probably lost and gained by Kalingas, as a consequence of their defeat and the death of their leader in the battle at Viraja; and Vajrahasta II made himself the master of the entire Trikalinga country without much trouble. Amma I, Vikramaditya II and Yuddamalla II ( A.D. 921-927) After a rule of seven years Amma I died. Vikramaditya II appears to have been an energetic ruler. During the short period of his rule, he brought under his control not only his ancestral kingdom, Vengi, but also Trikalinga, which was lost after the death of Chalukya Bhima I. Though a doughty warrior, and the hero of a hundred battles, he was notable to keep himself in power for more than eleven months (35). According to the Digubarru Grant of Chalukya Bhima II, the only record that refers to the event, Vikramaditya II was attacked by Bhima, the son of Amma I, who killed him in battle, and occupied the throne for a period of eight months (36). And Yuddamalla II, the eldest son of Tala I, overthrew him in his turn. It is also seen that the Rashtrakutas, were not eager to leave Vengi, and return to their own kingdom. Govinda IV had no desire to relax his hold, and allow Yuddhamalla II to become the master of the territory; which his forces had conquered. At his instance, the conquered territory was appointed among the feudatory Sabara chiefs, the commanders of the Vallabha (i.e., the Rashtrakuta forces and others who held it for seven years (37); the only a small part of the country extending to the south of the Krishna appears to have been left directly 190 Dynasty History of United Koraput 191 under the control of Yuddhamalla II (38). It was not, therefore, possible for Yuddhamalla to establish his authority firmly in the country under the circumstances. Chalukya Bhima II (A.D. 927-945) The Eastern Chalukya records ascribe, the victory of Chalukya Bhima II who perhaps received some help directly or indirectly from outside. The war, which he waged on Yuddhamalla II and his overlord Govinda IV, was not an isolated affair confined to Vengi only. Govinda IV, it may be recalled ousted his elder brother, Amoghavarsa II, and captured his throne. A section of his nobles headed by his designing paternal uncle, Baddega, and his son Kannara, turned hostile towards Govinda IV and began to plot against him. Govinda as shown in the Sudi Plates can be trusted from the kingdom. Buddega there upon repaired with his son to Dahala and sought the protecting of his father-in-law, the Cedi sovereign, Yuvarajadeva I. The court of the Cedi monarch became the natural meeting place of the disaffected Rashtrakuta nobles, where they engaged themselves in devising schemes for the overthrow of Govinda IV. Baddega and his son had two important allies, who were mainly instrumental in paving their way to the throne. The Western Ganga prince Butuga, who had designs upon his ancestral throne, and was anxious to supplant his elder brother and sovereign Rajamalla III, expecting to gain his object with the help of Baddega and his son, joined them at Tripuri. It is said that Butuga met the glorious Baddega, the favourite of the earth, in the country of Dahala, and then being of the most excellent understanding, wedded his daughter, along, of a verity, with the Maiden of Eloquence, at Tripuri (39). More important than this Ganga prince was Arikesari II, the powerful Chalukya chief of Lemulavada, whose possessions lay in the east of Telingana on the western frontier of the kingdom of Vengi. He was a brother-in-law of Govinda IV, having married the princes, Revakanirmadi one of the daughters of king Indra III (40). The above incidences clearly indicate the Buddega relationship to W. Chalukyas, Rastrakutas, Eastern Vengi and Dahala, which if believed as per earlier reports and evidences to be from Koraput district (plain region) must probably played a very important diplomatic roles as a state of its own in these countries. Amma II Vijayaditya VI (A.D. 945-970) On the death of Chalukya Bhima II, Amma II, his son by Lokambika, ascended the throne, overstepping his elder step-brother Danarnava, and assumed the name of Vijayaditya. The Savara chief had a very good relationship as it is seen during the Yuddhamalla’s period. The Rashtrakutas assisted the Savaras. Then in Amma II he is described the lord of both Vengi and Kalinga and is known to have made 191 Dynasty History of United Koraput 192 the grants of lands in Parukonadu vishaya, Yellamandhili Kalinga in Visakhpatnam district. After Amma II had ruled for 11 years about A.D. 956, Badapa son of king Yuddhamalla drove him out of Vengi country. Badapa became king with the help of the Rashtrakuta king Krishna III (A.D. 939-67) (41) Badapa styled himself as Vishnuvardhana and he was succeeded by his younger brother Tala II. The length of his (Badapa) ruling period nor the circumstances under which his region came to an end is not known. On his death, his younger brother, Tala II, ascended the throne and adopted the name of Vishunvardhana. Unable to withstand the advance of the Rashtrakuta invasions, he (Amma II) abandoned the king and saved himself by timely flight to Kalinga (42). The events of the last years of the region Amma II after his return from Kalinga are lost in obscurity. Inscriptions slightly later in date, however, throw some light on the concluding stage of the reign. Danarnava (A.D. 970-71 to 972-3) Danarnava celebrated his coronation in 892 Saka corresponding to A.D. 970- 971).The death of Danarnava did not result in the submission of Vengi. The Samnyats and other adherents of the dead monarch still held out. They fall into three groups. First, there was the Vaidumba king. Ganda Trinetra Whom Danarnava had recently reduced to subjection. He was the hereditary enemy of the Telugu Cholas, and he was not disposed to accept Bhima, whom he must have regarded as an equal, as his overlord and sovereign. The clash between the two became inevitable. The Vaidumba was presumably worsted in the contest and had to acquiesce in the supremacy of the Telugu Chola. Next come the Samnyats, Manyas, and the wild tribes dwelling in the jungles in the east. The hilly regions situated in the Madhya or Central Kalinga corresponding to the present Agency tracts had already been the home of warlike savage tribes who showed no inclination to submit to authority. It was not an easy task to keep them under control, and the Chalukya rulers of Vengi had to adopt special measures to enforce their authority. They assigned estates to their nobles in this region; and one of the branches of the royal family migrated early to this district and settled down there permanently. No wonder that the Samnyats and Manyas at the head of the jungle tribes, confident of the natural strength of their mountain strongholds, held out against Bhima and defied his authority. Bhima was a brave warrior and capable leader. Undaunted by the numerous difficulties that beset his path, he led an expedition against them and put them down with a stern hand. 192 Dynasty History of United Koraput 193 The war with the eastern Samnyats and Manyas involved Bhima in a war with Kamarnava, the Eastern Ganga king of Kalinga. The causes of this war are not difficult to surmise. Danarnava was related, through his mother, to the Kalinga royal family and Kamarnava might have been naturally desirous of avenging the death of his cousin, and restoring to his children their patrimony. More important than this was, perhaps, his ambition to re-establish the sovereignty of his family over the Central and the Southern Kalinga, this had remained in the possession of the Chalukyas since the time of Kubja-Vishnuvardhana. Kamarnava was not, however, destined to achieve his ambition. Though he held out for a while against the Telugu Chola, he had to succumb ultimately. Notwithstanding the great distance which he had to traverse, Bhima, it is said, marched at the head of an army to Kalinga and after some hard fighting put to death not only Kamarnava but also his younger brother, Vinayadiya who, on his death, succeeded him on the throne of Kalinga. The Kalinga war was not an easy walk over to Bhima, as the language of the Kailasanatha temple inscription seems to suggest. He had to spend several years fighting with the Eastern Ganga princes in the hilly tracts of Kalinga. Though he slew Danarnava and took possession of his kingdom as early as A.D. 972-3, it was not until A.D. 981, some eight years later, that he was able to overcome the opposition of the Kalingas. Kamarnava seems to have offered stubborn resistance until he fell heroically fighting against the enemy in A.D. 978. The task of defending the realm seems to have then devolved upon his younger brother. Vinayaditya, who carried on the fight for three years longer, until he too laid down his life on the battlefield. With the death of Vinayaditya in A.D. 981, the backbone of the opposition was finally broken, and Kalinga submitted. Bhima having thus successfully destroyed all his enemies became the undisputed master of the kingdoms of Vengi and Kalinga and his authority was not seriously questioned until the end of the century. References 1. Venkatakrishna, B., Rao (1973) History of the Eastern Chalukyas of Vengi. 2. Venkataramanayya, N (1950) The Eastern Chalukyas of Vengi. p. 123-25. 3. Sircar, D.C. (1988) The successors of the Satavahanas. p.117. 4. E.I. IX, p.317 5. Timmapuram plates, A.R. No. 443 of 1915; E.I., IX p.3178 I.A. XX p.17. 6. Udayendiram Plates of Nandivarman II, S.I.I.II, p.368 7. E.I. Vol. III, p.18 ff (Almanda plates). The Eastern Chalukyas of Vengi by N. Venkataramanayya, 1950 193 Dynasty History of United Koraput 194 8. Arch. Sur. West Ind. pp. 17. The Dasavatara Inscription of Eluru, Verse 23. 9. E.I.VI, p.210 10. Jain Sahitya aur Itihas, p.90 and Pampa, Vikramarjuna Vijayam, 1:20. 11. E.I.XXII, No.17, pp-98-107. 12. C.P. 3 of 1908-9 13. JTA. XI, p.253 14. JTA-I, pp 140-55 15. E.I. VI, p. 103 16. E.I. IX, p.47 17. E.I, V, p.125 18. Bharati I. No. 1, pp. 104-5 and JAHRS, V. p. 113 19. Ibid, V.i.p.619-20 20. JTA XI, p. 241 21. JAHRS XI, p. 80 f; JTA III, p.407 22. E.I. IV, pp. 233-4 23. MER.1917, Part 11, para 37, Dynastic History 11, p. 763 24. Venkataramanayya,N (1950) op.cit.pp.123-125 25. ARE. Cp. 13 of 1908-9, Cf. CP. 10 and 11 of 1908-9 Bodderi Grant of Kokuli Varma Maharaja, Vizagapatnam district 26. ARE, 1918, Part 11, Para 5 27. Vikramarjuna Vijaya, 1:16:29, Sources of the Medieval History of Deccan, II, p.48, JAHRS , VI. p. 169 f 28. JAHRA XI, p. 80f 29. JTA, III, p.407 30. JTA, XI, p.241 31. E.I, IV, p. 189 32. C.P. p.4 of 1908-9 33. E.I, V, p. 133 34. C. P 23 of 1916-17 35. S.I.I, I, No. 37, p.45 36. I.A, XIII, p.214 37. E.I., IX, p.47f 38. E.I., XV, p. 150-59 39. ARE. Cp. of 1916-17 III, p. 183, p. 179 40. Telingana Inscri. Itara No.21;Medival History of Deccan Ii.p.48 41. E.I., XIS, p. 142 42. ARE, Cp. 1 of 1916-17 194 Dynasty History of United Koraput 195 MATHARAS The Mathara was an ancient royal family of South Kalinga. They had matrimonial relations with famous families like Iksavakus (1), even before they rose to power. D.C. Sircar wrote, “When the Pitribhaktas were ruling from Simhapura in Central Kalinga, the royal family of the Matharas had their capital at Pishtapura in the south. D. C. Sircar thus opined that there were three separate dynasties namely, the Pitribhaktas, Matharas and the Vasisthas (2). However, S. N. Rajguru was of the opinion that these are all one and the same Mathara dynasty. (3). But, N.K.Sahu was of the view that Mathras and Vasisthas are two distinct families of Kalinga. (4).A detail account on Matharas is available due to D. C. Sircar, S. N. Rajaguru, N.K.Sahu and Mrs. S. Tripathy (5). She was of the opinion that during the period of 5th and 6 th centuries Kalinga was ruled from Pistapura, Devapura, Simhapura and other places the above families ruled more or less contemporaneously in the region between the district of Ganjam and East Godavari district. The Ragolu Grant of the Mathara Maharaja Sakti-varman, which records a gift of land near Chicacole, was issued in the king’s 13th regnal year from the city of Pishtapura. The king bears the title ‘lord of Kalinga.’He has been described as Vasisthi ( Vasisthi-putra) to have belong to Mathara family. It indicates that the Mathras and Vasisthas were matrimonially related. He was also known as Sakti- bhattaraka. The grant of locality called Rakaluva, was stated to have been located in the Kalinga-Visaya. This shows that the Matharas of Pishtapura conquered the heart of the Pitribhakta kingdom in Central Kalinga. This is also supported by the fact that the Sakunaka Grant issued in the 28th regnal year of another Mathara king named Ananth-Sakti-varman, who enjoyed the title ‘lord of Kalinga,’ was issued from Simhapura, the former capital of the Pirtibhaktas. Prabhanjanavarman was the successor of Saktivarman to the Mathara throne that is known from the extant charter issued by him from Simhapura. (6). Matharas are never known to have ruled beyond Ganjam district that is towards northern part of Orissa. It is not known how long Prabhanjanavarman ruled Kalinga. Maharaja Ananth-Sakti- varman was the successors of Prabhanjanavarman. Two copper plate of this king are known (7). He ruled from Simhapura, the modern Singpur in Srikakulam district of Andhra Pradesh. In later period there was conflict between Pitrbhaktas and Matharas over Simhapura, that later period came under the control of Pitrbhaktas. Sakti-varman of the Ragolu grant. This is suggested by the fact that an official mentioned as Amatya Arjunadatta in the Ragolu grant of Sakti-called Desakshapataladhikrita-Talavara Arjunadatta in Ananta-Sakti-varman’s record. 195 Dynasty History of United Koraput 196 The Amatya was probably raised to higher offices during the latter part of his life. According to some writers, the name Ananta-Sakti-varman actually indicates ‘Ananta-Sakti-varman’s son of Sakti-varman.It has been suggested that Ananta- Sakti-Varman was successor of Sakti-Varman, a third king named Ananta- Varman probably intervening between the reigns of the two was the opinion of Sircar.(8) All these suggestions are negatived by the Ningondi copper plate inscription (9), issued by the Mathara king Prabhanjana-varman, who was the son of Saktivarman and the grandson of Sankaravarman, from the city of Simhapura. This Saktivarman may be identified with the king of the same name who issued the Ragolu plates; but the relation to Prabhanjanavarman with Anantasakti-verman of the same family is not yet definitely known. The recently discovered Andhavaram Plates, however, represent Sakti-varman as the Aryaka or grandfather of Ananta- Sakti-varman, who may have thus been the son and successor of Prabhanjana- varman. The Ningondi Grant represents Sakti-varman as the ruler of the people inhabiting the land between the Krishnavenna and the Mahanadi, but the claim must be regarded as exaggerated.”(10) I am of the opinion that the Matia tribe in Koraput district and else where are possibly the people of Mathara dynasty. They may have entered to the present locality from Pistapur to Korkonda region of Malkangiri in Koraput district of Orissa. In the Korkonda area I am said to understand that there is Vardamanpur (I have not confirmed) gives the clue to Girikalinga that mentions of Vaadhamana agrahara and was a part of the Kalinga during Mathara rule. The Mathara rule is still a controversy and the present paper by Mrs. S. Tripathy is more informative and interested readers may refer. Reference 1. E.I.XX, pp.19f. 2. Sircar, D.C. A New History of the Indian People. Vol.IV. The Gupta-Vakataka Age.pp. 79-80 3. Rajguru, S.N. Inscriptions of Orissa. Vol.I Part II.pp.68-69 4. Sahu, N.K. Mathara Rule in Kalinga.Utakal University- History of Orissa. Vol. I. p.467-504. 5. Tripathy, S. New Light on the Mathars of Kalinga. OHRJ, Vol XXXV, No.3&4 p.135-165. 6. E. I. Vol. XXX, pp.112-18 ff and plate 7. E.I. XXVIII, pp. 175-79 ff and plate: pp.227-35 ff and plate. 8. Sircar, D.C. The Matharas. The Classical Age, Bhartiya Vidya Bhavan.pp.212-213. 9. E.I., XXX, p. 112. 10. Sircar, D.C.op.cit. 196 Dynasty History of United Koraput 197 CHOLAS OF TAMIL COUNTRY IN KALINGA, CHAKRAKOTE, VENGI AND DAKSHINA KOSALA The Hathigumpha inscriptions of Kharavella, ruler of Kalinga during the first half of the second century B.C. and in the eleventh year of his reign (C.155B.C.), is said to have destroyed the Tamil country, which constituted of a confederacy of Tamil states - Tramiradesaanghatam. It was 113 years old at that time, and was a source of danger, as perceived for long time. The same inscription records that Kharavella caused ‘numerous pearls in hundred’ to be brought from the Pandya to Kalinga. This was the first inscription, well reflecting the state Tamil country before the Sangam period (i.e. the first three or four century A.D.). From the middle of the sixth century A.D., for a period of 300 years, the history of South India was the story of mutual conflict among three powers each tirelessly seeking to extend its empire. The three powers were the Chalukyas of Badami, the Pallavas of Kanchi and the Pandyas of Madura. They rose to prominence in the sixth century; but the Chalukyas quit the stage about a century earlier than the two other powers, were replaced from the middle of the eight-century by their successors, the Rashtrakutas of Manyakheta (Malkhed). The main house of Badami, the Chalukyas had established themselves in two other branches, more or less independent of the main line. They were the Chalukyas of Lata and the Eastern Chalukyas of Vengi. The Gangas of Mysore together with the Eastern Chalukyas took sides in the conflicts of the three kingdoms, sometimes with decisive results. The Cholas of the Tamil country had practically disappeared. A line of Telugu rulers bearing Chola name and claiming a traditional relationship with their capital at Traiyur ruled in the area now known as Rayalaseema. This conflict of struggle for empire did not remain limited to their respective territories and by 9th and 10th century extended into north countries of Kalinga, South Kosala and Chakrakote. Several new dynasties appeared and left the stage. The present lands of Bastar of Chhattisgarh and Koraput district of Orissa were active partners and witnesses to all these developments for centuries with their distant neighbours. The present exercise is to build up of history of Koraput- Bastar from the existing records.. 197 Dynasty History of United Koraput 198 Cholas of Tamil Country Rajaraja the great (A.D. 985-1014) of Cholas and Kalinga conquest Rajaraja I, the son of Sundara Chola, ascended the throne in June-July, 985 A.D. His brother Aditya II was murdered at the instance of Uttama Chola, who had made Rajaraja heir apparent. Consequently, he was enabled before his accession to the throne to acquire extensive knowledge of public affairs during several years. The inscriptions of Rajaraja range from his second to his thirty-first regnal years. He started the practice of prefixing ‘historical introductions’ to his inscriptions, which was followed by his successors, and these official records of public events are thus of great help to the historian of the Cholas. No other contemporary accounts of Rajaraja are extant. The Tanjore inscription of the twenty-ninth regnal year of Rajaraja mentions his warlike achievements in its ‘historical introduction’ (1). “He was pleased to destroy the ships (at) Kandalur-Salai, and conquered by his army, which was victorious in great battles, Vengai-nadu, Gangapadi, Tadigaipadi, Nolambapadi, Kudamalainadu, Kollam, Kalingam, Ilamandalam (which was the country) of the Singalas who possessed rough strength, the seven and a half laks has of Irattapadi and ‘twelve thousand ancient islands of the sea’, deprived the Seliyas of (their) splendour at the very moment when (they were) resplendent (to such a degree) that (they were) worthy to be worshipped everywhere.” The first great triumph of Rajaraja was secured early in his reign when he destroyed the Chera navy at Trivandrum. The Tamil expression “Kandalursalaik-Kalamaruttaruli” means “pleased to destroy the ships in the roadstead of Kandalur (Trivandrum)”. Rajaraja’s interference in Eastern Chalukya affairs came due to the result of the distracted condition of the Vengi kingdom in the tenth century. He thus helped Saktivarman to secure the throne after the long interregnum from A.D. 973 to 999. The Chola emperor did so to frustrate the scheme of Satyasraya to combine the resources of the Western and Eastern Chalukyas against the Cholas. This brought an end to the civil war in Vengi, and Rajaraja claimed to be its conqueror (2). The alliance between the powers was cemented by the marriage of Kundava, Rajaraja’s daughter, with Vimaladitya (A.D. 1011-1018) the younger brother of Saktivarman I. Ultimately this marriage thus prepared the way for the union of the Eastern Chalukyas and the Cholas. This was seen as great relevance to the history of these three houses of rulers. Rajaraja’s conquest of Kalinga must have followed his subjugation of Vengi, as Kalinga sought to aggrandize itself at the expense of its southern neighbour. 198 Dynasty History of United Koraput 199 Lastly, Rajaraja conquered the other islands. Some of his titles reflect his achievements. Chola Rajendra I (A.D.1012-1044) Rajendra I took an active part in public affairs before his accession to the throne, and was associated with his father in the governing of the empire. He ruled from A.D. 1012 to 1044, and made his son Rajadhiraja heir apparent as early A.D. 1018. The inscriptions of Rajendra describe his wars and conquests and exhibit his greatness as a conqueror. The famous Tiruvalangadu grant(3) (thirty-one copper-plates) of his sixth regnal year (A.D. 1017) recites his achievements, and additions were made to the account in Sanskrit about A.D. 1025 after his conquest of Kataha or Kadaram(4). Another important record of Rajendra is his Tirumalai rock (5) inscription issued in his thirteenth regnal year (A.D. 1024), which gives a complete list of his continental conquests. Rajendra I the Conqueror of Purvadesa Nilakanta Sastri wrote, “In several inscriptions of his reign (Rajendra I) and of the reign of his successors, Rajendra is described briefly as the conqueror of Purva desam (6), Gangai and Kadaram; this must be taken to be summary statement of his most distant conquests, and on this assumptions Purvadesam is best understood to be, not the Vengi country as was suggested by Venkayya (7), but Purvarastra, the country to the east of the Maikal range(8) roughly corresponding to the Southern Kosala country”.(9) We are inclined to identify Purvadesha, the area between Western boundary of Kalinga and south-eastern of S.Kosala. This is the present north of Nowrangpur, Kashipur and Kakrigumma and further down to Bhairaba Singapur. This is hill region. A separate chapter on Purva desam is given in this book. R.Sathianathaier wrote; “The next military effort of Rajendra was the expedition to Eastern India, which was entrusted to his general. Crossing the Godavari and passing through Bastar and Orissa, the Chola army reached Western Bengal, defeated two rulers, crossed the Ganga, overthrew another ruler, recrossed that river, triumphed over Mahipala I and returned home. The victorious general received the congratulations of his sovereign (Rajendra I) on the banks of the Godavari. Here it can be thought why did not chose to take the coastal route instead of the route through Bastar to conquer the eastern India.”(10) The last years of Rajendra witnessed the Chola invasion of the Western Chalukya dominions rules over by Somesvara I Ahavamalla (A.D. 1043-1068). Rajendra I had 3 sons, Rajadhiraja I, Rajendra II and Virarajendra I who ascended throne in 199 Dynasty History of United Koraput 200 succession. His daughter Ammangadevi was the queen of Rajaraja I of Vengi and mother of Kulottunga I. Rajadhiraja won a victory of Pundi on the Krishna, sacked Kalyana, and brought home the dvarapalaka image, which is now found at Darasuram (Tanjore District). The Chola invasion was particularly ruinous and humiliating to the parts of Mysore, with the result that “cows were carried off and women’s griddles were unloosed.” The Cholas offended seriously against the ethics of warfare even in the days of Rajaraja the Great and Rajendra the Gangaikondachola (11) was remarked. The Tirumalai (12) inscription records that Rajendra-Chola vanquished the Kerala, i.e., the king of Malabar. With Sakkara-kottam, whose king Vikrama- Vira was defeated by Rajendra-Chola, compare Chakrakota, whose lord was conquered by the Western Chalukya king Vikramaditya VI (13)., and Chakragotta, which was taken by the Hoyasala king Vishnuvardhana(14). Madura-mandalam is the Pandya country, the capita of which was Madura.Oddavishaya, the country of the Oddas or Odras (15) and the U-cha of Hiuen-Tsiang (16), is the modern Orissa. Kosalai-nadu is Southern Kosala, the Kiao-sa-lo of Hieun-Tsiang (17), which, according to General Cunningham, corresponds to the upper valley of the Mahanadi and its tributaries. Takkanaladam and Uttiraladam are Northern and Southern Lata (Gujarat). The former was taken from a certain Ranasura. Further, Rajendra-Chola asserts that he conquered Vangala-desa, i.e., Bengal, from a certain Govindachandra and extended his operations as far as the Ganga. The remaining names of countries and kings are not confirmed. The list of conquests closes with Uttiraladam (1.11) i.e. Uttara-Virata or Northern Berar, and the Ganga, i.e. the river Ganges. The Tirumalai Rock (18) inscription gives complete details of Rajendra Chola. Prof.E.Hultzsch edited the inscription. The Tamil prasasti records the same transactions, almost in the same order, but with much more detail, as follows: Sakkaragottam, whose warriors were brave; Madura-mandala, whose forts (bore) banners (which touched) the clouds (19); Namanaikkonam, which was surrounded by dense groves (20), Panchappalli, whose warriors (bore) cruel bows(21); the good Masunidesa, whose fruits were fresh(22); a large heap of family-treasures, together with many (other) treasures, (which he carried away) after having captured Indraratha of the old race of the Moon, together with (his) family, in a fight which took place in the hall (at) Adinagar, (a city) which was famous for unceasing abundance; Odda-vishaya, which was difficult to approach, (and which he subdued in) close fights; the good Kosalai-nadu, where 200 Dynasty History of United Koraput 201 Brahmanas assembled; Tanadabutti, in whose gardens bees abounded, (and which he acquired) after having destroyed Dharmapala (in) a hot battle; Takkanaladam, whose fame reached (all) directions, (and which he occupied) after having forcibly attacked Ranasura; Vangala-desa, where the rain-wind never stopped, (and from which) Govindachandra fled, having descended (from his) male elephant; elephants of rare strength and treasures of women, (which he seized) after having been pleased to put to flight on a hot battle-field Mahipala, decked (as he was) with ear-rings, slippers and bracelets; Uttiraladam, as rich in pearls as the ocean; and the Ganga, whose waters dashed against bathing-places (tirtha) covered with sand,- In the Tirumalai Inscriptions, the translation by Prof.Hultzsch (23) (E.I.IX, p-232) stands as follows: It is stated that “; Sakkara-kottam (belonging to) Vikrama- Vira; Madura-mandalam with the fort of Mudira-bada; (E.I.IX.) Namanaik- konam, which is surrounded by dense groves; Panchappalli (belonging to) Vengilai-Viraj the good Masuni-desa, where leaves and fruits are green; the large heap of family-treasures, together with many (other) treasures, (which he carried away) after having, in a fight which took place in the hall (at) Adinagar, (a city), which is famous for its unceasing abundance; Odda-vishaya, whose copious waters are difficult to approach; the good Kosalai-nadu, where Brahmanas assemble; Dandabutti (i.e., Danda-bhukti), in whose gardens bees abound, (and which he acquired) after having destroyed Dharmapala in a hot battle; Takkannaladam (i.e. Dakshina-Lata), whose fame reaches all directions, (and which he occupied) after having forcibly attacked Ranasura; Vangala-desa, where the rain does not last (long), and from which Goundachandra, having lost his fortune, fled; elephants of rare strength (which he took away) after having been pleased to frighten in a hot battle Mahapala of Sangu-Kottam(?), which touches the sea; the treasures of women(?); Uttiralandam (i.e., Uttara-Lata) on the great sea of pearls; and the Ganga, whose waters sprinkle tirthas on the burning sand:- Sakkarakkottam has been identified with Cakrakotya which finds mention in a Nagavamsi copper plate grant from Bastar dated A.D.1065, and its modern representative is probably Citrakuta or Citrakota, 8 miles from Rajapura where the copper plate were found. Rajapura, the capital of Bastar, is itself 22 miles north- west of Jagadalpur, on the bank of the Indravati river (24). Sakkarakkottam and the places that follow up to Masuni-desam have thus to be sought in the territory contiguous to the Vengi Kingdom to the north-west of it. Masunidesam literally means the land of the snakes; the king of the Chindaka family represented by the Rajapura plates, called themselves Naga-vamso-dbhava (born of the cobra race), and Bhagavati-pura-varesvara (lord of Bhagavati, the best of the cities); in a later 201 Dynasty History of United Koraput 202 stone inscription of Saka 1140, one of them is called Sri-bhujagavara-bhusana- maharayuler the maharaja who was the ornament of the race of the best of serpents. It is perfectly reasonable to support that Masuni-desam is meant the land ruled by these kings. On this assumption, Maduraimandalam, Namanikkonam and Pasncapalli must be sought in the same region and held to be parts of Masunidesam. It may be noted that Chakrakota is itself called a mandala (25) like Madurai-mandalam, and that the donor of the Rajapura plates is called Madhurantaka. I fully agree to this argument and identify Madurai-mandalam with the fort of Mudirabada, to the present day Mudlipada located on the Bondo Hills of Khairput block in Koraput district of Orissa. Bondos, a primitive tribe group of India and are well known in the world of anthropology due to the work of Verrier Elwin. The Mudlipada is still the head village to Bondo tribe Chief. The Bondo tribe villages are located on top of hills, scattered over on a chain of hills, that which has been described in the Tirumalai inscription as Madura-mandala whose forts (bore) banners ( which touched) the clouds. The Bondo tribes men still carry bows and arrows and are known for their ill temper and people fear for their high homicide rate and lethal bowman ship. The description that Madura- mandalam whose forts (bore) banners (which touched) the clouds; fully justifies the ground reality of Bondo hills. Prof. Hultzsch while described the above said inscription of Rajendra-Chola I wrote that Maduramandala need not be connected to Madura, the capital of Pandya king (26) (E.I.IX, p-230). Rajendra I and Indraratha of Somavamsin The Tirumalai rock inscription issued A.D.1024 gives a complete list of conquest. Indraratha of Somavamsin king upto his sixth year of reign was ruling in full glory. At last, in 1022 A.D. Chola Rajendra I defeated him at Yayatinagara in course of his Gangetic expedition. According to Chola records, Rajendra carried away large heap of family treasures together with many (other) treasures after having captured Indraratha of the ancient race of the moon and seized Odda-Visaya and good Kosalai-nadu. This expedition appears to have been taken primarily with a view to thwart the activities of Indraratha who had aligned himself with the later Chalukya King Jayasimha II Jagadekamalla (1015- 1042 A.D) who, setting aside the claims of Rajendra I’s nephew Rajaraja, had placed the latter’s step brother Vijayaditya VII Visnuvardhana on the throne of Vengi. 202 Dynasty History of United Koraput 203 Nilakanta Sastri (27) wrote that Indraratha had to face invasions of other contemporary powers also. According to Upedur prasasti, he was defeated by the mercenaries of the Paramara king Bhoja (1000-1047 A.D). Gangeyadeva (1015- 1041 A.D), the Kalachuri king of Tripuri is also credited with success against the Utkala king who was none else than Indraratha. The Paramavas and the Kalachuris appear to have allied themselves with the Cholas and the raids of these three powers against Indraratha were not totally unconnected with each other. Indraratha after his defeat under the hands of Chola in the battle of Yayatinagara was probably taken captive with his family and perhaps killed and the entire Somakula Kingdom lay waste and wrapped in total anarchy for some time. After defeating Indraratha the Chola Rajendra I proceeded to Kosala and Chakrakuta (Bastar); instead he could have gone to Ganges without fighting with Mahipal I, king of Bengal Scholars have explained Rajendra Chola’s attach on Chakrakuta by supposing that he perhaps persuaded Jayasimha to that region, but they have not explained why he proceeded from ‘Odda-Visya’ to ‘good Kosalai Nadu (Kosala)’. Considering his destination that was the river Ganges, one would expect him to proceeded from Orissa to Mednapore (Dandaka-bhukti) to which he actually returned from Kosala. This deviation according to K.C.Panigrahi (28) indicates that Orissa has a subordinate ruler at Yayatinagara and therefore it was necessary for Chola monarch to attach the main territory of Kosala to secure safe passage in his return journey from Ganges. The over lord of the Somavamsi Kingdom of Kosala and Utkala at this time was, according to chronology, Nahusa did not appear to have opposed the invading army and therefore the Chola record states that in good Kosalai Nadu only the Brahmins assembled. This may be the fact that Yayatinagar was a Buddhist cultural centre, and thus the actions of Chola Rajendra I pleased the Brahmins of Kosala; they came to greet him. Rajadhiraja I as joint ruler (A.D. 1018-1052) Rajadhiraja I (A.D.1018-1052) was made joint ruler with his father as early as A.D. 1018. During his independent reign from A.D.1044 to 1052 the Ceylonese troubles continued. They took drastic steps to remove them, which included barbarities like the mutilation of the nose of the Ceylonese queen-mother. In most parts of the island Chola authority was maintained intact. The war with the Chalukyas, ended with the destruction of their cities and buildings, culminated in A.D. 1052 in the hard fought battle of Koppam. However, in the war the Chalukya king Somesvara is son Vikramaditya and his alliance Vijayaditya was defeated, but the Chola emperor lost his life. (29) 203 Dynasty History of United Koraput 204 Rajendra II (A.D.1052-1064) The younger brother of Rajadhiraja I, Rajendra II, who had been chosen heir apparent, in supersession of the claims of Rajadhiraja’s sons, crowned himself on the battle field, as he had shown extraordinary bravery. He advanced to Kolhapur and erected a pillar of victory there. Rajendra II marched against Somesvara in A.D. 1062 to check the growth of W.Chalukyas in Vengi affair and defeated him (30).Rajendra’s daughter Madhurantaki married Eastern Chalukya prince Rajendra whose son later known as Kulottunga I. Rajendra II was succeeded by his younger brother, Virarajendra I (A.D. 1063-1070), who invaded the Western Chalukya Empire in A.D. 1067 in response to a challenge of Somesvara to meet him. Virarajendra (A.D.1063-1070) The Tirumukkudal inscription (31) reported by K.V.Subrahmanya Ayyar gives the detail account of Virarajendra. A study of the records of Virarajendra so far known reveal that he was crowned king immediately after his victorious return from the battle held at Kudal-Sangama. The Kanyakumari (32) inscription states how Virarajendra conquered the country of Vengi. The Vengi country was first invaded by Rajaraja I (985-1013 A.D) and was again overrun by Rajendra-Chola I (33), but it appears that his successors Rajadhiraj I and Rajendradeva did not assert their rights over it. This neglect on their part to hold the reins tight in the Vengi country gave room to the Eastern Chalukyas to throw off the Chola Yoke. Rajendradeva seems to have realised the necessity of bringing this tract back under the Cholas but he died without affecting it. The Kanyakumari inscription speaks of the victories of Virarajendra in Bezwada, Pandya and Cheras. He proceeded again to the north, and defeated a number of chiefs of Kalinga who were fighting under the banner of the Chalukyas, set up a third pillar of victory a Suttukkal, gained victorious at Chakkarakottam and Kavi and destroyed the Kalinga country (34). I identify this place to be in Koraput-Kalahandi border. The Suttukal is the present day Sukatal of Tel river and Kavi is the Kavi-Konga of Raigarh, and Chakkarakottam is the well known Chakrakote. It is all in contagious place. The abstract (35) of the contents and relevant to the study is, himself and his sons, who assisted him, remaining behind in close quarters, he sent forth an army, which victoriously fought against countless Samantas along with the (two) sons of 204 Dynasty History of United Koraput 205 Ahavamala called Vikkalan and Singanan at Kudal-Sangama on the great waters, whether they had rushed forth enraged, resolved to advances forward and fight for a third time; and with (his) rut elephant, he agitated that army (of the enemy) which was arranged in battle like the Northern ocean, he cut to pieces in front of his banner-troop Singan of Kosalai who was fighting with his furious elephants and Vanguard; he (also) cut to pieces Kesavadandanayaka and Kettarcisar, Maraya of great strength, the powerful Pottaraisan and Reechchayan, Purkodai and Muvendi who were fighting (fiercely), and many (other) unknown samantas who offered (him) battle. Then Maduranan, who was the commander, fled; Vikkalan fled with his heir dishevelled, Singanan fled leaving off the field work; all other chiefs of the elder brother dismounted from the male elephants on which they were fighting the great battle and fled; and Ahavamalla, who was thus put to shame, ran before them (all). He then separated his swift-footed and fierce elephant, put on a garland of victory and seized the (enemies’) wives, their family treasures, conches, parasols, truimpets (tarai), big drums, canopies (meghadambara), white fly-whisks (chamras), the boar banner, the ornamental arch (makara torana), a herd of camels, metal throne, the female elephant called Pushpaka, a herd of war elephants together with collection of prancing horses; (he then) ascended the powerful lion-throne of great splendour, being bowed to all the world, and along with his beautiful queen Ulagamulududaiyal, put on the victorious crown set with gems. After he had reached the great city (called after) the great river Ganga, the Chalukya (king) who came from the race of the moon, felt the sting and thought ‘it is better to die than live with such disgrace’ and choosing as battle-field the very Kudal, where his sons and himself had been made to retreat, wrote, so that all might know, a letter embodying (his) vow- “those who do not come to Kudal through fear are no kings but are disgraceful liars in war,” handed it over with an oral message to the Ganga chief Kettan renowned among the liars of Rattappadi and asked him to take it; and when he came, bowed at the feet of, and delivered the message to (the Chola king), his (i.e., the latter’s) mind, face and glorious two arms began to glow doubly on account of the increasing joy and he advanced forth and entered the field, and not finding the approach of the king of the Vallabhas at Karandai, stayed there delightfully for one month more after the appointed day, and then he found him run away until his legs became sore and hid himself in the western ocean, and each of the three (chiefs) Devanathan, Siddhi and Kesi turned their backs. Crossing back the southern region, (the Chola king)........... obstructed at Kondai where the Chalukyan king again sent against him double the number of elephants which he had put forth on a former occasion. Among those that were seen (there) 205 Dynasty History of United Koraput 206 were the intelligent Nagaiyan, Marayan, Manmagandayan,................... Kondayan, Achchidaran ................ and others. These ran away showing their backs and making such an uproar (in their flight) that resembled the noise of thunder during heavy rains. Koottumadaiyan and others lost their elephants and ran along with the commanders of infantry (pada-samantas). The Chola king caught hold of prancing horses and young elephants as well as a galaxy of women that were seen (in the field) and received as before a parani. Tunnamarayan, ............... Kesavan, ............... who were subdued by his forces ......... the sound............ Singanan, who was resting under a flag, .............. and (he) planted a pillar of victory at Puli- Suttukkal, where, getting up a hill ............... and mounted on a vehicle (yanai) drawn by seven horses, the chief known (by the name) Soliyavaraiyan, ................. -dandanayaka ................... fought. He sent forth a (very) sea of army ................ in Kalingam ................. his chief feudatories at Chakkarakottam and destroyed by heavy fire the elephant (forces) of the Chalukya king which appeared in great numbers at Chakkarakottam in the North. The bowman Somayan of Sonaiyanagar, Eriyaman, Adityaverman of fearful trident, -these with clusters of heads that were cut of, - ........... Malli, Sogaiya .............n, who wore ornaments set with diamonds, Vaidumba, Devanatha, Deviko.............. along with herds of camels ............. and the reward of ornaments were looted in order ................ and ran with broken hearts. The wife of ................. nathan trembling with fear, Kaliyappai, his younger brother ................. and others together with crowds of their ladies wearing tumbai garlands, fell in his hands in the great field of Kavi and were caught. Some of the geographical names of the inscriptions have been given as following: - Kudal Sangama (1.1) or Kudal (1.4) the place of confluence of the rivers Krishna and Pancha-Ganga(36). - Kosalai (1.2) the ancient territorial division of Kosala. - Karandai (1.5) has been identified with Inchal-Karanjo, in the neighbourhood of Kudal-Sangama. (37) - Kuntala (1.5) is the Western Chalukya territory (38). - Seven Kalingas (1.6) form the territorial division of the East coast, north of Vengi, ruled by Eastern Gangas. - Chakkarakottam (1.9) has been identified with Chakrakotta in the Bastar State. - Sonaiynagar (1.9) not identified, but it is identified to present Sonepore of Western Orissa 206 Dynasty History of United Koraput 207 - Kavi (1.10) not identified, but I identify now to be Kavi Konga of Koraput district - Suttukkal not identified; but we identify now to be Suktal in Orissa - Jayangondachola-mandalam is the name given to the ancient Pallava territory of Tondaimandalam during Rajaraja I who bore the designation of Jayangonda-Chola. As this is a ‘mandala’, I am placing it be in Koraput- Bastar i.e. Nowrangpur region. It is explained in later paragraphs. Virarajendra and Eastern Ganga The Tirumukkudal record (39), dated in the 6th regnal year of Virarajendra corresponding to 1069 A.D., further describes the advance of the Chola army close to the beautiful city of Vijayawada, which caused the armies of the enemies to drink the water of the Godavari. In a decisive battle on the banks of the river Krishna, Virarajendra inflicted a crushing defeat on the Western Chalukyan forces commanded by Jananatha and Rajamayan. After this, the Cholas crossed the river Godavari, marched across Kalingam upto Mahendra mountain and beyond Chakrakottam (or Chakrakutam), and Virarajendra bestowed Vengi on Vijayaditya whose broad hands held weapons of war and who had taken refuge at his lotus feet (40). In this connection, the evidence of the Eastern Ganga records of Anantavarman Choda Gangadeva must be considered. In the Korni plates (41) of Anantavarman Chodaganga dated 1113 A.D. and in the Vizagapatam plates dated 1118 A.D., the marriage of Rajaraja Devendravarman with the Chola princess Rajasundari after a victory over the Cholas has been referred to. The records of Anantavarman state that Rajasundari was the queen-consort of Rajaraja and that their son was Anantavarman Chodaganga. The record of Rajaraja does not refer to any conflict between the Cholas and Gangas. The Dirghasi inscription of Banapatideva, the minister of Rajaraja, refers to such a conflict between the Cholas and the Gangas. The records of Virarajendra Chola dated in his 5th and 6th regnal years (1068 and 1069 A.D.) refer to the Chola attack of Kalinga and Chakrakottam region. The Korni plates state that Rajaraja first became the lord of the Goddess of victory in the Tamil battle. Later, he married the resplendent Rajasundari, the daughter of the Chola king. When Vijayaditya was beginning to grow old and left Vengi, as if he were a Sun leaving the sky and was about to sink in the great ocean of the Chodas, Rajaraja, the refuge of the distressed, caused him to enjoy prosperity for a long time in the western region. Vijayaditya 207 Dynasty History of United Koraput 208 mentioned in this record is no other than Vijayaditya VII, the Eastern Chalukyan king. Krishna Kumari (42) opined that it might be assumed reasonably, from the above account, that the Chola king Virarajendra drove Vijayaditya VII from Vengi, after the battle of Vijayawada, and compelled him to seek help from the Eastern Gangas. Probably, on this occasion, the Eastern Ganga ruler Rajaraja Devendravarman lent his support to Vijayaditya VII, and helped him prosperity. After Virarajendra, till the time of the expedition of Kulottunga to Kalinga, there was no other Chola fight with the Gangas. This could be the only battle in which Rajaraja could have faced the Chola forces as recorded by Banapati and Anantavarman Chodaganga. This battle appears to have been fought in circa 1067-1068 A.D. i.e., two or three years before Rajaraja’s coronation and in the last years of the rule of Vajrahasta III. Possibly as a yuvaraja, Rajaraja might have participated in this battle. Virarajendra and nephew Prince Rajendra Chola of Eastern Chalukya in Chakrakotam Rajendra Chola, the Eastern Chalukyan prince, who was brought up in the Chola dominions after the death of his father, seemed to have accompanied his maternal uncle Virarajendra in his campaign in the north. For, the early inscriptions of Kullotunga I, dated in his 2nd regnal year corresponding to 1072 A.D., state that with the strength of his arms and his sword he overcame the treachery of his enemies, captured many herds of elephants, levied tribute from the Nagavamsi king, Dharavarsha of Chakrakutam, and gently raised the earth, resembling the lotus awaiting the rise of the Sun for blooming, as Vishnu raised the earth from the ocean in his boar-incarnation and seated her to her great pleasure in the shade of his parasol, when he was a heir-apparent. This maybe corroborated by the records of Virarajendra that state that, in the last years of his rule, Virarajendra marched upto Chakrakutam. This may assume it assumed that probably Kulottunga I followed Virarajendra in his expedition to the north. The reasons for the Chola conquest of Chakrakutam are not clearly known. In the literary work Vikramankadeva Charitra, Bilhana states that Vikramaditya VI conquered Vengi and Chakrakottam during the life-time of his father, Somesvara I. Possibly with the intention of reconquering these regions, which were previously held by them, the Cholas marched into Chakrakutam region. The Chola inscriptions distinctly state that Virarajendra and Kulottunga I defeated the Chalukya forces, which met at Chakrakutam. 208 Dynasty History of United Koraput 209 Battle between Virarajendra and Vikarmaditya in Chakrakuta Gopal wrote (43), “However, that Vikramaditya and Vira Rajendra met on the battle field near Chakrakuta appears to be correct. Soon after 1065 A.D., when Vira Rajendra extended invitation to defeated Vengi, which he had determined to conquer, Vikramaditya must have proceeded there. The Chola records mention the defeat of the Chalukya generals and also Jananatha of Dhara. It is silent of Vikramaditya. At this period of time Rajendra (future Kulottunga I) was ruling Purvadesa, close to Chakrakote (44). Gopal further continues that possibly this north extension of the influence of Vengi, so closely allied to the Colas, was the cause of Vikramaditya’s expedition against Vengi and Chakrakuta, counteracted by the campaign of Vira Rajendra culminating in the battle of Bezwada (45). Krishna Kumari (46) said, though success was claimed by Virarajendra, in the battles of Bezawada, Kalinga and Chakrakutam, in his records, it presented only one side of the picture as they did not even allude remotely to the reverses, which he suffered in the field. Probably after the battle of Chakrakutam, Virarajendra gave his daughter to Vikramaditya VI, the Western Chalukyan prince, as a means of pacifying the situation. Perhaps it is the same far- sightedness of Virarajendra, which was reflected in Kalinga. He also bestowed Vengi on Vijayaditya VII, thus satisfying his son-in-law Rajaraja Devendravarman, and then returned to his capital Gangaikonda-Solapuram.” She further continued and concluded, “The bestowal of Vengi on Vijayaditya VII by Virarajendra, needs explanation. There is no evidence to state that Virarajendra was not in good terms with Rajendra. On the other hand, there is evidence to show that Rajendra accompanied Virarajendra in his expedition to the north. Hence it may be suggested that only out of political necessity Virarajendra had to bestow Vijayaditya VII instead of Rajendra, the rightful heir to the Vengi throne. Meanwhile, soon after the departure of Virarajendra from Vengi, the political situation once again altered. Rajendra, after his successful march into the Chakrakutam region, came to Vengi, and established himself on the throne of Vengi. Even though this information is not clearly stated in the epigraphs, it may be construed so by the study of the records of Vijayaditya VII of this period and the records of Kulottunga I and his sons.”(47) Kulottunga I left Vengi to Vijayaditya VII, paternal uncle 209 Dynasty History of United Koraput 210 Sastri wrote, “Kulottunga left the administration of the Vengi Kingdom in the hands of Vijayaditya VII until his death. The relations between them, never very happy, seem to have continued strained even after Kulottunga’s accession to the Cola throne. There are Eastern Ganga inscriptions, which, as already noted, show that the Ganga King Rajaraja took up the cause of Vijayditia VII with Kulottunga and secured for him a peaceful time towards the end of his life and carrier as ruler of Vengi.”(48) The Teki, Chelluru, Pithapuram, and Mallavaram plates of the sons of Kulottunga I clearly state that Kulottunga I, being desirous of the Chola kingdom, conferred the country of Vengi on his paternal uncle Vijayaditya VII. This shows that Kulottunga I at first ascended the throne of Vengi sometime after the death of his father, and placed Vijayaditya VII on the throne of Vengi, and went to the south preferring the Chola kingdom. Jayasimha II of Western Chalukya and Sakkarakottam Jayasimha II is the Western Chalukya king (Jagadekamalla I) who ruled from A.D. 1015 to 1043; Musangi or Muyangi is Maski in Hyderabad State. In the closing years of Rajendra’s reign war broke out once more with the Western Chalukyas and the affairs of Vengi were, as usual, involved in it. In the Chalukyan kingdom, Jayasimha II succeeded by his son, Somesvara I Ahavamalla (1042 A.D.). He removed the capital from Manyakheta to Kalyani. He added new to the amenities of the new capital. He continued the war begum by his father. D.C.Ganguly wrote that he extended his power across Vidarbha and part of modern Madhya Pradesh, into Kosala and Kalinga, and imposed his sovereignty on the Nagavamsi ruler Dharavarsha of Cakrakuta. It may be noted here (49) that the Kakatiya chieftain Prola I and his son Beta, assisted Somesvara in his wars, and received from him as grant the Anumakonda Vishaya. In another direction Somesvara attached Vengi and thus challenged the Chola power. In Vengi Rajaraja had no peace after his coronation in1022. His half-brother Vijayaditya renewed his struggle for the throne, perhaps with the aid of Chalukya Jayasimha II, drove Rajaraja out of Vengi, and made himself king (1031), but by 1035 Rajaraja had regained his kingdom. Vijayaditya sought refuge in the Western Chalukya court where he was entertained royally. Somesvara’s invasion of Vengi was undertaken ostensibly in furtherance of the claims of Vijayaditya and news of it quickly reached Rajendra I. The king was too old to take the field himself, his son Rajadhiraja was engaged in the south, so a trusted Brahmin general was ordered to go to Rajaraja’s relief. Meanwhile Rajendra I died. 210 Dynasty History of United Koraput 211 Virarajendra ‘s foresight and political wisdom was well marked from his building the matrimonial relationship among Kalinga, Eastern Chalukya and Western Chalukya dynasties. Adhirajendra (A.D.1068 to 1070) Virarajendra I was succeeded by his son Adhirajendra, who ruled from A.D. 1068 to 1070 with his father, and only for a few months as a sole monarch. His unnatural death and the accession of Kulottunga I resulted in the extinction of the Vijayalaya line. It is not easy to explain the confusion, which followed Virarajendra’s death, the intervention of Vikramaditya VI and his return, the death of Adhirajendra in the rebellion that broke out and the part played in these affairs by Kulottunga I. Adhirajendra is regarded by some as the Krimikantha (disease neck) Chola of Vaishnava tradition; and he seems to have been the persecutor of Ramanuja though some scholars regard Virarajendra I or Kulottunga as the enemy of that Vaishnava saint and philosopher. Kulottunga Chola I and his stay in Koraput-Bastar Region Rajendra II Eastern Chalukya or Kulottunga Chola I was the great-grandson of Rajaraja I Chola in two ways: his mother, Ammangadevi, was the daughter of Rajendra I Chola (son of Rajaraja I Chola), and his father, Rajaraja I Eastern Chalukya was the son of Kundava (daughter of Rajaraja I Chola) and Vimaladitya of Vengi. Thus Kulottunga I was seventy-five per cent Chola by blood. Nilakanta Sastri wrote, “At the time of his father’s death and the forcible seizure of the Vengi throne by Vijayaditya mentioned in the Ryato plates, Kulottunga, or Rajendra II as he was then known, must have been a youth in his teens. For considering he lived on to have a long rule of fifty years from A.D. 1070, it is hardly likely that about A.D. 1062 he was more than twenty years of age. His earliest Tamil inscriptions record certain facts, which seem to indicate how Rajendra engaged himself when he was thus kept out of his inheritance. The records of his second year (50) state that, with the aid only of the strength of his arms and his sword, he overcame the treachery of his enemies, captured many herds of elephants, levied tribute from the Nagavamsi King, Dharavarsa of Chakrakuta, and gently raised the Earth resembling the lotus expecting to rise of the sun for blooming, as Visnu raised the Earth from the ocean in his boar incarnation, and seated her, to her great pleasure under the shade of his parasol (51). His records soon came to describe these achievements as belonging to the 211 Dynasty History of United Koraput 212 period of his ilangop-paruvam, when he was still heir - apparent (52). If this view is correct, we must conclude that Rajendra spent the best part of the period A.D. 1063-70 in the region of the modern Bastar state, and possibly even carved out for himself a small independent dominion beyond it in the Purvadesa, even if he did not gain complete control over the Chakrakuta state and annex parts of the Purvadesa to it, as his inscriptions imply. The smaller Leiden plates (53) of Kulottunga I Translation (Line 1.) Hail! Prosperity! While the wheel of his (authority) rolled as far as the golden circle (i.e., Mount Meru) on the earth, which was surrounded by the moat of the sea, that was (again) surrounded by (his) fame,- Ko-Rajakesarivarman, alias the emperor (chakravartin) Sri-Kulottunga-Choladeva(54), wedded first in the time (when he was still) heir-apparent (ilango), the brilliant goddess of victory at Sakkarakottam (Chakrakotta)(55) by deeds of valour. (L.2) (He) seized a herd of mountains of rut (i.e. rutting elephants) at Vayiragaram (Vajrakara). (L.3) (He) unsheathed (his) sword, showed the strength of (his) arm, and spurred (his) war-steed, so that the army of the spear-throwing king of Kondala (Kuntala) retreated. (L.4) Having established (his) fame, and having put on the garland of (the victory over) the Northern region, (he) put on by right (of inheritance) the pure royal crown of jewels, in order to stop the prostitution of the goddess with the sweet and excellent lotus-flower (i.e., Lakshmi) of the Southern region, and the loneliness of the goddess of the good country whose garment is the Ponni (Kaveri). (L.9) The kings of the old earth placed (on their heads) his two feet as a large crown. (L.11) The river (of the rules) of the ancient king Manu swelled, (and) the river (of the sins) of the Kali (age) dried up. (L.12) (His) scepter swayed over every region; the sacred shadow of (his) white parasol shone (as) the white moon everywhere on the circle of the great earth; (and his) tiger (banner) fluttered on the matchless Meru (mountain). 212 Dynasty History of United Koraput 213 (L.16) (Before him) stood many rows of elephants, unloaded from ships and presented as tribute by the kings of remote islands whose girdle was the sea. (L.18) The big head of the brilliant king of the South (i.e., the Pandya) lay outside his golden town, being pecked by kites. (L.20) Not only did the speech (of Vikkalan): - “After this day a permanent blemish (will attach to Kulottunga), as to the crescent (which is the origin) of (his) family,” - turn out wrong, but the bow (in) the hand of Vikkalan was not (even) bent against (the enemy). (L.23) While (Vikkalan) lost his pride, and while the dead (bodies of his) furious elephants (covered) the whole (tract) from Nangili of rocky roads to the Tungabhadra, which adorned the country (nadu) of Manalur,-(his) boasted valour abated; the mountains which (he) ascended, bent their backs; the rivers into which (he) descended, eddied and breached (their banks) in their course; (and) the seas into which (he) plunged, became troubled and agitated. (L.32) Being desirous of the rule over the Western region, (he) seized simultaneously the two countries (pani) called Gangamandalam and Singanam , troops of furious elephants which had been irretrievably abandoned (by the enemy), crowds of women (the angels of) whose beautiful eyes were as pointed as daggers, the goddess of fame, did the great goddess of victory, who changed to the opposite (side) out of fear, because (Vikkalan) himself and (his) father had turned their backs again and again on many days. Possibly this northern extension of the influence of Vengi, so closely allied to the Colas, was the cause of Vikramaditya’s expedition against Vengi and Chakrakuta, counteracted by the campaign of Virarajendra culminating in the battle of Bezawada. It will be remembered that in the course of this campaign, Virarajendra is said also to have marched up to Sakkarakkottam. After the death of the Virarajendra, Kulottunga marched into the Cola country in good time to get himself accepted as king; but more of this later. And as he did some fighting during these years and subsequently came to look upon the whole period as a sort of probation for the Cola throne, he might have felt justified in saying that he left Vengi to his uncle Vijayaditya at the death of his father for a double reason (56). The literary evidence mainly comes from the Vikramankadeva Carita, the Vikramasolan-ula (57) and Kalingattupparani of Jayangondar. Jayangondar, the poet after a convential account of the early years of the prince, states that Abhaya (58) (Vira Rajendra) made him crown prince, and then 213 Dynasty History of United Koraput 214 proceeds to describe his digvijaya of which particulars are furnished only with reference to the northern direction. He is said to have made his mark in Vayiragram and Sakkarakottam. He was still in the north engaged in these campaigns when the Cola king died in the south, and these ensured anarchy and confusion until Abhaya Kulottunga returned and restored orders. (59) The first few lines of the prasasti beginning pugal sulnda pundari refers to the same events and add that by the strength of his arm he routed an army of the king of Kuntala (60) and thus donned the garland of victory in the north before he turned his attention to the south. This was with the king of Kuntala, doubtless the western Calukya king, waged before 1070, was part of Kulottunga’s activity in the region of the modern Bastar state, and the circumstances that led to this conflict are the same as those recorded in some of the later inscriptions of Virarajendra and in the Bilhana’s account of Vikramaditya’s digvijaya in so far as it relates to Vengi and Chakrakuta. After Somesvara I failed to turn up for the second encounter fixed to take place at Kundal-Sangama, Virarajendra threw down a challenge to the Vallabha (Calukya), proceeded to recover Vengi, and after the victory of Bezwada, bestowed that kingdom once more on Vijayaditya VII. These data corroborate Bilhana’s statement that in his war-like carrier as Yuvaraja Vikramaditya had conquered Vengi and Chakrakuta and was encamping on the banks of the Krsna when the news of his father’s illness and death reached him. The Kalingattuparani (61), also implies that Vikramaditya fought against Kulottunga in the north at this time and that it was in this war that Kulottunga earned the title Virudarajabhayankara i.e. terror to Virudarajendra or Vikramaditya. These events took place in A.D. 1067. And now it becomes clear from Kulottungas prasasti that his northern adventure might have helped Virarajendra in the war against Vikramaditya. Whether this means that Kulottunga, on his own account, repulsed Vikramadityas attack on Cakrakuta, or whether we may infer further that Kulottunga co-operated with Virarajendra and was present at the battle of Bezwada, it is not early to decide. In any case, the effective assistance of Kulottunga in the release of Vengi from the Western Calukya hold shows that Kulottunga might have been on friendly relation with Virarajendra and kept up a live interest in the affairs of the Vengi and Cola kingdom. That, as a result of the wars, the kingdom of Vengi was restored to Vijaditya gives us the measure of the truth of Kulottunga’s statement made later to his sons Rajaraja that in his youth he preferred a life of war and adventure and so left the kingdom of Vengi to be ruled by his uncle Vijaditya. It is probable that this exile was not altogether voluntary and was in the first instance brought about by the ambitions of Vikramaditya and Vijayaditya (62). 214 Dynasty History of United Koraput 215 During the period of 1063 to 1070, the Nagavamsi kings of Chakrakuta were still continue to function and the following (inscription) history speaks of their active presence in the area. This thus indicates, that possibly Yuvaraj Kulottunga continued to be in Purvadesa, which is contiguous to the Chakrakote desha. The following of the details of inscriptions found later. 1. Rajapura copper plate inscription of Madhurakantaka, being the date A.D. 1065 records the grant of the village of Rajapura (find spots of the record, 55 kms. North-west of Jagdalpur) in the Bhramanakotya (Bhramanakotta) - mandala, probably as a compensation for supplying victims for human sacrifices. The Bhramankotta-mandala was either identical with Chakrakotta or a part of the later (63) 2. The fragmentary Danteswara inscription of A.D.1061 belongs to the Dharavarsha or Madhurantaka. King Madhurantaka was soon ousted from the throne by Dharavarsha’s son Somesvara I whose earliest known date is A.D.1069 (64). 3. One of the two Kuruspal (55 kms from Jagdalpur) inscriptions of Dharanamahadei, the second queen of the Chhindaka-Naga King Somesvara I, bears a date in the Khara Samvatsra, which fell in A.D.1069 (65). 4. The fragmentary inscription from Kuruspal (66), the most important record of the reign of Somesvara I. This epigraph mentions the King’s son Kanhara and seems to have been engraved late in his reign. He is further stated to have killed king Madhurantaka, the ruler of Chakrakuta of which Somesvara I claimed to have been the hereditary king. It is noteworthy to mention that the Madras museum plates (67) of the Nagavamsi Kings of Karunda-Mandala (Karunda mandala is the present Kalahandi district of Orissa) disclose the name mentioned in the Dirghasi stone inscription of the time of the Ganga King Rajaraja Deva (1069-1070 A.D.), who won a great victory in the Chola-Kalinga war. In that inscription we get a descriptive account of the achievements of Banapati, the Commander-in-Chief of Kalinga, who claims to have received the Kingdoms of Vengi, Kimidi, Gosila and Gidrisinghi. The last named place may be identified with Khindarasingha, mentioned in the Nagavamsi record, as per S.N.Rajaguru (68). The record also edits Somesvara with many other military activities such as the burning of Vengi, the subjugation of Bhadrapattana and Vijra and the seizure of the six laks and ninety-six villages of South Kosala. 215 Dynasty History of United Koraput 216 This inscription (No.17 of 1893) (69) is engraved on the north wall of the Pandava-Perumal temple at Conjeeveram. The ancient name of the temple was Tiruppadagam (1.3), and it is mentioned under the name of Padagam in the Nalayiraprabandham. The date is the 5th year of the king, who is now styled Kulottunga-Choladeva I, while in the inscriptions of his 2nd, 3rd and 4th years (Nos.61 to 67 and 77) he still holds the name Rajendra-Choladeva (II). The new inscription refers to his early victories at Sakkarakottam and Vayiragaram. It then states that he vanquished the king of Kuntala, i.e. the Western Chalukya king Vikramaditya VI, that be crowned himself as king of the country on the banks of the Kaveri, i.e. of the Chola country, and that he decapitated an unnamed Pandya king. An inscription of the 6th year of his reign adds nothing new to these statements. (Line 1) hail! Prosperity! Having made the wheel of his (authority) to go as far as the golden circle (i.e. mount meru) on the earth, which was surrounded by the moat of the sea, that was (again) surrounded by (his) fame, (the king) newly wedded, in the time (when he was till) heir-apparent (ilango), the brilliant goddess of victory at Sakkarakottam by deeds of valour and seized a herd of strong elephants at Vayiragaram. (He) unsheathed (his) sword, showed the strength of (his) arm, and spurred (his) war-steed, so that the king of Kondala (Kuntala), (whose spear had) a sharp point, lost his wealth. Having established (his) fame, having put on the garland of (the victory over) the Northern region, and having stopped the prostitution of the goddess with the sweet and excellent lotus flower (i.e. Lakshmi) of the Southern region, and the loneliness of the goddess of the good country whose garment is the Poni (Kaveri), (he) put on by right (of inheritance) the pure royal crown of jewels, while the kings of the old earth bore his two feet (on their heads) as a large crown. It then relates that Kulottunga I, drove Vikkalan (i.e. Vikramaditya VI) from Nangili (in the Kolar district) by way of Manalur to the Tungabhadra river, and that he conquered the Ganga-mandalam and Singanam, by which the dominions of Jayasimha III, seem to be meant. The inscription edited below is one such. It is engraved on a slab in the south wall of the Bhimesvara temple at Draksharama (70) in the Ganjam district and is registered in the Madras epigraphical collection for 1893 ‘as being on a third slab from the bottom between the third and the fourth pillars.’ The text of it is in Telugu script. For the interesting historical information, which it furnishes, it is edited here. 216 Dynasty History of United Koraput 217 He reduced to ashes the whole of the Kalinga country, defeated the Ganga king, destroyed in battle Devendravarman and others, and planted a pillar of victory on the borders of the Odra country which was as it were the raising aloft of Rajendrachola’s name. The proper account of the inscription can be well estimated with the help of the Tamil work Kalingattupparani of Jayangondan (71) composed in the reign of Kulottunga I. The translation in English due to Pilai has been taken for the study. The book says that the king, while he was yet a yuvaraja, led an expedition into the north and destroyed Chakkarakkottam (X, v.23): then went to the south and was crowned there (ibid, v.34). On an occasion when he was seated there in the chitramandapa on the western side of his palace, surrounded by his ministers Vandaiman-Tondaiman and others,- provincial chiefs (mandalikas) and kings waiting at his gate, -it was reported to him that the king of the north Kalingas had failed to pay his tribute twice (i.e. for two years) (XI, vv.3, 4, 16 and 27). On the emperor’s ordering that the Kalinga country should be subdued and its king brought there, Vandainagar- arasan, who is variously called Karunkaran, Pallavarkon, and Valavaivendan, (vv.52-54) volunteered to undertake the invasion of the seven Kalingas, and, obtaining the king’s permission, set out on his march (vv.29-31). On the way, he successively crossed such rivers as the Palagu, Ponmugari, Pennai, Peragu, Godavari, Pampanadi, and Gotamai (vv.55-57). The fight that ensued was a severe one in which many were killed and wounded. “Invading Kalingam at the sea,” says the book, “planting a pillar of victory, capturing elephants and treasure, Vandaiyarkon secured the grace of the feet of Abhaya of powerful army and sword (XII, v.68)”. The poem closes with an exhortation to sing the achievements of the king, viz., the defeat of the five Pandyas and the Chera king, the tribute that was being brought from the north; and also the fame of the cities Vandai, Mayilai and Mallai and of their chief, Tondaiyarvendan who, capturing the elephants of the Kalingas, bestowed Kalingattupparani on the king (XIII. V.65). Verse 44 of Canto II (Kadaitirappu) states in unambiguous words that the king was at Kanchi while the chief led the expedition to Kalinga and reduced it. It will be seen from this short summary of the Kalingattupparani that the account about the Kalinga war agrees with what is given in the inscription under publication. There does not appear to be any room for doubting that the chief referred to in the poem is identical with the one mentioned in the inscription and that the war described in both is the same (72). This being the case the information furnished by the one is not only corroborated by the other but is 217 Dynasty History of United Koraput 218 greatly supplemented. The inscription gives the name of the chief as Vanduvaraja and Pallavaraja while the poem adds to these the names Karunakaran and Tondaiman, the latter being only a synonym of Pallavaraja. With Karunakara we may compare the epithet dina-nidhana ekah of the inscription. This work gives us the additional information that the chief was the lord of Vandai, Mallal and Mayilai and that he had invaded Ceylon. Both the book and the inscription declare that the chief invaded the Kalinga country at the command of the king, the former stating that the king was at Kanchi while the chief successfully prosecuted the war and the latter adding that the chief reduced to ashes the whole of the Kalinga country, defeated the Ganga in battle and destroyed Devendravarman and the others with the help of Kosala (73). But the documents state that the chief set up a pillar of victory, the inscription specifying that it be on the borders of the Odra country. The name Karunakara Tondaiman is not unknown to inscriptions. In the Arulala- Perumal temple at Conjeeveram,(74) there is an inscription of the Chola king Kulottunga I., dated in the 43rd year of his reign with the introduction pugal-nadu, registering a grant made by Alagiyamanavalani-Mandaiyalvar, the wife (deviiyar) of Velan Karunakaran Tondaiman. Here it is stated that the chief was a native of Vandalanjeri in Tirunaraiyur-nadu, a subdivision of Kulottungasolavalanadu in Cholamandalam. The name of the donor and the temple to which the gift was made may be taken to show that Karunakara a Tondaiman professed the Vaishnava creed while the title Velan is indicative of his being a Sudra by caste and these facts are in accord with what is reported in the Draksharama inscription. Vandalanjeri is but a variant of Amandalajeri and Vandai is perhaps connected with it. The subdivision to which the village belonged is the same in the two inscriptions: and it may be noted that Tirunaraiyur and Vandalanjeri are places in the Kumbakonam taluk. Having shown how the two documents Kalingattupparani and Draksharama inscription refer to the same Kalinga war, the question regarding the date of this war arises. Before doing so, it may be useful to know if there was only one war with Kalinga or more. As the earliest notice of the conquest of Kalinga in the records of Kulottunga I. without any mention of the details connected with it- occurs in a stone inscription dated in the 26th year of the reign corresponding to A.D.1096 and as this is found repeated in the inscriptions of the 30th year and after, one is strongly inclined to believe that this should have taken place in or a little before A.D.1096. Some of the inscriptions of the king dated in the 42nd and 45th years of this reign refer to an invasion of Kalinga in which the king himself is said (75) “to have left his throne, crossed the Vengi-mandalam in the north, set fire to Kalinga, destroyed in battle a number of chiefs and took possession of the 218 Dynasty History of United Koraput 219 seven Kalingam.” From the fact that the king himself is said here to have taken the lead in this war, and greater details are furnished regarding it than in the earlier records, it appears to be different from and later than the one already mentioned and may have to be assigned to A.D.1111 or thereabout. But as the historical introductions of Kulottunga I, do not regularly record all his achievements, adding year by year the later conquests, as do those of the early Chola kings, it will not be safe to assign these events to the years in which we find them noticed at present (76). If the capture of Kalinga mentioned in the 26th year record (A.D.1096) proves to be the one effected by the king himself, whether it is identical with or different from the Kalinga war described in detail in the 42nd and the 45th year inscriptions (A.D.1111-14), they are celebrated in the Kalingattupparani and referred to in the Draksharama inscription has to be assigned to a much earlier date as will be seen from the sequel. In enumerating the achievements of Kulottunga I, Kalingattupparani speaks chiefly of his conquests of the Pandya and the Chera, the capture of Salai and the destruction of Vilinam with a passing reference to Navilai and Manalur, which were perhaps connected with his war against Kuntala. The book is quite positive about the king’s stay at Kanchi while the chief Vandaiyarkon, at his instance, invaded Kalinga, waged a deadly war, planted a pillar of victory there, returned with heaps of treasure and elephants and bestowed Kalingapparani on him. The inscription under publication confirms this account in the main and adds a very important statement that he defeated Devendravarman and others as we have already noted. Devendravarman here referred to cannot be any other than the Eastern Ganga king Rajaraja I., who, according to the Vrihatkodila grant (77), bore that surname and had his coronation performed in A.D. 1070, the very year in which Kulottunga was also crowned. His son and successor Chodaganga, for all that we know about him, don’t seem to have borne the surname Devendravarman but was Anantavarman which name, we may note, was assumed by all his successors. Devendravarman Rajaraja I reigned for 8 years, i.e. up to A.D.1078. He was a supporter of the cause of Vijayaditya VII, for the Korni plates record (78) that when Vijayaditya grew old and like the setting sun left Vengi which was like the west and was about to sink in the ocean of troubles caused by the Cholas , Rajaraja of Kalinganagara, the refuge of the distressed, caused him to enjoy prosperity in that region. Here is evidence to show that Rajaraja was an enemy of his Chola contemporary who was none other than Kulottunga I. Thus the invasion of Kalinga, undertaken solely by the chief and minister Vanduvaraja-Pallavaraja, at the instance of king Kulottunga I, as detailed in the Kalingattupparani and the inscription under publication, must have taken place before A.D.1078 and probably about A.D.1076-7 (79). 219 Dynasty History of United Koraput 220 Now if there is any truth in the statement of the Kalingattupparani that the Kalinga king withheld the payment of tribute twice, it must have reference to a treaty or agreement probably made between the Ganga king Vajrahasta III, the father of Rajaraja I., and Virarajendra whom practically Kulottunga I, succeeded. The Arulala-Perumal temple inscription of Virarajendra clearly states that the king regained Vengi and Kalinga that were neglected by his two predecessors (80). In his Tamil historical introductions, Virarajendra actually claims to have driven the Chalukyas at Vijayavadai, i.e. Bezwada, and crossing the seven Kalingas, and reaching the Mahendragiri, to have bestowed that country on Vijayaditya who, it is said, sought his refuge (81). This seems to have taken place in A.D. 1065. Further troubles arising in this quarter, Virarajendra, after his successful war in Ceylon in A.D. 1066 against Vijayabahu, is said to have sent a large army into Kalinga and to have defeated the Chalukyas and their allies at Chakkarakkottam (82). It might be on this last occasion, i.e., immediately before Kulottunga’s assumption of power that the Kalingas were probably made to pay tribute to the Cholas (83). Subrahmanya Aiyer wrote, “To the student of Tamil literary history the inscription has no less an interest as it serves to determine the date of composition of the Kalingattupparani which may be take to be contemporaneous with the Kalinga war of Vanduvaraja(84). With the help of a number of manuscripts, Mahavidvan K. Subbaraya Mudaliyar (85) brought out an early edition of this work, which is now out of print. In it as well as in the edition of the late V.G.Suryanarayana Sastri (86) published several years afterwards in 1898, verse 63 of CantoXI has at the end of the first line the words ‘adipan viram’ which has been changed into ‘Anantapanman’ in the recent edition of Mr.A.Gopala Iyer (87); and there is no alternative reading given for it. The difference is indeed very vital and one would certainly wish to know in this particular case of the introduction of a proper name, on which manuscript the reading ‘Anantapanman’ which is not found in the two earlier editions, is based and the age of that manuscript also. If indeed the name Anantapanman is found in a trustworthy early manuscript not available to Messrs. Mudaliyar and Sastri, it would be worth a consideration. The Draksharama inscription shows, as we have seen already, that the date of the Kalinga war must be earlier than A.D. 1078. And being conducted by the same minister of the king as is mentioned in the Kalingattupparani, the introduction of the name Anantapanman in the poem, supposing that it actually occurs in an early and trustworthy manuscript, calls for an explanation. Besides, the following questions also naturally arise. Did Vanduvaraja conduct two wars against Kalinga, both in the absence of the king, or only one? If two, was one waged against Devendravarman Rajaraja I and the other against his son, Anantavarman? And does the Kalingattupparani celebrate 220 Dynasty History of United Koraput 221 the latter, omitting the general’s other achievement? And if only one, how does Anantavarman figure in the poem and Devendravarman in the inscription? It seems to me that the easiest way of getting over the difficulty is to suppose that while the war was actually waged in the reign of Devendravarman, his son Anantavarman took an active part in it as we do find in many instances Among the numerous records of Anantavarman Chodaganga, there are several, which furnish both the Saka and regnal years that work out for his accession A.D. 1074- 5 (88). This date, it will be observed, is three years earlier than the date given in the plates for the king’s coronation. The difference has to be accounted for by supposing that Anantavarman was nominated for rulership in A.D. 1074-5 but was actually crowned in A.D. 1078. Since stone inscriptions generally count the regnal years of kings from the date of nomination, it is clear that during the first three years, i.e., in the period A.D. 1074-5, he must have been co-regent with his father Devendravarman Rajaraja I and this is perhaps the reason why, in the large collection of his epigraphs, there is almost none dated in the first three years of his rule. The above fact shows further that, being associated with his father in the government of the country, he could well have figured in the Kalinga war referred to in the Draksharama inscription as having been waged against Devendravarman (89). Reducing to ashes the whole of the Kalinga country, subduing the Ganga (king) in battle and destroying the chiefs Devendravarman and others with the multitude of swords of Kosala (i.e. with the help of the Kosala army) this hero named Pallavaraja set up a fine pillar of victory on the borders of the Odra (country) as if raising aloft the fame of his lord Rajendra-Choda. This illustrious chief constructing with black granite a beautiful temple to Vishnu in the agrahara of Alaveli as if it were the plant of his fame is now enjoying the universe. This wise person made an excellent image of Vishnu and set it up there and getting some land in this village gave it with devotion for the daily offerings of the god. And for feeding five tapasvins, ten Brahmanas, and five Vanakarmins in the vicinity of the Brahmesvara temple, he bought.............at the village of Olarapakam (such an extent of) land that could be sown with thirty khandikas of seed paddy and gave if free of all taxes. (To provide) for offerings to the temple of the god Pamchavati-Hari on the bank of the Godavari whose swelling waters during floods run with unlimited force, and situated in the beautiful country of Vengimandala, he gave.......in.........rti-vishaya to last as long as the sun and the moon.And Pallavaraja having made.........pavilion..........at the city of Draksharama in Guddavadi-vishaya filled with rich and generous persons............Therefore (this) charity must not be destroyed but must be protected by the wise(90) 221 Dynasty History of United Koraput 222 The historical introduction of Kulottunga’s inscriptions commences in different ways. One of them found in his earlier epigraphs begins with the words Tirumanni vilangum and records that with the sole aid of his arm and sword, he captured herds of elephants at Vayiragaram (Wairagadh in the Chanda District of the Central Provinces), received tribute from Dharavarsha of the Chakkarakotta (country) and brought the earth under his parasol. In these epigraphs, which are dated up to the 4th year of reign, the king is styled Rajakesarivarman alias Rajendra-Choladeva (91).I am inclined to identify of Vayragaram Bastar but not of Wairagadh Chanda district, as said above. Kulottanga I’s sons ruling Vengi After the death of Vijayaditya VII (1076) Kulottunga sent his sons to rule as viceroys in Vengi: Rajaraja Mummudi Chola (1076-8), Vira Choda (1078-84), Rajaraja Chodaganga (1084-9), Vira Choda again (1089-92), and lastly, Vikrama Chola (1092-1118) (92). About 1097 the chieftain of Kolanu entered into a league with Anantavarman Choda Ganga of Kalinga and rebelled against the viceroy. Among those who assisted Vikrama Chola was Parantaka Pandya from the extreme south (93). Kolanu was sacked, and southern Kalinga invaded (94). The rebel chieftain made his submission, and Anantavarman himself had to follow suit. Some years later, about 1110, Anantavarman Choda Ganga withheld tribute and brought about a second Chola invasion of Kalinga (95). The famous general of Kulottunga, Karunakara Tondaiman, led this. The invading army spread destruction throughout Kalinga and defeated Anantavarman, who had to seek safety in flight. The victorious Chola army returned with vast booty but the campaign was devoid of any permanent results, though it formed the subject of a celebrated poem, Kalingattupparani of Jayangondar (96). Up to 1115 the extent of Chola Empire remained undiminished under Kulottunga, except for the loss of Ceylon, and included the entire country south of the Krishna and Tungabhadra extending at least up to the Godavari on the east coast (97). According to this Parani the real hero of the expedition was Karunakarapallava, who had the title Tondaiman. In it the expedition against Saptakalinga or North Kalinga was described. When Kulottunga I learnt that the king of North Kalinga or the Seven Kalingas had failed to bring tribute for two successive years, he sent his troops at once to capture the refractory king (98). At that time his Prime Minister Karunakaran prayed that he might be honoured with the command over the army; and the emperor was graciously pleased to grant his request. He is also known as Pallavaraju. He gathered a mighty army and led it to the banks of the 222 Dynasty History of United Koraput 223 Ganges, and defeated the king of North Kalinga in a pitched battle, and returning to the Chola Emperor presented him with all the booty. That is the content of the poem, Kalingattupparani. The king of Kalinga against whom Karunakara led the expedition was most probably, Devendravarma, the agnate of Anantavarma Chodaganga. Even though it has been said in the parani that the main reason for undertaking the expedition against Kalinga was withholding of tributes, it does not seem so because, during this period, Kalinga region does not seem to have been in such a dependent state on the Chola country (99). Even though the Chalukya-Chola rulers helped the Ganga ruler in stabilising his position on his throne, the Kalinga region was not completely a subject state, as Anantavarma issued his epigraphs independently without acknowledging the name of the Chalukya-Chola sovereigns (100).Probably, Kulottunga I undertook this campaign to check the ambitious Kalinga ruler, Devendravarma, who troubled Anantavarma from time to time (101). But, even though it has been described in the Parani that the Chola armies attained victory in this expedition, there are no permanent results of this war.Anantavarma ruled the Kalinga region independently even after this victorious march of Kulottunga I. According to the historians and the Government epigraphist, there were two Kalinga invasions during the reign of Kulottunga I (102). Of them, one is mentioned in his 26th year, and the other in his 40th year and in the records of his later years (103). According to them, the expedition in which Vikrama Chola participated is the first Kalinga invasion; and the account given in the work Kalingattupparani is the second Kalinga campaign. A Tamil record of the year 1099 A.D. at Simhachalam temple registered the gifts of a minister of Kulottunga I. This testifies that the Chalukya-Chola army might have stayed in these premises during the early years of Anantavarma to guard his interests (104). But the account given in Parani has been corroborated by a record of Kulottunga I at Draksarama in which Pallavaraju has been credited with the victories over Kalinga. He subjugated the Kalinga country defeating Devendravarma, and planted a pillar of victory on the borders of the Odra country raising aloft Rajendra Cholas fame (105). As this record was dated in the 33rd regnal year of Kulottunga I, corresponding to 1102-03 A.D., the victories of Pallavaraja of this record seem to belong to the first Kalinga campaign (106). The Chelluru plates (107) of Kulottunga II and the Pithapuram plates (108) of Mallapadeva state that Kulottunga I was succeeded by his son Vikrama Chola. His brother, Parantakadeva, disputed his accession to the throne but ultimately Vikrama Chola came to the throne. According to Prof.Kielhorn’s calculations of the dates of his inscriptions in the Tamil and Telugu countries, his coronation took place on the 29th June, 1118 A.D., and his last known date is 1132-33 A.D. (109) 223 Dynasty History of United Koraput 224 Vikram Chola in Vengi Country The Pithapuram pillar inscription (110) states that after the departure of Vikrama Chola to the Choda country, the Vengi region became devoid of a ruler, and this resulted in political turmoil. At the time of the accession of Vikrama Chola to the Chola throne, Vengi country was under the Western Chalukyan occupation (111). Vikramaditya VI, the Western Chalukyan ruler died in 1126 A.D. This enabled the Chalukya-Chola and their subordinates to put an end to the authority of the Chalukyas of Kalyani. In his campaign against the Western Chalukyas, the Velanati Chodas assisted Vikrama Chola, Haihayas of Konamandala, Parichchedis, and other minor dynasties then ruling in Andhradesa (112). This record shows the reverses suffered by the combined forces of the Chalukya- Cholas and their feudatories in the re-establishment of their supremacy in Vengi in the hands of the Western Chalukyan feudatories. Anyhow the Chalukyas of Pithapur and their subordinates, Malayas and Haihayas of Konamandala, freed the territory between Krishna and Godavari from Western Chalukyan authority. After the death of Vikramaditya VI, Somesvara III ascended the Western Chalukyan throne. He ruled from 1128 to 1137 A.D.(113) The battle between the Chalukya-Chola armies and the Western Chalukyan armies seemed to have taken place on the banks of river Godavari. This is testified by the information provided in a stone record from Draksarama dated 1150 A.D. (114) This record furnishes valuable details regarding the locality and the presence of Somesvara on the battle field, and states that the victory caused surprise to Gonka’s lord Kulottunga II, the son of Vikrama Chola. By the information given above, it is clear that the Velanati chief Gonka fought a battle on the banks of the river Godavari and put to flight the armies of the king of Kuntala, after exterminating his famous generals Govindarasa and Lakshmana Dandanayaka, and captured rich booty in gold and horses and camels (115). Vikrama Choda’s contemporary on the Ganga throne was Anantavarma Chodaganga entitled Trikalingadhipati (Lord of three Kalingas) who had a long reign from 1078 to 1148 A.D.(116) Like Vikramaditya VI, Anantavarma Chodaganga took advantage of the comparatively weak political situation of Vengi, after Vikrama Chola had left Vengi for Tanjore to ascend the Chola throne. In an inscription from Srikurmam dated 1135 A.D., Anantavarma claims to have conquered and annexed the territory beyond the river Godavari (117). It has been suggested that soon after the death of Vikramaditya VI Anantavarma Chodaganga probably took the country upto the Godavari, i.e. the Southern 224 Dynasty History of United Koraput 225 Kalinga comprising Vizagapatam and East Godavari districts. It is likely that Vikramaditya VI influenced the Kalinga wars and the consequent rebellions against the Cholas and their feudatories. Probably this might have encouraged the Kalinga expansion into Vengi. Chodaganga’s records are at Draksarama of the year 1128 A.D. Probably, in that year he and his queens visited Draksarama and made gifts of lamps to Lord Bhimesvara (118). By this time, the Cholas and the Velanadus were recovering the tracts in the north of the Godavari that they later lost to the Chalukyas of Kalyani. Probably at this juncture, Manda II, the Kondapadumati chief, came into conflict with the armies of Anantavarma Chodaganga (119). In the battle at Draksarama, Manda II distinguished himself by routing the enemy and capturing their elephants, which he presented to his overlord Rajendra Chola, i.e. Vikrama Chola who must have been present at the battle then. In the inscriptions (120) of Manda it is described thus: “Having torn up like a mound the army of the Ganga of Kalinga, having consumed like straw the warriors of the bold enemy, and having cut off (like) lotuses their heads - the mighty rutting elephant Mandalika Manda is roaming. Having defeated the army of the enemy, he gave to Rajendra Choda mighty elephants which had been captured there and whose temples were bright with rut.” Probably this was the defensive war led by Vikrama Chola and Choda I of the Velanadus in which the chief Manda II played a leading role. As Vikrama Chola and Gonka II checked the power of the Western Chalukyas in Andhradesa about 1135 A.D., the claim of Anantavarma to have conquered the three quarters (121) has been disputed. Thus Vikrama Chola, in his short reign i.e., from 1118 to 1132-33 A.D., freed the Southern Andhradesa from the yoke of the Chalukyas of Kalyani and the Eastern Gangas of Kalinga with the support of his Andhra feudatories. His son Kulottunga II to the Chalukya-Chola throne succeeded Vikrama Chola. The Chelluru copper plate grant of Kulottunga II, dated 1056 corresponding to 1134 A.D., points to the beginning of his rule in that year (122). He was a great warrior, and as a prince he participated in the Godavari battle by which he exterminated the armies of the Western Chalukyas (123). Rajaraja II, Velanati Chief Gonka II-Kalinga invasion and Anantavarma Chodaganga Krishna Kumari wrote,” During the reign of Rajaraja II, Velanati chief Gonka II undertook an expedition against South Kalinga .The reasons for this invasion are not clearly known. The Eastern Ganga ruler Anantavarma Chodaganga and Kamarnava were the contemporaries of Velanati Gonka II. Kamarnava was also known as Anantavarman and Anantavarman Madhukamarnava and also as 225 Dynasty History of United Koraput 226 Jatesvaradeva. Probably Gonka II came into conflict with the Gangas in extending the bounds of his kingdom into Kalinga. According to an inscription of Gonka II dated 1132 A.D., he advanced as far as Cuttack and inflicted a defeat on Anantavarman and his uncle Panda and was praised in the courts of all kings, but it omits Cuttack(124). As attested by the inscription of Gonka II, his expeditions into Kalinga continued. An inscription from Nadendla dated 1143 A.D.(125) records the victories of Gonka II over the lord of Cuttack, Anantavarman. According to a record from Draksarama (126), he is said to have vanquished the lord of Kalinga and kept golden vessels on the temples of Srisailam and Puri. From two records (127) at Draksarama dated 1150 A.D. and 1154 A.D., it is clear that, as a result of his successes in Kalinga, Gonka claims to have ruled over the country between the Setu and the Narmada, and that the kings between Srisailam and Mahendragiri were all subordinates to him. Thus, the victory of the Velanatis over the Kalinga region is well attested by a number of stone records in Andhra country. Further, it is corroborated by a record at Simhachalam dated in the 5th regnal year of the Chalukya-Chola ruler Rajaraja II, corresponding to 1150-51 A.D.”(128) She further continued,” Though the Velanatis were victorious in their campaigns against Kalinga, the region towards east was not free of troubles. The Eastern Chalukyas of Beta Vijayaditya line(129) was ruling in this tract. Whenever an opportunity came they tried to throw off their allegiance to the Chalukya-Chola overlords and tried to become independent. This often resulted in rebellions in this region. From the time of Mallapadeva II, son of Vijayaditya II, great efforts were made in freeing the territory from the yoke of the Chalukya-Cholas. In this regard, his matrimonial alliance with the Haihaya rulers of Sagara-vishaya greatly helped him. But his efforts were not complete until the reign of only his son Vijayaditya III. With the help of the neighbouring chiefs and the Haihayas of Sagara-vishaya (130), Vijayaditya III was able to re-establish his kingdom in 1158 A.D. and he coroneted himself in that year, having his capital at Pithapur (131). Hence, his successors were known as the Chalukyas of Pithapur (132). Kalinga wars The inscriptions of Kulottunga speak accounts of two Chola invasions of Kalinga. The first invasion of Kalinga is mentioned in the inscriptions of the 26th year (133), and Nilakanta Sastri says that from the brevity with which this subjection of Kalinga is mentioned on this occasion, it can be concluded that this was the war in which Vikramachoda distinguished himself as a Youngman. It is thus said that Vikramchoda, in his short reign i.e. from 1118 to1132-33 A.D., conquered 226 Dynasty History of United Koraput 227 the Southern Kalinga from the yoke of the Chalukyas of Kalyani and the rulers of Eastern Gangas of Kalinga with the support of his Andhra feudatories. The second and later invasion of Kalinga comes from celebrated Parani of Jayangondar (134). It is also mentioned in the inscriptions of the forty-second and subsequent years. This is the invasion, which gave the occasion for Parani, and Vikramachoda apparently had no part in it. Jayangondar, the court poet of Kulottunga I, wrote a long poem which gave a graphic account of an expedition into the north Kalinga country conducted by Karunakaran, the Prime Minister of the Chola Emperor Kulottunga I. Karunakaran had the title of Tondaiman. The expedition describes the invasion on North Kalinga or Saptakalinga. The poem is very famous still known in Tamil country as Kalingattupparani. First Kalinga war The first Kalinga war seems to have been brought about by Kalinga aggression against Vengi. This thus resulted to the invasion of Kalinga by Kulottunga I and the southern part of the Kalinga country was annexed to the Chola empire(!35).The Southern Kalinga was apparently the territory between Godavari river and Mahendra mountain(136). This territory was part of the Vengi some years before the war of Vikramchoda (137). The Kolanu Chief, the modern Ellore near the Colair Lake was evidently in the league with the rulers of Kalinga, and thus Vikrama Choda had to fight in both sides i.e. Colair lake and Kalinga southern. Pandya king Parantaka, who was a vassal of the Chodas in this war, assisted Vikramachoda. The inscriptions of the Parantaka Pandya, like those of Vikramachoda state that Kulam of the Telunga Bhima was captured and Southern Kalinga was subdued. Except this there are no details available on this first war against Kalinga. Nilakanta Sastri opines that this invasion seems to have been taken for the suppression of local revolts rather than for the conquest of fresh territory. A Tamil inscription of Kulottunga I at Simhachal dated A.D. 1098-9 and several others at Draksarama and other places attest the successful restoration of authority.(138). Second Kalinga war 227 Dynasty History of United Koraput 228 It took place about 1110 A.D. and has been detailed out in length in the Kalingattupparani (139). According to the inscription, the Chola army crossed the Vengi territory, destroyed the elephant corps and was sent by the enemy to oppose its march, spread fire across the enemy country of Kalinga, killed in fight many powerful leaders of Kalinga army whose heads rolled on the battle-field, packed by kites, and at the end subdued the Seven Kalinga. The account of the Kalingattupparani may be summarised as follows. When the emperor sat in darbar in his palace at Kanci, the tiru-mandira-olai announced to his master the arrival of subject kings who had vassals were then permitted to enter and exhibit their presents. At the end, the emperor enquired if there were any who had defaulted, and was informed that the king of North Kalinga had done so twice. The emperor forthwith issued the command that an expedition should be sent against Kalinga to storm the hill forts of Kalinga and bring its ruler as a prisoner of war. The valiant Pallava chieftain, Karunakara Tondaiman, lord of Vandai, offered to carry out the emperor’s orders and was accepted. The expeditionary force led by Karunakara soon started from Kanci. It crossed the Palar and the Ponmukhari rivers and reached the Pennar; among the other streams crossed by it before reaching Kalingam were the Mannaru, the Krsna, the Godavari, the Pampa and the Gotami. The Cola army began to spread destruction as it entered Kalinga, and territory between the Godavari and Mahendra mountains and this was already part of the Vengi province some years before the war of Vikramachoda. Possibly, the subordinate rulers whose territories were included in the Viceroyalty of Vengi conspired together and rose in rebellion when the young prince Vikramachoda was appointed to the charge of the province. The revolt was unsuccessful, and the entire province was restored to subjection. The suffering inhabitants fled to their king and reported to him what they had seen and suffered. Anantavarman, who had known no defeat before, made light of the whole business, as it was only Kulottunga’s army, not the emperor himself, that was advancing; one of his ministers, Engaraya, remonstrated with him and spoke of the great achievements that already stood to the credit of the Cola army. Nothing daunted, Anantavarman prepared for the fight. The battle that ensued ended in a complete victory for the Cola forces and Anantavarman sought his safety in flight. After a futile search for him, the victorious Cola army returned home with vast booty. Sastri, Nilakanta wrote,” The invasion of North Kalinga, called the Seven Kalingas, and the part of Karunakara in it are thus well attested by the inscriptions 228 Dynasty History of United Koraput 229 and the poem. Only the poem gives the immediate cause of the war, namely the default on the part of the Kalinga king in the payment of the annual tribute. This king, Anantavarman Chodaganga, was the grandson of Virarajendra by his daughter Rajasundari. Dynastic connections, however, seldom availed to stop the course of political ambition, and it would seem that Kulottunga was the aggressor on this occasion. It is hard to believe that throughout the long and, apparently, prosperous reign of Anantavarman, the kingdom of Kalinga was a vassal state r emitting a fixed tribute annually to the Cola court. It may be noted that an inscription from Draksarama (140) dated Saka 1003 in the reign of Visnuvardhana (Kulottunga?) records a gift by the wife of a Pradhani of the Tri- Kalingadhipati Rajarajadeva. If this is a reference to the father of Anantavarman, it would follow that Kalinga was such a vassal state at least for a time. The real cause of the war, however, is obscure; and the darbar held by Kulottunga at Kancipuram in the historic palace of the Colas in that city(141) and the report of Anantavarman’s default made to the emperor by his secretary, may be, not history, but only a literary setting for the grand military enterprise described in the poem. It is clear that the expedition of Karunakara led to no permanent results. There is no evidence of a Cola occupation of Northern Kalinga (142). It may also be noted that a Kota chief Bhima is said, in an inscription of A.D. 1108(143), to have assisted the Cola in subduing the Kalinga country. This may be a reference to his part in the first or the second war.(144)”. After victory at Sakkarakottam, and the southern Vayiragram (Vajrakara), the present Bhairamgarh in Bastar district where Kulottunga I as a Yuvaraj seized herds of rutting elephants. He then unsheathed his sword, showed the strength of his arm so that the army of the spear-throwing king of Kondala (Kutala) retreated. I am of the opinion this is the Kondala is the present Kondagaon, north of Jagdalpur and between Nala Puskri (Podagada) and Gad Dhanora of W.Chalukyas. Thence Kulottunga I captured the eastern part to the Chakrakote where he stayed 7 years i.e. before stepping into the crown king of Chodas. This period as said by Nilakanta Sastri he had his independent country and he aided Virarajendra in his campaigning Chakrakote, possibly Kalinga and Vengi. The Kondaie of Umerkote, Raighar is possible the Kondai where the Choda Virarajendra met the W.Chalukyas. Some Chola Inscriptions pointing to Koraput district An inscription of Kulottunga Chola, found in the eastern wall of the Saiva temple at Tiruvidamarudur in the Tanjore district is of great significance and interest for Koraput district (145). 229 Dynasty History of United Koraput 230 It is in Tamil character and is of 11th century A.D. and is reported by V.Kanakasabhai Pillai, (1892) (146). He further wrote, “The concluding portion of the inscription, which is in prose, records a deed of sale, executed by the Brahman proprietors of a village named Vanavanmahadevi Chaturvedimangnlam in Kumilinadu in Amurkottam in Jayankondacholamandalam. The property sold was a portion of the village, which was entrusted to be used as garden land for the Matha of Naminandi Adigal attached to the Saiva temple at Tirukkalukunram. Naminandi is the name of one of the 63 devotees of Siva, an account of whose lives is given in the Tamil Periyapurdram and the Matha was probably founded by him or by his descendants in his memory. The fact that the proprietors of the village met together is a Mahasabha or great assembly, and executed this deed of sale, is evidence of the ancient system of land tenure peculiar to the Dravidian people, under which the residents of each village were the common proprietors of all these parts of the village, which were not appropriated to any individual. Two taxes are mentioned, the peruvaram (great share) and silvuvari (expenditure tax). The first is the king’s share, which is generally one-sixth of the produce; the second appears to be a local cess, levied to meet expenses incurred in the repair to tanks in the village. The Translation runs, “** and, scattering his enemies, erected on all the paths boundary-marks (of his territories) including Kottaru; who conquered the Kalinga-mandalam of embanked floods; whose valour and munificence shone like the gorgeous necklace and the garlands of flowers on his sharply shoulders; who, worshipped by the whole world, like Siva with Uma, and with Eliseriv allabhi, the mistress of the seven worlds, the most beauteous amongst women, like Ganga with Uma, and with the goddess Earth, - the deed in writing of a sale of land by the great assembly of Vanavanmahadevodalm. The land that we have sold and given, to be used as a garden for a Matha, to Chantia Chandesvaradeva of the temple of our lord Mahadeva of Tirukkalukkunram in Sembiyan- Tirukkalukkunram, otherwise known as Ulagalanda-cholapuram, in Kalattur- Kumilinadu is as follows: of the land which we have given in Kiraippakkam (a western hamlet) of our village, to be improved by cutting down the jungle and by removing the stumps of trees, the eastern boundary is Uromattu (P), the southern boundary is Talaivettu (P), the western boundary is Vigambam (P), the northern boundary is Tandurai (P). Within these four limits, the wet land and dry land, the trees over ground and the wells underground, we have sold to be used as a garden land for the Naminadi-Adigal-Matha in the madai-vilagam of this town, exempt from taxes, and we have received as the price achained kusu ten. 230 Dynasty History of United Koraput 231 This is a place in modern Nandahandi block of Koraput district, Orissa of the present day. The Kumuli is also located near the present Umarakote and also closer to the block. As denoted in the said inscription, the area (land) sold to Chantia Chandesvaradeva of the temple of lord Mahadeva of Tirukkalukunram (may be Tentulikhunti of present day). It is also now called Chantia Siva. The Kalattur-Kumilinadu may be the present Kamata and Kumuli. The Ulagalanda-Cholapuram may be the present An-Chola-gumma. The Amurokottam is the present Umerkote. The Nasminandi-Adigal-Math may be the Nandahandi Siva temple of present day. The boundary marked to Naminandi Adigal Math and the identified place is in Nowrangpur, Koraput in Orissa state has been given. The north boundary Tandurai may be the present Turunji; the eastern boundary Uromattum may be the Usiripadar. The south Tallaivetum to be present Tokigurha and the western Vigambam may be the Ekamb of present day; of course it in-between west-south. The author finds the Anchalaguma to be the past Ulgalanda-Cholapuram. This inscription speaks of the area and activities of Yuvaraj Kulottunga during his stay in Purvadesha. The Kumulinadu in Amurokottam in Jayankondacholamandalam are a very significant line in the inscription. This is thus the mandala of the Purvadesha of Kulottunga. The Kumuli is located near toBhairaba Singapur and on its hill there are Siva temple and it was one country or nadu and the Amurokottam is the present Umarkote, an important town, close to which is the Podagada where inscriptions of Nala dynasties have been recorded. Thus it can be concluded that from Umerkote to Borigumma, Jeypore and hill country of Nandapur, may be Dasmanthapur and Kashipur of Koraput district, Orissa was the Purvadesha or a part of it as evident from the inscriptions. As per the Nilakanta Sastri (147), the Masunidesam may be the Nagavamsi ruler’s country. It is western part of Purvadesha. Thus it can be the Bastar-Kotapad- Kundra-Nandapur-Paschamalli hills (to Paschapetta Zamindari. This was a tributary to Rajendra I (Kulottunga I). The Maduraimandalam may be the present Kundra and adjacent area of Bastar and Koraput district; and the Na- maniaikokonam may be the Konas of Koraput district i.e. Chati-kona, Kona etc., which is located western part of Laxmipur area. This may be contiguous patch to Bhabanaipatna of Kalahandi; Pancapalli may be the Panchamalli hills to Nandapur area down to Panchapetta that is opening to Eastern Ghats from the plains of coastal area the Salur. 231 Dynasty History of United Koraput 232 However another inscription (No.179 of 1894) is engraved on the south wall of the second prakara of the Vedagirisvara temple at Tirukkalukkunram. Mr.V.Kanakasabhai Pillai (148) had published before in a tentative manner. The date is the 42nd year of the reign of Kulottunga I. (1.11). The location identified by Pillai has relationship to our inference given as above --- The inscription records that an inhabitant of Rajarajapuram (1.17) made over 10 kasu (1.14) to the temple authorities, who purchased for this sum from the villagers of Vanavanmahadevi-chaturvedimangalam (1.11) some land for maintaining the Matha of Naminandi-Adigal at Tirukkalukkunram (1.14). As stated by Mr.Kanakasabhai, the person after whom this Matha was named is one of the sixty-three devotees of Siva, whose lives are described in the Periyapurdnam. Vinavanmahadevi-chaturvedimangalam belonged to Kumili-nadu, a subdivision of the district of Amur-kottam (1.11). The land purchased was situated in Kiraippakkam, a hamlet in the west of that village (1.12), and was bounded in the east by Urodagam, in the south by Talaivedu, in the west by Uragambakkam, and in the north by Tandurai (1.13). Kiraippakkam is the modern Kirappakkam in the Chingleput taluka. East of it the map shows Oragadam (No.228), south of it Talambedu (No.266), and north of it Tandarai (No.233). The nadu to which these villages belonged is named after Kumili in the same taluka. The district of Amur- kottam owes its name to the village of Amur near Mamallapuram, which belonged to the subdivision Amurnadu. From the Kondyata grant of Venkata II, it appears that there was another district which also bore the name of Amur- kottam, but which was named after the town of Amur or Amhur in the Velur taluka of the North Arcot district. There is a large chunk of history associated with Virarajendra Chola and his nephew, later known as Kulottunga Chola I. As said above, as a Yuvaraj Kulottunga I conquered south Bastar i.e. and Chakkrakote; and then carved out an independent principality for himself called Purvadesha, close to the Chakkrakotta. During the same period, Virarajendra had conquered Kalinga, Vengi and Chakkrakotta. This was related to improve the influence of Chodas over Eastern Chalukyas and reduce the influence of Western Chalukyas in the region. Thus, both Virarajendra and Kulottunga I influenced the history in Kalinga, Kosala, Chakkrakotte, and Vengi, in this period. However in the inscription of Tirumalai it is mentioned that the village at the foot of the Tirumalai Hill bore the name of Vaigavur and belonged to Mugai- nadu, a division of the Pangala-nadu, which formed part of Jayankonda-Chola – 232 Dynasty History of United Koraput 233 mandalam (149). The Cholas imposed their names on the provinces. They conquered and on the rulers who accepted vassal position in the empire (150). On this basis we explain the nomenclatures of Cholas in Koraput-Bastar. ii) Pradhani Family of Nowrangapur and relation to Eastern Gangas and Chola Sastri, Nilakanta wrote,” The invasion of North Kalinga, called the Seven Kalingas, and the part of Karunakara in it are thus well attested by the inscriptions and the poem. Only the poem gives the immediate cause of the war, namely the default on the part of the Kalinga king in the payment of the annual tribute. This king, Anantavarman Chodaganga, was the grandson of Virarajendra by his daughter Rajasundari. Dynastic connections, however, seldom availed to stop the course of political ambition, and it would seem that Kulottunga was the aggressor on this occasion. It is hard to believe that throughout the long and, apparently, prosperous reign of Anantavarman, the kingdom of Kalinga was a vassal state r emitting a fixed tribute annually to the Cola court. It may be noted that an inscription from Draksarama (151) dated Saka 1003 in the reign of Visnuvardhana (Kulottunga?) records a gift by the wife of a Pradhani of the Tri-Kalingadhipati Rajarajadeva. If this is a reference to the father of Anantavarman, it would follow that Kalinga was such a vassal state at least for a time. The real cause of the war, however, is obscure; and the darbar held by Kulottunga at Kancipuram in the historic palace of the Colas in that city (152) and the report of Anantavarman’s default made to the emperor by his secretary, may be, not history, but only a literary setting for the grand military enterprise described in the poem. It is clear that the expedition of Karunakara led to no permanent results. There is no evidence of a Cola occupation of Northern Kalinga (153). It may also be noted that a Kota chief Bhima is said, in an inscription of A.D. 1108 (154), to have assisted the Cola in subduing the Kalinga country. This may be a reference to his part in the first or the second war.” The above paragraph from Nilakanta Sastri is indicative that the Pradhani family of Tri-Kalinga had matrimonial relation to the Eastern Gangas. This most possibly refers to Mr. Khagapati Pradhani family of Patraput close to Ancholagumma in Nowrangpur who continued to stay as the Member of Parliament for 5 consecutive sessions. 233 Dynasty History of United Koraput 234 References 1. E.I., No.38, Vol.XXI, p.220 ff. 2. S.I.I. Vol.III, pp.64-7; E.I., Vol.IX, p.-179, n.1 and 2. 3. Indian History Congress, Aligarh 1943, pp 161-2 4. A.S.I., 213 of 1911 and S.I.I., ii p.109 5 S.I.I.No.67, pp.95 ff, E.I.IX.No.31, pp.229ff 6 Sastri, K.A.Nilakanta., The Colas.p.228. 7 A.S.I.1922-12 p.172 n.1 8 Fleet Gupta Inscriptions p.192 n, 1; EI, IX, p.283. 9. Sastri, K.A.Nilakanta., The Colas.p.228 10. Sathianathaier, R. ‘Cholas’ p.234-253, HCIP, The Struggle for Empire, Bombay 11. Ibid. 12. S.I.I.No.67, Vol. Pp.95 ff 13. Dr.Bahler’s Vikramanikacharita, sarga iv, verse 30 14. Fleet’s Kanarese Dynasties, p.66 15. Odra Sanskrit Odras 16 Beal’s Si-ky-ki, Vol.II, p.204 17. Ibid p.209 18. E.I.No.38, Vol.IX, pp 229 ff 19. Sastri, K.A.Nilakanta has placed it as ‘Madura mandalam destroyed in a trice. But we agree with Hultzsch. 20. The translation here is based on the reading in 176 of 1923: (Kamidai valanagar Namanaikkonamum) As per Sastri, Nilakanta it is Masunidesa with its green fields. 21. Another form has (Venjina Uirar for Venjlai-Virai) 22. Sastri, K.A.Nilakanta reads it ‘pasadaip - palana - masuni-desam (S.I.I. ii 20 1.5 & p.108) 23. S.I.I, Vol.I, p.99 and E.I., p.232. 24. Hiralal., E.I.Vol. IX.p.179 25. Ibid 26. E.I., IX, p.230. 27. Panigrahi, K.C., Chronology of the Bhauma-Karas and the Somavamsis of Orissa.p.34-35. 28. Ibid. p.13. 29. Sathianathaier, R. ‘Cholas’ p.240-241, HCIP, The Struggle for Empire, Bombay 30. Sastri, K.A.Nilakanta Sastri, The Colas, Univ.of Madras, Madras, p.170 234 Dynasty History of United Koraput 235 31. E.I.,.Vol.XXI, No.38, p.220-245 32. Travancore Archeological Serins,Vol.III, p.148, V.77 33. Annual Report on Epigraphy for 1918, p.145 34. No.83, Madras Epigraphical Collection for 1898 35. Prof.Hultzsch has translated the introductory portion on pp.36 ff of the South Indian Inscriptions, Vol.III 36 Above XII, p.298 37. Ibid 38 Ibid 39. E.I.Vol.XXI, p.220-228 40. E.I.Vol.XXI, No.38, p-243 41. J.A.H.R.S., Vol.I, p.106ff and Krishna Kumari, M, The Rule of the Chalukyas--Cholas in Andhradesam.p.14. 42. Krishna Kumari, M.op.cit. p.14. 43. Gopal, B.R. The Chalukyas of Kalyana and the Kalachuris, K.V.Dharwad, p-222. 44. Krishna Kumari, M.op.cit. p14-15. 45. The Colas, p.292 cited by Gopal, B.R. op.cit.p-222. 46. Krishna Kumari, M. Rule of the Chalukya-Cholas in Andhradesa, p.15-16. 47. Ibid.p.16. 48. Tamil Historical Texts (V.Kamakasabhai Pillai, No.4. The Vikrama- Cholan-Ula, in 1893, p.141-150 (pp 149). 49 Ganguly, D.C. (1989) Later Chalukyas and Kalachuris of Kalyana. The Struggle for Empire in the History and Culture of India People, Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, Bombay p-172. 50. Sastri, K.A. Nilakanta The Colas. University of Madras, p.291-292. E.C.V. AK. 102 (a) syas that by order of the Calukya Cakravarti he caused the Cola king to wear leaves. Colikar annaleyam taliram udisi. Also VII, Sh, 64. 51. E.C. Vii, Ci 33 calls him (Ra) jigo-Cola-manobhanga and says, perhaps with exaggeration, that he was ruling Nulambavadi 32000. 52. VI. 90. 53. Smaller Lieden Plate of Kulottunga I., E.I.XXII, p.269 54. The name of the king is taken from lines 59 ff. of the inscription. 55. See Vol.I, p.97, and Vol.II, p.108. Two inscriptions of the 2nd year of the reign of Ko-Rajakesarivarman, alias Rajendra-Choladeva (i.e., Kulottunga-Choladeva I.) At Kolar and Tiruvorriyur read; “(he) was pleased to take tribute which illumined (all) regions, from the king of Tara (Dhara; compare Ind.Ant. Vol.XIV, p.340, and Vol.XX, p.280 56. Sastri, K.A.Nilakanta.p.269 (see for detail) 57. S.I.I., 44-5, Angavanpin Kavalpurindavani Kottonum 235 Dynasty History of United Koraput 236 58 ‘Abhaya’ in this verse X. 18 does refer to Virarajendra cf.viii 29. 59. S.I.I, iii 64-7, as corrected by Hiralal, EI, IX p.179 n.1 & 2 60. S.I.I.III.pp.142-146. 61. X.V.25 62. See ante, Ch.xii 63. Hiralal, ICPB, 2nd ed. pp.163-64. 64. Hiralal, ICPB, 2nd edition, pp. 165. 65. Hiralal, ICPB, 163-64 66. E.I. X.25 ff 67. JOR, V. pp.128 ff. 68. S.N. Rajaguru O.H.R.J. Vol. Viii, No-I pp.65-75 69. S.I.I., Vol. III (part I & II) pp. 140-148 70. S.I.I., Vol. III (Part I & II) pp. 126 and 180 and SII. Vol. IV, Nos.1295, 1263, 1290 etc. 71. Pillai, V.K. (1894) I.A., Vol.XXI, p.281 ff. 72. Kumari Krishna, M (1885) op.cit. p 36-49. 73. E.I.,. Vol. XXV, No.23 74. S.I.I., Vol.III (Part I & II). No. 80 page 186-190. 75. S.I.I. Vol.III (Part I & II) No.80, p. 186-197. 76. E.I.XXII, .p.140-141 77. Vrihatkodila Grant 78. J.A.H.R.S, VIII. 40. 79. E.I.XXII.p.141-142 80. Trav. Arch.Series.,Vol.III,p.148,V.77. 81. E.I. Vol.XXI,p.243 82. Ibid. 83. E.I.XXII, p.142-80. 84. Ibid. 85. Ibid. 86. Ibid 87. Iyer, Gopala, A. Kalingattupparani of Jayangaondar edi. in English, Madras 1924. 88. Nos.246, 380,386,387,388,392,393 of the Madras epigraphical collections from 1896. 89. Aiyar, K.V.Subrahmanya E.I. XXII, pp. 140-2 90. Drakshanrama inscription of Kulottunga I, 33rd year.E.I.XXII, p.145 91. E.I.XXII, p.269 (The Smaller Leiden plates of Kulottunga I) 92. Sastri, K.A. Nilakanta (1975) A History of South India, 4th Edi. p.191 93. Ibid 94. Ibid 95. Ibid, p.192 236 Dynasty History of United Koraput 237 96 Pillai, Kanakasabhai, V, (1892) Kalingaattupparani translation. Ind.Ant.Vol.XIX.p.329ff. 97. Ibid 98. Pillai, V.K. (1894) Indian Antiquary, Vol. Xxi, p. 281 ff. 99. A.R.E., 1905, Part II, para-5. 100. Ibid. 101. The rules of the Chalukya-Cholas in Andhradesha, pp.37. 102. A.R.E. 1905, Part II, Para-18. 103. Ibid. 104. S.I.I. Vol. VI, 1144, dt. Saka, 1021. 105. E.I. Vol. XXII, No: 23. 106. Ibid. and Kumari Krishna, M. (1985). The Rules of the Chalukya-Cholas in Andhradesha p.38. 107. Ind. Ant., Vol. XIV, p.55. 108. E.I., Vol. IV, No. 33, pp. 22-24. 109. S.I.I. Vol. VI, No. 123. 110 E.I. Vol. IV, p.226. 111 Ibid. 112. Kumari Krishna, M. (1985) op.cit.p.56 113. Kumari Krishna, M. (1985) op.cit. p.57. 114. S.I.I. No. 1182, V.17. 115. Ibid. Vol. IV, No.1141, Lines 8 and 9. 116. Kumari Krishna, M. (1985) op.cit p. 62. 117. S.I.I., Vol. V, No.1335. 118. S.I.I., Vol IV, Nos. 1017; 1191; 1194. 119. Kumari Krishna, M. (1985)op..cit p.63. 120. A.R.E. 214 of 1892; E.I., Vol. VI, No. 4, p. 257, S.I.I, Vol. IV, No 662. 121. J.A.H.R.S, Vol. VII, p.58. 122. Ind. Ant., Vol. XIV, p.55. 123. Kumari Krishna, M. (1985) op.cit. p.63. 124 S.I.I., Vol.VI, No.628. 125. Ibid. 126. Ibid 127. Ibid 128. Kumari Krishna, M., op.cit.p.70-71; S.I.I., Vol.VI, No.1174. 129. Kumari, Krishna, M.op.cit.p.71 and 254. 130. Sewell, R., Lists II, Cp.No.77, Part II. 131. Ibid. E.I., Vol.IV, No.33, Vs.32, 122. 132. Kumari, Krishna, M.op.cit.p.71-72. 133. A.R.E., 1905, Part II, para18. 134. Pillai, Kanakasabhai, V,. (1892)I.A. Vol., XIX, p.329ff. 237 Dynasty History of United Koraput 238 135. Sastri, K.A. Nilakanta The Colas.p.321. 136. Cunningham, Ancient Geography, p.591. 137. Tekli platesI.83-Manneti-Mahendra-madhya-vartino.E.I.VI, p.335. 138. 363 of 1899 cited by Sastri, K.A.Nilakanta., The Colas.p.338. 139. Pillai, Kanakasabhai, V. (1892) Kalingaattupparani translation. Ind.Ant.Vol.XIX.p.329ff. 140. I.A.181 of 1893; ARE.givesS.1002. 141, Uttam Cola museum plates I, 13 (S.I.I.III, p.269) 142. A.R.E. 1905 11, 18. 143. 567 of 1925. 144. Sastri, K.A. Nilakanta. The Colas.p.322-323. 145. Pillai, Kanakasabhai, V. (1892) Tamil Historical Texts, No.3, An Inscription of Kulottunga Chola I (Saiva Temple at Tiruvidaimarudur in Tanjore District). I.A.XXII., p.281-87. 146. Pillai, Kanakasabhai, V,. (1892) Ind.Ant.Vol.XIX.p.329ff. 147. S.I.I.Vol.III (PartI&II) No.75.Inscriptions at Tirukkalukkunram.p.164- 168. 148 Pillai, V.K. (1894) Indian Antiquary, Vol.XXI, p.281 ff. 149. C.I.I., Vol.I p.97. 150. E.C.I, Intr.12-13; V Intr.VII. 151. Uttam Cola museum plates I, 13 (S.I.IIII, p.269) 152. A.R.E. 1905 11, 18. 153. 567 of 1925. 154. Sastri, K.A. Nilakanta. The Colas.p.322-323. 238 Dynasty History of United Koraput 239 PURVADESA Kulottunga I (Rajendra Chola) in Koraput-Bastar, 1069 A.D. Rajendra Chola has been described as the conqueror of Purvadesam, Gangai and Kadram, which is reflected in several inscriptions of his reign and of the reign of his successors. An inscription of Virarajendra from Ramnad district refers to his father who conquered Purvadesh, Gangai and Kadram (1). The Purvadesam has been the most distant conquests of Rajendra, thus on this assumption Venkayya had suggested it to be Vengi country (2). However, it has been identified that Purvadesam to be east of Maikal range (3) and roughly corresponding to South Koshala country. Nilakanta Sastri gave the above account. At the time of his father’s demise, uncle Vijayaditya forcibly seized the throne of Vengi and Kulottunga or Rajendra, as he was then known who was in his teens was left out. His earliest Tamil inscription records certain facts that indicate how Rajendra engaged himself when he was thus kept out of his inheritance. The records of his second year state that, with the aid only of strength of his arms and his swords, he overcame the treachery of his enemies, captured many herds of elephants, levied tributes from the Nagavamsi king, Dharavars of Chakrakuta, and gently raised the earth resembling the lotus expecting the rise of the sun for blooming, as Visnu raised the Earth from the ocean in his boar incarnation, and started her, to her great pleasure under the shade of his parasol (4). His records soon came to describe these achievements as belonging to the period of his ilangp-paruvam, “When he was still heir-apparent (5).Nilakanta Sastri wrote, “if this view is correct, we must conclude that Rajendra spent the best part of the period A.D. 1063-70 in the region of the modern Bastar state, and possible even carved out for himself a small dominion beyond it in the Purvadesa, even if he did not gain complete control over the Charkrakuta state and annex parts of the Purvadesa to it, as his inscription imply.” The records of Virarajendra state that, in the last years of his rule, Virarajendra marched upto Chakrakote. It can thus be assumed that possible Kulottunga I followed Virarajendra in his expedition to north. The reason why they conquered Chakrakote is not clear. In the literary work of Vikramadevacharita, Bilahana states that Vikramaditya VI had conquered Vengi and Chakrakote during the lifetime of his father Somesvara I. Possibly with the intention of regaining the 239 Dynasty History of United Koraput 240 countries, Cholas reconquered and met Chalukya forces at Chakrakote and defeated them (6). The following observation of P. Gopal clearly indicates the fact that Purvadesa ruled by Rajendra was different than Chakrakote country. He further wrote, “However, that Vikramaditya and Vira Rajendra met on the battlefield near Chakrakuta appears to be correct. Soon after 1065 A.D., when Vira Rajendra extended invitation to deferred Vengi which he had determined to conquer, Vikramaditya must have proceeded there. The Chola records mention the defeat of the Chalukya generals and also Jananatha of Dhara. It is silent of Vikramaditya. At this period of time Rajendra (future Kulottunga I) was ruling Purvadesa, close to Chakrakote (12).” There are also references to Purvadesh in many literatures, including Western Ganga inscriptions, which are detailed out in the later chapters. The earliest record so far known is grant by the second ruler of the line, Madhava- Varman I, the son of Konkani-Varman, recorded in the Sakarakota plates and relating to a brahmadeya (gift to Bramhanas) in the Paru-Vishya (7). The next genuine record as found in the Penukonda Plates of Madava-Varman II, the grandson of Madhava I, referring to a brahmadeya in Paruvi-vishya (8). As per Sastri the “Paru and Paruv are clearly variants of the same name, and are represented by modern Pairgi, seven miles north of Hindupur in the Anantapur district (9).”Sastri further wrote with reference to Gangas,”The earliest rulers of the line, MadhavavarmanI, the son of Konkani-varman, recorded in the Sasanakota Plates and relating to a branch brhmadeya ( gift to Brahmanas) in the Paru-vishaya (10). The next genuine record is found in Penukonda plates of Madhva-varman II, the grandson of Madhava I, referring to a brhmadeya in Pruvi- vishaya (11) The local inhabitants of Koraput call Tamilians by name, ‘Arua’ or ‘Parua’. The Parua is also the other name of ‘Doves’. If we take the later word and meaning, paruvadesa means country of ‘doves’, peaceful non-violent country. The Arua or Paruva can also be the ‘Tamil Country’. The other references to Puruva-desh are Gaudi language used in Purva-desh, i.e. the eastern country. (12). Bhaiksuki that was the writing of the Budha (i.e. the Buddhists) used in Udunpur in Purvadesa. (13) 240 Dynasty History of United Koraput 241 It implies thus that Purvadesha was in the present undivided Koraput district of Orissa and some area contiguous in the Bastar district. The Pengo porajas were known subjects of Chalukyas of Vengi and Sodia porajas were that of Chodas. In the context of Rajendra II (future Kulottunga I) who hailed from Chalukyas of Vengi royal family and Choda being his mother’s family, and was later adapted into Choda ruling family had the opportune of ruling; the area originally inhabit by Pengo porajas as well as the Sodia porajas. The Pengo region was called Pengo Patti and that of Sodias was Sodia Pali; when both joined together it was the Purvadeasa of Rajendra II in Koraput-Bastar region of the past. Reference 1. A.S.I., 1911-12 p.172 n.1 2. Fleet Gupta Inscriptions p.192 n.1; E.I. ix. p.283. S.I.I., iii p. 110 of 1908 3. S.I.I. III 64-7, as per Hiralal, EI. IX p.179 n. 1& 2. 4. S.I.I., III p. 132 5. S.I.I. III, 68 6. E.I., Vol XXI, p.232-33, Ibid, Vol IX, p.179, n. 1& 2, ARE No. 125 of 1900 7. E.I. XXIV, 234-8 8. Ibid XIV, 331-6. 9. Sastri, K.A.N. Gangas; in Majumdar,R.C. and Alter, A.S. (Edi.) The Vakataka-Gupta Ages, p.248 10. E.I.XXIV, p., 234-9. 11. E.I.XIV, p.331-6 12. Sachu, Alberuni’s India, Vlo. I, P. 173. 13. Bhaiksuki that was the writing of the Budha (i.e. the Buddhists) used in Udunpur in Purvadesa. 241 Dynasty History of United Koraput 242 ANCHOLAGUMMA Ancholagumma is a fairly large village is located in Tentulikhunti block of Nowrangpur in the district of Koraput. It is well known all around due to its large archeological remains. I am of the opinion that the village was founded by Rajendra Chola deva who was known in his prasastis as Ko-Parakesarivarman alias Udaiyar Sri-Rajendra-Chola-deva.the Cholas (1) and the name justifies them as well. It was the Ko-Chola-gumma of the past and is now known as Un-Chola- gumma. We presume from the temple and ponds and other archeological findings that it was the former headquarters of the Chola Purvadesha of Rajendra I and Kulottunga I who ruled for about seven years as a prince ruler during their expedition of the east and invasion of Chakrakote.The fact that Rajendra I had conquered Chakrakote on his way to Ganges supports the hypothesis of Ancholagumma being the former headquarters of Rajenra I and later of Kulottunga I as prince. Ancholagumma Bodo-bondho Siva Linga on the bunds of Bodo-bondho 242 Dynasty History of United Koraput 243 . Siva with Bull, typical Choda Silahara Jimtavahahana, with Garuda? sculpture, Chitrakuta At the entrance to the village Ancholagumma, the first street is the Pujari sahi that has the ancient Siva temple having’ Panchamukha linga’. I have come across two more Panchamukha Siva temples in Koraput district; one is in Jeypore, the other is in Kalyana Singapur. Ancholagumma has many ponds; but the twin pond located in the middle of the village is of significance. The stone paved large pond is called Bodo-bondho and may have been used by the royalty in the past, Over the bund of the pond has an ancient Siva linga made up of Black granite reminds of the past history. The other pond besides it is called Khajuribandha. One kilometer to the north of Ancholagumma is the village Chitrakuta, it is also known as Beriguda gaon. The village is historically significant and is close to River Indravati.The villagers report frequent unearth of swords and other weapons during tillering of the fields or during construction of new houses. The large sized ancient bricks as found in Podagada are also frequently noticed. The village has a 243 Dynasty History of United Koraput 244 beautiful carved Siva with standing bull behind along with another idol of warrior holding a child is still being worshiped in the village. The Siva idol is a beautiful granite piece and can be ascribed to Cholas. The warrior may be a Chola king or a Chalukya and very similar bust is seen in another village of Umerkote. The same village has a small pond and the villagers point out and say in good olden days the village was celebrating Chandana jatra that was mostly followed by Eastern Ganga kings. From Ancholagumma one can go to eastern direction and reach to Mengra Patraput. It is an old village of Paikos, Sundis, Gonds and the Pengo etc. This village to its northern end has one large jodi, one Siva temple and two more village deities. The north road leads to Podagada at Timanpur (Is it Tamilpur?). As usual this is a raised flat ground now, there are trees, one small place with small stones raised and worshiped with a tantric pitha with animal sacrifice. Weekly twice worship is given here. The Jharigumma hill is visible to its east. This is also called ‘Nitanipur’. Over the Jharigumma hill is one broken fort, the entrance door still there. It is worshiped annually and is called ‘Devipitha Godapadarani’. This is having a good population of Pengo. The Pengo now identify into Jhoria, some call themselves ‘Mudli’ and some ‘Jani’. There are inter marriages, but of less frequency. The Jani and Mudli are slowly segregating and do not like to be called Poraja also, and feel superior to Pengo. References 1. S.I.I., Tirumalai Inscriptions. P.94-99. 2. Sastri,K.A. Nilakanta., The Colas,p.206-08 ANCHALA The village is located on the Borigumma-Nowrangpur roadside. It is postulated to be found by Cholas, thus is named as An-Chola or Anchala as is called now. Before entering the said village there is a small hill, flat on the top, without stones, and slopping with a comfortable gradient. The top of the hill is a flat circular area connected with flat land behind. This hill is called ‘Manda Kupli’. There is one stone pillar of about three to four feet standing erect at its centre; this has been encountered as Siva linga but actually not. Before it the villagers have 244 Dynasty History of United Koraput 245 placed one small ‘brusha’. It is surrounded with 4 broken walls. The bricks are large size as seen in the ancient city of Podagada and elsewhere in the district. To the east of the Manda Kupli under low and deep ingredient lies the Anchola village, it has one large street going down like in gradient fall and then makes a loop and appears back. ‘Halva or Pentia tribe’ mainly inhabitat the village. To the south and south-east, of the village there are twin ponds. One close to the village is called ‘Bodo Bandha’; another close to Kupli is called ‘Mati Bandha’. There is large granite ‘Siva linga’ at the Bado- Bandha. This is styled like that of the south India.. There is Bodo Dangar hill to its south and ‘Bhalu pahada’ to its northwest end. The north and northeast one ‘jodi’ is flowing with perennial water. The hills of Bhairab Singhpur and Kumuli area are prominently visible from the Manda Kupli l to its east and in between are the plain paddy lands. The Kupli is in the centre of a large patch of plain land and villages. The scenery is so beautiful that one cannot leave the top place of the Manda Kupli so easily. It is most charming. The Anchola people can walk down to village Dubli, then Mundaguda, Murja and then to Kathargada. ‘Manda Kupli’ top in Anchala village A Brusha in Manda Kupli Anchala village Siva temple Brushas Anchala village Siva temple Brusha, side view 245 Dynasty History of United Koraput 246 Anchala village Siva Linga Dorsal view of Brusha in Anchala. Manda Kupli Pillar? A warrior King is worshipped in between Papdahandia and Umerkote Villages. Name not known The Manda Kupli reminds of “the Kondapadumatis’. They were subordinate to the Chalukyas of Vengi and later on to the Chalukya-Cholas. They had secured an important military success over the Kalinga and Telugu Chodas. Manda I , was a subordinate of the Kulottunga I.(1) Manda II…… was a military officer who on behalf of Velanti Rajendra Choda appears to have fought a battle with the Gangas of Kalinga (2).I am of the opinion that the Manda Kupli may have been named after Manda, the military officer as said above. References 1. Yasodha Devi cited 327 of 1932-33 2. A.R.1915,part II para 54 246 Dynasty History of United Koraput 247 GUMMA AND HISTORY The Chola invaded Chakrakote and ruled the area; later carved a kingdom in the area named Purva-desha which was ruled by prince Kulottunga I for 7 years of his stay. I am inclined to place the hypothesis that Cholas ruled all localities that has ‘Gumma’ at pre and postfix in Koraput, Gajapati and Phulbani districts of Orissa. Thus, the possible entry of Chola army was from Godavari by crossing over Sileru river and ruled Kudumulu Gumma of Balimela region and it extended to Kotapad-Borigumma, Anchala. Anchala Gumma in Tentulikhunti close to Papdahandi (Nawarangpur) and then on the Eastern Ghat the ‘Gumma’ village of Rayagada region well within the Kashipur circle only. Further it extended to Kakrigumma. There is existence of another Gumma block in the present Gajapati district, which is also close to another Kashipur. I think after successful invasion of Mahendragiri, Chola King Virachoda established principality close in Kalinga country. The said area has archeological, nomenclature and historical evidence along with its Dravidian subjects. It seems Semiliguda-Patangi-Nandapore did not come under Chola dominion of Purvadesha. Desia-Kondhs of Laxmipur area, on hills once in 3 years celebrate ‘Gumma puja’. It is in Magaha month. Gumma is a stone, standing erect like ‘Linga’. It can also be derived that Gumma is a ‘Siva linga on hills’. The Borigumma had innumerous Siva temples with a special type of Siva lingas, with deep in the soil still exist. These lingas are cylindrical and area about 2 to 3 ft. tall and most of it is inside soil. It is the same for all villages with suffix Gumma. The Chodas were close to Sodia Porajas where as the Chalukya of Vengi as well as the Chalukya-Chodas was closely allied to Pengo Porajas of Koraput. The Kondhs and Koyas came from South India to the district along with Chodas and settled here. The Kondhs did change their alliance between Chodas and Chalukyas along with the subordinate dynasty rulers who ruled the region subsequently. The Koyas and Madias of Bastar came in the trains of Rajendra Choda and settled here. 247 Dynasty History of United Koraput 248 EASTERN GANGA In about 500 A.D. a new kingdom named Trikalinga was evident from the Jirjingi copper plate (1). J.K.Sahu (2) wrote,” The ruler of the Eastern Gangas was established in the hilly region of Bastar after the fall of the Nalas at the close of the 5th century A.D. The dynasty is so called because Indravarman, its founder, belonged to the Gang ruling family of Karnataka which after this came to be known as Western Gangas. Indravarman like Sarbhraja was probably a General in the army of Harisena Vakataka and was allowed to rule the hilly region which was the original country of the Nalas. He asserted independence after the sudden fall of Vakataka power.” This has been also indicated by Patel (3) who wrote, ‘The argument of many scholars that Vakataka Harisena uprooted the Nala family in the same epoch and transplanted the Western Gangas, in their territory is untenable. The Eastern Gangas of Kalinganagara, traced their descent from the Western Gangas who claimed belong to Ikshvaku family ; perhaps of Nagrjunikonda (4).The founder of the Western Ganga line was Kongunivarman or Madhava I who probably ruled 300-400 A.D. with his capital at Kolar (5) Durnvita (540-600) conquered Punnad ( South Mysore) and Kongudesa and maintained friendly relation with Chalukyas.(6). N.K.Sahu has cited B. Misra, ‘Orissa under the Bhauma Kings’ and has mentioned the marriage between Santikara I of Bhauma king of Orissa and Tribhuvana Mahadevi, daughter of Rajamalla I of Western Ganga dynasty of Mysore, who ruled from 817-835 A.D. Prior to this inscription the relationship of Bhauma Kings and Western Gangas is well established. (7). However, the Kukkanur plate of Marasimha I during 968-69 indicates the presence of Western Gangas in Dhavala visaya and Gangapati-(8) Map showing Jerjinga village in Umerkote region of Koraput 248 Dynasty History of United Koraput 249 Western Chalukya Pulakesin I’s son Kirtivarman I (566-7) expanded the kingdom by wars against the Kadambas of Banavasi, the Mauryans of Konkan and the Nalas who probably ruled over a fair sized kingdom in the region of Bastar and Jeypore agency (9). Before hand Nalas ruled this territory. They had their capital at the modern Podagada, located near Umerkote of Nowrangpur, Koraput district. Kirtivarman I ‘s son, Pulakesin II received first the submissions of South Kosala and Kalinga and then made his younger brother Vishnuvardhana yuvaraj leaving him incharge of the capital, he started an extensive campaign of conquest in the Eastern Deccan (10) The northern part of Koraput district and eastern part of Bastar district including southern Dakshina Kosala area was under the Mahakantara and Kantar zone. Thus in 4th century itself, Samudragupta Maurya crossed the kingdom during his southern military expedition. A detail political history has been given in the Nala chapter of this book. However, it can be said in short that, there has been speculations as regards the identification of the enemy who defeated the Nalas and destroyed Puskari, who was afterwards destroyed by Skandavarman. As there was apparently a struggle between the Nalas and Vakataka of the main branch and the enemy was identified with Prithvisena 11, who claims to have twice restored the fallen fortune of his family. Skandavarman may also have been the Panduvamsi king Nanna of South Kosala who had occupied the whole of Western Madhya Pradesh and is indicated in an inscription at Bhandak. The Chalukya king Kirtivarman I (AD 567 to 597) who claims to have subdued the Nalas some times represented his old enemy of the Chalukyas and to destroy their residences (Nilaya) (11) and thus possibility it has got its name Podagada. In the Aihole inscription (12) of Kirtivarman’s son, who can hardly be expected to have supposed the glorious achievements of his father, Kirtivarmana I is described as the “night of destruction “to Nalas, Mauryas and Kadambas, and also as having broken up a confederacy of the Kadamba Kings. G.Ramdas of Jeypore was the first to publish his classical work ‘Chronology of the Gangas of Kalinga’(13).However, it is certain from Jirjingi plate (14) which is the first copper plate source for the first evidence of Trikalinga and the Ganga king named Indravarman was assumed the title of Trikalingadhipati (Lord of Trikalinga).J.K.Sahu wrote(1997).’Jijjika in Vonkhara-visaya donated in the Jirjingi plate of Indravarman I refer to village Tunganna in Rupygvati-visaya and the village identified with Tung near Tekkali. So both Vankhara and Puspyavati were in Tekkali estate (15).I have examined the Jirjingi plate,No.2 published by S.N.Rajaguru and edited by R.Subba Rao,1928 and inclined to read it as Bododongar-visaya and Jijika village but not Vonkhara district as mentioned. Again, I identify the reference village with present day Jijingi 249 Dynasty History of United Koraput 250 village in north Umerkote close to Podagada of Nala dynasty reference and Bododongar in Bastar district. (Enclosed Map). Political history during the period of Indravarman After strengthening his position, Indravarman wanted to expand his territory. To the northeast of his kingdom was the Sarbhapurias of South-Kosala. His relationship was cordial with them. To the east was the Kingdom of Kalinga, which was ruled by Vasisthas. The Vasisthas had ascertained their sovereignty after the fall of Matharas. The Vasistha king, Antavarman was Kalingadhipati. In the south, the Visnukundins were the rising power. The East Godavari was the immediate neighbours of Indravarman, and was ruled by Prthvimula as a feudatory of Visnukundins (16). Prthivimula soon declared independence, which annoyed Visnukundin king Indrabhattaraka. Thus Prthivimula invited to lead the confederacy against the Visnukundins. The Godavari plate (17) gives a graphic description of the war between Indrabhattaraka and joint army of Indravarman and Prithimula. Indrabhattaraka lost the war. As a result of the said war Indravarman emerged as a powerful ruler. The Vasisthas of Kalinga lost their political entity. Indravarman thus occupied a large portion of south Kalinga and established his position from Dantapura and issued his Jirjingi plate of 537 AD claiming the title of Trikalingadhipati. Samantavarman The victory of Indravarman did not last long. King Indrabhattaraka avenged enmity. His Ramatirtha plate, issued about 553 AD describes him as ‘a great conqueror against his enemies’ (18). It registered the grant of a village in Palkirastra, which is identified with Pakky in modern Srikakulum district. However, the authors identify the place to be in central Koraput district (details described elsewhere). It is assumed thus that during the period of the invasion Indravarman was not alive and his son Samantavarman was ruling. The inscription Ponnuturu (19) of 562 AD (Ganga year 64) was only one after 25 years of the Jirjingi plates of Indravarman. This grant was not issued from Dantapura of Kalinga but from Saumyavana apparently in Trikalinga. We believe the Saumyavana is the modern Sombartuta of Jeypore, Koraput district in Orissa where the old palace and fort of Nandapur dynasty of Jeypore Zamindars was located and the ruins are still can be seen. Thus the Saumyavana mentioned in the Eastern Ganga is located in Koraput district. Donor of Dharmalingeswara Plate, Anantavarmana, who was son of Dvendravarma and brother of Jayavarman, has also indicated this name. Inside the boundary of Nilakantheswar temple in Sombartuta of Jeypore, a large well carved stone Sun god with his horse chariot as in Konark is housed. This idol 250 Dynasty History of United Koraput 251 has relevance to the presence of Eastern Ganga kings who were well known for Sun God worship. Hastivarman Hastivarman succeeded Samantavarman. He is considered to be the founder of the Ganga rule in Kalinga. He defeated Vigraha King of north Kalinga. Then Hastivarman assumed the title of Sakalakalingadhipati. The Trikalingadhipati was disowned. There are two plates of Hastivarman; Narasimhapalli (577 AD) and the Urlam Plates (20) (578 AD). These plates describe his battles to achieve Kalinga. He then changed his capital from Saumyavana of Trikalinga to Kalinganagara. It is assumed to be the present Mukhalingam on the bank of Vamsadhara in modern Srikakulam district. The city continued to be the capital of Eastern Gangas for a long time. Indravarman 11 Indravarman 11 succeeded Hastivarman. He is known from copper plates of Achyutapuram plates (21) (558 AD), the Santabommali plate (22) (585 AD), the Paralakhemudi plates (23) (589 AD) and the Urjam plates (595 AD) (24). Ranka Jayavarman and Svetaka Gangas There are no records of Gangas of Kalinganagar for 30 years i.e. 595 AD to 626 AD. But, a Ganga ruler named Ranka Jayavarman issued a charter in Ganga Samvat 100 i.e. 598 AD from Svetaka. He had used the prasasti of the Ganga Royal family. J.K.Sahu concluded that the Ganga family of Kalinganagara faced a political calamity and as a result of which they were driven out of Kalinganagara and a branch of the family ruled from Svetaka and acknowledged the over lordship of Bhauma-Karas (25).The Svetaka Kingdom comprised of Badakhemundi, Sanakhemundi and Seragada in the present Ganjam district. J.K.Sahu (loc.cit.) wrote; ‘Many scholars confused Ranka Jayavarmandeva of the charted dated in Ganga Samvat 100 with Maharaja Jayavarmandeva who issued the Ganjam or Badakemudi charter in his regnal years (sometimes taken as Bhauma Samrat) as a feudatory of the Bhauma king Unmattakesari (Sivakaradeva I). The time difference between the two grants is more than 150 years. Jayavarmandeva of the first grant assumed the title of Ranaka and his queen was Trikalingamadadevi. Jayavarman of the later grant was a Maharaja and his queen was Prthimahadevi. The names of the officers in the two grants are also different. Ranka Jayavarman founded the Svetaka kingdom as feudatory probably of Prthivimaharaja, Maharaja Jayavarman received it as a feudatory of the Bhaumas.”(26) 251 Dynasty History of United Koraput 252 From the records of Svetaka Gangas, a queen named Trikalinga – Mahadevi is found in Jayavarman. This grant was issued in Samvat 100, which is taken as Bhauma-Samvat and is placed at 836 AD. It is certain that Gangas ruled the Trikalinga at least upto the time of Samatavarma of G.E.64. (27) However, Jayavarmana brother of Anantavarman I as denoted by Rajaguru has not been indicated in the Genealogy of Gangas by J.K.Sahu. The Burnell’s account on Jayapura Plate (of present Koraput) of Rajendravarman given by George Sewell denotes that Jayavarman was the grandfather of Rajendravarman. No much details of this inscription could be known, as per Rajaguru. This inscription means lot to the Jaypura and thus building the Koraput relation to Eastern Ganga history. Rajaguru (28) gave the following remarks on the Jayapura plate of Rajendravarman. 252 Dynasty History of United Koraput 253 “When we compare the above genealogical table with the above we find that it agrees with our table from Anantavarman to Satyavarman except the name of Anantavarman’s father and his date. Our third question relates to the date of Devendravarman son of Anantavarman, (No.32) and that of Satyavarman (No.33) who is the son of Devendravarman. The dates of these two inscriptions (Nos. 32 and 33) were wrongly put by the engraver as 51 for 351. This mistake was detected as the phraseological terms used in there were considered to be the later development. Dr.Fleet remark, “These grants of Devendravarman and Satyavarman are shown, by the characters in which they are engraved, to be of later date than the three grants of Indravarman. Consequently, the fifty first year, which is quoted is one of the grants of Devendravarman and the grant of his son Satyavarman cannot be referred to the same epoch with the dates of 91, 128 and 146 of Indravarman. And, partly because of this, and partly because in each instance the year is mentioned without any specification of the month and the lunar day, I am inclined to look upon it as some conventional expression, which cannot be just now explained, and to consider that on the year 254, in connection with which we have the specification of both the month and the lunar day, is a correct date for Devendravarman, and that is may be referred to the same era with the date of Indravarman whatever the era might be”.(29) Indravarman III About 5 copper plate characters of Indravarman III have been found. It is around 662 AD (30). Not much is known about the political condition of Kalinga from these inscriptions, but the Chinese traveler Hiuen-Tsang visited Kalinga, and good account is available from his work dated 639 AD. There are no records of Gangas between 652 to 681 AD. Devendravarman I The Devendravarman I Chicacole plate it is known that in 681 AD he was ruling Kalinga. There are three more plates issued by Devendravarman I issued from Kalinganagar. They were Dharmalingesvara (31), Trilinga charter (32) and grant of Devendravarman I (30). Anantavarman I The Dharmalingeswar plate, which was issued, by Anantavarman I, G.E.204, son of Devendravarman I is of significance to Koraput region. This plate speaks of Somavatika, Kongadaparbat, and Pamphulli etc. This has been described separately. 253 Dynasty History of United Koraput 254 Nandavarman and Devendravarman II Anantavarman I had two sons, Nandavarman and Devenravarman II. The sons became kings successively. The Santabommali character of G.E.221 (34) was issued by Nandavarman where as Devendravarman II issued Chicacole plates (35) (749 AD) and the Vizag plates (36) (752 AD). Rajendravarman I and Anantavarman II Rajendravarman I succeeded Devendravarman II. Rajendravarman I was referred in the character of his son Anantavarman II as Maharaja and Maharajadhiraj. J.K.Sahu loc.cit wrote that during second half of 8th century AD, the Bhauma- Karas of Tosala Kingdom showed rise and growth. They were the immediate neighbours of Kalinga kingdom. The Sailodbhava power, which concentrated around Chilika Lake, was liquidated and Kongoda was annexed by Bhauma Kingdom. Even the Svetaka branch of Gangas threw off allegiance to Kalinganagar and claimed themselves as the real lord of Kalinga under the suzerainty of the Bhaumas. Historians acknowledged it to be a critical time to Gangas of Kalinga. (37) Devendravarman III Anantavarman II died in about 803 AD (his last known character was in 802 AD) (38). His son, Rajendra II was a minor, thus his brother Devendravarman III succeeded him and issued character in 804 (39), 806(40) and 808 AD (41) besides the undated Chicacole plates (42). Rajendravarman II and Anantavarman III The rule of Devendravarman III came to end in about 810 AD. In 811 AD the queen mother Lokamahadevi issued Podali (Pattali) charter (43), on behalf of her son Yuvaraj Rajendraverman II. He was described as Maharajadhiraj, Paramesvara and Paramabhattaraka. Rajendraverman II ruled Kalinga upto 840 AD. He was succeeded by his brother Anantaverman III who donated Tekkali grant (44) in 856 AD. Bhupendravarman, Anantaverman IV and Devendraverman IV The next Kalinga king was Bhupendraverman alias Marasimha. It is known from other grants that he had two sons, Anantaverman IV alias Vajrahasta and Devendraverman IV who became one after another the king. Anantaverman Vajrahastadeva V The history of Eastern Gangas for 895 AD to 1038 AD is not systematically known. The copper plates of Anantaverman Vajrahastadeva V (45) (1038 AD- 254 Dynasty History of United Koraput 255 1069 AD) gives the names of eight kings who preceded him with their reign periods. After careful study of the available copper characters of Gangas and topography named thereon it is concluded that, the Gangas did rule Koraput, Bastar region. The fact is well known from the following: 1. The Jaypura plates of Rajendraverman II, son of Anantaverman and grandson of Jayaverman are direct evidence to this effect. (46) 2. The Dharmalingeswar plates of Anantaverman I (47) 3. The Chicacole plates of Devendraverman III (48) 4. The Khillingar plates of Kalyandevi of the time of Ranka Danarnava of Ambavavadi Mandala (49) It is clearly evident from the above plates that, from Anantaverman I (G.E 204) (50) once again uptill Satyaverman G.E. 351, the Koraput, Bastar region was under the direct control and administration of Gangas. The Jaypur plate speaks of Jayaverman as the father of Anantaverman II, where as Jayaverman does not appear in Genealogy of succession in Gangas. It can still be concluded that Jayaverman, son Devendraverman I ruled the Tri-Kalinga part because his successors are indicated in Jaypur plate.( 51).I am of the opinion that the name Jeypore, the capital of Suryavamsi kings of Nandapur/Jeypore has been named after Jayaverman, the Eastern Ganga King. It is also evident that Bhaumas became powerful in second part of 8th century AD the E. Gangas concentrated in Tri-Kalinga part. The Saumyavatika and Saumyavana of Eastern Ganga The interest with relation to Saumya vatika or Saumyavana is real. We find this also as Saumyavana in some texts. 1. The Eastern Ganga founder was Indravarman. After his death, his successor and son Samantavarman issued Ponnuturu plates during 562 AD. This grant was issued from Saumyavana apparently in Trikalinga; but it could have been issued from Dantapura, the capital of Kalinga. 2. The Dharmalingeswara plates of Anantavarman (GE 204) the donor was Anantavarman, the son of Devendravarman and brother of Jayavarma. It was issued from Kalinganagar. The topography description of the plate includes Samvataka. The other names are Phupalli Devaparbat, Kongaparbat and Korakonta that are 255 Dynasty History of United Koraput 256 situated in the Koraput district, now agreed by many as the part of Trikalinga. 3. Hastivarman, the powerful king who became the Lord of entire Kalinga, transferred his capital from Saumyavana to Kalinganagar.Narasimhapalli (577 AD) (52) and Urlam plate (578 AD) (53) are the two plates, which refer to his velour in battles. Ponnuturu plates of Samantavarman (GE 64) (53) Samantavarman has been referred as Trikalingadhipati Maharaja in the plate. The topography refers to i. Dagha Panchalli (district)( may be the present day Digapur, an ancient Jaina village near Jeypore) ii. Saumyavan (village) (Sombartuta of Jeypore) iii. Pratisthapur (village) (Not known yet) M.Somasekhara Sarma (54) wrote, “The inscription pertains to Samanta Varman (1.29) or Mahasamanta Varman (1-7) of the Ganga dynasty of Kalinga. It is issued from Saumyavana, the abode of the Goddess of victory. (it means Jayapura.) The original runs as 1st plate; 2nd side Swati (11) Jaiasrunibasat Somayavana schara charagurorah (:) This can also be concluded as Somyavana of Jayapura. The ‘nibasat’ has been wrongly mentioned as Sreenivasa”. The Dharmalingeswar plate of Anantavarmana (GE 204) (55) 830-831 AD is a significant and important finding with relation to present Koraput (Jeypore- Bastar) region. This plate was first edited by S.N.Rajaguru (56) and re-edited by R.K.Ghoshal (57). As per Rajaguru, the actual donor seems to be Jayavarmadeva. The place of issue is Kalinganagara. The plates are three in number, each measuring about 6”×3 ½”. They are attached to a ring bearing the royal seal containing the emblems of a lying bull, a conch shell and a chawrie, as usually found in the Ganga grants. The topography: Kostrukavartani (may be Kathargad), Talatheravillage, Kamarupa (Kambeda Panchayat in Korkonda) visaya, Srungatikagrahara, Devaparvata (Kalyan Singpur), Hemasrunga (Near Bejungwada of Balimella), 2nd plate Tru (thro) Kuta, Suruli, Bastapur, Kongodaprbate, Phumpalli, Somavataka, Dharavataka, Balmi, Salmti, Tatapur. 256 Dynasty History of United Koraput 257 The second plate topography is related to Jeypore-Kotpad-east Bastar region. The Tru (thru) Kuta is the Chitrakuta of Bastar; Surli is the river flowing west of Kotpad, in between Bastar and Koraput. The Bastapur is the present Bastar or may be Bastanar of Bastar (Chhattisgarh); The Somavataka is the Somavartuta, the past capital of Jeypore/Nandapur dynasty. Phampulli is the present Phampuni, near Jeypore. The third plate is the area between Mathili-Kundra and Bastar (Chhattisgarh). The Salmili is the Salmi of Mathili (Koraput) on river Saberi and Kolab, Balmi, I am not sure, and it may be the Balia village on the banks of Kolab river. The Kokonta may be Korkonda of Koraput or Konta of Bastar, which to my view is the Kantakavarttani region of Antatavarman Chodagangadeva. The first plate, the Devaparbata is the present hill temple of Kalyana Singapur. The Kostruka vartani is not yet identified, but I think it is the Katharagada on river Muran, the gateway to Kalinga from Nowrangpur-Bhairaba Singapur of Jeypore. It was an ancient place of Buddhism, Savism in Kalinga. The Dharmalingeswar plate, which as per Rajaguru the donor was Jayavarmadeva, and the plate is topographically, speaks of Koraput-Bastar region; on this light the Jayapura plates of Rajendravarmana, which speaks of Jayavarmana and his successors Anantavarman. The other plates of Ganga kings of interest to Koraput-Bastar region are Pedda-dugam plates of Sri Sattrudamanadeva (58): The place of issue was Simhapura. The topography speaks of Girikalinga-Vardamanagrahara, Juhagrama (village), Vasuvatika, and Patuvagrama. It refers to Vardhamana agrahara in the Giri-Kalinga district. This can be safely placed to hill portion of Kalinga, in Trikalinga. This can well refer to the Jaina culture center of Vardhamana. This plate was edited by Sri V.Bhanumurti (59) and re-edited by D.C.Sirkar. The other way, the Duhagram is the Dudhari; Patuvagram- may be present day Padua or Pottangi. This is located in the Nandapur region, one the headquarters of politics and people. The Bhadaliguda of Jeypore town may be Vardamangrhara. But informants claim that there is a village named Vardamana in Balimella region but I have not confirmed it. The other plate of importance to the region is Khillingar plates (60) of Kalyanadevi of the time of Ranka Danarnava of Ambavadi Mandala. The donor was Kalyanadevi. She was mother of Ranka Darnava. His father was Rajendravarmana, who was son of Narendravarmana. 257 Dynasty History of United Koraput 258 The topography was Ambavadi Mandala (Province), Nayandi Vishaya (district), Gondherni, and Lonipataka and Khilladangara. The Ambavadi Mandala is the area close to Kotpad, Kolaba river flows with a branch from Ambabhalli river. This is one ancient seat of Jainism. The Amba of Jaina pantheon is standing on a large stone slab, in an ancient temple still being worshipped by Bhattra tribal priests. The Nayandi Siva temple is famous. The Nayandi village is close to it. It is close to Bastar border. The Gondharni and Khilladangar are to be identified. Rajaguru mentioned under the remarks that the Ambavadi Mandala is known for its location. However, this name is mentioned in the grants of Chodaganga Anantavarmadeva (61). The other plate of interest to us is No.26 Chiracole plates of Devendravarman (62). The donor was Devendravarman; the son of Rajendravarman and place of issue was Kalinganagara. The topography mentions of Pushkarni Vishaya (district), Virinika (village), Morda village, Pushkarila (village) and Kumarikabhatta (village). The character records the gift a village named Biriaika in the district of Pushkarni-Vishaya by the Ganga king Devendravarma to one Chhetilakayavya, son of Bilichi. The boundaries of the village are as follows: In the east the village Marda (and) the boundary bridge and the woods; in the south the boundary of Pushkarni the forest, in the west the boundary – bridge of Pushkarni- gram (and) the row of forest. The Pushkarni name and place exists in Nala inscription. The location has been identified at Podagada of Umerkote by G. Ramdas and has been seconded by Rajaguru and N.K. Sahu. This is being identified as the place of Pushkarni visya of Gangas. Eastern Gangas and Western Gangas in Trikalinga In order to examine the relationship between Eastern Ganga and Western Ganga the study of inscriptions issued by both the dynasty is vital and it can shed some light. K.V.Ramesh (1984) (63) has studied in detail the inscriptions so far discovered pertain to the Western Gangas of Mysore where as S.N. Rajaguru has compiled the inscriptions of Eastern Gangas of Orissa. The following Western Ganga inscriptions need attention: 258 Dynasty History of United Koraput 259 Sl. Inscription Date Name of the Sub-Division Villages in No. Territorial the Sub- Division Division 1. Sasanakota Plate Velputtoru of 4th – 5th Paruvi-visaya - Velputtoru Madhavavarman year 1 AD 5. Bendiganahalli Plates of 4th – 5th Paruvi-visaya Perti-bhoga Kuru-uru Vijaya- Krishnavarman year 1 AD 8. Penukonda Plates of Madhava II 4th – 5th Paruvi-visaya - Paruvi (tank) Simhavarman AD 50. Kottimba grant of Yuvaraja 799-800 Paruvi-visaya - Paruvi Narasimha year 3 AD 2. Nandi Plates of Kandasala 4th – 5th Kulungijya- - Girubagara Grant of Madhavavarman AD rajya & Kandasala Madhavavarm 12. Nonamangala Plate of Kongani 5th AD Korikunda- - Cennelkarani Varman visaya 14. Haskote Plates of 5th AD - Korikunda Pulli-uru Konganyadhiraja year 12 bhoga 25. .Nallalam Grant of Durvinita, 5th AD Korikunda- - Nattalam year 40 visaya 22. Diveagar Plates of Durvinita year 6th AD Kovalala- - Paralkunde 24 visaya 29. Bedivur grant of Bhuvikrama 7th AD Kovalala- - year 25 visaya 46. Melagani inscriptions of 767-68 Kovalala- - Sripurusa, year 42 AD visaya-300 53. Aralasandra inscription of 8th AD Kovalala- - Sripurusa visaya-300 54. Aralukote inscription of 8th AD Kovalala- - Sripurusa visaya-300 55. Bissanahalli inscription of 8th AD Kovalala- - Sivamara visaya-300 58. Dimbala inscription of Sivamara 8th AD Kovalala- - visaya-300 th 69. Madival inscription of Sripurusa 8 AD Kovalala- - visaya-300 259 Dynasty History of United Koraput 260 Sl. Inscription Date Name of the Sub-Division Villages in No. Territorial the Sub- Division Division 79. Nivalai inscription (of Sivamara 9th AD Kovalala- - II) year 17 visaya-300 69. Madivala inscription of Sripurusa 8th AD Pulvaki-nadu- - 1000 121. Honnenahalli fragmentary 10th AD Konga-nadu- - inscription of Ereyapparasa visaya The inscriptions with Paruvi-visaya as mentioned in Western Gangas need attention. It is known from Choda records that Chola Kulottunga I ruled the Paruvi-desha, when he was a prince. He had carved out a small state in Koraput- Bastar region and ruled for about seven years. The Perati-bhoga as mentioned in W.Ganga inscriptions given above may be the present Parata village of Nandapur region. This was a Jaina village and still houses Jaina idols all around. The Korikunda visaya may be identified with present day Korakunda, contagious to Nandapur. The Pulli-uru village may be the present day Baghra village in the Koraput block. The word ‘pulli’ in Telugu and Kanada means tiger. Close to it is the Kachella Jain monastery. This was one important center of ancient Jainism evident by depleted temples and images. The Kovala visaya, as noted during 6 A.D. has the village Paralkunde. This Paralkundi I believe it to be the present day Paralakhemundi. Uptill date no such name in any inscription has appeared, or else late Rajaguru could not have left any stone unturned. The Cururu may be another village in the same area. The other inscriptions, which denote Kovalala visaya, or –300 post fixed to it, has any village name to further identify it. The Kukkanur Plates of Marasimha II, 968-69 A.D (64). is of greater significance to Orissa. Marasimha II had also issued the Kudhur Plates, 962-63 A.D. It contained 7 plates. Both the plates contained the heroic deeds of the king upto 1-118 lines and references of wars. The ruler described in Kukkanur Plates as Nitimarga-Kongunivarma-Dharmma- mahadhiraja Paramesvara having Punnseya-Ganga for his first name as Kaliyuga- Bhima. Verse 42: His fame had incessantly spread in all the quarters and Verse 43: As far as the rivers Mandakini and Kalinda; 260 Dynasty History of United Koraput 261 The river Mandakini is the present day river Indravati flowing from Nowrangpur through Bastar (K.D.Vajapayee ref: Mandakini cited by Kalidasa in his Raghuvamsa). It is evident from the inscription that Marasimha, the Western Ganga king was ruling over the entire Dhavala-visaya and Gangapati-96,000. He was constantly worshipping the Lord Jina Verse 44: His elder sister was Kundanasami Verse 45: Her husband was the king Rajaditya who belonged to Calukya lineage and who was the nephew (sister-in-law) of the king Jayadattaranga Verse 206-211: To that Kalapargya-bhatta was given by Kundanasami, the moon in the ocean of the Ganga family ……. who was the follower of Batuga etc., on the occasion of Uttarayana – Samkranti in the cyclic year Vibhava in Saka 890, the village of Addavurage, situated on the north of Kukkanura – agrahara and to the west of Rajapura- agrahara in Dhavala-visaya after obtaining it from her younger brother Ganga-Kandarappa (i.e. Marasimha) when he was ruling over the entire Dhavala-visaya and Gangapati – 96,000. The Dhavala-visaya is well defined in the history and is the region close from north Koraput district of Orissa. The Gangapati is close to it only. How can he rule two countries located at different length, so the Gangapati may be the Koraput district. (Kandarapasundri of Orissa). 261 Dynasty History of United Koraput 262 References 1. JAHRS, IX, pf. 3, pp 23f. 2. Sahu J.K. Comprehensive History and Culture of Orissa: Minor Dynasties. p..142 ff. 3. Patel, C.B. Dynastic History of Nalas.p.85. 4. The Classical Age, The Western Gangas. p.268 5. Ibid p.269 6. Ibid. p.269. 7. H.C.I.P., Vol.IV, p.160 cited by Panigrahi, K.C.: Chronology of the Somovamsis of Orissa: B. Misra, Orissa Under the Bhauma Kings.p.29. 8. Kukkanur Plates of Marasimha II, Western Ganga.,. A.R.Ep., 1969-70, No.A 5 and Inscriptions of Western Gangas, Ramesh, K.V. No.159, pp.494-513ff 9. Sastri, K.A. Nilakanta. A History of South India.p.148. 10. Ibid.p.149 11. Ibid 12. E.I., Vol.VI, pp 4ff. 13. Ramdas, G.J.B.O.R.S., Vol. IX, Pt.3&4, p.398-415 14. Jirgingi plate of Indravarman I.J.A.H.R.S., Vol.III, Pt.I, pp.49-53ff 15. Sahu, J.K. op.cit.142ff 16. Narayan, Sankar. S. The Vishnu Kundins and their Times.pp.45ff. 17. Godavari Plates set I, Text lines 5 18. E.I. XII, pp. 134f. Text line 5 19. Ibid, XXVII, pp. 216 ff. 20. Ibid. XVII, pp 330f. 21. Ibid, III, pp. 127 f. 22. JAHRS, IV, pp. 21f. 23. IA, XVL, pp. 131 f. 24. Urjam Plate, Ind. Arch. (19-54); p.12 25. Sahu,J.K. op.cit..p.144. 26. Ibid.. 27. Ponnuturu plates of Samantavarman,E.I.XXVII,pp.216-20ff. 28. Rajaguru, S.N. Inscriptions of Orissa,Vol,II,p.351-52. 29. I.A.Vol.XIII,pp.273-6ff& Sewell’sArchaeological Survey of South India,Vol.II,pp.183ff. 30. Tekkali plates of Indravarman 154 E.I. XVIII, pp. 307 f. 31. IAHRS, II, pp. 275-76; E.I, XXVI, pp62f 32. IHQ, XI, pp 300f. IHQ, XX, p. 232f. 33. Sidhantam plates of Devendravanman, E.I.XIII, and pp.212-16ff 34. IAHRS, II, pp. 185f. 35. IA, XIII, pp. 273f. 262 Dynasty History of United Koraput 263 36. Ibid, XVIII, pp. 143f. 37. Sahu, J.K. op.cit. 38. Almanda plates of Anantavarman, E.I.III, pp. 117 f. 39. Salantri plates or Musunika Grant, JAHRS, XVIII, pp.115f. E.I. XXX, pp 23f. 40. Badakhemundi or Indian Museum plates E.I.XXIII, pp. 73f. 41. Tekkali plates, E.I. XVIII, pp. 311f.. 42. IAHRS, VIII, pp. 185f. 43. E.I; XXXII, pp. 201 f. 44. E.I. XXVI, pp. 174 f. 45. E.I, IV, pp. 183.f 46. Elements of South-Indian Palaeography (London,1878);cited by J.F.Fleet in I.A. Vol. XIII,p.274. 47. J.A.H.R.S. Vol.II,pp. 275 ff and E.I. XXVI,pp.62-5ff 48. J.A.H.R.S. Vol. VIII,pp.185-7 ff and J.A.S. letter No. LVIII,No.I(1952) pp. 17-20 49. Rajaguru, S.N. Inscriptions of Orissa, Vol.II.p.232-239 50. Dharmalineswara plates of Anantavarma,J.A.H.R.S.Vol.IIPts.3&4pp.271-6ff & E.I.XXVI, pp.65-8ff. 51. Elements of South-Indian Palaeography, op.cit 52. E.I.XXIII,p.62-7.ff 53. E.I. XVII,pp.330-34 54. Ponnuturu plates of Samantavarman, E.I. Vol.XXVII,pp.216-20ff Ed..Sarma, Somasekhara, M. 55. Dharmalineswara plates of Anantavarma, op cit. 56. J.A.H.R.A. Vol.II pt. 324 pp 271-6ff 57. E.I. XXVI, pp 65-8ff. 58. Pedda-dugam plates of Sri Sattrudanadeva, E.I. XXXI,pp.89-93ff 59. J.A.H.R.A. Vol .XXI, p.159ff. 60 Rajaguru, S.N. Inscriptions of Orissa, Vol. II, p232-239 .61. Ibid.p.232. 62. J.A.H.R.S. Vol. VIII, pp.185-7 ff, J.A.S. letter Vol. LVIII. No.I. pp.17-20 63. Ramesh, K.V. Inscriptions of Western Ganga. 64. A.R.Ep., 1969-70, No.A5 263 Dynasty History of United Koraput 264 ARCHAEOLOGICAL REMAINS RELATED TO EASTERN GANGA IN DANDAKARANYA Garuda in the same temple Lord Surya in Nilakantheswara temple premises in Sambartuta, Jeypore Lord Visnu, Goriahandi, Kundra Lord Visnu in Narayana temple, Jeypore 264 Dynasty History of United Koraput 265 Lord Surya in Narayana temple, Jeypore Lord Narayana, Narayana temple, Jeypore Lord Visnu in Narayana temple, Jeypore Garuda in Narayana temple, Jeypore 265 Dynasty History of United Koraput 266 Papdahandi Siva temple Images on the walls of Papdahandi temple Sri Chaitanya? In Papdahandi temple Kartikaya, Papdahandi temple 266 Dynasty History of United Koraput 267 Lord Surya in Paikapada Lord Surya in Paikapada Eastern Ganga King ? performing Ganga King with Queens Asuamedhayajya 267 Dynasty History of United Koraput 268 King with Queens in Paikapada Visnu and others in Paikapada Ganga King ?in Paikapada 268 Dynasty History of United Koraput 269 Chodagangadeva in Paikapada Chodagangadeva in Ambavalli , near Kotpad 269 Dynasty History of United Koraput 270 Ganesha Sarveswara Siva temple, Nandapur Idols from Kalyana Singapur Siva Temple 270 Dynasty History of United Koraput 271 WESTERN GANGAS, EASTERN GANGAS: KALINGA AND TRIKALINGA (KORAPUT), KOSALA AND KONGA COUNTRY Some important inscriptions related to Earlier Eastern Gangas in Koraput district (Jeypore) Burnell (1) has mentioned that some inscriptions of the 10th century found at Jaypur in the Ganjam District (?) (Jaypur is the present day Jeypore now in the Koraput district of Orissa) belonging to a dynasty which seems to have been established by fugitives of the Vengi family in the 7th century A.D. and to have risen to power again for a time with Kalinganagara as the capital during the anarchy that existed from A.D. 977-1004 in Vengi. From these inscriptions he picks out three names, Jayavarman, his son Anantavarman in A.D.985 and his son Rajendravarman (2). This indicates the dynasty of Gangas or related who had relationship with Jeypore of present Koraput district in Orissa and the relationship of it with the Kalinga history has not been brought out. The inscription was further given valuable information on dating of Anantavarman and Eastern Gangas, which can be seen from the following. Regarding the view of Burnell on Jaypur inscription Dr.Fleet remarks, “If Dr.Burnell’s date of A.D. 985 for Anantavarman is correct (which, however, I have no means of testing, I do not now think that this can be done, said Rajaguru)”(3) Rajaguru’s opinion, for the date of Devendravarman would thus be A.D. 1010, and then, referring the recorded date of the year 254 for Devendravarman to the same year with the dates of 91, 128, 146 for Indravarman to a later period than is indicated by the paleographical standard of them (4). Again Rajaguru says, “I had already suggested that, on historical as well as paleographical grounds, Indravarman may be referred to about Saka 579 (A.D. 657 to 660-661). Taking 136 as the mean between the two certain dates of Indravarman, and taking this as equivalent to Saka 580, this would bring Devendravarman to about 696 (A.D. 774-775). And this is about the latest period to which, on paleographical grounds, this grant of the year 254 can be referred” (5). Rajaguru further on the Jaypur plates said, “As the date of the above character of Devendravarman (of G.E.51) is wrongly incised as 51 by the engraver, instead of 271 Dynasty History of United Koraput 272 351 on paleographical and historical grounds, it ought to have been corrected as 351 G.E.(6) The grant of Maharaja Satyavarman of G.E.51 should also be treated likewise(7). The Jaypur plates of Rajendravarman, who was the son of Anantavarman and grandson of Jayavarman. Unfortunately, no text of these plates has so far been available (8). Unfortunately, Dr.Burnell does not throw any light on the source of his information while he arrived at the conclusion as stated above along with the date of Anantavarmadeva, the son of Jayavarman and father of Rajendravarman, as A.D. 985, equal to 907 Saka year. Any way, we cannot ignore the value of this little information, since it due to a renowned epigraphist like Mr.Burnell, who gave a definite date for Anantavarman, was remarked by Rajaguru (9). It might be that he himself examined a set of copperplates, discovered somewhere near Jeypore, which have not yet come to light, but preserved somewhere either in India or abroad. We are, therefore, neither able to reject nor accept the date relating to the Anantavarman, mentioned in Dr.Burnell’s book was remarked by Rajaguru (10). In this connection, the following remarks of Robert Sewell who wrote, “Later on, we come to the descendants of this Indravarman in the tenth century. After the Chalukyan conquest in the seventh century, we hear little or nothing of the Kalinga Gangas till about the year 917 A.D. At that period, there ensued a period of anarchy in the Eastern Chalukyan territories which lasted for 27 years at least, and the Kalinga princes again rose to power for a time at Kalinganagara (11).” However, Sewell thinks that Satyavarman, the son of Devendravarman, who issued a grant in the 51st Samvat, might have used an era which was probably started by Jayavarmandeva, the first Ganga king of this branch. The following table given by Sewell bearing on Burnell’s report: Jayavarman | Anantavarman(reigning in AD 985 | | | Rajendravarman Devendravarman | Satyavarman 272 Dynasty History of United Koraput 273 The above notes of Dr.Burnell and Robert Sewell in later course was remarked by Rajaguru that it at present partially true, for any historical purpose. The Bangalore copperplates of Devendravarman, the son of Rajendravarman of G.E. 310, were found in the office of the Inam Commissioner, Bangalore (Mysore State) (12). Mr.Rice adds a brief note on this inscription, stating that the date of the grant is 700 A.D. It is rather strange how he could ascertain the date without referring to the starting period of the auspicious era of the Gangas since the learned editor did not properly edit this inscription and Rajaguru requested the Maharaja of Parlakhemundi in 1947 to bring a photocopy of the document for decipherment. The Maharaja was pleased to bring the same for examination, to Rajaguru, and after reading the text from these photographs studied and published the text. Relationship of Western Ganga and Eastern Ganga The plate of Devendravarman of Bangalore is a very important record so far the emblem and the royal seal as found on it are concerned. Rajaguru studied this aspect and reported (14). The seal of the plate contains the figure of an elephant, which is not usually met with in the inscriptions of the Eastern Gangas of Kalinga. The royal emblem in the Kalinga plates is usually a lying bull. But, the Western Gangas adopted the emblem of an elephant, which was borrowed by the donor of this grant, i.e., Devendravarman. Why this has occurred and why Devendravarman’s grant was found in a distant place like Mysore, are the questions still hidden in obscurity. But, after going through the text of the grant, we find that his Guru was residing in Srisaila, which is not very far from the kingdom of the Western Gangas. Probably, the capital of the religious Gurus of the Gangas was in Srisaila, when the original line of the Gangas was living in Daksinatya. After they left their homeland and migrated to Kalinga, they had a similar centre on the summit of the Mahendra, which they referred to in each and every grant they issued in Kalinga. This is an important clue to consider where the original home of the Eastern Gangas was. The Western Gangas, in their epithets, mention the on the top of Srisaila. A similar epithet was also used by the Eastern Gangas of the Svetaka branch who called themselves as worshippers of Nandagirinatha; and both the branches established Kolahala as their headquarters. For these reasons, it is quite evident that the Eastern Gangas and the Western Gangas originally belonged to one homogeneous stock. We believe that they migrated from the west a region known as Konkana of the Bombay Presidency (15).” 273 Dynasty History of United Koraput 274 It is no less important to have a comparative study of the relations between the Eastern Gangas of Kalinga and the Western Gangas of Mysore. From their inscriptions, we learn that both the branches used some common names in their records, viz. 1. Gangavamsa (dynasty), 2. Gangavadi (country), 3. Kolahla or Kolahalapura (town), 4. Gokarnesvara (family-deity), 5. Nandagirinatha (deity). So there is a coincidence in the names of their places and also their deities (16). It supports their collateral integration. The following passage may be cited from the Habbal inscription of Marasimhadeva of the Western Ganga family from lines 3-5:- Svasti(1)Satyavaka=Kongunivarmma=Dharmma- maharajadhiraja=Kolalapuravaresvara=Nandagiri-natha-(Sri)mat Permmanadi=Vutayyange..(17) According to Rajaguru comparing the above passage with the following Prasasti, quoted from an inscription of the Gangas of the Svetaka branch of Kalinga Sva - bhuja - bala- Parakramakranta - sakala-Kalinga-dhirajyah, Paramamahesvara, mata-pirt-padanudhyato, Gangamala-hula-tilakah, Srinandagiri-nathah, Kokalavalapura-pattana-vinirtata, Kamvalya-varaya- ghosa-Maharajadhiraja-paramesvara-paramabhattaraka-Sri Indravarmmadevah....(18). The phraseological terms, such as Kolahalapura-varesvara Nandagirinatham” in the former inscription and Sri-Nandagirinatha-Kolahalapurapattana” in the later are significant and they suggest the collateral contact of both the lines (19). Apart from the main line of Kalinganagara, some collateral branches of the Gangas were ruling over different parts of Kalinga. They established their own capitals from which places they issued their characters in favour of Brahmanas and deities. One of the branches was ruling from the city of Svetaka, which was within the precincts of the Ex-Zamindaries of Badakhemundi, Sanakhemundi and Cikali in the modern district of Ganjam (20). Only fifteen copper plate inscriptions have so far been discovered revealing their rule. We get a panel of 274 Dynasty History of United Koraput 275 names of the Gangas of Svetaka from their records. These kings used a different type of ‘Prasasti’ in their inscriptions, although they used to worship the same god Gokarnasvamin of the Mahendra Mountain like the Kalinganagara branch. Their Prasasti runs as follows: “Om. Svasti Svetak-adhisthanad=bhagavatas=caracaraguroh-sakala- Sasankasekharadharaskya sthity-utpatti-pralaya-karana-hetor bhattarakasya caranakamal=aradhanavapta-punya-nicayah saktitraya- prakarsanuranjit=asesa-samanta-cakra sva-bhuja-bala-parakram=akranta- sakala-Kalingadhirajyah-parama-mahesvaro matapitr-padanudhyatah Gang- amala-kula-tilakah........”(21) Ganga rule in Kalinga commenced in or about 626-27 A.D., where they introduced their family era. Regarding the original place of the Gangas, before they came to Kalinga, we get no information from the records (22). But, in connection with the Western Gangas of Mysore, B.Lewis Rice wrote, “According to the inscriptions, the progenitor of Kalinga Gangas was Bhagadatta, between whom and his brother, Sridatta; their father Visnugopa divided his kingdom giving Kalinga to the former, and the ancestral kingdom, with the elephant, to the latter.”(23) It is interesting to note here that the elephant emblem is used in the Bangalore plates of Devendravarman as said above. The Gangas used this emblem as long as they were the followers of Jainism. But, in Kalinga, they adopted Saivism (24). So, they used the emblem of the bull in the place of elephant is the argument appearing. This fact can well be seen as we think that Ka-linga, the linga suffix is Saivism and when this is prefixed in later course as Sri-Ka-Kula to ‘Ka’ it symbolised to Saivites. The ‘Sri’ is prefixed to Vaisnavite places like Srikhetra, Srisaila, and Sripura etc. Regarding the migration of the Gangas from Gangavadi and Kolahalapura, we get some description in the Korni and Vizagapatam plates of Anantavarman Codagangadeva (1077-1147 A.D.). The following verse is mentioned in these grants:- “Asid=eka-sit=atapatra-tilaka- Ksonibhrd=asy=atmajo Vira-Sri-vanita-svayam vrta-patir= Devas=sa kolahalam Nirmmay=orjjita-Gangavadi-visaye Kolahalakhyam puram 275 Dynasty History of United Koraput 276 Yascakre sura-sadma-viksana-rasa- Pratyuhamaksnam hareh (25) In the records of the Imperial Gangas of Orissa, the same tradition was maintained with a modification of the verse as quoted below:- “Dhana-kanaka-samrddho Gangavadih prasiddhah Sakala-visayabhutah Svarga-vargopabhogyah”(26) Kolahalapura, while the Gangas of Kalinga hailed from ‘Kokalavalapura or Kolahalapura. Hence, we have to consider if the Gangas had come from the south. According to a traditional account of the W.Gangas, they (W.Gangas) migrated from Ayodhya. One branch of them lived in Kalinga and the other branch proceeded to the South (Mysore), as per inscriptions of a Jaina guru, named Simhanandi. In this connection, B.Lewis Rice, writes, “The origin of the Gangas is derived from Iksvaku and traced back to Ayodhyapura. Under Visnugupta the seat of government was moved to Ahichhatra, which it is hinted as Vijayapura”. To this is attributed the separation of the two lines of the Eastern and Western Gangas, those of Kalinga and Mysore, respectively. With the arrival of Dadiga and Madhava in the south, at Ganga-Perur, and the establishment of the Gangavadi kingdom in Mysore aided by Simhanandi, we seem to come to historical events...” (27). It is, therefore, not conclusive that the Gangas had come to Kalinga from the south. According to Rajaguru, “Now, according to our assumption, namely, that Kurala of the time of Samudragupta might subsequently have been called Kolahalapurapattana, our attention is attracted to the regions of Gumsur taluk in the Ganjam district and its adjoining district of Phulbani, (situated between the countries of Mahakantara and the Mahendra-mountain), which we can identify with the kingdom of Kurala of the 4th century A.D. That was probably the original homeland of the Gangas, who, afterwards, called it Trikalinga. From the inscriptions of the Somavamsi kings of Daksina Kosala, who ruled the country from Suvarnapura (the modern Sonpur in the Bolangir district), we learn that they used the title of Trikalingadhipati for a considerable long period. Presumably, they could capture the Phulbani and Gumsur area as these tracts were contiguous to their kingdom, which he supported with Tirthankara and Parsvanatha Jaina sculptures of Gupta style of the 4th century A.D. discovered from Phulbani. It is, therefore, quite probable that the Gangas, who embraced Jainism, worshipped these images in the Gupta period in these remote hill tracts of Kalinga. The religious conception of the Gangas was subsequently changed from Jainism to 276 Dynasty History of United Koraput 277 Brahmanism in Kalinga, while in Mysore, the original faith remained in tact for a considerable long time. Further against relationship of W.Gangas and E.Gangas by inscriptions record of their gotras as per records like Vajrahasta and Anantaverman of 12th century belonged to Atreya gotra and W.Gangas as Iksvaku lineage and Atreya gotra (28). The W.Gangas of Mysore seems to have established matrimonial alliance with the Bhauma Karas of Tosali (29). According to Dharakota plate (30) of Subhakaradeva, the Paramasaugata, his queen, Tribhuvana Mahadevi, is the daughter of one Rajamalla, who belonged to the family of “Nagodbhava” or Ganga and an important figure of the southern countries. While editing these plates, Rajaguru identified Rajamalla with Rajamalla Satyavaka of the W.Ganga family of Mysore. In this connection he pointed out that Satyavaka Rajamalla had distinguished himself in the battle of Semiya and overcome the kings of Vanga, Pundra, Magadha, Kosala and Kalinga. Satyavaka Rajamalla ruled from 870 A.D. Therefore, he is a contemporary of either Nandavarman of G.E. 221 or his successor, Devendravarman of G.E.254. Anyway, it is quite clear that the W.Gangas established matrimonial and political contact with the Ganga kings of Kalinga and the Bhauma Kara kings of Tosali. It is not surprising that a copperplate grant of Devendravarman (vide No.30) was discovered from Mysore and that the elephant-emblem was adopted in that inscription (31). Eastern Gangas of Kalinga The Gangas of Kalinga who were divided into several branches and ruled in different parts of Kalinga. So far as we know from their epigraphically records, the Gangas ruled as important royal branches of Dantapura and Kalinganagara, situated in the southern parts of the Mahendra Mountain and from Svetaka in the northern parts of the same mountain. According to some inscriptions of Anantavarman Codagangadeva (1077-1147 AD), Kalinga was divided into five parts, each of which was ruled by one of the collateral branches of the Ganga family. In the Korni and Vizagapatam plates of Codagangadeva, statement is made regarding that five brothers came to the Mahendra-region from Gangavadi and ruled over Kalinga after portioning it into five parts amongst them namely, (1) Kalinga, (2) Kanthikavandhurakantha, (3) Amvavadi-Visaya, (4) Soda Mandala and (5) Kantaka-Varttini which were ruled by the five brothers namely, (1) Kamarnava, (2) Danarnava, (3) Gunarnava, (4) Marasimha and (5) Vijrahasta respectively (32). This fact is corroborated by the following verse, mentioned in the inscriptions of Vajrahastadeva (1038-70 A.D.):- 277 Dynasty History of United Koraput 278 “Oyrvan bhupatibhir=vibhajya vasudha Ya pancabhih pancadha huktva bhuri-parakramad=bhuja-valat= Tam=eka eva svayam ekikrtya vijitya satrnivahan Sri Vajrahastas=catus= catvarimsatam=aty=udara-caritah Sarvvan=araksit ksamah”(33) From this verse of a later period, we understand that the Gangas used to rule in Kalinga like the Guptas who adopted the system of ruling their country by distributing the territory among their own brothers. (Sarvesu-desesu vidhaya- gotrin) Rajaguru wrote, “Although the traditional version of the eleventh century speaks that the kingdom of Kalinga was originally divided into five parts among the five brothers of the Ganga princes, actually we get two collateral branches of the Gangas in Kalinga, which are known through epigraphically sources as the branches of Kalinganagara and Svetaka. We have copperplate inscriptions, numbering more than sixty, which have been issued from Kalinganagara and Svetaka. Therefore, either the above description of five branches was a myth or the information about the other three branches has not yet come to the ken of epigraphy, although the places named Kantakavarttini and Ambavadi-Visaya are known from some C.P. epigraphically sources. It is interesting to note here that the royal prasasti used in some of the grants is not the same as the prasastis found in the grants of either the Kalinganagara line or the Svetaka line of these kings. We may, therefore, conclude that a third branch of the Gangas who issued these grants have adopted different type of prasasti. For want of further evidence, we cannot arrive at any definite conclusion at present on these issues.”(34) Regarding a general description of Kalinga at the time when the Chinese pilgrim, Yuan Chwang, visited this country, we quote below from Thomas Watter’s ‘On Yuan Chwang’s Travels in India’, Vol.II, p.198.” The Western Gangas and Koraput district The author of this volume studied the inscriptions of Western Gangas and the following inscriptions of Western Gangas are related with Kalinga, Kosala, Konga, Tripuri (Dahala country). They are as follows:- 1. Keregodi - Rangapur Plates of Rajamalla in 9th Century A.D. (35) 2. Kerhalli Plates of Nitimarga Ereganga (36) 278 Dynasty History of United Koraput 279 3. Kudlur Plates of Marasimha, 962-63 A.D. (37) 4. Kadalur Grant of Marasimha, 962 A.D. (38) The Keregodi-Rangapur plate of Rajamalla Satyavakhya-Konganivarman of Western Ganga was deciphered Narasimhachar and summary of the 5 plates are given by K.V. Ramesh (39). The script was in Kanada. The achievements of Western Ganga king Rajamalla is given as; “There were the hostile kings of the Vangas, Paundras, the Magadhas and the Kosalas; and these the hostile kings of the Kalingas, Andhras, and Dravidas - thus did the people praise his velour as shown in the battle of Samiya (Verse 14). -his younger brother was Butuga, who had harassed the Pallava family by his prowess -Abbalabba, daughter of Vallabha (i.e. Rastrakuta emperor) got married to Butuga”. The Kerehalli Plates of Nitimarga Kongunivarma alias Ereganga was a Jaina himself. The plate denotes the achievements of the king as following. “ He routed in battle the confederate army of the Vallabha teeming with quality elephants, studs and soldiers and led by great kings of the Pallava, Rastrkutas,Kuru,Magadha,Malava,Cola,Samvalla and dynasties (Versus 10) “These were the hostile kings of the Vangas, Paundras, the Magadhas and the Kosalas and these the hostile kings of the Kalingas, Andhras and Dravidas; thus did the people praise his velour as shown in the battle of Samiya (Verse, 12) Map showing Kabai Konga in Koraput-Bastar border 279 Dynasty History of United Koraput 280 The Kadlur plates of Marasimha indicate: “Pandiya mahimandaleno swavogantokrita Konga Kalinga Kosaladi bisaya bisesand bijialaxmilakabysyatha” Here the indications of Konga Kalinga mean Konga as well as Kalinga to be contiguous patch along with Kosala. We believe that this is Kobai Konga of Bastar-Koraput (Umarkote) as well as the Konga mutha of Jeypore sub-division of Koraput itself. Recently I have discovered a magnificent Jaina Temple in Konga of Jeypore block that is worshipped by Omanatya priest of the village and assisted by Gadaba priest from the other mutha village. The Konga Mutha has 32 villages excluding the hamlets and celebrates Bali jointly in every 3 years. The Jaina temple is in the habitat of Konga where mainly the Doms are now residing. The Omanatya are strict Saivities and worship Bhairaba; but how came they have taken the charge of Jaina temple. It was possibly an agreement in later period to respect the culture and belief of neighbours and the Jaina Mahavira has thus been regarded as Siva. But in all these Western Ganga inscriptions there is mention of Chitrakote. This may be because it was under Chalukyas who were related to W.Gangas on matrimonial ways. Jakamba, the daughter of king Nijagali of the Calukya family was married and Satyavakya was born (Verse 17). This we shall discuss soon. The Kadlur Plate again reads, “Rahall’s younger brother Butuga, who had gone to the king Baddega in Dahala country and has then duly married his daughter along with the maiden of eloquence at Tripuri, on Baddega to the heavens as if to grab Indra’s sovereignty, Butuga recovered from Lalleya the elephants, horse, the white umbrella and the throne and restored them to the king Krishna” (Verse 22- 23). Butaga’s son was Nitimarga (Marula) married the daughter of Krishna, who had destroyed all his enemies and whose feet was worshipped by the Magadha, Kalinga, Pandya and Cola kings (verse 28). Nitimarga’s younger brother Guttiya-Ganga (i.e. Marasimha) or Krishna - Raja-Deva, who took possession of the whole Cola country, who brought under his control Simhala and various islands and the Kerala, Pandya, Konga, Kalinga, Kosala and other countries. The inscription mentions Konga and Kalinga separately but still in contiguous patches; thus Konga may be derived from the name of Kongunivarman to a place of significance. 280 Dynasty History of United Koraput 281 Kadalur Grant of Marasimha, 962 A.D. says: ‘Of the king Jayaduttaraya (i.e. Butuga II), the queen was Kallabba, daughter of Simhavarman of the Calukya family, to them was born the king Satyavakya Marasimha, the brother of the king Marula (Verse, 34). The summary note indicates clearly the patronising Jainism by queen Kallabba. We are inclined to think that the following names in the Western Ganga inscription have much to do in relation to Koraput-Bastar Jainism. They are Nandagiri, Kongunivarman, Konga country and queen Kallabba of the king Jayaduttraya with the existing name of the places and rivers of Koraput i.e Kolab river. The findings clearly indicate that Jainism persisted in between the Kolab river and Indravati river doab and both join at different points in Bastar district of Chhattisgarh to form the Godavari river that flows down in Andhra Pradesh., The Nandapur was one of main pithas of Jainism in Koraput, and was the ancient capital of the Jeypore state. There is one large single granite stone Elephant, beautifully carved on the banks of Isani Ganga at Nandapur. This was probably the first capital of Western Gangas where Jaina temples were prevalent. It is agreed by all that the existing all Jaina idols of Kalika temple of Jeypore was all from Nandapur which were transferred after the shift of capital to Jeypore. This lone elephant is like the one at Gulbarga museum in Karnataka. Elephant in Nandapur Elephant in Gulberga Museum, Karnataka There is no written inscription on Western Gangas; discovered from Koraput as it is. This may be due to the fact that the land being under occupation of ruling or allied Dynasties may be Chalukyas and Rastrakutas; and Western Gangas were only interested in making Jainism influence. The other aspects also that 281 Dynasty History of United Koraput 282 subsequent king erased out all evidences to this effect. We believe that it was the queen Kallabha, wife of king Jayaduttranga (Batuga II) and mother of Satyavkya Marasimha of Western Ganga dynasty who had established the Jainism through teachers and mulasanghas all over Nandapur, Jeypore sub-division and the great river flowing from Nandapur down to Bastar is named after her and since known as Kolab river. The Nandapur as it may run for various historical findings, it looks to be Western Ganga capital in this part and ruled by one branch and is described out of Nandagiri title, which Western Gangas used to bear. There is no concrete evidence yet. The Nandapur Jaina temple was totally destroyed and in ruins, we don’t have its history may be the Cholas have destroyed it after their occupation. In A.D. 1051- 52 Rajadhiraja, seized Kollapuram, burnt down many invasion Jain temples and damaged the Jain sanctuaries. Thus the idols were placed under earth and elsewhere, which subsequently surfaced out in small temples like Subaie and Jamunda, and elsewhere. The ruin mounds of the said temple in Nandapur and Jamunda need excavation and history shall appear. There is evidence to bring that in most Jaina temples the present ‘Siva’ temples were erected. This can be evident from many places of Koraput district itself. This is the case at Bhairaba Singapur as well as at Paknaguda also. The Chalukya, Somesvara I was a Jaina. His general Chamundaraja, Governor of Banavsi, was probably responsible to establish Jamunda Jaina temple near Jeypore of Koraput district. Rastrakutas and Western Gangas: Kalinga, Chitrakuta and Eastern Chalukyas During the middle of 10th century A.D. the Rastrakutas rose into power under Krishna III. With great vigor and he reattached the territories of Kanchi and Tondaimandalam in the Chola kingdom. After this, he turned towards Vengi and Kalinga. In the Deccan he received full support from Viratunga, a powerful king of the Western Ganga family. Viratunga married the sister of Krishna; consequently, his alliance with the Rastrakuta king helped the latter to extend his sway as far south as North Arcot. As a prince, Krisna’s activities in the north confined in the Chedi kingdom in spite of that he had matrimonial relationship with the rulers of that country. He occupied the fortress of Kalanjar and the forts 282 Dynasty History of United Koraput 283 of Vindhya Mountain and Chitrakuta, which belonged to the Chandelas. We are inclined to identify Chitrakuta in Bastar district of Chhattisgarh. In the later part of his reign, he moved against the Eastern Chalukyas of Vengi and the Eastern Gangas of Kalinga. His conquest in a lighting speed caused great confusion amongst all those principalities that faced his aggression. Although he died in A.D. 968, the political repercussion due to his war activities did not desist from Deccan. Recently, a set of copper plate inscription of Chamara Vigraha of the Rastrakuta dynasty was discovered from Baragarh in Sambalpur (Orissa) (40) edited by Dr.D.C.Sircar which support to this view. Hostilities between the Rastrakutas and the kings of Kalinga seem to have started long before Kamarnava Bhupendravarman came to the throne. The Chicacole plates (41) of Anantavarman probably refer to these Rastrakutas as quoted below:- ...Devendravarmma-sunuh Sri Anantavarmmadeva kusali. Kantaka-varttani- visaye Rastrakutan raja-karanadikan esikan vastavyadin janapadan...dvisipadi mahyarpana bhavata... It is a grant made by Sri Anantavarman, the son of Devendravarman. A village named (?) In Kantakavarttani-visays was granted on the occasion of a lunar eclipse to some Brahmanas. The significance of the charter is that the granted village was situated in border countries, which were some times under the possession of the enemies of the donor and his family. So, it is called Dvisipadi as mentioned in the record. While editing the copper plate inscription of the Eastern Gangas, Rajaguru (42) discussed this question as follows:- “The question is, why and under what circumstance the auspicious era of the Gangas of Kalinga, which was in vogue for a long period covering 400 years, was abruptly ended in the beginning of the 11th century A.D.? -----------It is not improbable to say that the continuation of this ceremony became intermittent on account of some foreign interference, which I suppose, must have taken place during the reigning period of Kamarnava Bhupendravarman, whom we have already identified with the Kamarnava (I), A.D.943-975. There is no wanting of evidence to prove that he was involved in some political troubles relating to the kingdoms of Vengi on one side and those of the Rastrakutas-cu-Somavamsi Kings of Kosala on the other. Kalinga, being situated in a strategic position contiguous to these kingdoms, could not escape any political struggle started in the neighbouring countries.” 283 Dynasty History of United Koraput 284 Trikalinga, Eastern Chalukyas of Vengi Since their adversity started in the 10th century A.D. the Eastern Chalukyas of Vengi seem to have used Kalinga as a place of shelter in times of danger. Their alliance with the Gangas must have encouraged them to turn towards Kalinga when foreign aggressions threatened their own security. But, the writers of the Chalukyan Prasastin the later days depicted these unhappy events in such a fantastic way for which reason scholars had to arrive at wrong conclusions regarding the Eastern Chalukyas holding a portion of Kalinga under their own sway. But, actually it was not so; because they (the Eastern Chalukyas) indulged in the habit of using the dense forest tracts of Trikalinga as their hiding place, was remarked by Rajaguru. From the Masulipatam plates (43) of Amma I of A.D. 918-925, we learn that he ruled over a portion of the forest of Trikalinga (44). In the Kolavennu grant (45) of Chalukya Bhima II (A.D.925), it is stated that he ruled over the country of Trikalinga. Kamarnava I came to the throne of Kalinga in A.D. 943 and ruled for 25 years. Then, his brother, Vinayaditya, held the throne for three years only. After him came Vajrahasta, the son of Kamarnava alias Bhupendravarman. Now, serious political confusion prevailed in the neighbouring tracts of Vengi owing to the Rastrakuta interference. Amma II (A.D. 945-970) of the Eastern Chalukya family fought with great vigour against the Rastrakuta king, Krisna III. In his inscription it is stated that in the 12th regnal year, i.e., in A.D. 947, he proceeded to Kalinga appointing his brother, Danarnava, as the regent of Vengi (46). It is further stated that he waged war against Krisna III. Most probably, Kamaranava supported Amma. Otherwise, why should he proceed towards Kalinga to check the Rastrakuta inroad? Probably this time, Krisna III led a big invasion against Kalinga and Vengi that caused some internal troubles in the Chalukyan territory. In the Arumbaka plates of Badapa, it is mentioned that Amma II at first ruled over Vengi with Trikalinga; but, later on, proceeded to Kalinga where he lived as long as fourteen years, i.e., from A.D.956-970. But, in the Mangolu grant, it is stated that Amma’s brother, Danarnava, actually ruled over Kalinga after A.D. 970 when he deprived from the throne of Vengi. Careful examination of these events will show that both Amma and his brother, Danarnava, took shelter in Kalinga from 952-973 A.D. under the protection of the Gangas. What induced Kamarnava to take a risky course can be elucidated from the study of the foreign policy, adopted by the Gangas of Kalinga. In the year 970 A.D., Amma II died and Danarnava came to the throne of Vengi. But, his rule did not exceed three years. One Badapa, a collateral aspirant of the Chalukyan throne, revolved with the help of Jatachola Bhima of the south, who, 284 Dynasty History of United Koraput 285 not only killed Danarvana but also boasted of having victories over Kamarnava and his brother, Vinayaditya of Kalinga, as stated in his Kancipuram inscription. The broken passage of that inscription runs thus:- Citram suduram-api caruku - Umantam Kamarnnavandivam-ani U-U-U bhutam vyaktam vyasisma pata-tsvati vaiparitya Kamarnnavam bhuvinayan UU-U- “ UU-UU— Vinayad-anya-bhupateh................sa Sriman-jatacolabhimanrpatih(47) We have already stated that Kamarnava V ruled up to A.D. 968. So, there is about 3 years’ difference between the dates of the death of Danarnava of Vengi and Kamarnava of Kalinga. Probably, during this time, Jatachola Bhima made a huge preparation to wage war against a powerful kingdom like Kalinga. Pedda-dugam plates of Sri Sattrudamanadeva (48) remarks, ‘The donor of this inscription seems to be a subordinate king, posted at Simhapura, most probably under the Gangas of Kalinga who captured the country after the extinction of the Matharas from that region. The term Giri-Kalinga might have been used for the hill portion of Kalinga. I believe it to be the present day Koraput district. A detail study of the Western Ganga inscriptions reveal many villages and places of present day Koraput district .They are cited as following, however at this stage not much opinion can be formed with the available evidences. 1. Bendiganahalli Plates of Vijaya-Krishnavarman (Mys.Arch.Rep. p.40) of the 5th century A.D. mention Madhavavarman I, of Western Ganga at his victorious camp of Kavaipada, made a gift of the village Kuru-uru in Perati-bhoga, a sub- division with in Paruvi-visaya, to Matri-sarman. The Perati-bhoga may be the present day Perta village of Nandapur; and Paruvi-visaya may be the Paruvi-desha ruled by Kullotunga I as a prince in Koraput-Bastar. 2. Mercara Plate of Aviinita, of 9th Century A.D (.B.R.Gopal et al.:E.C.Vol.I, No.I.) There was the Desiagana and Kondakund-anavya, (the preceptor) Ganacandra- bhatra his disciple was Abhayanandi-bhatra; his disciple was Silabhdra-bhatara; his disciple was Jayanandi-bhatara; his disciple was Gunanandi-bhatar; his disciple was Candanandi-bhatara; --------- This has relevance to present Koraput region;Bhattra is still used a suffix to Bhattra tribe found in Nowrangpur and Bastar, there is the villages with suffix nandi and Kornel and Gamang (2010) have shown the relevance of Desia culture and Jaina monastery order of Desiagana in Koraput.There is the village 285 Dynasty History of United Koraput 286 Chandahandi in Nowrangpur, Jainnagar near Jeypore,Bhadrasila padar in Umerkote and the Kondakund may be the Kondakumbru in Malkangiri-Nandapur. 3. Mnanne Plates of Marasimha of 798 A.D. It mentions Kondakonda lineage and his disciple, who was a scholar and the foremost member of his gana was Puspandi; this Jaina temple was built for the sake of his disciple Prabhacandra (Verse 19) Puspandi is a Poraja village in Koraput block and the reference to Kacchva tank in the inscription looks like the Kecchala Jain temple in Koraput. 4. Kottimba Grant of Yuvaraja Marasimha of 799 A.D. It speaks of Kottimba village given as gift by the prince and mentions villages like Kurulamgala, Komaramamgalakkere (may be Komarganjanna of Nandapur )Pupadin-paduvay-olbe may be Paduva; Kodavappadi may be the Kotapadi; Okkodala may be the Ankadali. The Kuruvale-visaya in Paruvi-visaya may be Thiruvali in Rayagada of Koraput. 286 Dynasty History of United Koraput 287 Reference 1. Burnell, A.C. (1878) ‘Elements of South Indian Paleography.’ 2. Ibid. 3. Fleet, J.F. I.A. Vol. XIII, p.274. 4. Rajaguru, S.N. Inscriptions of Orissa, Vol. II, pp.330-372ff 5. Ibid, p.352 6. Ibid, p.352 7. Ibid. 8. Rajaguru, S.N. (1960) Inscriptions of Orissa, Vol.II, p.108 9. Ibid 10. Ibid 11. Sewell, Robert, Archaeological Survey of South India, Vol.II, p.183. 12. Ep. Carnatika, Vol. IX, p.33 13. Rajaguru, S.N. (1960), Inscriptions of Orissa, Vol. II. p. 113-117ff. 14. Rajaguru, S.N. (1968), History of the Gangas, Part-I pp.111-112ff. 15. Ibid. 16. Rajaguru, S.N.(1968) op.cit. pp. 19-23ff 17. Inscription Orissa; Vol. I, Part-II, pp. 18-45ff. 18. I.O., Vol.II, p.298ff 19. Mysore and Coorg from inscriptions, p.32. Imp. Gaz. Vol. XVIII, p.359 and History of the Gangas, Part I, p.9-10. 20. E.I.XXIII, pp.267-9, Badakhimedi plates of Jayavarmadeva. 21. Ibid. 22. Rajaguru, S.N. Inscriptions of Orissa, Part II. p.341. 23. Ep. Carn. Vol. IX. Introduction. pp. 9 ff 24. Rajaguru, S.N . (1968) History of Gangas, Part I. pp.111-112ff. 25. J.A.H.R.S. Vol. I, pp. 113; I.A. Vol. XVIII. pp. 165 ff 26. O.H.R.J Vol.V, No.I, pp. 7 ff 27. E.I. XXVIII, pp 175 and Ins. or. Vol I, Part II, pp.13ff. 28. Rajaguru, S.N. (1960) Inscriptions of Orissa, Vol. II. pp.345. 29. J.A.H.R.S. Vol. IV, pp. 189-94ff. 30. Ibid 31. Rajaguru, S.N. (1960) Inscriptions of Orissa Vol. II, p.346-347ff. 32. Ibid.p.347 and E.I.IV, pp.183ff. 33 E.I. in pp.183ff. 34. Rajaguru, S.N. Inscriptions of Orissa.Vol.II.p.340 35. Narasimhachar, R. Mys.Arch. Rep., pp.21-24 and plates between pp.28 &29. 36. Gopal, B.R. et.al Vol., Ch354 and plates XIII-XVI. 37. Narasimhachar, R. Mys.Arch. Rep.,pp.8-16 and plates between pp.18 &19 287 Dynasty History of United Koraput 288 38. A.R.I.S.E. No.23. G.S.Gai, E.I.XXXVI, pp.100-109 39. Narasimhachar, R. Mys.Arch. Rep., pp.21-24 and plates between pp.28 and 29. 40. E.I.XVIII, 41. J.B.O.R.S. Vol.XVIII, p.272-295 42. J.B.R.S., XXXV, parts 1&2 (1949) 43. Masulipatnam plates of Vijayaditya III, p.126. 44. E.I.Vol.V, p.133 45. S.I.I.I, No.37, p.46. 46. C.P.No.15 of Madras E.R.from 1916-17; A.R.M.E.., 1917-18Atp.A No.I.G.O..,(Home)Dated 10-8-17.p.8 47. E.I.XXXI, pp.29-34; J.A.H.R.S., Vol.X, pp.17-60ff. 48 JAHRS, Vol.XXI, p.159 ff, Re-edited by D.C.Sircar in E .I. XXXI, pp.89- 93 ff Mahavira, Konga Jaina temple, Tirthankara, Konga Jeypore Block, Koraput 288 Dynasty History of United Koraput 289 Ajitanatha and Yaksa Gomedha and Yaksini Sreyamsa,Konga Ambica, Konga Umbel Jaina temple, Nandapur 289 Dynasty History of United Koraput 290 SOMAVAMSIS AND KORAPUT The chiefs of the dynasty of Soma-kula in inscriptions ruled initially in the Western Orissa, but extended gradually over large part of Orissa. There are definite indications that they were closely connected and probably belonged to the Pandu-vamsa, which had ruled Kosala country for nearly one and half centuries. Both the Vamsa’s trace their ancestry to lunar line. The Somavamsins are also referred as Kesari kings in the late medieval Orissa Chronicles, Madala-panji. N.K.Sahu (1954) (1), K.C.Panigrahi (1961) (2), Bina Kum.Sarma (1983) (3) and Ajaya Mitra Shastri (1990) (4) have delt the Somavamsis of Orissa at length. A brief political history is given below. The Somavamsis portion, related to Bastar-Koraput shall be dealt at length, possible. Sivagupta He is the first recorded member of Somavamsis. He was the only one without the epithet of Trikalingadhipati. Mahabhavagupta I Janamejaya (880 to 920 A.D.) His first and last records were from Suvarnapura (5), which has been identified with modern Sonpur in the Bolangir district. His plates indicate that he was ruling over Sambalpur-Bolangir region, which was the eastern part of the South Kosala. He assumed for the first time the title of Trikalingadhipati. Mahabhavagupta I Janamejaya appears to have been involved in a series of hostilities with the Kalachuris of Dhala (Baghelakhanda region of Madhya Pradesh) whose capital was Tripuri (modern Tewar in Jabalpur district). There is evidence from Brahmeswar temple (Bhuhaneswar) inscription that Janamejaya had captured the glory of the Odra king, after spearheading him and being thus killed. The Odra or Orissa was at that time under Bhauma Karas and Tribhuvana Mahadevi was on throne. He further conquered some adjoining territories to justify his assumption of the title of Trikalinadhipati, and thereby placed the Somavamsis on a firm footing and made them a power in the eastern Indian politics. 290 Dynasty History of United Koraput 291 Mahasivagupta I Gayati: (920-955 A.D.) His son Mahasivagupta I Yayati succeeded Mahabhavagupta I Janamejaya. He continued aggressive policy towards Kalachuri ruler called Durgaraja. Mahasivagupta I Yayati’s success against the Bhanjas and the Bhauma-Karas made him the undisputed lord of Orissa and Kosala as well. He is highly eulogised in the local traditions embodied in the Madalapanji. Mahabhavagupta II Bhimaratha (955-975 A.D.) His son Mahabhavagupta II Bhimaratha succeeded Mahasivagupta I Yayati. He maintained the territorial inheritance intact against the aggressions of Kalachuris of Dhala. He had number of sons of whom at least three came to power one after the other after him. Mahasivigupta II Dharmaratha (975-995 A.D.) His son, Mahasivagupta II Dharmaratha, succeeded Mahabhavagupta II Bhimratha. The Eastern Chalukya kingdom was torn by internal feuds on the issue of inheritance of throne. The Telega-Choda chief of Jata Choda Bhima of Pedakallu (Kurnool District) slew the E.Chalukya Chief Dharnava and occupied the lotus kingdom from 973-1000 A.D., which later was occupied by Saktivarman I with the help of Rajendra Chola I(6). It seems that Dharmaratha also fished in these troubled water and carried out a raid. The Banapur plates of Indraratha, a step brother of Dharmaratha, got the viceroyalty of Kalinga. It is evident thus Dharmaratha thereof conquered that coastal Kalinga or a substantial part. But how long it remained with them cannot be assumed. Mahabhavagupta III Naghusa (Nahusa) (995-1010 A.D.) Mahabhavagupta IV Uddyotakesarin and Mahasivagupta Karna (7), Dharmartha was succeeded by his step-brother Naghusa (Nahusa). The Banpur plates record Indraratha had defeated the king of Udra in a battle and captured his fortune (8). As already seen, Udra was within the dominion of Somakula right from the time of Mahasivagupta I Yayati. Thus it is concluded 291 Dynasty History of United Koraput 292 that Naghusa after the death of Dharmaratha succeeded to his throne, and soon he was deprived of his possessions in Udra. Indraratha rushed from his viceregal province of Kalinga and killed Abhimanyu in the field. Thereafter with the approval of the Brahmanas he assumed kingship and occupied firmly the ancestral capital Yayatinagara, from where he had issued the Banpur plates. He controlled three kingdoms (9), which possibly includes Kosala, Udra and Kalinga. Indraratha achieved glory as a ruler; at least in 1022 A.D. when he was defeated by Rajendra Chola I at Yayatinagara in course of his Gangetic expedition. According to the Choda records, Rajendra I carried away ‘large heap of family treasures together with many (other) treasures after having captured Indraratha of the ancient race of the moon’ and seized Odda-visaya and Kosala-nadu (10). This expedition seems to have taken place primarily to thwart the activities of Indraratha who had aligned himself with later Chalukya king Jayasimha II Jagadekamalla (1015-1042 A.D). The Chalukya king, Jayasimha had placed Vijayaditya VII Vishnuvardhana on the throne of Vengi and set aside the claims of Rajaraja, the nephew of Rajender I (11). It is further mentioned that the ‘good Kosala-nadu Brahmin’ received him (Rajendra I). It means that Bramhins of Kosala were displeased over the Bramhin of Yayatinagara who had enthroned Indraprastha after he killed Abhimanyu, thus they received Rajendra I after he came defeating and capturing Indraratha from Yayatinagar. He was captured with all his family and later said to have been killed. Indraratha had to face invasions from Parmara king Bhoja (1000-1047 A.D.)(12), Gangeyadeva (1015-1041 A.D), the Kalachuri king of Tripuri (13). Mahasivagupta III Candihara Yayati alias Candihara Yayati (1022-1040 A.D.) According to Choda records, Rajendra Choda took Indraratha captive together with his family, thus none of his family members were left to inherit his throne. Now Abhimanyu’s son Yayati alias Candihara (14) claimed the throne of Somakula, after reappearing from self-imposed exile (15). He freed Kosala and Utkala from enemies. His records show Chola inclination as he described himself the burning fever to Karnataka, Lata and Gujara kings. 292 Dynasty History of United Koraput 293 Mahabhavagupta IV Uddyotakesarin (1040-1065 A.D) Mahasivagupta III Yayati alias Candihara was succeeded by his son Mahasivagupta IV Uddyotakesarin. He maintained his hold over Kosala, Udra or Utkala (16)(17). Some records of his reign are available on the Khandagiri hill of Bhuhaneswar (18). Uddyotakesarin was credited with military success in the Bhubaneswar inscriptions of his mother, Kolavati. It is stated that he vanquished all the hostile forces of Dahala, Udra and Gauda (19). Rajadhiraja I (1018-1052 A.D), Rajendra II (1052-1064 A.D) and Virarajendra (1063-1070 A.D) were the Chola contemporaries of Uddyotakesarin. But his claims of victory over Chodas don’t seem to be true (20). The Kelga plates of Kumaradhiraja Somesvar that Uddyotakesarin appointed one Abhimanyu as his sub-king in Kosala (21). Abhimanyu may be his brother. This was to check the invasion of Kalachuris of Dahala and Chindika Nagas of Chakrakuta to south Kosala, as Uddyotakesarin remained in Utkala to protect the onslaught of Gangas. Kumaradhiraja-paramesvara Somesvara followed Abhimanyu. Udoyotkesarin observed religious catholicity and appears to have extended it. Mahasivagupta IV Janamejaya: (1065-1080 A.D) His son Mahasivagupta IV Janamejaya replaced Uddyotakesarin. Ratnagiri plates by his nephew Karana, speak of his victory over a Naga chief (22), who may be identified with Chindika-Naga chief Somesvara I (1069-1097 A.D) of Chakrakuta (Bastar). The Chindika Naga Somesvara I, also claimed to have own a victory over the Udra king and captured six lakhs and ninety-six villages of Kosala (23). The recently found Nuapatna plates of his reign state that a certain Yuvaraja Dharmaratha, who enjoyed the titles of Paramabhattaraka and Mahakumaradhiraja Paramesavara acted as his sub-king in Pascima-Kalinga (24), which does not admit of a proper identification, but may have denoted some area on the west of Kalinga (25). His exact relationship with Janamejaya cannot be ascertained, though not improbably he may have been his son, remarked Ajaya Mitra Shastri (26). 293 Dynasty History of United Koraput 294 I am inclined to believe that Pascima-Kalinga here means the valley of Jeypore in Koraput district. The postulation that the Kosala-portion of Somavamsin Kingdom with Pascima-Kalinga is not tenable, as suggested by K.S.Behera in ‘Administrative system under the Somavamsis’ (ed.D.C.Sirkar) 89-90. This is based on my finding that Bhumia tribe of Koraput-Bastar are subjects of Somavamsin rulers and archaeological remains in this part of the Koraput district, which is most remarkable and akin to Somavamsins of Bhubaneswar group. The said tribe also claims their migration from Bhubaneswar, till date. During the period the Gangas at the south end of Soma Kula kingdom threatened them and Kalachuris of Kosala and Chindaka-Nagas on the west. The Ganga king Rajaraja I Devendravarman (1070-1078 A.D), son and successor of Vajrahasta V Anantavarman, claims that his general Vanapati defeated the kings of Utkala and Kosala. The Kalachuris chief Prithvideva I (1065-1090 A.D) also probably achieved successes against Somavamsis as he assumed the title Sakala- Kosaladhipati in the Amoda plates 1069 A.D. (27). Mahabhavagupta V Puranjaya (1080-1100 A.D) Mahasivagupta IV Janamejaya’s son and successor was Mahabhavagupta V Puranjaya. There is only one inscription of his brother and successor Karna, which depicts of him (28). At this time Anantavarman Chodaganga (1078- 1142 A.D) and Chindaka-Naga Somesvara I was supreme in Kalinga and Bastar, respectively. They were constantly encroaching upon the Somavamsin dominion. Mahasivagupta V Karna His younger brother Mahasivagupta V Karna succeeded Mahasivagupta V Puranjaya. He was the last king of the Somavamsins. He was first defeated by Pala king Ramapala and finally lost his country to Anantavarman Chodagangadeva, the Eastern Ganga king, thus he became the undisputed king of Udra (lower-Orissa) sometime between 1108 and 1115 A.D. This is evident from the Mukhalingam plates that first Anantavarmana after defeating the Utkala king, reinstated him, but the second plates by his Lingaraja temple and Puri (Markandesvara temple)(29) inscriptions which clearly indicate his final occupation of the region. The Somavamsi rule in the eastern part of South Kosala was wiped out in the early 12th century due to Kalachuri, Chindaka -Naga and Telugu-Choda encroachments. 294 Dynasty History of United Koraput 295 It is noted above; the victory of Kalachuri Jajalladeva I over Somesvara as well as the Chindaka-Naga occupation of Kosala was carried out through their Telugu- Choda feudatories. The Telugu Choda, Yasoraja, during middle of 11th century is credited with the occupation of Kosala. His great-grandson Somesvara II was described as the ‘lord of entire Kosala’, and issued his Patna Museum (30) and Kumarsimha (31) plates from Suvarnapura (Sonepur in the Balangir district). This was also the capital of Kosala for Somavasins. Thus the Somavamsins were totally wiped out both from coastal Orissa and eastern part of South Kosala in the first quarter of 12th century. The coastal Orissa came under Ganga king Anantavarmana Chodagangadeva, the Kosala portion to Kalachuris and the Chindaka-Nagas aided by their feudatories Telugu- Choda (32). Kathargada and Somavamsis Kathargada is located on Muran near Kamata village in close proximity to Bhairaba Singapur. The village has some valuable archaeological remains well maintained by the villagers. There is no old temple structure that exists today in the place. Most of the remains points out to Orissan sculpture like Papadahandi of Nowrangpur.This was also one of the center for Sakti puja along with Deolguda of Borigumma, Bhairaba Singapur, Jeypore etc.The mantras that are referred to important Saktipithas of Castal Orissa, may have been the influence of the Somavamsis. References 1. Sahu, N.K. (1954) History of Kosala and the Somavamisis of Utkal OHRJ Vol. III, No.3 pp127-136. 2. Panigrahi, Krishna Chandra (1961) Chronology of the Bhauma -Karas and the Somavamsis of Orissa. Publisher not known 3. Sarma, Bina Kumari (1983) Somavamsi Rule in Orissa, Purthi Pustak, Calcutta 4. Shastri Ajay Mitra (1990) Inscriptions of the Sarabhapuriyas, Panduvamsins and Somavamsins (Part I & II) Indi.Council 1961 of Hist.Res. New Delhi & M.Banarsidass, Delhi 5. No.IV: 1 and XI 6. Yazdani, G (Ed) Early History of the Deccan, 486-487. See also.Majumdar, R.C (ed.) HCIP, IV: The Age of Imperial Kanauj, 139-140 7. No.IV: XXII, XXVII, Verse 6; IV; Suppl. Inscr.111, Verse 6 8. No.IV: App I, Verse 12 295 Dynasty History of United Koraput 296 9. No.IV; App I, Verse 14 10. Sastri, K.A .N .The Colas, 207 11. Ibid 12. E.I, I, 235, Verse 19 13. C.1.1, IV, XC, CXX-CXXI 14. In IV; XXII, XXVII and Suppl.Insc.III, Verse 8 15. No.IV; XXVI, Verse 6 16. No.IV; XXIV 17. No.IV; XXII 18. No.IV; XXIII and XXV 19. J.R.A.S., Letters, NII, 1947, pp.63-74 20. EI; IV. 191, text line 41 21. No.IV; XXVIII, text line 4-5 22. No.IV; XXVII, Verses 12-13 23 No.IV Suppl.Inscr.IV. Text lines 9-10 24. J.O.R.S. (1981).pp.29-30 &No.IV, Suppl.Inscript.IV, text lines 9-10 cited by Shastri, Ajaya Mitra, p-219. 25. Sircar, D.C. Edi.Behera, K.S Admi.Syst.Under the Somavansis. Early Indi.Polit & Adm.Syst.89-90 26. Sastri, Ajaya Mitra, Inscriptions of the Sarabhapuriyas, Panduvamsins and Somavamsins Part I 27. C.I.I., IV, 400 text line 5; 406, text line 24 28. No.IV, Suppl.Inscr.IV, text line 41 29. E.I.XXXIII, 184-85 30. Ibid, XIX, 97ff 31 Journal of the Kalinga Historical Res.Study by iii 29ff 32. E.I., XXVIII, 324 & E.I. XXVIII, 286-289 296 Dynasty History of United Koraput 297 NAGA OR CHHINDAKA DYNASTY OF CHAKRAKOTA The learned authors D.C.Sircar (1957) (1), Rai Bahadur Hiralal (1907) (2), Prof.V.V.Mirashi (1939) S.N.Rajaguru (1959 & 1980), (3) (4) K.C.Panigrahi (1959) and Mrs.S. Tripathy (5) (1984) have given a good account of Naga or Chhindaka Naga-vamsis of Chakrakota. The Chakarakota has been known as Sakkara-Kottam Sacrakota, Chakrakotta, Chakrakuta etc. in various literatures and from a number of inscriptions discovered from former Bastar State of present Chhattisgarh since late 9th Century and 10th Century Chalukyan records of this has been identified with the valley of Indravati river, the present Bastar district and part of Koraput district as well as part of Kalahandi district of Orissa. A number of inscriptions (6) of rulers belonging to the Chhindaka family of the Naga race have been found in Bastar State of Madhya Pradesh. They appear to have ruled from Barasur (Modern Barasur about 140 kms from Jagdalpur). The following text of a stone inscription of Someswara (A.D.1208) incised in A.D.1108 was found from the Bastar State, gives a clear idea of Nagavamsi: “Om Swasitha sahasrafana mani kirana birasura Nagavansodhava Bhogabatipurabrasava sabatasya byaghra lanchan Kasyapagotra prakotokrita ghosana bisba biswambhars parameswara parama bhattarak maha maheswara charan kabaja kijalak pujya pibjarita bhramayamana manonata Srimanikyadevi padapadmardhkya parabala sadhaka Sri Jagadeka maharaja Sri Someswaradeva Further the name Chakrakota was found in the Chalukyan record of the 9th Century A.D. In the Pithapur-inscription (7) of Mallapadeva it is mentioned that the Eastern-Chalukya King Gunaga Vijayaditya (849-892 A.D) defeated the king of Chakrakuta. Prof.Mirashi has also identified Chakrakotya with the Central part of the Bastar-State (8). While editing the Rajapura-Copper Plate grant of Madhurantakadeva (Saka 987) Rai Bahadur Hiralal writes “the name of Chakrakota was probably an alternative name of Chakravotya, which seems to survive in Ghumra, a name given to the fall of the Indravati at Chitrakuta.” (9). K.Suryanarayana (1986) (10) wrote, “One inscription of Chalukyas of Vemulavada of Vikramarjunavijayam captured a fort called ‘Chitrakuta’ which was inaccessible. His son, Arikesari I, is said to have conquered the kingdom of Vengi and Trikalinga during the period of Rastrakuta king Nirupama Dhruva, 297 Dynasty History of United Koraput 298 780-793 A.D. (Kllipara plates). He further wrote, the inaccessible fort of Chitrakuta, which Vinayaditya is said to have captured is not identified. As there are a number of forts with that name in North and Central parts of India which played a prominent role in contemporary history, its identification bristles with difficulties”. Here one need to be careful about Chakrakote and Chitrakuta and both denote different identies. The Naga or Chhindaka had the family crust of tiger with cub and carved the banner with emblem of a snake. They belong to the ‘Kasyapa-gotra’ and assumed the title of Bhogavatipura Varesnara, the lord of ‘Bhogavatipura’. Their tutelary goddess was Manikyadevi or Manikeswari. The daiety’Bhagavati’ of Jeypore was shifted from Kotpad region to the present location. She may be the tutelary goddess of Naga dynasty. The name of Chhindaka and the story of their origin as recorded in their epigraphies indicate the line of these rulers had close relationship with the Sindas of Sindavadi in Kanada country of about 8th Century A.D. who also claimed Naga lineage and the royal title of the ‘lord of Bhogavatipura, the best of cities’. The land of the Sindas was called Sindavadi and comprised of northern parts of Mysore, Bellary, Dharwar and is mentioned in a record of A.D.750. D.C.Sirkar (11) has observed, ‘There is no doubt the family name of Chhindaka preferred by Nagavansis of Bastar is the same as Sinda of Kannada country’. It is perhaps, during the last part of 10th Century that the Chhindakas entered the Bastar region in the train of the expeditions lead by the Western Chalukyas of Kalyani to the Eastern Chalukyas Kingdom of Vengi. There was bitter struggle between the Cholas and W.Chalukyas over the kingdom of Vengi that continued for a long time. It seems that the Telugu Chodas of Bastar also migrated to Bastar in the train of Western Chalukyas. B.V.Rao (1973)(12) said, ‘The province of Chakrakuta appears to have formal part of the country known as Tri-kalinga, and throughout the range of the ancient history, remained the bones of contention between the Chalukyas of Vengi, the Eastern Gangas of Kalinga, and lastly the Haihayas or the Kalachuris of Chedi. Each dynasty successively and sometimes contemporaneously, from the days of Rajaraja, claimed the ownership over this unfortunate province.” The City of Bhogavatipura was the capital town of the Nagavamsi Kings of this area; and it was located in Bastar State. So also the ancient name of Kalahandi was Karunda or Karunda-Mandala as is seen from a copper plate inscription preserved in the Madras Museum (13). In that inscription we find that the Nagavamsi Kings migrated from a place Dharnimba, but we are not in a position to offer any 298 Dynasty History of United Koraput 299 tangible suggestion. The Nagavamsi-family, history speaks of a place known as ‘Svatiamba’ as the first seat of the Naga kings was remarked by Rajaguru (14) Map showing Charakot, Chindaraja villages, Chindirijori riverlute and Narigachha and Barigachha villages along with Muran River in Koraput district The Sanskrit Kavya ‘Navasahasanka-Charita’ of Padmagupta is a very important literary work, which throws light on the history of the Naga Kings of the Bastar Kalahandi region. Messrs. Zachrae rendered a descriptive account of this Kavya and Buhler, an English translation that was published in the Indian Anti-quary, Vol. XXXVI (1907). 299 Dynasty History of United Koraput 300 Epigraphic records of Nagas or Chhindaka dynasty The following list of epigraphic records relating to Nagavamsi Kings is helpful to study their historical importance and their kingdom of Chakrakota, 1. A fragmentary record from Errakot, about 25 kms from Jagdalpur and the name of the Chhindaka-Naga king mentioned which cannot be fully read, but may be Nriptibhushana (or Kshitibhusana)(15) The inscription bears a date in Saka 945 (=A.D.1023) 2. An inscription from Barsur, which bears a date in A.D.1060, refers to the reign of a Chhindaka-Naga king named Maharaja Dharavasha alias Jagadekabhushana (16). 3. Rajapura copper plate inscription of Madhurantaka, bearing the date A.D.1065 records the grant of the village of Rajapura (find spots of the record, 55 Kms north-west of Jagdalpur) in the Bhramanakotya (Bhramanakotta)-mandala, probably as a compensation for supplying victims for human sacrifices. The Bhramarakotta-mandala was either identical with Chakrakotta or a part of the later (17). 4. The fragmentary Dantewara inscription of A.D.1061 belongs to Dharavarsha or Madhurantaka. Dharavarsha’ son Somesvara I whose earliest known date is A.D.1069 soon ousted King Madhurantaka from the throne (18). 5. One of the two Kuruspal (55 Kms from Jagdalpur) inscriptions of Dharanamahadevi, the second queen of the Chhindaka-Naga king Somesvara I, bears a date in the Khara Samvatsra, which fell in A.D.1069. The other inscriptions of the reign of the same king, one from the Kuruspal and other from Gadia, are dated in A.D.1097.(19) 6. The fragmentary inscription from Kuruspal (20), the most important record of the reign of Somesvara I. This epigraph mentions the king’s son Kanhara and seems to have been engraved late in his reign. Through the grace of the goddess Vindhyavasini, Somesvara is said to have acquired the sovereignty of Chakrakuta (Chakrakotta). He is further stated to have killed king Madhurantaka, the ruler of Chakrakote of which Somesvara I claimed to have been the hereditary king. 300 Dynasty History of United Koraput 301 The record also edits Somesvara with many other military activities such as the burning of Vengi, the subjugation of Bhadrapattana and Vajra and the seizure of the six lakhs and ninety-six villages of Kosala (south Kosala). 7. The Narayanapal inscription (21) of A.D.1111 mentions Gunda-Mahadevi who was the queen of Dharavarsha, mother of Somesvara I, and grand- mother of Kanhara. It stated that Kanhara was ruling after the death of his father. Thus Somesvara I had ended his reign some time before A.D.1111. 8. A Barsur inscription (22) dated Saka 1130 (A.D.1208), mentions Gang- Mahadevi as the queen of the Chhindaka-Naga king Somesvara, who may be identified with king Rajabhushana Somesvara II from his Gadia inscription (23). 9. From Dantewara inscription, undated Rajabhushana-maharaja is known (24). 10. The Jatanpal inscription of A.D. 1218 and Dantewara inscriptions of A.D.1224 speak of a Chhindaka Naga king named Jagadekabhushana Narasimha (25) It is said by historians that Maharaja Jagadekabhushana mentioned as the worshipper of goddess Manikyadevi (modern Danteswari of Dantewara temple) as mentioned in inscription of Bhairamgarh (26) is same as Jagadekabhushashan Narasimha. 11. The Barsur and Potinar inscriptions of A.D.1060 speak of Mahamandaleswara Maharaja Chandraditya, ruler of Ammagrama, as the feudatory of the Chhindaka-Naga king Dharavarsha Jagadekabhushana, who had his headquarters at Barasur (27). 12. The undated Sunarpal inscriptions mention another king of Chhindaka- Naga family, named Jayasimha, whose relationship with Jagadekabhushan Narasimha is unknown. 13. The Tammara inscription of A.D.1324 mentions king Harischandra of Chakrakota probably a later member of the Chhindaka-Naga family. (28) Coins of Nagas Further to this evidence of inscriptions, discovery of gold coins of Nagavamsi dynasty have given new dimensions in this direction. Rajaguru (29) and Mrs. 301 Dynasty History of United Koraput 302 Tripathy (1984) have studied and reported the Naga dynasty coins especially of Orissa find (30). They are as following: Seals Kodinga hoard of 28 gold coins from Koraput district, Orissa As per Rajaguru (1959)(31) during May 1957 Bipin Bihari Ratha, OAS, Addl.D.M. Koraput informed Govt. that 28 thin disc like gold coins were received. It was 6" inside soil, inside an earthen pot, covered with stone over it. Lolithabathi, D/o Debo Jani, Singiguda village, Dumadei Reserve Forest in Kodinga P.S, found it. The coins were almost equal in size. Old Telugu scripts over the coins. On paleographical grounds assigned to 11th & 12th centuries A.D. At 6 O’ clock, on every coin, there is an emblem bearing either the figure of a sword or a Siva-lingam, flanked by a few dotted marks. Each coin ‘contains a second emblem at its centre. It is in each case, the standing figure of a tiger which is the royal insignia of the Nagavamsi kings of Chakrakota’ Out of the total number of 28 coins, 26 contain the name of Rajabhusana; one contains Prapaganda-Bhairava and one Ranabhushana. We meet with the names of Rajabhushana and Prapaganda-Bhairava among the Nagavamsi kings of Chakrakota. The name Prapaganda-Bhairava, which is mentioned in some of the stones of Nagavamsi kings. Pratiganda-Bhairva is the cognomen of Somesvara Deva, who was a powerful ruler of the family. Similarly, the second name of Ranabhushanana if known from any epigraphic record was found in the Bastar area. Some think Ranabhushana is also a Nagavamsi king of that locality, as the emblems, employed in his coin, are corresponding with those of the other coins of the hoard. Anyway, the present hoard contributes this new name (Ranabhushana) to the genealogy of the Nagavamsis. 302 Dynasty History of United Koraput 303 Sonsari hoard of gold coins, Bilaspur district, Madhya Pradesh The same coins of Kodinga along with the coins discovered from Sonsari hoard in Bilaspur district of Madhya Pradesh were studied by Dr. (Smt) S.Tripathy (32) and reported during 1984, she wrote: “Four coins supposed to be the issue of the Naga kings of Chakrakotta were found among the coins of the Kalachuris of Ratanpur, in the big Sonsari (33) hoard discovered in the Bilaspur district of Madhya Pradesh. L.P.Pandeya earlier identified these coins as the coins of the Kalachuris of Ratanpur (34), but later on they were attributed by B.C.Jain to be the Nagas of Chakrakotta (35). But it is interesting to note that the coins of both the finds are totally different so far as their typology is concerned, though it is now known that the same rulers issued them the Naga family, as we shall see presently. Description The four coins of Sonsari are circular in shape, contain on their obverse, within the dotted border, the figure of a tiger standing to right facing left, forepaw raised from the ground and before it a dagger with its point resting on ground; above the animal, Sun and Moon are represented on its right and left respectively. The reverse contains within dotted circle, legend in three lines in Naari characters reading: 1. Srimad - So - 2. me s’va ra- 3. deva sya The weight of each coin, according to Jain is 59 grains and 7 cm in diameter. The general fabric of the coins closely resembles those of the Kalachuri coins of Ratanpur. The Kodinga hoard of 28 gold coins are thin, broad and circular in shape, measuring 3.7 cms each, excepting one which is slightly bigger having the diameter of 4.3 cms. Each coin weights 3.840 gms and the bigger one is 3.878 gms in weight. The devices and legend are punched separately on one side only, having striking similarity with the Eastern Chalukyan and some of the Chola gold coins. Due to the thickness and heavy punches on the coins, they have become cup-shaped. As regards the device adopted, they may be described as follows: In the centre, are punched a tiger facing right, surmounted by Sun and Moon represented by dots. The legend in Telugu-Kanarese letters are shown around the 303 Dynasty History of United Koraput 304 edge, each letter being punched separately beginning with the letter ‘Sri and ending with the device of a dagger pointed to the ground, or it may be a symbol for ‘Siva - Lingam’ as suggested by Rajaguru. Of the total 28 coins 27 pieces have the legend in Telugu-Kanarese, reading the name ‘Rajabhushana’ and the solitary bigger coin has the legend ‘Prapa (ti) ganda-bhairava’. (36) Rajaguru has doubtfully read the legend in one of the coin from 27 pieces as ‘Ranabhushana. But the letter ‘na’ read by him after Ra (a), is infact, ‘Ja’, if it is minutely examined. Thus this coin also belongs to Rajabhushana. In fact, as we shall presently see, no king of this family with the epithet Ranabhushana is known so far from any source.(37) But again she (Mrs.Tripathy) said, ‘the attribution of the Kodinga hoard of E.Chalukya type coins described above to Dharavarsha by Rajaguru, does not seem to rest on convincing ground. The legends on these coins also do not support this view. It is known from the epigraphic records that Dharavarsha had the epithet of ‘Jagadekabhushana’. Moreover, it is known that Dharvarsha and his predecessors were not as powerful as his successor Somesvara I and they were busy in consolidating the Naga Kingdom in Bastar which was raised by Rajendra Chola during his northern expeditions”. Further she was of the opinion that the fabrics of the coins had some influence of Chola emblem of tiger on it, which may be due to the political influence of Kulottunga I on both Cholas and Eastern Chalukyas.(38) There are both epigraphic and numismatic materials to suggest that the Chhindika Naga occupation of the Bastar region during the last part of the 10th century or early part of the 11th century they entered in the train of the expedition laid by the Western Chalukyas of Kalian to the Eastern Chalukya kingdom of Vengi. Some historians do claim that the Nagas came along with Rajendra Choda to Bastar. Genealogy It is apparent that Sindhuraja, father of Bhoja, had matrimonial alliance with the Naga-Ruler of Bhogavatipura in Chakrakota. Prof.Mirashi admits, “The Princes of Chakrakotya called themselves Nagavamsis and Lord of Bhogavati”. He also says “this dynasty produced some powerful kings towards the end of the 11th and the beginning of the 12th Century A.D. Their capital Chakrakota was a place of strategic importance.” He then suggests “what was the object of Sindhuraja in forming the matrimonial alliance recorded in the “Nabasahasanka Charita”? We have seen that soon after his accession Sindhuraja found a favourable opportunity to regain the lost territory from the contemporary Chalukya King. In 1008 A.D.Satyasraya died. His successor, Dasavarman V, Vikramaditya V and 304 Dynasty History of United Koraput 305 Ayyana, who regained for a short period of seven years (from 1009 to 1015 A.D.) do not seem to have been sufficiently powerful. There was thus no danger of the Paramara Kingdom being invaded by the Chalukyas. But the weakness of the Chalukya kings had added to the strength of Rajaraja the Great and his ambitious successor, Rajendra Chola I. It was probably to check the onward march of the Chola king that Sindhuraja entered into the matrimonial alliance with the King of Chakrakotya”.(36) At about this time the Naga King of Chakrakota was called ‘Brupatibhushana’ (Ornament of the Kings) as mentioned in the Errakot inscription of Jagdalpur of A.D. 1023.(39) Political History As mentioned above the Chakrakotte name was found in the Chalukyan records of 9th century. In the Pithapur inscription of Mallapadeva it is mentioned that the Eastern Chalukya Gunaga Vijayaditya (849-892 A.D.) defeated the King of Chakrakotte. The army of Rajendra Chola of the south invaded Chakrakota in the year 1022-23 A.D. and occupied it (40). Although the decisive outcome of the invasion is not clearly known, but it is clear that Chakrakota came under the sphere of influence of the Cholas. No other records of Chhindaka Nagas till 1060 A.D. have come to light. The next king to the dynasty Dharva alias Jagdekabhushan alias Dharvarsha, has been referred to Barsur inscription of 1060 A.D. (41). The Barasur inscription was laid by Telugu Chola feudatory chief Mahanadaleshwar Chandraditya Maharaja. The Telugu Cholas who entered into Bastar-Koraput region during the military campaign of their king Vikramaditya VI about the middle of the 11th century A.D. settled in that region as the feudatories of the Chindaka Nagas. The Telugu Choda chief Chandraditya Maharaja who was a Mahamondaleswara and the lord of Ammagama was a feudatory of the Chindaka Naga king Jagadeka Bhushana. The Chindaka Nagas of Chhakrakota were in conflict with the Bhanjas of Khinjali comprising parts of modern Ganjam and Boudh Khondmal districts of Orissa. The Bhanja king Yusobhanja defeated and very likely killed Jagadeka Bhushana in 1060 A.D. In his Antarigama plates Yasobhanja assumes the proud title of Jagadekamalla Vijayi. (42) Another king of the dynasty named Madhurantaka is known from the Rajpur inscriptions dated in Saka year 984 (AD 1065). Madhurantaka was related to deceased king Jagadekamalla. Someswara, the son of Jagadeka Bhushana claimed the throne and a civil war broke out in Chhakrakota, which lasted for 305 Dynasty History of United Koraput 306 more than 5 years. Kulottunga Chola I, the ruler of Vengi, helped Madhurantaka while Chalukyas of Kalyana supported the cause of Somesvara. Madhurataka was subsequently defeated and killed in the battle sometime after 1056 A.D. and Somesvara acquired suzerainty over Chakrakota mandala through the grace of Vindyavasini (43) as per Kuruspal fragmentary inscriptions. The new king Somesvara after his accession continued the fight against the Chola king, Kulottunga I of Vengi. Both of them claimed victory over each other in their respective records in the form of inscriptions. He also fought with Somavamsis of Utkala and Kosala and attempted to occupy the Kosala portion of the Somavamsi Kingdom. The Telugu Choda Chief Yasoraja, father of Chandraditya (the lieutenant of Jagadeka Bhushana) was a great source of strength for him and occupied Kosala about 1070AD where he ruled as a Governor of his Chhindaka Naga overlord. (44) According to the Kuruspal stone inscription of Gunda Mahadevi, the queen of Dharavarsha, it is her son Somesvaradeva who possessed the titles of Pratigandabhairava and Rayabhushana or Rajabhushana, as the case may be. He is complimented with a glorious Prasasti having been described as the monarch who killed the king of Odra, defeated Virachoda and the princes of Lanji and Ratanpur, it is further stated in it that he killed one Madhurantaka and burnt the country of Vengi, just like the great Kiriti (Arjuna of the Mahabharata war who burnt Khandava, the celestial garden). He destroyed the city of Bhadrapattana where he defeated a king called Vajra. He acquired the entire Kosala (apparently Dakshina-Kosala) country, containing six lakhs and ninety-six villages. Unfortunately, that inscription is damaged, otherwise, more achievements of him would have known to us. (45) During the period of ruling of Chhindaka Nagas over Chakrakota, which comprised the southern part of Kalahandi in Indrabati valley, the northern part of Kalahandi was under the control of the Somavamsis. This part of the modern Kalahandi district together with a portion of Koraput was then known as Trikalinga or Tirukalinga meaning Hilly Kalinga (or Giri Kalinga). The Somavamsi monarchs from the time of Janamejaya I (850-885 AD) till the time of Karnadeva the last ruler of the dynasty who was defeated by Chodaganga Deva in 1110 AD all claimed themselves as lords of Trikalinga country. Chodaganga Deva conquered Utkala after defeating the last Somavamsi king Karnadeva in 1110 AD. Somesvaradeva cultivated friendly relationship with the Gangas led him to be an inveterate enemy of the Kalachuris of Ratnapur and Dahala who were a rival power of the Gangas. In 1114 A.D. the Kalachuris King 306 Dynasty History of United Koraput 307 Jajjalla Deva crushingly defeated Somesvara Deva the Chhindaka Naga king and imprisoned Bhujavala of Suvarnapura who is identified with the Telugu Choda Chief Somesvara Deva of Kosala. This resulted in the collapse of the Chindaka Naga rule over Chakrakota and the Telugu Choda rule over South Kosala.( 46 ) Influence of Rastrakutas and Chalukya is evident from the fact that Naga king personnel names having Dharavarsha and Kanhara would suggest its original subservience to the imperial house of the Rashtrakutas, while the popularity of name Somesvara in this dynasty and also among the Telugu-Choda feudatories seems to indicate that both of these houses acknowledge the suzerainty to Chalukya monarch Somesvara I Ahavamalla (A.D.1043-68) of Kalyana. This could also be due to expedition led by Vikramaditya VI, son of Ahavamalla, against countries of Eastern India during his father’s reign.(47) About this kingdom we gather another important piece of evidence from the Sanskrit Kavya - “Vikramankadeva Charita” - composed by the famous writer Bilhana. In the 4th Chapter of that work it is recited that Vikramaditya VI, the hero of that Kavya, went of Chakrakota and Kalinganagara in order to form a triple alliance of the kings of those countries to check the progress of the Chola- monarch, Virarajendra.(48) Relation between Kalinga, Utkala, Dakshina Kosala, Dahala, Chedi and Nagavamsi Now let us examine the then existing diplomatic relationship between the countries of Kalinga, Utkala, Dakshina Kosala, Dahala, and Chedi. In the Kharod inscription of Ratnadeva (49) it has been mentioned that Kokalla’s son Gangeyadeva (Vikramaditya) had defeated the Utkala King (50) who was defeated by Kamalaraja, son of Kokalla II,(51) while editing the Rewa inscription, of the time of Karna. Prof.Mirashi suggests “in Gangeyadeva’s war against the King of Utkala he was helped by the subordinate branch of the Kalachuri (52) family established at Tummana. The Amoda plates of Prithivideva I state that Kamalaraja vanquished the King of Utkala and gave his wealth to his lord, Gangeyadeva. The King of Utkala was one of the Guptas of Dakshina Kosala, perhaps Mahasivagupta Yayati who called himself Lord of Utkala and Trikalinga.(53) Rajaguru is said to have obtained victory over the Chaidyas and devastated the Dahala region. The war seems, therefore to have continued for sometime and victory sometime leaned to one side and some times to the other. If Gangeyadeva was ultimately victorious, he might have assumed the title of Trikalingadhipati after his success. We know that his son Karna mentions the title in his first grant issued just a year after 307 Dynasty History of United Koraput 308 Gangeya’s death. (54) This Gangeyadeva was ruling till A.D.1040". According to the Goharwa plates Karnadeva used the title of ‘Trikalingadhipati” and claimed to have defeated the Asvapatis, the Gajapatis and the Narapatis. (55) It is not out of place to mention that according to the ancient topographical nomenclature the portion of land that was ruled by the Nagavamsi kings was known as Dahala or Mahakantara. The latter name is found in Allahabad inscription of Maharaja Samudragupta. Somesvara I and Janamejaya II of Kalachuri and Telugu Chodas It appears from the Ratnagiri plates of Karnadeva that Janamejaya II came into conflict with a Naga King.(56) The Naga King Somesvara I of Chakrakuta, who ruled from 1069 to 1110 A.D., was also credited as above with having waged war against Udra (Orissa).(57) Thus, as per K.C.Panigrahi there is therefore little doubt that the Somavamsi Kingdom and the Naga kingdom were at war in the reign of Janamejaya II, but the war ended in the victory of Naga king. A Telugu- Chola family thus was holding a feudatory status of Chakrakuta, established itself in the Sambalpur-Sonepur region as its capital.(58) In the ‘Nabasahasanka Charita’ it is stated that there was a Asura King named Vajrankusha whose capital was Ratnavati Prof.Mirashi suggests that Vajrankusha may be identified with the King Vajjuka of Komma-Mandala, who gave his daughter Nonalla in marriage to Ratnaraja, the Chedi Ruler. (59) This Ratnaraja was the son of Komalaraja. There was a conflict between Janamejaya II and the Naga King Somesvara of Chakrakuta (Bastar). The Naga king Somesvara succeeded wrestling Kosala, from the Somavamsi King. In occupying Kosala the Naga king was helped by a Telugu-Choda family that ultimately ruled this newly acquired territory with their capital at Sonepur. Before this happened there appears to have a short period where one Kumar Somesvara, was allowed by the Naga king to rule the Kosala, for his own political purpose to serve. Though the Naga king made Kumar Somesvara the ruler of Kosala but still kept him under the control of his trusted Telugu-Choda lieutenants. Ultimately, the Telugu-Choda family who also helped the Naga King invasion of Kosala occupied the throne after ousting the ruler Kumar Somesvara.(60) The Telugu-Choda were a feudatory family ruling over a small principality with their capital at Barsur of present Bastar and owing thus allegiance to the Naga kings of that State (61) and continued up to (1069 to 1110 A.D). 308 Dynasty History of United Koraput 309 D.C.Sircar has done valuable work by re-editing and elucidating the copper-plate records of Kumara Somesvara (62) and of the Telugu Choda Defeat of Naga kings in the hands of Jajalladeva I of Kalachuri But in the later part of the reign of Somesvara III, the Telugu-Choda relationship with Chakrakuta appears to have changed. It was after the death or defeat of Somesvara I at the hands of Jajalladeva I, the Kalachuri King of Ratnapur; the Somesvara III would have changed his relationship with his over lord family. Prof.Mirashi has described the defeat and humiliation inflicted on the Naga king by Jajalladeva in the following words: “These conquests brought him into conflict with Somesvara, the Nagavamsi king of Chakrakotya. The latter was a foe worthy of his steel. He (Somesvara) had defeated the rulers of Udra (Orissa) and Vengi, and had carried fire and sword into Lanji and Ratnapura. He is said to have captured six lakhs of villages together with the tract called Shannavati (96 villages) of Kosala and assumed the imperial titled Maharajadhiraja and Paramesvara. The Kuruspal inscription described him as a huge elephant, which destroyed the lotuses, namely the towns, Lanji and Ratnapura. Jajalladeva was not slow to take revenge. He marched against the Naga king, slew his immense army and took him captive together with his wives and ministers. Ultimately, at the bidding of his mother, Jajjaladeva set them free. His Ratnapura inscription proudly asks, “Have you seen or heard of such a prince in this earth?” This event must have occurred sometime before 1110 A.D. which is the approximate year of Somesvara’s death.”(63) Thus it is after the defeat or death of the Naga king Somesvara that the Telugu- Choda Somesvara III changed his feudatory titles and assumed the imperial title Chakravartin. But his semi-independent status did not last for long and, as known he was defeated and perhaps killed by the Kalachuri king Jajalla deva I in about 1119 A.D. This led to the extinction of the Telugu Choda rule in the Sonepur region. Rashtakuta Kings in Dahala and Chakrakotte Rajaguru wrote, “As for the name Dahala we may cite the Sanjan plates of Amoghavarsha, the Rashtrakuta King whose ancestor Govinda III captured many kingdoms of Northern-India in the early parts of the 9th Century A.D. After completing his conquest for the North India his army marched against Kalinga, Vengi, Dahala, Odra and Malawa, beginning from the bank of the Narmada. 309 Dynasty History of United Koraput 310 In the verse No.20 of that inscription it is described that Rashtrakuta king possessed a second name-Tribhuvana Dhavala. In the Madras Museum plates of the Nagavamsi kings of Karunda-Mandala (Kalahandi) we come across the following passage:- Om Kindara singhae I Sri Narendra dhavala rajae I Karunda mandalae I Dharimba benisutra I Nagabamsa sambhad Sri Mudha suta Sri Bikarh--------etc. The above text reveals the name of one Narendra Dhavala, who is described as the over-lord of Karunda-Mandala. As there is coincidence in the names of Tribhuvana Dhavala and Narendra Dhavala we suspect that the Rashtrakuta supremacy extended over the Naga Kingdom. The corroborate this we (Rajaguru) may cite here a newly discovered copper plate inscription of Bargarh (Sambalpur) which mentions about a Ranaka belonged to the Rashtrakuta dynasty and claims to be the ruler of Patakas (64) of Gondrama or of the aboriginal tribes. (65) Most probably this part of Orissa was invaded by the great Rashtrakuta king Govinda III during his expedition over the Northern India, and left here a branch of his family to keep this tract under his subjugation. Now coming across the narration made in the ‘Navasahasanka-Charita’ with regard to the Asura king, Vajankusa of Ratnavati, who was a great rival of the Naga principality, S.N.Rajaguru said, we are not able to share the suggestions put forth by Prof.Mirashi and continued. We believe that Vajrankusa is an imaginary name used by the author Padmagupta. But, the real enemy of the Nagas was the contemporary Rashtrakuta king who belonged to an alien race, and therefore described as an Asura king. It needs to be pointed out that the famous Rashtrakuta king Kristna III started trouble in the central India. In the middle part of the 10th Century A.D., he processed to the South India as far as Kanchi and Tondai-Mandalam of the Chola territory. Then he turned his attention towards Vengi and Kalinga. His activities in the Central India were centered in the Chedi kingdom inspite of the fact that he was entangled with the Haihayas with matrimonial relationship. In the later part of his reign he conquered the fortress of Kalanjar on the slopes of the Vindhyan Mountain. He also subjugated Chitrakuta belonging t the Chandelas. Finally he attacked Vengi and Kalinga.(66). Under such circumstances it can be well presumed that he brought Dahala or Province of the Nagas under his control, which might have lasted till the Paramara king Sindhuraja, came to help the Snake-king of Bhogavatipura as, described by Padmagupta. Some are of opinion that the Asura King Vajrankusa might be a Gond-king. S.N.Rajaguru said, we couldn’t reject this opinion without giving any credence to it. For, tradition goes that in some remote age this part of land belonged to one 310 Dynasty History of United Koraput 311 Gosinga, who constructed some forts still called by the name of “Asura-Gada” or the fort of the Asuras.”(67) Reference 1. Sircar, D.C. (1957) The Nagas or Chhindakas. The struggle for Empire- The History and Culture of Indian People; Bharatiya Vidya Bhaban, Bombay. pp.214ff. 2. Hiralal Rai Bahadur. Inscriptions of C.P. and Berar; and E, I.IX.p.160, 174 and 311. 3. Rajaguru, S.N.(1959) A New Hoard of Gold Coins of the Nagavamsi Kings of Chakrakota 4. Rajaguru, S.N.(1980) The Naga dynasty of Chakrakota, OHRJ.Vol.XXIV, XXV & XXVI, p.25-24 5 . Tripathy, S.Mrs (1984) A Note on the coins of the Nagas of Chakrakotta, OHRJ Vol.XXIX (4), p.49-56 6. Hiralal, Inscriptions of C.P. and Berar; E.I.IX, p.160, 174 and 311. 8. List of C.P. inscriptions, page 150 9. E.I.Vol.IX p. 179 7. E.I.Vol.IV, p.226 to 238 10. Suryanarayana, K (1986) History of the Minor Chalukya Families in Medieval Andhradesa.p.19 11. Sircar, D.C.(1957) The Nagas or Chhindakas. The struggle for Empire- The History and Culture of Indian People; Bharatiya Vidya Bhaban, Bombay p.215 12. Rao, B.V. (1973) History of the Eastern Chalukyas of Vengi.p.344. 13. Rajaguru, S.N. op.cit.,p.40 14. Ibid. 15. Hiralal, ICPB, 2nd ed.p.166 (No.285) 16. Hiralal, ICPB, 2nd.ed.p.158-59 17. Hiralal, ICPB, 2nd ed. p.163-64 18. Hiralal, ICPB, 2nd ed. p.165 19. Inscriptions from Kuruspal and Gadia, A.D.1097 20. Inscription from Kuruspal (E.I.Vol.X, 24 ff) 21. Narayanapal inscription (E.I.Vol.IX.311 ff, 161-162) 22. Barsur inscription (E.I.IX.162) 23. Hiralal, ICPB, 2nd ed.p.170 24. Hiralal, ICPB, 2nd ed.p.166 311 Dynasty History of United Koraput 312 25. Hiralal, 164p 26. Hiralal, E.I.Vol.X.40, p. 169 27. Ibid. p. 158-59 28. Ibid. p.165 29. Rajaguru, S.N.(1959) A new Hoard of Gold coins of the Nagavamsi Kings of Chakrakota, OHRJ Vol.III, p.73-82 30. Tripathy, S (1984) A note on the coins of The Nagas of Chakraoktta, OHRJ Vol.XXIX (4) p.49-56 31. Rajaguru, S.N. op.cit.p.73-82. 32. Tripathy, S.op.cit.p.50. 33. JNSI, Vol.XII, Part II, pp.117ff 34. Pandeya, L.P. Coins of the Kalachuris of Ratnapur, JNSI, Vol.VIII, Part.II, pp.117 ff 35. Jain, B.C. JNSI, Vol.VII, Part II, pp.54 and plate, VII, Nos.12-15 36. Tripathy, S. op.cit.p.50 37. Rajaguru, S.N. op.cit.p.73-82 38. Tripathy, S. op.cit.p.50 39. Indian Antiquary, Vol.LXII, p.105 40. Hiralal, ICPB, 2nd ed., p.166 (No.285) 41. Hiralal, op.cit. 163-64 43. Kuruspal fragmentary Inscription Epi.X, 25ff 44. Sircar, D.C.op.cit.p.217 45. E.I.Vol.XXVIII, p.285, pp, 321ff 46 Panigrahi, Krishna Chandra. Chronology of the Bhauma-Karas and the Somavamsis of Orissa. p.38-42 47. Sircar, D.C. op.cit.p.215 48. Krishna Kumari, M (1985) The Rulers of Chalukya-Cholas in Andhradesa, p.15 49. Ibid.Vol.XXI, page 161 50. Ibid, Vol.XI.page 142 51. Inscription in C.P. and Berar, Page 122, No.203 52. E.I.Vol.XXIV, p.101 53. JASB; Vol.I, p. 4 54. E.I., Vol.II, p.309 55. E.I.Vol.II, p.309 56. E.I., Vol.XXXIII, P.266 fn.3 57. HCIP, Vol.V, pp.216-18 58. Panigrahi, K.C. Chronology of the Bhauma-Kara & the Somavamsis of Orissa, pp.40. 59. Hiralal, R.B. List of C.P. Inscriptions, 2nd Edition.p.166 60. Panigrahi, K.C.op.cit.p.40 312 Dynasty History of United Koraput 313 61. HCIP, Vol.V, P.219 62. Sircar, D.C.(Ep.Ind.Vol.XXVIII,P 321 ff) and Telugu Choda - HCIP,Vol.V.P.219 ff 63. Mirashi, Corp.Ins.Ind, Vol.IV, Part I, pp CXXIII, CXXIV 64. The Cholas’ Vol.I, page 250(3) Ep.Indi.Vol.I page 32 65. CP inscription awaits publication (Rajaguru, 19) 66. The Karahad plates of Kristna III, Ep.2nd.Vol.IV, and p.278 67. Rajaguru, S.N. op.cit, p.41 313 Dynasty History of United Koraput 314 NAGAVAMSI CHAKRAKOTE AND ITS LOCATON About the beginning of the eleventh century, a family of kings of Nagavamsis ruled over Chkrakuta mandala which was the ancient name for the modern Bastar State. (1) The province of Chakrakuta appears to have formed part of the country known as Trikalinga, and throughout the ancient history remained the bone of contention between the Chalukyas of Vengi, the Eastern Gangas of Kalinga and lastly the Haihayas or the Kalachuris of Chedi.(2). The Chodas of Tamilnadu were also involved in the politics and occupation of Chakarakote. Most authors in the past have pointed out Chakrakote to be some where in Jeypore-Bastar, the former princely States. Hiralal was of the opinion that Chakrakote is in Bastar, close to Jagdalpur. (3) Many historians have opined that Chakrakote has been mentioned in various literature and time, thus it is difficult to pin point which Chakrakote it refers to. (4) Chakrakote ruins Chakrakote ruins of the Fort Nagavamsi ruled from Chakrakote and the place was under seize by Cholas and Chalukyas and even several others, which has been detailed out in the book in various relevant chapters. I am of the opinion that Chakrakote that is referred with reference to Chhindika Naga kings is located in hills, in the Dasmathpur area of Koraput subdivision, Orissa. Chakrakote has been referred in many inscriptions of Cholas, Chalukyas 314 Dynasty History of United Koraput 315 and many more. Chakrakote now stands totally demolished, only known to the local people and except for its name in the Indian survey map. The place is between Chhabili river and Muran river. An ancient pathway from Borigumma plains to Chakrakote is still being used. The villages close to Chakrakote are Arliput and Domjori. The fact that the present find place Chakrokote, is the Nagavamsi Chakrakote is further strengthened by the fact that,  About 2 Km. from Chakrakote, Chindirijori, a small revolute and village of same name is known.  Close to Chakrakote, Chindarja a village inhabited by Porajas in Dindariji hills is located. Potasil is another village which is inhabited by Sodia Poraja is closely located here. Names like Chindirijori and Chindaraja around Chakrakote strengthens the evidence that the find place is the Nagavamsi Chakrakote, because Nagas’ were also well known as Chhindika Nagas from their inscriptions. After centuries, Barigachha village on the bank of Aundari nadi (river) and Narigachha on the bank of Muran close to Chakrakote are the only two remnant of ‘gaccha’ of ancient Jain sect is surviving here in these remote hills. Chhindika Nagas were Jainas. However, Bodo or Sodia Porajas, a dominant population in and around the locality of Chakrakote signifies the past occupation of the place by Chodas. Desia Kondhs are next to them followed by Magada goudo, Kausilia Mali, Kamars and Paikas. The entry path to Chakrakote is through village Admunda to Nandigaon, then to Sugli and then to Sunajam Domjri and finally, Chakrakote. Very close to Sunajam Domjori village on the bank of Bakda Nal, Chakrakote village remnants lie dormant with its history. Still the place is called Chakrakote; the local claim there was a village once upon a time. Now, only large number of stones of various sizes are scattered around, possibly they were once in part of the walls of the houses and fort. Chakrakote joins to a hill named ‘Podpuja’ to its northeast. On the east is ‘Mundlipable parbat’ stands. Western end has ‘Malguni parbat’ and has another parbat called ‘Kotyal’. The word, Parbat means hills. A small heap of stone in Chakrakote called ‘Nisanmundi’, still being worshipped by local villagers. 315 Dynasty History of United Koraput 316 The hill Podpuja that means Buffalo (male) worship is evident over the crown of hill. It is steep train, stands high and there are few stones assembled, where local villagers assemble once in three years to offer their worships. The Pithapuram inscription of Mathapadva report that Gunaga Vijaditya III of Eastern Chalukya, slew Mangiraja, burnt Chakrakuta, tesited Sankila, residing in Kiranpura and joined by Kishna, restored his dignity to Vallabhendra, and received elephants as tribute from the King of Kalinga.(3) Somesvara I of Western Chalukya of Kalyani with his feudatory, the Kakatiya Prola, raided Kosala and conquered Chakrakota in the Bastar State, after defeating a King of the Naga Dynasty. It is not unlikely that he came into clash with Virarajendra and Rajendra Chola II at Chakrakote.(4) B.R. Gopal wrote, “As a prince Vikramaditya VI started on a digvijaya after obtaining the permission of his father He finally conquered Gangakund, Vengi and Chakrakuta” (5) Nilakanta Sastri wrote, “At the time of his father’s death and the forcible seizure of the Vengi throne by Vijaditya mentioned in the Ryali plates, Kulottunga, or Rajendra, as he was then known, must have been a young man in his teens. For considering he lived on to have a long rule of fifty years from A.D. 1070, it is hardly likely that about A.D. 1062 he was more than twenty years of age. His earliest Tamil inscriptions record certain facts that seem to indicate how Rajendra engaged himself when he was thus kept out of his inheritance. This records of his second year (6). state that, with the aid only of the strength of his arms and his sword, he over came the treachery of his enemies, captured many herds of elephants, levied tribute from the Nagavamsi King, Dharavarsa of Chakrakuta, and gently raised the Earth resembling the lotus expecting to rise of the sun for blooming, as Visnu raised the Earth from the ocean in his boar incarnation, and seated her, to her great pleasure under the shade of his parasol (7). His records soon came to describe these achievements as belonging to the period of his ilangop-paruvam, when he was still heir-apparent (8). It this view is correct, we must conclude that Rajendra spent the best part of the period A.D. 1063-70 in the region of the modern Bastar state, and possibly even carved out for himself a small dominion beyond it in the Purvadesa, even if he did not gain complete control over the Chakrakuta state and annex parts of the Purvadesa to it, as his inscriptions imply. Possibly this northern extension of the influence of Vengi, so closely allied to the Colas, was the cause of Vikramaditya’s expedition against Vengi and Chakrakuta, counteracted by the campaign of Virarajendra culminating 316 Dynasty History of United Koraput 317 in the battle of Bezawada. It will be remembered that in the course of this campaign, Virarajendra is said also to have marched up to Sakkarkkottam (9)”. (10) Triummukkudal inscription implies (11) an important fact that the Vengi region was under the hold of the Chalukyas of Kalyani and the Vengi ruler Vijaditya VII was under subordinate position to W. Chalukyas. Tirumukkudal record, Vira Rajendra corresponding to 1069 A.D., further describes the advances of the Chola army close to the city of Vijayawada, which caused the armies of the enemies to drink the water of the Godavari. On the banks of Krishna, in a decisive battle Vira Rajendra inflicted a crushing defeat on the Western Chalukyan. After this the Chola army and Vir Rajendra marched across Kalinga upto Mahandragiri mountain and then beyond to Chakrokottam (or Chakrakutan). Vir Rajendra then bestowed free Vengi on Vijayditya. (12) As stated, Vir Rajendra passed through Mahendragiri mount to Chakrakuttam (13).This means Cholas passed through Gunupur and then Chakrakottam. This can be through the present Rayagada area to Kalahandi or through the hill paths of Kathargad to Nowarangpur area. The other alternate path was through the Kakrigumma and thence to Katharagad or Bhairaba Singapur. But this is a hilly walking path. As Vira Rajendra was moving with his army, cavalry and elephants he may have taken the path from Koraput to B. Singpur through Borigumma. Later a battle was fought at Kondai in Chakrakottam in the Bastar region. Chola and then they owned this battle erected one victory pillar these. In there exploits the Chola appears to have been assisted by his nephew Rajendra, the future Kulottunga I(14). The battle was fought between Vikramaditya VI and Virarajendra was assisted by Rajendra II. As per literary work Vikramakadeva Charita of Bilahan; Vengi and Chakrakottam were conquered by Vikramaditya VI, during the time his father Somesvara I was ruling. The Chola Virarajendra and Kulottunga I marched into Chakrakutam region and defeated Vikramditya VI (15). Records of Virarajaendra Chola (1086 and 1069 A.D.) refer to the Chola attack of Kalinga and Chakrakottakam region (16).Hereafter Virarajendra gave his daughter to Vikramaditya VI. Someswara I of the W. Chalukya of Kalyani with his feudatory, the Kakatiya Prola, raided Kosala and conquered Chakrakota in the Bastar district, after defeating a king of the Naga dynasty. It is not unlikely that he came into clash 317 Dynasty History of United Koraput 318 with Virarajendra and Rajendra at Chakrakota.(16). A.C.P. grant from Rajapura in Bastar State gives a list of achievements of Vikramaditya VI.(17) References 1. Rao, B.V. History of the Eastern Chalukya of Vengi (610-1210 A.D). p.344-45 2. Ibid 3. Hiralal Rai Bahadur. Inscriptions of C.P. and Berar; and E, I.IX.p.160, 174 and 311 4. Ganguly, D.C. Struggle for Empire. p.172; A.C.P. grant fro Rajapura in Bastar State gives a list of achievements of Vikramaditya VI.; E.I.IX, p.108. 5. E.I. IX.p.108 6. S.I.I.IIIp.64-7& E.I. IX., p.179n.1.22 7. Venkatarama Aiyar. (1943) Indian History Congress, Aligarh, .pp.161-2 8. S.I.I. III.p.68 9. A.R.E. 1914, II 10; S.I.I. III., p.128” 10. Sastri, K.A.N. The Colas.p.291-292. 11. E.I.XXI, No. 38.p.220 12. Ibid.p.243., S.I.I. Vol., No.30 13. Ibid.p.220; S.I.I.vol.III., No.30. 14. E.I.XXI, pp.232-33, E.I.IX.p.179 n.182& A.R.E.No.125 of 1900. 15. Krishana Kumari, M. The Rule of the Chalukya-Chola in Andhradesa.p.15. 16. Ganguly, D.C. In Struggle for Empire.p.172 17. E.I. Vol. IX, 108 318 Dynasty History of United Koraput 319 NARAYANA TEMPLE, JEYPORE Bhagabati in Narayana temple complex., Jeypore Ganesha in Lokanatha Siva Temple, Jeypore Lokanatha Siva Temple and in front Khajuribandha, Jeypore Kartikeswara in Lokanatha temple 319 Dynasty History of United Koraput 320 Unidentified person with Siva Linga, Lokeswara temple. Images not identified, Lokeswara temple 320 Dynasty History of United Koraput 321 BARASUR IN BASTAR DISTRICT Barsur in ruins was an important place in the history of Bastar. It is located to the west of Jagdalpur town and is about 135 Kms. The most important ruins of Barsur are the Siva temple along with others. The Siva temple had two sanctuaries having a common mandapa and was supported on 32 pillars in four rows. In each of the sanctuaries there is a linga and a Nandi.Another Siva temple has mandapa with 12 pillars in three rows and the third is called Mama-Bhanja ka Mandir. It is distinct by the carvings on the inside walls in the shape of bells suspended from chains. Little away in the open is the idol of Ganesha and is about 7 to 8 feet high and the circumference is about 17 feet. Similar size Ganesha idol is also seen in the Nandapur, of Orissa. Both resemble to each other, however, the history behind is not yet clear. There are also numerous small images collected and preserved in a iron grill fenced place at the site. Hira Lal had reported a well carved Vishnu of about 4 feet height. One image of Durga is inscribed. These temples are made up of stones with out lime and have been classified as medieval Brahminic style temples by Hira Lal. I am of the opinion that the Siva temple is of Southern Indian style and the Mama Bhanja temple is in Orissan style. Dantwada in Bastar district Dantwada is about 50 Kms and south of Barsur. The village around have sculptured stones lying about some of them are five hooded cobras and some are intercoiled snakes. The inter- coiled snake is very uncommon in the region except for one that is located in Paikapada temple complex, in Koraput, Orissa. The Dantwada has the shrine of Danteswari, well known as the tutelary goddess of the former Bastar ruling family. The temple is built on the junction of two rivers, Sankhini and Dankini. It was ill famous for its Human sacrifice activities in the past. The victim used to be decapitated besides the goddesses Mahishasuramardini with eight arms and in act of killing the demon and the buffalo. She is known to be the Danteswari as said before. The temple houses images of Visnu, Ganesha, Kartikaya and others. They seems to have been collected from the ruins of Barsur.There are five inscriptions, of which three are inside the temple, one is just out side the temple and the other is in the Bhairamgudi. There is very close relation to the Bansuli temple near Kotpad so also to the Phampuni Mahishasuramardini that is now located in the forest of the village. It may be that the deity was also worshipped in the past with Human sacrifice and in 321 Dynasty History of United Koraput 322 later course when it was stopped the deity was placed in isolation with out any worship. Similar is the Mahishasuramardini in Podagada ruins in the Umerkote area. The Jeypore Kalika temple and the Kanaka Durga of the Jeypore Palace had the very similar history. So at a point of time these temples of the Kings of Bastar and Jeypore had the tradition of Human sacrifice in annual terms and it got spread all through the muthas except for the Sabara tribe who did not believe in the concept. Hira Lal wrote, “For the support of the e, an estate consisting of several villages is attached--. Danteswari temple Bhairamgarh is about 70 miles west of Jagdalpur and has three or four temples, together with the remains of a fort and a ditch and several tanks. There is an inscription on a pillar, and at Potinar, a village near Bhairmgarh, there is a slab inscribed on four sides (This has been now removed to a roadside place called Jangla, six miles north of Potinar, for easy access.). Gadia is 20 miles west of Jagadalpur and has a stone temple with no idols, but built in the same style as those of Barsur. About 400 yards away there is a big inscription and a linga was found buried in a brick mound. Narayanpal and Kuruspal are quite close to each other, the former being situated on the river Indravati. Near these villages are the forts of Rajapur and Bodra, and not far away the beautiful falls of the Indravati at Chitrakut, present a magnificent appearance. Narayanpal is only 6miles from the Gadia and has an old temple, an image of Vishnu, and an inscription. Sunarpal and Chapka are with in 12 miles from Narayanpal.Chapka has number of Sati pillars, several of which are inscribed. Tirathgarh also contains some temples and relics. Dongar is a place where according to custom the present Rajas go to be crowned. Here on of the queens, whose fingers were chopped off by royal orders and who ventured to inform her father, writing the letter with the blood so wantonly split, was buried alive. The pit which is still pointed out was once disturbed by a greedy Raja of the same family, who also brought down the temple of Narayanpal and some others in search of supposed buried treasure.” Reference 1. Hira Lal. E.I. Vol. IX. p. 161. 322 Dynasty History of United Koraput 323 KALACHURIS OF TRIPURI The Kalachuris of Tripuri are also known as the Kalachuris of Dahala. They came from country around Jabalpur of Madhya Pradesh that became very powerful and famous during Gangeyadeva, who assumed the title of Vikramaditya. Mirashi, however believed that these two dynasties are related (2) Kalachuris came to be known as the chaidyes or the lord of the Chedi country (3). He made a confederacy with Paramar Bhoja and Rajendra Chola and invaded Deccan who was ruled by Chalukya Jayasimha II, but the later succeeded in dispensing Gangeyadeva (4). Gangeyadeva came to the throne before A.D. 1019. He then invaded Kosala and defeated King Somavansi Mahasivagupta Yayati. After victory over the Somavansis Gangeyadeve he reached seashore over running the Utkala (5). He was assisted in that expedition by Kamalaraja of the Kalachuri family of Tummana (6). Kalachuris of Ratnapur (7) and invasion of Chakrakota and South Kosala Kalingaraja, a remote lineage to Kokalla I, founder of Kalachuri of Tripuri, conquered South Kosala and established his capital at Tummana, modern Tuman of Bilaspur district in Madhya Pradesh during early 11th century (8). His son Kamalaraja helped his overlord Gangeyadeva in conquering Utkala (9) He was succeeded by grandson Ratnaraja, then grandson Prithivideva and the great grandson Jajalladeva I succeeded him in A.D. 1114 who became independent from Kalachuris of Tripuri when they began to decline. He took Somesvara I, the Naga king of Chakrakota (Bastar), who had occupied a part of Dakshina-Kosala (10). He invaded Orissa and defeated Bhujavala, the Chief of Suvarnapura now Sonepur. He claims have received tributes (11) from the chiefs of the ‘mandalas’ of Dakshina-Kosala, Dandakapura, Nadavali and Kukkuta , Khimidi of present Ganjam district, Orissa. Jajalladeva was succeeded by his son Ratnadeva II before A.D. 1126. He had repulsed an attack of Anantavarman Chodaganga (12) and Ratnadeva II before A.D. 1128 and 1141. His minister, Jagapala conquered the forts of Saraharadh, Mavakasiha (va) and Bhramaravdra-desa, and took Kantara, Kusuma-bhoga, Kandase (hav) ra, and Kakayara-desa. His younger son Jajalla II succeeded him after A.D. 1158 (13). The Kalachuri presence in Bastar - Koraput region is known from two villages that still bear their name. A Kalachuri village is on way to Jagdalpur from Bastar 323 Dynasty History of United Koraput 324 village; another Kalachuri village name is found near Kolab village in Koraput block of Koraput district. Recent Kalachuri coins finds in Koraput district and Bastar district attach more significance. However, the Koraput Kalachuri coins await study and report. The Telugu Choda family that helped the Naga king of Bastar in conquering Sonepur region, at the end ousted the Somavamsi prince Somesvara from the region and made themselves the master of it. They were feudatory family ruling over a small principality with the capital at Barasur, modern Barsur in Bastar and owing their allegiance to the Naga kings of that State. In the later period of region of Somesvara III their relationship with Bastar appeared to have changed. It was noticed that Somesvara III changed his feudatory titles and even assumed the imperial title of Chakravartin. The Telugu Choda chiefs were under the Naga king Somesvara I who was a very powerful monarch and had a long reign from 1069 to 1110 A.D. It is after his death or defeat at the hands of Jajalladeva I, the Kalachuri king of Ratnapur, that Somesvara III would have changed his relationship with his overlord family. Thus at the defeat and death of the Naga king Somesvara that the Telugu Choda Somesvara III in his semi-independent status did not last long and he was defeated and probably killed by the Kalachuri king Jajalladeva I in about 1119 A.D., which led to the extinction of the Telugu Choda rule in the Sonepur reign. There was a long battle between the rulers of Ratnapur and the Ganga kings of Orissa for the possession of the Sonepur region, which Gangas claimed as the successor of Somavansis of Orissa. 324 Dynasty History of United Koraput 325 References 1. Ray. H.C., Dynastic History of North India, pt. 11, p.75 2. C.I.I, IV, pt. Ip.IXVIII. 3. Sharma, R.K. The Kalachuris and Their Times pp. 9ft. 4. Kulenur Inscription; E.I. XV.p. 330, Also IA, V.p.17. 5. C.I.I, IV. Ins. No. 50, V, 17 and 51, v.18. 6. Ins. No. 76, I.B 7. C.I.I, CIF, Iv ins. No.76, 8. Ibid. Ins. No. 77.V.7. 9. Ibid. IV. Ins. No. 76, V.9 10. Ibid IV, Ins. No. 77. 11. Ibid IV. Ins. No. 93 V.5. 12. E.I. XIII, Ins. No. 88 v. 15-17. 13. C.I.I. IV. Inse Nos. 107 and 108 325 Dynasty History of United Koraput 326 TELUGU CHODA IN CHAKRAKOTA AND SOUTH KOSALA The Cholas in the Telugu country are heard of from early times. A branch of Telugu Cholas of Konidena A.D. 1050 to 1300 ruled in Kammanadu with its capital at Konidena, now modern Guntur district of Andhra Pradesh. The Konidena record says that Karikala was the greatest of his line. They were from solar race and Kasyapagotra. Rai Bahadur Hiralal, V.V.Mirashi, D.C. Sircar, R.D. Banerji K.C. Panigrahi and P.K. Nayak have given detail account of Telugu Chodas history in their respective works. A Telugu Choda line ruled in Chakrakota (Bastar) and later South Kosala. The following inscriptions are relevant to them: The Kumarisimha, (1) Patna Museum plates (2) issued from Suvarnapura that had been previously the capital of Kosala Somavansi describe that Somesvara II, a king of Telugu Choda who belonged to Kasyapa gotra and the Chola or Choda family, which is described as the race of sun. He was a devotee of Siva as well as Vishnu and is described as the worshipper of the god Vaidayanath whose temple is situated on the river Tel, about 30 km from Sonepur. The Somesvara II appears have flourished about the first quarter of the 12th century and have been responsible for the final expulsion of the Somavansi Kumara Somesvara from Suvarnapura (1059 A.D.). The Barsur and Potinar inscriptions (3) of A.D. 1060 showed Mahamandalesvara Maharaja Chandraditya was the ruler of Ammagrama, as the feudatory of the Chhindaka Naga King Dharavarsha Jagadekabhushana whose capital was Barasur of present Bastar. The present Dasmantpur on the eastern side of Bhairaba Singapur of Koraput district was the placed named after him as Yasmantpur that became Dasmantpur or Dhasmantpur in due course of time is postulated. The stone inscription of Dantewara cited by Bell (4) indicates that a Nagavamsi king of Bastar had purchased a site at Borigumma from its owner to donate to a temple. It is possible that the feudatory king of Telugu Choda were the one to do so because their overlord was a worshipper of Vishnu thus being Saivas they had to purchase; and do it at personal level. Moreover, the large Ganesh of Barsur and one at Nandapur of Koraput also suggest it that the former was under the rules of Telugu Chodas for some time. . 326 Dynasty History of United Koraput 327 The last ruler Somavsavara III, known as Bhujavala in the Kalachuri records, was driven out from Sonepur by Jajalladeva (1090-1120 A.D.) , the Kalachuri king of Ratnapur (5). Chandraditya, at Barsur (present Barasur of Bastar district), the capital of his over lord Chhindika Nagas, had built a temple of the god Chandradityesvara and excavated at tank called Chandradita- samudra and planted a garden in his name as Nandanavana (6). The Telugu Chodas of Bastar and South Kosala had the same gotra and clan of origin from solar race, like that of Telugu Chodas flourishing in different parts of Andhra during the period. Thus it can safely be concluded that the Telugu Chodas came to Bastar from south. They owned allegiance to the Chalukya emperors of Kalyana; it is not unlikely that Challam or his son entered Bastar country in the train of Vikramaditya VI who is known to have led an expedition against the eastern countries some time during the resign of his father Somesvara I Ahavamalla (A.D.. 1043-68)(7). Another Mahada plate (8) according to D.C. Sircar reads Somesavara Dharalladeva-Varman Somesvaradeva-Verman (Somesvara III) The Telugu Choda rule in Sonepur began with the conquest of the tract by Naga king Somesvara I of Bastar and continued to exist for a period of about 10 years after his death (9). The occupation of Sonepur by Kalachuris of Ratnapura is indicated by occurrence of their gold coins in that region (10). An interesting episode about the defeat of Somesvara, the Nagavansi ruler of Chakrakotya (Bastar-Koraput), in the hands of Jajalladev I, have been described in verse 22 of his Ratnapur stone inscription. Welcoming to it, “the (Jajalladeva I) who is possessed of all the sever kinds of fortune; (by whom) was seized in battle Somesvara —- was burnt by him after slaying (his) immense army; and by whom was capture and then released at his mother’s words, the group of (his) ministers and wives; - say have you seen or heard of such prince on earth.” Jajalladeva attack on the Chhindka Naga feudatory of Chakrakotya (Bastar- Koraput) and defeat of its ruler, Somesra followed in retaliation of the later’s conquest of a part of the territory of Dakshina Kosala, the claim about which has been made in the Kuruspal stone inscription (11) His son Ratnadeva II succeeded Jajalladeva before A.D. 1126. He had repulsed an attack of Anantavarman Chodaganga and his feudatories Ratnadeva II succeeded 327 Dynasty History of United Koraput 328 by his son Prithvideva II between A.D. 1128 and 1141 (12). His minister, Jagapala conquered the tracts of Saraharagadh, Mavakasiha (va) and Bhramaravdradesa, and took Kantara (may be north Koraput part), Kusuma- bhoga (may be Kusumi), Kandase (hav) ra, (some with as Konda dongra) and Kakayara-desa (may be Kakrigumma). He was succeeded by his younger son Jajalla II after A.D. 1158. (13) The Telugu Choda family, which helped the Naga king of Bastar, in conquering the Sonepur region, at the end outsted the Somavamsi prince Somesvara from that reign and made themselves the master of it (14). They were feudatory family ruling over a small principality with the capital at Barasuru, modern Barsur in Bastar and owing their allegiance to the Naga kings of that State. In the later period of reign of Somesvara III their relationship with Bastar appeared to have changed. Dr. D.C. Sircar has noticed that Somesvara III changed his feudatory titles and even assumed the imperial title of Chakravartin (15). The Telugu Choda chiefs were under the Naga king Somesvara I who was a very powerful monarch and had a long reign from 1069 to 1110 A.D. It is after his death or defeat at the hands of Jayalladeva I, the Kalachuri king of Ratnapur, that Somesvara III would have changed his relationship with his over lord family (16). Thus at the defeat and death of the Naga king Somesvara that the Telugu Choda Somesvara III, in his semi-independent status did not last long and he was defeated and probably killed by the Kalachuri king Jajalladeva I in about 1119 A.D., which led to the extinction of the Telugu Choda rule in the Sonepur region (17). There was a long battle between the rulers of Ratnapur and the Ganga kings of Orissa for the possession of the Sonepur region that Gangas claimed as the successor of Somavansis of Orissa (18). Genealogy of Telugu Chodas of Bastar and South Kosala While Patna Museum plates indicate, Challama Yasoraja I Somesvara I-b Chadraditya 328 Dynasty History of United Koraput 329 Chandraditya Yasoraja II Somesvara II (1069-1088 A.D.) Dharalladeva (1088-1095 A.D.) Somesvara III (1095-1119 A.D.) ARCHAEOLOGY REMAINS OF BASTAR Barasur Mama Bhanja Siva temple Barasur Siva temple- Siva linga 329 Dynasty History of United Koraput 330 Barasur ruins Barasur Siva temple Ganesha, Barasur Archaeological Remains, Barasur Barasur twin Siva Temple 330 Dynasty History of United Koraput 331 References 1. I.K.H.R.S.I, pp. 229 ff. 2. E.I. XIX, pp. 97ff. 3. Rai Bahadur Hiralal, Inscriptions of Central Provinces and Berar. pp. 158 ff. 4. Bell, R.C. (1943) Gazetteer, Koraput. 5. Panigrahi; K.C. Chronology of the Bhauma. Kara and the Somavamsis of Orissa. 6. E. I. XIX, pp. 97 ff. 7. Sircar, D.C. Some Southern Dynasties in Madhya Pradesh and Orissa, pp. 7-11. 8. E.I.XX VIII, pp. 283 ff. 9. Ibid. and E.I. XXVIII, pp. 283 ff 10. C.I.I. IV, Pt. 11, pp. 404-416 and Orissa Hist. R.J.; Vol. I. pp. 36 ff and the plate. 11 E.I.X, p. 25 and IX P 28, Hiralal, ICPB, No: 273. 12. Panigrahi; K.C. op.cit. pp. 43 ff. 13. E. I. VoI. XX VIII. pp. 288-289. 14. E. I. Vol. XXVIII, p. 286. 15. N.A.H.O., 1, p.21 and N.K. Sahu (History of Orissa, pp 198-203. 16. Mirashi, Corp. Ins. Ind. Vol. IV, Part 1, pp. CXXIII-CXXII. 17. I.A.S.B. Vol. 1, 1905, pp. 19ff and Banergi, R.D. History of Orissa, Vol.1, p. 261 ff. E.I. Vol. XXIX, p.125. 331 Dynasty History of United Koraput 332 TELUGU IN DANDAKARANYA More reasonable is the view that the Andhras lived in Eastern Dekkan between the rivers Godavari and Krsna. A critical evaluation of the information supplied by the Asokan Edicts leads us to locate the Andhras only in the above region was the opinion of B.S.L. Hanumantha Rao (1). Satavahans had founded their empire in West Maharashtra who were of Andhra or Telugu stock, thus identified. (2) P.T. Srinivasa Ayyangar thinks that the Andhras were a Vindhyan tribe and that they extended from the west to the east down the Godvari and the Krishna valleys (3).I shall limit my discussion to the theory forwarded by D.R. Bhandarkar, who observed: ‘The Telugu country lying between the rivers Krishna and Godavari is called Andhra-desa at present. But whether or not it was the original home of the Andhras, has been called in question. One Buddhist (Serivanija) Jataka, however, speaks of two traders going form the Seriva kingdom to a town called Andhrapura situated on the Telavaha river. Andhaura certainly corresponds to the Sanskrit Andhrapura, and as pura is invariably used in early Pali literature to signify ‘a capital town’, Andhrapura must mean the capital town of the Andhra kingdom. The river Telavaha is either the modern Tel or Telingiri both not far distant from each other and flowing near the confines of the Madras Presidency and the Central Provinces. This, indeed, locates the original Andhra country which must, therefore, have comprised parts of both these provinces. (4)’ Map showing origin of Telnadi from Koraput district 332 Dynasty History of United Koraput 333 River Telingiri is flowing in Bhairaba Singapur area of Borigumma and joining the river Indravati in the Koraput district of Orissa that joins river Godavari flowing down south. Andhri Bastar-Koraput-Kalahandi region with the capital, at Podagada in its centre was the cradle of culture and early home land of Nalas (5). The village Keselaka of the Kesaribeda grant of Nalas has been identified with the present village Kesaribeda, the find spot of the grant, in the Umerkot taluka of Koraput district and is located at a distance of 25 kms to the nort-west of Puskari near the source of the river Tel. (6) The find spot of Kesaribeda charter and its vicinity is full of ruins. G. Ramdas (7) who visited the site in 1944 repots the existence of 5 mounds of rubble and pieces of bricks and a tank of 100 yards. ------- There is a village named ‘Andhri’, one mile away from Kesaribeda and at the source of the river’Tel’.(8)This river Tel, a tributary of Mahanadi, is originating from Umerkote area of Koraput district which is flowing at present near the borders of present Chhattisgarh and Orissa, but not very far from Andhra Pradesh. Basing on the geographical presentation of the river Telivaha with reference to the Serivanija Jataka (9) I am of the opinion that the Andhri village with its rich archaeological finds may be the Andhranagari of the past. However, Raychaudhuri is inclined to identify the Telivaha with river Krsna (10). References 1. Hanumantha Rao, B, S.L Archaeological Series No. 69. Religion in Andhra. p.13 2. Chattopadhyaya, S. Some Early Dynasties of South India.p.2. 3. I.A. 1913, 276-78 4. I.A. 1918, 71 5. Patel, C.B. Dynastic History of Nalas.1990. p. 45. 6. Ibid. p.74-75 7. E.I.XIX, pp.100-104, Lines13 and 14. 8. Ibid. P.168 9. Cowell, C.B. Jataka Book, I, No.3. 10. Smith, V.Early History of Deccan.p.27 333 Dynasty History of United Koraput 334 TRILINGA AND TELINGA IN KORAPUT CONTEXT Trilinga, Telinga as a geographical term have been of interest to the historians since long. The Trilinga, Telinga review and sequences basing on epigraphic sources and others have been detailed by and Acharya (1952) (1). I have reviewed extensively the literature and available reviews on Telingi and Trilingi in the Chapter, “Trilinga, Telinga and Trikalinga in Bastar-Koraput Context”. However I am giving the glimpses of it once again for the reference of the reader. The assumptions of earlier scholars that the territory of Trilinga comprises three parts, viz, Northern, Central and Southern parts of Orissa and also by others that it meant three contiguous regions, such as Kalinga, Utkala and Kangoda have now proved to be wrong, as said by Tripathi, 1985. (2). On the other hand, scholars have taken it to mean a separate region suited to the western part of Kalinga. The inscriptions of Amma I clearly indicates that it was a forest country. So it can definitely be said that this region forms southern border of the South Kosala kingdom of the Somavamsis, the South-eastern border of Tripuri kingdom of the Kalachuris, the northern border of the Vengi kingdom and western side of the Eastern Gangas of Kalinganagara. This hilly and forest regions of Koraput and Bastar which are even in the present day covered with dense forest, some of its areas are still inaccessible were considered to be one of the most important strategically important units. This was also one of the reasons given by the historians that the enmity between the Kalachuris of Tripuri and the Somavamsis was possibly their respective claim over the possession of the Trilinga and Trikalinga region. In verse 2 of the Bahmesvara inscription Janamejaya has been described as lord of Trilinga (Trilingadhipati) and the conqueror of Odradesa. But Janamejaya’s copper plate grants mention that he had the title of Trikalindhipati and not Trilingadhipati. (3). He was ruling between 880 to 920 A.D. The Trilinga has been identified and cited from the following epigraphic sources.  Akkalapundi grant of Singaya-Nayaka (4) of the year 1368 AD mentions Desastrilinganama and Trilingadesadhipat.  Srirangam plates of Mummandi-nayaka (5) of the year 1358 AD gives the boundary of Tilinga, which is “to the West and the East, two famous countries Maharastra and Kalinga; to the south and the north 334 Dynasty History of United Koraput 335 Pandya and Kanyakuvja, it is that country which is called Trilinga”. The above two inscriptions belong to the same family.  Purle plates (6) of Indravarman the lord of whole Kalinga (Sakala Kalinga) mentions that the donee came from Tilinga and got land in Kalinga. The date of this plate was assigned to 631 AD (7). These inscriptions give a history of Trilinga from the 7th Century onwards upto 14th century AD. The Trilinga has been mentioned in Puranas and in Sankrit literature in Markandey Purano, Vayu Purano. According to Acharya, the Trilinga cannot be taken as a mistake for Trikalinga (8). G.Ramdas has quoted a verse from a work called Trilinga Gramma belonging to the 12th Century AD (9).  The Thana plate (10) of Ram Chandra of the year 1272 mentions the defeat of Tilingas (Tlingatunga-tarunmulana-damatavala). Trilinga from foreign sources:  ‘Taranatha’ wrote Caldwell ‘repeatedly designates the Telugu country Trilinga’ and describes Kalinga as a portion of Trilinga and Kalingapura as its capital (14). Taranatha’s Tibetan History of the propagation of Buddhism in India’ was written in 1573 AD (11).  The Arab and Persian authors write Tilong and Tilingana (12).  Ptolemy’s (c.150 AD) writing has been translated as Triglypton or Trilingon. But it is bit surprising that only after the year 1000 AD the name of the country was met after Ptolemy. The above reference clearly shows that the antiquity of Trilinga is well established for a period of 1500 years from 15 AD from the time of Ptolemy to Taranatha.  Cunningham suggested that the Sankrit equivalent of the Greek Trilingon is Trikalinga and Trilinga (13). But Caldwell very rightly doubted this identification and wrote “General Cunningham thinks Telinga derived, not from Trilinga, but from Trikalinga, but this derivation of the word needs to be historically confirmed Kalinga and linga may probably in some way be connected, but the nature and history of connection have not as yet been made out”(14). Again elsewhere he writes “the foreign name Trilinga must have been the name by which the place was called by the natives of the place, whilst Triglypton or Trigly-phon must have been a translation of the name which had come into use amongst the Greeks. Hence the 335 Dynasty History of United Koraput 336 antiquity of Trilinga, as the name of the State, or of the capital city of a State, situated somewhere in India in Ptolemy’s time must be admitted to be established” (15).  McCrindle fully agrees with Caldwell and writes “The Andhras and Kalinga, the two ancient divisions of the Telugu people are represented by Greeks and Gangetic nations. It may be taken as certain that Triglyphon, Trilinga or Modolinga was identical with Telingana or Trilingam, which signifies the country of the three lingas. Pliny and Ptolemy fix the Telugu name and language as near the mouths of the Ganga or between the Gangas and the Godavari. Modo or Modogas equivalent to mudu of modern Telugu means three (16). McCrindle’s Ptolemy was published in 1885 and Yule and Burnell’s Hobson Jobson was first published in 1886 and from the following note on Telenga, it appears that the authors had not the occasion to take advantage of McCrindle’s views because this note seems to support the views expressed by Cunningham in his Ancient Geography of India which was published in 1871 was remarked by Acharya, P. (17).  The McCrindle’s researches on Ptolemy’s Geography were confined to the study and identification of places in India alone, but Girini’s researches on Ptolemy’s Geography were extended to further India and Indo-Malayan Peninsula. Girini writes that “the Andhras of Orissa and Telengana in conjunction with their near relatives, the Kalingas, founded, it appears, in that region, kingdom consisting of three districts or separate communities called Tri-Kalinga or Trilinga, a name from which the town Telengana was derived and employed to designate the country of Kalinga proper, on the western side of the Gulf of Bengal, as well as the country of Mons or Telenga (Talaings) on the opposite shore, which had been colonized by them”(18). The identity of Trilinga with Trikalinga as said in the extract is attributed to the influence of Cunningham on Girini. There is no direct reference to or even tradition of Trikalinga, has been recovered in any of the works on this subject of the further India up till now.  The Burma colonisation by the people of Kalinga or Trilinga of India proper is forgotten to the extent that in Eastern India the traditions are even silent. The study of history in Burma, Siam, Cambodia, Java etc. has dispelled the obscurity of the then history of Eastern India has become brighter now. Kalinga is mentioned as a civilised country in the Dhauli edict of Ashoka and the title of Kalingadhipati of Kharavela is found from Hatigumpha inscription (19). 336 Dynasty History of United Koraput 337  “The coast of Kalinga appears to be that of the continent which commences with the Archipelago at an early date and emigration thither was most ripe; and the name appears to have been in great measure adopted in the Archipelago as the designation of India in general or of the whole of the peninsular part of it. Throughout the book of Malay historical legend called Sijara Malaya the word Kalinga or king is used for India in general but more particularly for the southern parts”(20).  Acharya wrote, “The geographical and ethnical names such as Sriksetra (21) Utkala (22) Kalingarattah (23) and Tilanga (24) in Burma shows the influence of the people of eastern India on the western side of the Bay of Bengal who established their colony there before the Asokan period. But we have not yet got any reference from Indian sources to Trikalinga in that period. The remark of the reviewer of the Gazetteer of the Pegu district is worthwhile quoting here in this connection. “The only city of Pegu is referred to in inscriptions of the eleventh and twelfth centuries as Ussa Pegu and the identification of Ussa with Orissa have been placed beyond doubt in Mr. Duroiselle, the Government Epigraphist. The long debated question of the origin of the name Talaing may also be looked upon as settled. According to Mr. Stewart the non-inhabitants of the country were confounded by the Burmese with Indians from Kalinga (Taleing) and Orissa (Ussa)” (25). The assumption of the title Tri-Kalingadhipati by the Somavamsins, who also called themselves Kosal-endra or ‘Lord of Kosala’, would show that Tri-Kalinga. It must be remembered in this connection that the Panduvamsins, who were lineal ancestors of the Somavamsins, also ruled over South Kosala and when under pressure from other powers they were forced to shift eastward and southward, they naturally moved towards the Kalahandi-Koraput-Bastar region. For some time they could have continued to hold a part of Kosala together with the adjoining area. And lastly, the assumption of this title by some later members of the Kalachuri dynasty as well as the continuation of its use by the later Eastern Gangas would show that it was a bone of contention among them as well as the Somavamsins and the Eastern Calukyas. ” (26) He further continued; “The above is only a very rough indication of the areas comprised in the three Kalingas, and it is impossible in the present state of disinformation to be more precise. Perhaps, none of the kings who assumed the title Tri-Kaling-adhipati controlled at any time of their rule the whole of Tri- Kalinga; but even capture of a part of it, temporary or permanent, was thought 337 Dynasty History of United Koraput 338 enough to justify the assumption of this title. This was true of the Somavamsins also as they could control only a part of Orissan region of Tri-Kalinga adjacent to South Kosala, viz., Koraput-Kalahandi-Bastar” (27). R.Subba Rao writes that ‘Trikalingas’ are Utkala or north Kalinga, Kalinga proper and Tel Kalinga or South Kalinga” and Trikalinga country “extended from the river Ganges in the north to the river Godavari in the South” (28). Garh Dhanora and Telingi The Garh Dhanora is located 8 kms from Keskal; one has to take left turn after traveling 3 kms from Keskal, towards Jagdalpur (Chhattisgarh State) in NH 43 road and after 5 kms comes the Garh Dhanora village. The ruins of temples in terms of mounds are located about 1.5 kms from the said village. More precisely, its location is on the banks of Lingdarha Nadi or river flowing from Telin Ghatt of Keskal. The river derives its name Lingdarha from the Sivalingas of Garh Dhanora.Inbetween Garh Dhanora and Upar Murwend is the Semla located amidst the dense forest. Map showing Garh Dhanora, Telin Ghat, Lingdara Nadi and Semla 338 Dynasty History of United Koraput 339 There are three Siva Lingas.Larger one still in place over the mound. It is made up of finely polished granite stone and it is about six feet in length and equal in girth. The other two smaller Lingas are called Bamhanin Devi. I wish to impress upon the fact that the words with post fix’linga’ always indicative of a name related to ‘Siva linga”, thus the name of the temple and thence the name of the site has been derived. There are specific examples as Kimling, Khaling, Kotilingi, Tsrling, Dhobalinga, Odilinga etc. So Telingi is no exception to it. Acharya said,’ regarding the location of Trilinga or Trikalinga, it is difficult to say anything definite on the point. From the epigraphic references it appears that it extended from Godavari in the south to river Tel on the north along the western border of Kalinga and Tosala, and the south borders of Dahala and south Kosala. It roughly included the ex-States of Kanker; Bastar, Kalahandi, the hilly portions of Ganjam and Koraput and some portions of the M.P. roughly comprising Jhadakhand or Gondwana of the Mughal period (29).’ However, as of now, the boundary of Trikalinga has been well defined by historians. On the above light, I am of the opinion that the Trilinga region refers to Bhongapal Buddhist Chaitya and neighbouring Telin ghatt of Keskal in Bastar and extending upto Telingiri river of Borigumma in Jeypore plains of Koraput district in Orissa. . This has Saiva, Vaisnava and Buddhist relevance and has been discussed in detail. Reference 1. Acharya, P (1952) Trilinga, Trikalinga, Kalinga, Odra and Utkala, OHRJ Vol.I (1) 93ff. 2. Tripathy, S. OHRJ, XXXI, Nos. 2, 3 and 4, p. 143 ff. 3. OHRJ, Vol. XXXI, No. 2, 324 pp 143 ff 4. E.I. Vol. XIII, p.362 5. E.I. Vol. XIV, p.90 6. Ibid, Vol. XIII, p. 199 & 202. 7. Ibid, Vol. XIV, p.362 8. JAHRS Vol. VI, p.79. 9. OHRJ. Vol. I, No. 1 p.93 ff. 339 Dynasty History of United Koraput 340 10 I.A. Vol. XLII, 1925, pp 35-37. 11. Ibid. p.9 12. Pre. Arya and Pre-Dravidian. p.76. 13. Ancient Geography of India, 1924, p.524. 14. Comparative Grammar of the Dravidian Language 1913, p. 29. 15. Ibid. p.77 16. Ptolemy’s Ancient India by Mr. Crindle, 1927, p. 234 17. Acharya, P. OHRJ, Vol.I (1), p.98. 18. Gerini’s Research on Ptolemy's Geography of Eastern Asia, p.139 19. Hobson Jobson, kling, p.488 20. Goromo p.66 21. Ibid.p.73 22. Ibid. 32 23. Ibid.p.30 24. JRAS, 1918, p.150. 25. The Ancient Geography of India, 1924, p. 594. 26. Ibid. p. 184. 27. E.I. V, 133, text-line 17. 28. I.H.Q Vol. VIII p.29. 29. Acharya, P. OHRJ, Vol.I (1), p.116. . 340 Dynasty History of United Koraput 341 DYNASTIES IN SOUTH KALINGA There were several small kingdoms in South Kalinga after 12th Century. Yashoda Devi wrote, “Southern Kalinga in the medieval period consisted of many a small kingdom ruled over by many a local dynasty. Such were the Matsyas of Oddadi, the Gangas of Jantarnadu, the Pallavas of Virakuta, the Silas of Nandapura etc besides the Chalukyas and the Haihayas. All these dynasties had allegiance to the Eastern Ganga emperors whose control over Trikalinga or the Kalingan empire was never effective in this period and was definitely on the downward move in the latter part the local dynasties grew stronger as the central power grew weaker. Kalinga especially South Kalinga – was the invading ground for the conquerors from the south, west and north – the Cholas, the Chalukyas and the Muslims respectively.”(1) This sounds natural for the names of some of the dynasties – for instance the Gangas, the Matsyas, the Chalukas, the Konas and the Pallavas are exactly same as those some of the major dynasties and subsidiary powers in South-India- suggesting, obviously their southern origin, though it is not possible to see when and how they separated from the major dynasties migrated (2) and settled down in South Kalinga. Present works on the subjects of dynasties in South Kalinga after 12 th century has given the glimpses of it but more work on the aspect is required in future. Political condition in South Kalinga at the end of the 12th Century The Ganga emperors in this period were---- Anantavarman Chodaganga till A.D.1148, his son Kamarnava (A.D. 1148-1158), his brother Raghava (A.D. 1156-1170) and Rajaraja II, the third son of Anantavarman (A.D. 1170-1190) his younger brother Anangabhima II or Aniyankabhima (A.D. 1190-1198) and Rajaraja III (A.D. 1198-1212). “With the accession of Rajaraja III a new era begins in Orissan history (3).” The rulers between Anantavarman and Rajaraja III were not powerful. Consequently the political atmosphere was conducive for the rise of new dynasties. And one such was the Matsya dynasty of Oddadi. The Matsys of Oddadi A.D. 1200-1470 An important dynasty in South Kalinga, the Matsyas ruled over the Matsyadesa i.e. Oddadivishaya (A.D.1200-1470) with capital at Oddadi, 16 miles from Anakapalle in Vizagapatam district for a period of two and half centuries from 341 Dynasty History of United Koraput 342 about A.D. 1200 to 1470. Their ancestry goes back to the 5th century A.D. The Matsyas had their own crest seal and coinage and two Matsyas i.e. double fish was their emblem. They may have had some connection with the Pandyas whose emblem was also fish. (4). The Matsya kings were great warriors and had important military successes to their credit. They contracted alliance of marriage with the Pallavas of Virakuta, the Gangas of Jantarnadu etc. Occasionally, the Matsya expeditions reached Draksharama. Sources and origin Inscriptions – all stone records except the Dibbida copper plate grant in the Madras Museum (5) form the main sources for the history of the Matsyas. References in the records of the Pallavas of Virakuta, Gangas of Janturnadu and the Reddis give some additional but important details. The Mythical ancestry of the Matsyas is as follows It is opined that the first rule of Matsya line ruled at the place Matsyakhuna in the vicinity of modern Kompagude (Kuphgudu) in Jeypore estate (present day Koraput district). (6) After Satya martanda, a long line of Matsya rulers ruled over Oddadi. A Matsya family is mentioned in the Chipurupalle plates (7) of Vishnuvardhana ( (A.D.632) of the Eastern Chalukyas. Atavi durjaya of this family was the executor of the grant of Kalvaganda in Dimilishaya in Sarvasiddhi Taluq to two Brahmans. Chipurupalle is in Vizagapatnam district. Probably Atavi durjaya was one of the successors of Satyamartanda, and served Vishnuvardhana or else he belonged to a collateral line of the Matsya. The names Matsya kings Bhima, Vallabha, Yuddhamalla, Ganga, and Kokkila of kings seem to suggest their allegiance to the Eastern Chalukyas, but the name of other kings – Gang etc. and the location of the kingdom perhaps show that the Matsyas must have ruled Oddadi as feudatories of the Gangas of Kalinga. It may noted here, that the Kadambas in Kalinga (8) landlords of Panchavishaya alias Panchapatravishaya had also Matsya lanchana. Whether the Matsyas are related to them is not known. The Matsyas of Oddadi ere subordinate to Eastern Gangas mentions the name of Rajadhiraja (9) Other and Later Matsyas A record of Chodavaram(10) A.S.1391 speaks of Viratapasingaraju, son of Oddadi Prastapasingaraju. Pratpavallabha, a mahamandaleswara made grants for 342 Dynasty History of United Koraput 343 the increase of his sovereignty and the Matsyas chief in A.D1392 at Zuttada(11).In the third year of the Bhimraja of Matsyavamsa, some Settis made grants at Zuttada(12). The relation of Bhima to main branch Matsya is not known. Matsya kingdom ended with Sinraju in A.D.1471 and was replaced by Puspati of Viziangram and Madgole Zamindars owing allegiance to the Gajapatis. The Madgole Zamindars claim decent from the Matsyas of Oddadi and bear the title Bhupatis of Oddadi. The Zamindars of Gudda call themselves lords of Oddadi. The Bhupatis of modern Madgole became extinct in the present family of Jeypore owing to the failure of the male line in their family. The family lived in Bhupati street of Jeypore till date. The above chapter is heavily taken from Yashoda Devi’s work. References 1. Devi, Yashoda. The History of Andhra Country: The Dynasties in South Kalinga.p.306-07. 2. Ibid. 4. Sastri, K.A. Nilakanta. The Pandyan Kingdom. Pp.11,15. 3. Banerji, R.D. History of Orissa pp. 11-15. 5. EI. V. No: 14 Kielhorn: Hist. of Inscriptions p. 104 No. 600 Ins. Mad. Pres. III VG 51. 6. Devi, Yashoda. op.cit. p.308 7. K.I. V. p.108 fn 3. 8. Bharati V-I pp. 321 – 374 9. Singh Deo, K.B. cited J.O.A.Vol.I, pp26-30, Capt. Owen’s Diary of Expedition to Jeypore’ in 1855. 10. Sewell, Robert. Antiquities I p. 17 11. Mack, Ms. 15-6-26. Elliot’sInscriptions No. 58. 12. 6 of 1929-30. Yashda devi has given full account of Matsyas of Oddadi from 1200-1470A.D. in her work.’The History of Andhra Country-1000A.D.-1500A.D.. She was of the opinion that as per the names of the Kings of Matsyas of Oddadi it suggests of their alleigiance to Eastern Chalukyas; and the names of subsequent kings points to Matsyas of Oddadi as feudatories of the Gangas of Kalinga. The relations of Matsyas of Oddadi to Kadambas of Kalinga is also postulated but not clear as the later had also Matsya lanchana. 343 Dynasty History of United Koraput 344 PALLAVAS OF VIRAKUTA A dynasty of the Pallavas ruled in South Kalinga with capital at Virakuta or Viragottam for four centuries from the 11th to 14th. They owed their allegiance to the Cholas and the Eastern Gangas, except when they had to acknowledge the supremacy of the Chalukyas of Kalyani. The kings were independent, had their own coinage and Khatvanaga on their banner and were well known warriors and led expeditions of conquest. The Pallavas contracted alliances of marriage with the Silas, the Gangas of Jantaranadu etc. (1). Sources and Origin The inscriptions of the dynasty found in the temples at Drakshrama, Simhachalama. Mukhalingam and Srikurman formed the chief source. The record of the Gangas of Jantarnadu was another source that gave some references to the Pallavas of Virakuta. The Prasasti of the kings shows that the Pallava claimed their descents from Trinetra Pallava and the moon. However, the relationship of these Pallavas to the Pallavas of the south, and the time when they separated and settled in Kalinga is not apparent.Yashoda Devi wrote, “It may be surmised that when the Pallavas in the south were at the zenith of their power, a collateral branch migrated to the southern Kalinga, established a Kingdom and lived for centuries together of the Pallavas in the south ceased to exist. Unlike the records of the Matsyas of Oddadi, the records of these Pallavas do not give a mythological origin of the dynasty. Neither the relationship of these Pallavas to the Telugu Pallavas in Vengi is known from record.”(2). Suraparaju A.D 1112-1132 The King Surya or Suraparaju was an earliest member of the family as is known from records His only record is from Draksharma dated A.D 1112 and the 43rd year of Tribhuvana Chakravarti Kulottunga Chodadeva bearing the Chalukya prasasti Sarvalo-kasraya etc.(3) Surapas reign may have lasted till AD. 1132 the earliest date for his successor Bayyaraju. His Political Relations 344 Dynasty History of United Koraput 345 It is likely that Suraparaju was subdued by the Cholas during the first or second Kalinga wars. Consequently he acknowledged Chola suzerainty in his Draksharama inscription was the opinion of Yashoda Devi (4). It was Ananatavarman Choda Ganga of Eastern Ganga was the contemporary of Suraparaju. It is also postulated that Suraparaju maintained friendly relations with the petty kingdoms in south Kalinga e.g. The Matsyas, the Silas, the Gangas, the Chalukyas etc. Bayyaraju A.D 1132-1157 Bayyaraju’s relationship to his predecessor Suryaraja is not known. His earliest inscription (5) is from Draksharama dated A.D 1132 and C.V 57 registering gifts by his queen Kommidevi. His next inscription (6) is from Draksharama dated A.D 1157 mentioning gifts by his queen Lakshmi. Bayyaraju and the Chalukyas of Kalyani Bayya’s first record of A.D 1132 is dated C.V 57 (7). After that date there appear no signs of Pallava loyalty to the Chalukyas which is in keeping with the fact that the Chola suzerainty was restored in Vengi soon after by A.D 1139(8). Bayya and the Cholas None of Bayya’s records are dated in the regnal years of the Chola emperors – Kulottunga II and Rajaraja II. Bayya’s titles show that he must have fought some battles. This must have been on behalf of the Cholas against the Chalukyas. (9) Purushottama A.D 1187-1226 Mandalika Purushottama made gifts at Mukhalingam in A.D 1157 and the 22nd year of Anantavarmodeva (10) of the Gangas. It is assumed that he was a Pallava but his relationship to Bayyaraja is not known. Through none of Purushottamas later records are available; his reign may have lasted till A.D 1226- the earliest date for Bayyaraju, his successor. Purushottama A.D 1308 – 1348 Purushottama was the son of a valiant King whose name is lost in the record and Sriyadevi alias Sriangalakshmi. His earliest inscription (11) is at Simhachalam dated A.D 1308, registering gifts by the queen mother. His Political Relations 345 Dynasty History of United Koraput 346 Viragottam was invaded about A.D. 1346 by Chalukya Lakumaraja and his success was short lives as seen from later inscriptions of Pallava Narasimha are available from A.D 1348. Simhachalam record of A.D 1346 mentions Sarvalakasraya Vishnuvardhana maharaja alias Lakumaraja of Viragotta, son of Vinjamadeva and his queen Sriadevi (12). So Purushottama no doubt opposed the Chalukya armies and suffered reverse. Purushottama would have maintained friendly relations with the local powers in Kalinga except the Chalukyas. Again, Purushottama suffered a reverse in the hands of the Reddis of Kondavidu, before A.D. 1335. The date of Chimakurti c.p charter 91 of Prolaya Vama Reddi, speaking about his successes in Kalinga is indicative. The Ganga contemporaries of Purushottama were Bhanudeva II and Narasimha III, to whom his loyalty is not seen from records (13) Narasimha A.D 1348 – 1400 On his accession to the throne in A.D 1348, Narasimha made grants at Simhachalam for the increase of his country, kingdom, fame and prosperity etc. The similar records and purpose was noted by the king in A.D 1352. In a Simhachalam record (14) of A.D 1356, Purushottama of Virakuta, a moon to the ocean i.e. Pallava Kula and a destroyer of his enemies and his priya Mandanarekha, figure, Narasimha, Purushottama and Lakumadevi, the queen of Narsimha are mentioned in an inscription at Srikurman (15) dated A.D 1357. As it is Narasimha did not lead any expeditions of conquest; but had to face the Reddi armies under Katayavema, general of King Kumaragiri by A.D 1390, for Katyavema claims to have conquered Viraghotta in his Kumaragirirajiya (16) which, is attested by records (17) of the Reddis. Saubhagyadeva A.D 1400-1420 Saubhagyadeva was the son of Purushottama and a brother of Narasimha. His succession presupposes the death of Purushottama. (18) No sons and successors of Saubhagyadeva are heard of; and the Pallava territories must have come under Kapilesvara Gajapati, soon after the fall of the Ganga empire after Bhanudeva IV. It may he noted here that Sirigottam mentioned by Sewell is a mistake for Viragottam which becomes clear form a study of the Pallava records and Sewells’ notice of them in his Antiquities was remarked by Yashoda Devi The History of Andhra Country.(19). 346 Dynasty History of United Koraput 347 The above chapter is the extracts taken from the work of Yashoda Devi’ The History of Andhra Country’ and the interested workers can refer to her original work in detail from her book. References 1. Devi, Yashoda. The History of Andhra Country: The Dynasties in South Kalinga.p.321 2. Devi, Yashoda. op.cit. p321-322 3. Devi, Yashoda. op.cit. p322 4. Ibid. 5. 338 of 1893; S.I.I. IV 1220. 6. 328 Ibid. 1209 7. 338 of 1893; S.I.I. IV 1220 the Colas II, p.58 8. Devi, Yashoda. op.cit. p322-323 9. Devi, Yashoda. op.cit. p323 10. 180 of 1896; S.I.I. V1005. 11. 322 of 1899; S.I.I.VI 991. 12. 321 Ibid. 989 13. Devi, Yashoda. op.cit. p.325 14. 280 of 1899; S.I.I. VI 795 15. 275 and 276 of 1896; S.I.I. V 1154, 1155 16. Introduction to Sakuntalavyakha cited by Devi, Yashoda, p.349 17. J.A.H.R.S. XI Anaparti C.P. grant of Kamaragiri Text p.204 & 27-38 18 Devi, Yashoda. op.cit. p327 19. Ibid. 347 Dynasty History of United Koraput 348 GANGAS OF JANTARNADU A Ganga dynasty ruled over Jantarnadu (1) for about two centuries from A.D 1270 to 1461. it has been suggested that ‘Jantranadu’ is perhaps the modern name of Dantapuranadu. The Dantapura was the early capital of Gangas. (2) These Gangas were one amongst the important dynasties in South Kalinga. Their Kingdom Jantarnadu was seldom the largest of may an invader-the Reddis, the Matsyas and so forth.(3) The Gangas owed allegiance formally to the Imperial Gangas and contracted alliances of marriage with the Matsyas and the Silas.(4) Sources and Origin All the records of the Gangas of Jantarnadu dynasty except for one inscription at Boni are in Simhachalam. The records of the Gangas of Kalinga and the Matsyas give some reference to the Gangas of Jantarnadu besides the literature and inscriptions of the Reddis. (5). The Gangas prasastis were not elaborate like the Matsyas and the Pallavas. The records did not furnish details regarding their ancestry and early history. The Gangas were of Surabhikula, Gatsama dagotra and Gamgavamsa is known. The term Jantarnadu indicating the country of their rule is prefixed to the names of the kings of the dynasty. (6) No mythical ancestors of the Gangas are known. The early members of the dynasty are referred to in a general fashion in a single record which says that in Gangavamsa were born several kings (7). No details about them available. Narasimha A.D 1272 – 1285 Narasimha the earliest known ruler of the dynasty is known from his Simhachalam records dated A.D 1272. In same year, his minister Sachiva Ganesvara Chamunatha, son of Somisvaranayaka, made grants for the increase of wealth, health, valour, fame etc of the king (8). Probably Narasimha’s reign lasted upto A.D 1285, the earliest known date for his successor Ganguraju was opined.(9) His Political Relations Some of the rules contemporary with Narasimha were Narasimha I, Bhanudeva I and Narassimha II of the Gangas, Choda I of the Panchadhara, Haihayas, and Mallapa II of Elamandchili Chalukyas, Arjuna I of the Matsyas, Bayyaraju of the Pallavas of Virakuta, and Rajaraja I and Vijayadiya II of the Chalukyas of Srikurmam. (10). There no signs of allegiance of Narasimha to the Gangas. 348 Dynasty History of United Koraput 349 Gangraju A.D 1285-1319. The relationship of Gangaraja to Narashimha is not known, probably he was the son. (11.In A.D 1285 Janatranta Gangaraju made gifts at Simhachalam for the increase of this kingdom, wealth and health (12) Pratapa Gangaraju A.D 1319 – 1368 Pratapagangaraju became ruler in A.D 1319 but his relationship to Gangaraja is not known. His earliest inscription is from Simhachalam dated A.D 1319 and the 13th year of Devadideva Srijagamnatha deva (13).So Gangarajula reign lasted upto A.D 1368. His Political Relations Pratapa Ganga had a reign of fifty year. The Eastern Ganga emperor Bhanudeva II i.e. Jaganatha reigned from A.D 1307 to 1328. (14) Gangaraju’s record dated in Jaganatha’s regnal years shows his allegiance to the Ganga throne. The statement in the record that the queen of Gangaraju made the gift in charge (authority) of Sankaradesa mahasenapati (15) shows that the part of Ganga Empire in which Jantarnadu was included was in the charge of Viceroy Sankaradasa, Pratapaganga’s loyalty to the Ganga throne must have continued in the reigns of Narasimha II (1328-1353 A.D) and Bhanudeva III (1352 – 1378) (16). Gangaraja must have come into conflict with the Reddis of Kondavidu in defensive warfare. For Prolaya Vema Reddi claims to have disturbed Jantarnadu by A.D 1335 as the title Jantarnatarayahallakallola (17) indicates. Gangaraja suffered a reverse in the Reddi hands during the later’s campaign in Southern Kalinga about A.D 1334. A King A.D 1368 -1398 The name of the successor of Pratapa Gangaraja is not known. His rule must have lasted till A.D 1398- the earliest date for his successor, Sangamaraja. A record of A.D 1387 mentions Jantarnati Satyamuhadevi making gifts for the satisfaction of her desires (18). She was evidently the queen of Prataparajuna of the Matsyas of Oddadi. The later kings of the dynasty were Sangamaraju A.D. 1398-1420, Gangaraja, A.D. 1420-1440 and Singaraja and Pratapa Kumaraja, A.D. 1440-1461 ruled. It is evident from inscriptions found from Simhachalam. (19). 349 Dynasty History of United Koraput 350 The above chapter is the extracts taken from the work of Yashoda Devi’ The History of Andhra Country’ References 1. E.I. XXIp.268 2. Ibid. 3. Devi, Yashoda. The History of Andhra Country. The Dynasties in South Kalinga. p.328 4. Ibid. 5. Ibid. 6. Ibid. 7. 242 of 1899; S.I.I.VI 693 8. 242 of 1899; S.I.I.VI 693 9. Devi, Yashoda. op.cit. p.328 10. Ibid. op.cit. p.328-329 11. Ibid. op.cit. p.329. 12. 251 Ibid.713. 13. 252 Ibid.714. 14. Devi, Yashoda. op.cit. p. 330 15. 252 of 1899: VI 714. 16. Devi, Yashoda. op.cit. p.330 17. The Chimakuati e.p. Chapter E.I. XXI, No. 41 A Text p. 272 17. 18. 283 Ibid. 820. 19. Devi, Yashoda. op.cit. p.332 350 Dynasty History of United Koraput 351 NANDAPUR Nandapur is located on the banks of the river Isani Ganga or Gangeshani. This river has been regarded as sacred and compared to Kasi of north and has been called as Dakshina Kasi locally. There are numerous archeological remains left in the place, notably the Batrisha singhasana, innumerous Jain vestiges in and around the place. There are no direct evidences so far from inscriptions, what ever is known has come from other sources and places. People are of the opinion that much of the present idols and deities reported from Jeypore was due to Nandapur and were transferred during shift of capital. There is evidence that at least twice the Nandapur was capital of Suryavamsis and was shifted once to Narayanapatna and the last to Jeypore. K.B.Singh Deo (1938) had given a detail account of Nadapur Kings, later known as Jeypore Zamindars in his book entitled, ‘Nandapur- A Forsaken Kingdom’ (1). He has given a detail account of the archaeological remains, history related to the Sankara Dynasty and their relation to Silavamsi Kings and the Bhupatis of Madgole of Oddadi. He has given a detail account of the Sankara Dynasty of Nandapur from Vinyako Deo who succeeded by marriage to the only daughter of last Silavamsi King of Nandapur in 1443 and assumed the title of Nandapur Bhupati; ruled upto 1476 (2). Uma-Parbati in Nilakantheswara Temple, Sarveswara Siva temple, Nandapur Jeypore (believed to be of Sankara Dynasty) 351 Dynasty History of United Koraput 352 There are several views on the relationship and origin of Sankara Dynasty; Mr. Oram speaks.’ Ramamachandra Deo, Raja of Nandapuram, is descendent of a Rajah, formerly a servant and favourite to an ancient king of Jagannatha and sovereign of these northern circars, who gave him a daughter in marriage and bestowed this tributary principality upon him‘(3). It was early in the 15th century that the plain lands of Orissa and the northern circars passed from the sway of the Ganga dynasty to that of the Gajapati kings of Cuttack, belonging to Solar race. As the change of dynasty occurred simultaneously in Nandapur and as the new line of kings obviously to have been Oriya descent, it is extremely likely that the kingdom was concurred by Kapileswara Deva, the first of the Gajapatis as a mark of favour on one of his following--- (4)Oram’s theory is thus probably correct. A third theory is advanced by the author of a Sanskrit work called the Gangavamsa Charitra, which seems to have been written about the middle of the 18th century. This states that the eldest son of the Bhanudeva IV, the last ruler of the Ganga kings of the Kalinga, after the usurpation of his kingdom by Kapileswara Deva, went southwards and founded a kingdom at Gudari (near Gunupur) and that subsequently the Gudari Kings became masters of Nandapur. The story lacks confirmatory evidence, and is in any case suspect as the aim of the historian was confessedly the glorification of the Ganga line of Kings. This is all as per the statement given in Koraput District Gazetteer by R.C.S. Bell (1941) (5). Brusha in Sarveswara Temple, Nandapur Brusha in Nilakantheswara Temple, Jeypore The other version is due to Vadivelu’s Ruling Chiefs, Nobles and Zamindars of India that traces the descendent to ancient Kings of Kashmir and Jamu.Vinayaka Deo second son of Kambiraja Deo, the Jammu King and a descendant of 352 Dynasty History of United Koraput 353 Kankasena of the Solar race, was on pilgrimage to Benares and God Visweswar directed him to proceed to Nadapur to take up the kingdom’ (6). Vinayaka Deo’s family, the Sankara Dynasty of Jeypore/Nandapur ruled from 1443 A.D. to Indian Independence from British during 1947. Silavamsi Kings of Nandapur as per Inscriptions Vinayaka Deo married the only daughter, Lilavati of the last Silavamsi king of Nandapur and occupied the throne of Nandapur in 1443 as said above. K.B.S.Deo (1938) (7) informed that there is meager account of the Silavamsis of Nandapur; but in recent days there has been significant progress in the direction by historians; and good account can be read from the work of Yashoda Devi’s ’The History of Andhra Country-1000 A.D. to 1500 A.D.’ (8) The Silavamsa may have got their identity from the Sila river that flows close to the old fort of Nandapur.The same river then flows through Madgole, the land of the Matsya kingdom is called as Matsya or Macheru river. The Macheru or Machkund rises in the Madgole hills at about 3000 feet and then through the Padwa valley it flows down. The Paderu village is located by the side of the upper portion of Matsya or Maccha river was once the seat of the old Matsya Kings of the Oddadi country. There is a stone in the shape of Fish that was the seat where the Matsya kings were installed over as kings (9). The Madgole kings were known as Bhupatis and the Madgole family became extinct due to lack of male line (10). Paderu is now a large settlement was formerly the seat of the Old Matsya kings of Oddadi. The word Oddavadi means ’the beginning of the Oriya (11). Map showing Nandapur, Narayanapatna and Jeypore 353 Dynasty History of United Koraput 354 Silavamsi or Silas as they were known ruled from middle of the 14th century to middle of the 15th century only. Their capital was at Nandapur and Bobli (12). They had acknowledged the suzerainty of Gangas of Kalinga (13). They had continued marriage alliances with Matsyas and the Pallvas (14). The Sila were the originators of the Jeypore Estate. There is no record as to the origin of the Silas except that they were Silavamsa and Silavemsa gotra of Nandapur. Ganga ruled1300-1353 A.D. and as per inscription of Simhachalam dated 1353 A.D. (15) Visvanatha succeeded Ganga. His rule lasted till A.D. 1370 and Bhairvaraju his successor ruled from A.D.1370-1427. He is known from Simhachalam inscription dated A.D.1396. He was also known as Bayyaraju. He was then succeeded by his son, Gangaraju A.D.1427-1435 also as per Simhachalam inscription. He was also known by name Pratap Gangarajugaru.His earliest record was from Simhachalam followed by next record from Srikurmam dated 1435. He was a feudatory of Kapilesvar, thus Ganga with Gajapati support must have succeeded his enemies. Matsya contemporary of Gangaraju was Pratapavallabha the successor of Arjuna III. The Silas and the Matsyas were connected by alliance of marriages. For king Ganga’s mother, and queen of Bhairava was the daughter of Jayanta of the Matsyas and sister of Singaraju (16). Possibly the Silas were helped by the Matsyas in extending their country. A king Visveswara raju of Silavamsa A.D. 1427 is known from the Srikurmam inscription (17). He was the son-in-law of Jayanta of the Matsyas; so the Silas and Matsyas were in terms of alliance in this period. Pratapa Gangaraju of the Sila had a daughter Singama. She was married to Khajjalabhanu alias VinayakaDeva, the founder of the kingdom of Gudari. On the death of Pratapa Gangaraju in A.D.1443, the two kingdoms of Nandapur and Gudari were reunited under Vinayaka Deva. (18) Vinayaka Deva is said to have been of the Ganga family of Cuttack. According to the Jeypore Chronicle (19), Vinayaka Deva was the 33rd descendant of Kanakasena of the Solar race. He was a general and feudatory of the king of Kashmir. Left for Benares, pleased Visveswara by his penance and was directed by the God in a dream to go to the kingdom of Silas of which he would become the king. This was the findings from Yashoda Devi (20). The daughter of Pratap Gangaraju has been mentioned as Lilavati and Singama, respectively in two above reports. Nandapur Suryavamsi dynasty was born from mid fifteenth century. As I am dealing this work from BC to 1250 A.D is not with in the scope of the book to continue information on Nandapur Suryvamsis. 354 Dynasty History of United Koraput 355 The history of Nandapur has remained obscure before Silavamsa and Matsya of Oddai, because of lack of proper inscriptions and records. It is well documented fact that Koraput-Bastar remained part of the Trikalinga and the subject has been detailed out in one of the chapters. Again the history reveals the ploy of Chakrakote which comes under the geographical location of Trikalinga had remained the bone of contention for many of the Dynasties especially in the 9th and 10th century. These events are well documented in the book. The Trikalinga historical events do not specifically refer Nandapur but the Chakrakote is referred in all events. The archaeological evidence, especially the Jaina monuments do give a historical prospect to the Nandapur and is definitely earlier days to 9th century. The Eastern Ganga had played major role in Trikalinga and I have postulated the role of Western Ganga in this region and have been detailed out in one of the chapters. But though the region came under the sway of Eastern Chalukyas and the Chodas had occupied Koraput-Bastar so also the Western Chalukyas they did not leave any significant event in Nandapur and seems to have remained in the Nowrangpur and Kakrigumma tract extending into Kalinga. There can be three dimensions to investigate the history of Nandapur before 14th Century.  One can be from the records and inscriptions base  The second can be reconstruction of the history based on archaeological find in and around Nandapur  Third can be the people, the castes and Tribes in Nandapur region and their affiliation to the history if any and finally reconstruction of history based on all these lines and corroborating with the history of neighbours along with linking of routes. They are given as following, Hathigumpha Record and King Nanda Hathigumpha record in l. 6 lines states , “And, in the fifth year ( His Majesty) caused the aqueduct that had been excavated by King Nanda three hundred years before, to flow into (Kalinga) nagari through Tanasuli (very likely Tosali)”. (21) King Nanda is identified with Nandivardhana (22) Jayswal and Banerji (1929-30) wrote, “Again, we have the definite datum that Alberuni found in use in his time an era with the initial year 458 B.C., which goes 355 Dynasty History of United Koraput 356 back to the time of the first Nanda King (Nanda Vardhana) (23). The year 103 of the Nanda era would correspond to 335 B.C. when the Tansulia canal, which Kharavela extended to the capital in the fifth year of his reign, was originally excavated. If we take this Nanda to be the last Nanda, Kharavela would be referring to (325 B.C.-103=) c.222 B.C. and not to any later year. (24) There is standing controversy on Nandavardhana. It is not Nandavardhana but Mahapadma Nanda who is said to have brought ‘all under his sole sway’ and ‘uprooted all Ksatriyas’or the old ruling families. So we should identify ‘Nandaraja’ of the Hathigumpha inscription, who held possession of Kalinga either with the all-conquering Mahapadma Nanda or one of his local king of Kalinga, but the view goes against the internal evidence of the Hatigumpha inscription. As Nandaraja is said to have ruled some 300 years before Kharavela, the latter evidently flourished at the second half of the first century B.C., or somewhat later (25) The Nanda age confirms the fact that the Nandas extended their empire beyond Magadha. Unfortunately, the boundary of the Nanda empire cannot be precisely determined. H.C. Raychaudhury mentions that from the sources assignable to the commencement of Gupta Age, we may tentatively fix the southern boundary of the Nanda empire, or at least the arena of its political and military activities, at the river Godavari (26). The presence of Magadhia Gaudo in Koraput, especially around river Muran and Nandapur as well as the Nanda Gaudo in Kalhandi-Koraput region strengthens the above theory. Pravhavati Gupta and Nandapur-Nandvardana The Pravhavati Gupta, the daughter of Chandragupta Vikramaditya II had married to Rudrasena II of Vakataka dynasty (c.375-414) (27) and their country was extended up to Krishna; and their capital was Nandapur-Nandivardana. It is established her kingdom’s capital at Nandapur which is probably the same as Nandapur township in Koraput district (28). Rudrasena II passed away leaving two young sons, the eldest being 5 years of age. So his wife and queen Prabhavati-gupta ruled the kingdom until her second son took the regin.Ramagiri-svami was highly revered by the Vakatakas and Prabhavati-gupta made her last grant in his presence. It is not likely that Kalidasa too may have visited Ramagiri (Ramtek) several times in the company 356 Dynasty History of United Koraput 357 of his wards and their mother, and that it may have been during one of these visits that the idea occurred to him make this hill the place of the exile of his Yaksha in the Meghaduta? (29) There is a literary tradition that the poem Setubandha was composed by king Prvara-sena II of Kuntala soon after his accession and was later revised by Kalidasa (30). This has been well discussed in ‘Ramagiri’ chapter in this book. Nanda or Nandodbhava family Ruling Jeypore-Nandapur Majumdar and Altekar wrote, “One many point out in this connection that a king of the Nanda dynasty of Pataliputra is associated with Kalinga in the Hathigumpha inscription of Kharavela and that a Nanda or Nandodbhava family is known to have ruled in the Jeypore – Nandapur region of Orissa, at least from the ninth century A.D. (31)” Jadumani Mohapatra in his ‘The Mandala Kingdom’ cites Gayada Tunga; his Talcher Grant No.1 (32) was issued from a place called Jayapura Kotta which has been identified by some scholars with the political headquarters of the Nandodbhavas of Airavatta Mandala (33). Gayada Tunga was from Tunga dynasty was ruling Yamagaratta Mandala. It is said that in the process of amalgamation of Utkala with Kalinga, Chodoganga possibly destroyed the power of the Mathra rulers of Yamagartta Mandala (34) He further mentions, ‘Jayapura was the royal metropolis of Airavatta Mandala. It seems that the capital city was named after the founder of the Nadodbhav ruler. Jayanda, and can be identified with a village of the same name in the southern part of Dhenkanal district (35). Further he says, ‘It is the epigraphic records the rulers of Airavatta have claimed themselves as Nandodbhavas’ or as belonging to Nanda kula. N.Tripathi and D.C. Sircar subscribing his view hold that the family of Jayananda was an offshoot of the imperial Nanda family of Maghada’ (36). There is another ruler family, Varahas also known as Mauryas because of their peacock emblem claim that Uditavaraha, the first rulers of Bonai, the family had hailed from Chitrakuta. This Chitrakuta has been interpreted to Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh etc. J.K.Sahu concluded that they have origined from aboriginal tribal stock (37). 357 Dynasty History of United Koraput 358 D. C. Sirkar wrote, “Another king of the same family (Pitibhakatas) seems to have been Maharaja Nanda- Prabhanjana-varman whose Chicacole Grant bears the word Pitibhakta on its seal. The king is described as ‘the lord of the entire Kalinga Country’. His charter was issued from his vasaka at the victorious Sarapallika. Although Nanda- Prabhanjana-varman is associated with the Pitibhakta of Simhapura, it is tempting to suggest that his name indicates Prabhanjana-varman of the Nanda family to which he may have been related on the mother’s side. We know that a ruler of the Nanda dynasty of Pataliputra is associated with Kalinga in the Hathgumpha inscription of Kharavela. A Nanda or Nandodbhava family ruled the Angul-Dhenkanal region of Orissa from the ninth century, and another branch of the family flourished probably in the Jeypore- Nandapur area of the Koraput District at a later date.”(38) The remarks of Bell are, “The Savara language is said to be very similar to that of the Juangs, a primitive tribe inhabiting Keonjhar, Pal -Lahara and Dhenkanal States as also to that of the Pareng Porajas of Pottangi Taluk (Koraput District). (39)”. This has relevance, because in most of the literature the Easter Chalukyas have referred the Eastern Gangas as Savara Chiefs. We have proposed in this book that the Western Gangas are the lords of the Parenga tribe of the Koraput and one special chapter has been devoted to this effect. Historically, Western Ganga were related through marriage alliance to the rulers of Dhenkanal (Bhauma Karas of Tosali) is well established. Thus the linguistic relation with Savara and Parenga sheds the light that the Savaras as Eastern Ganga and the Parenga the Western Gangas are closely related even though they now live in distant places and have no relation what so ever. This confirms the historical hypothesis that exits till date. On the other hand the sharing of linguistic closeness between Juang, Savara and Parenga tribe; means they may have common inheritance and in past and relationship between Pal-Lahara and Dhenkanal, Anugul and the Nandapur region cannot be ruled out. This confirms the theory proposed by Sircar as indicated above. Nandivarman Pallavamalla and Nanndigrama Early in his reign Rajasimha formed an alliance with Chalukya a Vikramaditya II, espoused the cause of Chitramaya, and after inflicting a number of defeats on Nandivarman Pallavamalla besieged him in a place called Nandigrama i.e. Nandipuram, near Kumbakontam. The able Pallava general Zidayacondra, who encountered the Pandya forces in many battles, raised the siege of Nadigrama, beheaded Chitramaya, and thus made the Pallava throne secure for his monarch. 358 Dynasty History of United Koraput 359 He also delt with other enemies of Pallavamallha like the Sabara King Udayana and the Nisdha chieftain Prithivivygara who were probably acting in collision with Chalukya Vikramaditya II.(40). The Nisadha and Sabara king point out to Koraput-Kalahandi region, so Nandigrama here can mean the Nandapura of Koraput. Paliva in Nandapur is a well known Jaina monastery as evident by ruins of Jaina temple (41). The name Paliva is also indicative of the Pallava presence in the region. This requires further study. Bhatiporlu inscription and Nandapuram Bhatiporlu inscription of 2nd A.D. (from Krishna District of Andhra Pradesh) in its 3rd Stanza Manjusa denotes the name’Nandapuram’ (42) Vyghraraja in Jeypore forest tract Majumdar and Altekar are of the opinion that Vyghraraja ruled in Jeypore forest (in orissa) which is referred as Maha-Vana, a synonym of Mahakantara, in and old inscription. (43) Some Jaina Inscriptions and Trikalinga The Peddaperappadu plates of Vishamasiddhi (East Godavari dist) (44) was issued by Eastern Chalukyas of Vengi is of interest to Koraput district, Orissa. King Vishmasidhi (i.e. Vishnuvardhana II) had issued the copper plates during 7th Century A.D. It is in Sanskrit and Telugu scripts. J. Durgaprasad in Bharati published the inscription during October 1983, February 1985 and October 1984. All three sets of copper plates refer to Chalukya king Vishnuvardhan II (i.e. Vishamasiddhi) who resigned from AD 673 to 683. These plates only indicated the Vengi king’s leaning towards Jainism. Jawaharlal wrote “The register a gift of land to Jain temples given to Sri Kanakanandi acharya who belonged to yapaniya sangha by Sri Vishamasidhi (i.e. Vishnu-Vardhana-II). Further the gift of land is stated to have been given to Jain temples, situated at Kakandiparru (modern Kakinada, East Godavari District) 359 Dynasty History of United Koraput 360 Turangu (i.e. area around Turangesvara temple near Kakinada) Koyyuru (modern Kovuru, near Kakinada, East Godavari district.) Pottapi Vishaya may be identical with Pottapinadu or Virachoda inscription found at Pithapuram, East Godavari district. The other villages like Nadipur, Induru, and Partipaka of the plates are not identifiable at present. These plates throw a flood of light on the existence of Yapaniya-sangha in East Godavari district during the 7th century A.D. itself” (45). I am of the opinion that the Pottapi refers to Pottangi of Koraput that is in close boarder to Eastern Ganga. N. Venkataramanaya was of the opinion that the Pottapi-nandu and Nadupuru are located in Southern Kalinga; a detail account of is given in the following chapter. Second plate Second Face. 15. Masiddhi-maharajah-vriksha-mula (i) Yapaniyagana-tilaka. 16. Sya- Bhagavatah Kanakanandyacharyashya- Dharmopadesa-naka 17. sumishtitaya- senalayasya Bhagavata- mahatma-ba 18. li-vaisyadeva-navakaramma-saranardham-svadharmabhividdha- 19. potupa-vishaye yelinadya rrpurvata- Jamannurevu- grama- 20. ddakshine- Nadupura-gramat pacchame- isturu gramat 21. uttare-chapan madhye partipaka gramat- data I am inclined to give identification of the places as following: i. Here Potupa-vishaye yelinadya means Putura river and village ii. Jamannurevu grama is Jamunda village, which is located on the bank of Putura River in Jeypore block. iii. Dakshine Nadupura gramat is south located Nandapur iv. Paschima Isturu gramat not yet identified but it may be Ispur village on bank of Indrabati v. Uttare Chapan means Champa village of Koraput block.????? vi. Madhye Partipaka grame means Partigumpha and Puki village 360 Dynasty History of United Koraput 361 vii. Moreover, these villages incidentally still continue to be important places of Jaina deities. Chalukyas of Vemulavada and Subaie (Nandapur) It is equally interesting to learn from an inscription engraved on the wall of the Durgapancha cave that Vimaladitya’s (AD 1011-22) religious guru Trikalayogi Siddhantadeva of the Desiagana paid homage to Ramakonda with great devotion. No doubt, at first Ramatirthan was a strong hold of Buddhism during the early centuries of Christian era, for numerous Buddhist remains have been unearthed here (46). The inscription support to Jainas in Trikalinga is one yet to be established from the available findings (47). The last member of the Chalukya of Vemulavada royal family, Baddega had very strong leaning towards Jainism. Arikesarin III, son of Baddega II was also a Jaina. In his Parbhani plate Arikesarin III (A.D. 930- 955) had given a gift of village Kuttamvritti-Vaanikatupulu in the midst of Repaka-12 in the Sabbi –thousand to Somadevasuri who was the sthalapati of Subhadhama –jinalaya. (48) Present Subaie (Sabbi) Jaina temple close to Nandapur has references from Arikesarin II and III, who were the Chalukyas of Vemulavada.The following are some of the inscriptions referring to Kalinga and Vengi as well as Sabbi desa in Rupaka. TEXT 3. Arikesarin III and Parbhani plates of 966 A.D is in Sanskrit. He was from Chalukyas of Vemulavada. The inscription states that the gift given by father Arikesarin consisted of Repaka-12 in the Sabbi-Thousand, was given to Jaina divine Somadevasuri, Sthanapati of the said Jinalaya.It is also said that in the Gauda-sangha there arose a great sage called Yasodeva, his pupil was Nemideva, who had several disciples of whom Somadevasuri was the most important. So far from our studies we have come across only the above inscription which is referring to Sabbi desa (Kornel and Gamang, 2010) (49). The present Subai Jaina temple has been identified to Sabbi desa of the past. It has one Chakresvari asta bhuja to which there is reference in Arikeasarins inscription as mentioned above. At Kachela Jaina temple ruins a stone slab called ‘dhangdi pakna’ is there which may be ‘sidhasila’ because barren women come and dance on annual puja to be blessed .Again the reference to Kalinga and Vengi in the same inscription strengthens the view. Surprisingly, a Gouda family still worships the Jaina deities 361 Dynasty History of United Koraput 362 of Subai and claims it to hereditary succession. The same has relevance to Somsekharasurideva who belonged to Gaudosangha of Jainism. Patasivaram inscription of the Chalukya king Tribhuvnamalla Vira Patasivaram inscription refers the reign of the Chalukya king Tribhuvnamalla Vira Somesvara IV and mentions his feudatory Bhogadeva Cholakmaharaja as ruling from Henjery. This inscription is dated 1185 A.D (50). Further, it refers to Padmaprabha – Maladhari, disciple of Viranandi- Sidhanta – Chalkravartideva belong to Desi gana, Pustaka gacchha and Mula – Sangha. There is a village called Maldha near Honjore of Nandapur, similarly Virahandi is a village amidst Jaina Temples in Kotpad region and is famous for its Siva temple. Kornel and Gamang loc.cit. have identified the same Henjery to Devta Honjore of Nandapur. Kalachuris of Tripuri as Trkalingadhipati The Kalachuris of Dahal, the country around Jabalpur was ruled by Kalachuris of Tripuri.Karna ascended to throne between A.D.1034 and 1042. He was one of the greatest generals of his time. He assumed the title of Trikalingadhipati (51). Kalachuris of Ratnapur and Nandavalli Kalingraja, a remote descendant of one of the sons of Kokalla I (52), the founder of the Kalachuri dynasty of Tripuri, conquered South Kosala and established his capital in Tummana in Bilaspur of Chhattiasgarh. He was a feudatory to Kalachuris of Tripuri. His son and successor Kamalaraja helped his overlord Kalachuri Gangeyadeva in conquering Utkala.The tribals in Jeypore refer the Mathili region as ‘Kamalraji’; this may have been derived due to Kalachuri of Ratanpur. One of the successive kings, Jajalldeva I took the Naga King of Chakrakote (Bastar) Somesvara prisoner and released him on request of Someswar’s mother. He invaded Orissa and defeated Bhujavala, the chief of Suvarnapur the modern day Sonpur.He claims to have received tributes from the chiefs of the Mandalas of Andhra, South Kosala, Khimidi, Vairagara, Lanjika, Bhanara, Talahari, Dandakapura, Nandavalli and Kukkuta. (53) The Nandavalli may be the Nandapur and Valli may be the Bali Mutha or Mandala. 362 Dynasty History of United Koraput 363 Ratnadeva II successed Jajalladeva I before A.D.1126. He repulsed an attack of Anantavarman Chodaganga at Talahar-bhumi, not far from Sheorinarayan.He was successor by his son Prithvideva II and his minister conquered several forts including Machka-Shiva and took Bhramavadra, Kantara, Kusuma-bhoga, Kandas(hva)ra and Kakayara–desa(54).He established a new city named Jagapalapura. The Machka-Shiva may be the Machkund, Kantara is Kalahandi- north Koraput, and Kusuma-bhoga may be the Kusumi close to Kotpad, Bhramavadra, is identical with Bhramarakotya mandala in the Bastar district. The Kakayara is the Kanker of Bastar district. Jagapalapura may be the present district head quarters of Bastar district in Chhattisgarh. Prthvideva II defeated the mighty Chodagangadeva and his feudatory Gokarna. (55) The Bilaigarh plate of Prthvideva’s reign in E. 896 indicates that’ by devastating Chakrakotea, he overwhelmed the illustrious Ganga king with anxiety-------‘(56) Krishana Deva Raya of Vijayanagar Empire in Nandapur I had come across Bisna Sisa family in Nandapur. As for the Bisna Poraja who play vital role in performing the age old Holpoda celebration of the Nandapur past dynasty is well documented. (Kornel, 1999) (57). There is mention of Bisnaga King and Bisnaga city in chronicle of Fernao Nuniz, 1535-37, that is cited by Robert Sewell (1900). The Bisnaga is referred to Narsymga i.e. Narasingha Raya of Vijayanagar (58). Nandapur had fallen in the hands of Vijayanagar Kings in the past. According to Robert Sewell, Krishana Deva Raya (Bisnag king) of Vijayanagar was present in Symamdry, the present day Simhanchalam and halted for six months. (59).He mentions the city of Modogal in the context (60) but is not clear whether it is the same Modogal of Visakhapatnam. However Singh Deo (61) has wrote,’---------- and marched to Simhadri, and after erecting a pillar of victory at Pottunur in the very heart of Kalinga country, he performed Mahadanas------ and thence returned to Vijayanagar (via) Rajahmundry. (62) The said hill route is located in Konam in Motto Pradesh. Mottu is known as Kamba- Mottu in Malkangiri of Jeypore Zamindary. After conquering the hill forts in Nandapur or Jeypore, Krishna Deva Raya occupied Madgol. Oddadi and neighbouring forts and posted a stone –slab with an inscription (Now illegible) in Rayavaram in Sarvasidhi Taluk (Visakhapatnam), in commemoration of his victory of the Jeypore country (63). (Vide Sewell’s Antiquities. Vol.I in Rayavaram in Sarvasidhi Taluk (Visakhapatnam)” 363 Dynasty History of United Koraput 364 Nandapur from People’s Account Bell wrote, ‘Oriya castes such as Gaudos, Ronas and Paikoas, who are now settled as cultivators in considerable numbers, still enjoy a prescriptive right to certain services under the Rajas of Jeypore and no doubt they originally entered the district as soldiers and servants of the earliest Rajas.’(64) The Malis in Nandapur came from Allahabad and the Magadhia Gaudos are certainly from Magadha.This is also indicative that there was influence of Guptas in this part of the country, though hard evidence is lacking. Pandya Dynasty and Chellia Poraja or Konda Poraja in Koraput District The Chellia Porajas or Konda Poraja are prominent community of Eastern –Ghat and Nandapur region. The history is silent with reference to them. But from my studies I believe that the Chellia Poraja are extension of the Porajas living around Sileru river of Malkangiri. During the construction of Balimella Dam over the River Sileru, few idols of Hindu deities were unearthed and they are still conserved in the find village. It gives the impression of Southern dynasty. As the Western Chalukya camped in Koraput-Bastar region followed by immediate incursion of Chodas to the said region “Chakrakote war”; it can well be postulated that the Pandyas also had occupied some land around the Sileru River extending into the Nandapur and Salur ghats. There in no hard historical evidence to this effect as of now. The Pandya soldiers and Generals were engaged in Kalinga war by Kulottunga I as is evident from records.Nilakanta Sastri wrote, “A vassal of the Cola Emperor from the distant south, the Pandya King Parantaka, took part in the war( refers to Kalinga war) and assisted Vikramacola. The inscription of Parantaka Pandya (65) like those of the Vikramacola, state that Kulam of the Telunga Bhima was captured and that South Kalinga was subdued”(66) He again continued,” The valiant Pallva Chieftain, Karunakara Tondaiman, lord of the Vandai, offered to carry out the emperor’s order and was accepted.” (67). This Kalinga war was against Ananta Chodaganga.So it can well be concluded that there was presence of Pandya King himself and Pallava Chieftains of Tamilnadu in the context of Kaling wars and there is strong possibility that they have rehabilitated their population after loss to Cholas in hills of Trikalinga.. The earlier Pandyas were Jainas and Kun Pandya converted to Saiva by Saint Sambandar (68). The Chellia Poraja had a strong pointer being Jainas of the past as seen from their present rituals and ceremonies (Kornel and Gamang, 2010) (69) 364 Dynasty History of United Koraput 365 The Pandya King Maravarman Rajasimha I had conflict with Pallava King Nandi-varman Pallavamalla. . Pandyas conquered the Kaveri region and lay siege Nandipura and the Pallavas were rescued by their great general Udyachandra. (70). In future the historians need to see the relevance of Nandapur in Trikalinga to Nandipura siege by Pandyas.The fact is becoming still stronger due to the presence of Paliva Jaina temple in Nandapur close to Koraput town. It can be seen from the Tirumalai Inscriptions that was translated by Prof. Hltzsch (71) as pointed out in earlier chapters, remarked that the Maduraimandalam to be different than the capital of Pandya kings, Madura.I am of the opinion that the Maduraimandalam in the context of Rajendra Chola I is the Pandya king ruled mandala in Koraput- Bastar; that implies the reasonable connection to Chellia Poraja and Pandy dynasty.Nilakanta As per Yashoda Devi ,’An important dynasty in South Kalinga, the Matsyas ruled over the Matyadesa i.e. Oddadivishaya (A.D.1200-1470) with capital at Oddadi, 16 miles from Anakapalle in Vizagapatnam district for a period of two and half centuries from about A.D. 1200 to 1470. Their ancestry goes back to the 5th century A.D. The Matsyas had their own crest seal and coinage and two Matsyas i.e. double fish was their emblem.(72) .They may have had some connection with the Pandyas is postulated by Yashoda Devi; whose emblem was also fish. (73). There is another aspect Sircar mentions that there was rivalry between the Pandya and Kalinga factions in the Ceylonese court. (74). Eastern Gangas in Trikalinga The Eastern Gangas were ruling Trikalinga and then started ruling the Kalinga. The Trikalinga remained as an integral part of Kalinga till the Eastern Chalukya king Gunga Vijaydity III occupied the region and thence it was changing hands and many dynasties invaded and ruled the region. Eastern Chalukya in Trikalinga We have dealt here some important events that took place in Trikalinga by some Vengi rulers, the Eastern Chalukyas. Gunaga Vijayaditya III (844-888A.D.) 365 Dynasty History of United Koraput 366 B. Venkatakrishna Rao wrote, “Gunaga Vijayaditya III seems to have marched against the king of Dahala and defeated him (75.) Dahala was another name for the kingdom of Chedi which lay in the Central Provinces. The king of Dahala at this time was Kokalladeva I, father-in –law of the Rastrakuta king Krishna II (76). Having defeated him Vijayaditya III burnt his city Achalapura and captured his herds of elephants and levied tribute (77) the lord of the Trikalinga, who was tributary to the King of Chedi. His capital Chitrakuta, which corresponds to Chakrakuta, in the Bastar State (78), was the reduced and the whole country was subdued and annexed to the kingdom of Vengi.” Thus he was the first Eastern Chalukya king to hold the title of Trikalingadhipati and the family continued the title till close of 10th Century A.D. (79) Vijayaditya IV Kollabhaganda (922A.D.) Vijayaditya IV is said to have ruled only over the Trikalinga-atavi or the forest tracts belonging to Trikalinga in addition to his ancestral kingdom of Vengi (80). This indicates clearly the Vijayaditya IV was ejected from the whole of Kalinga with the exception of the forest tracts attached to it. It was probably to re-establish his supremacy over that country that he led an expedition to Kalinga. Vijayaditya is generally credited to have won victory at Viraja, but the Inangaru Grant of Rajaraja II, no doubt, a late document of the Chola-Chalukya period, states that Vijayaditya captured the city named Viraja and departed to the world of the Gods (81). The Trikalinga-atavi country was probably lost and gained by Kalingas, as a consequence of their defeat and the death of their leader in the battle at Viraja; and Vajrahasta II made himself the master of the entire Trikalinga country without much trouble. Amma I, Vikramaditya II and Yuddamalla II (922-935) After a rule of seven years Amma I died. Vikramaditya II appears to have been an energetic ruler. During the short period of his rule, he brought under his control not only his ancestral kingdom, Vengi, but also Trikalinga, which was lost after the death of Chalukya Bhima I. Though a doughty warrior, and the hero of a hundred battles, he was notable to keep himself in power for more than eleven months (82). According to the Digubarru Grant of Chalukya Bhima II, the only record that refers to the event, Vikramaditya II was attacked by Bhima, the son of Amma I, who killed him in battle, and occupied the throne for a period of eight months (83). And Yuddamalla II, the eldest son of Tala I, overthrew him in his turn. Danarnava (A.D. 970-71 to 972-3) 366 Dynasty History of United Koraput 367 Danarnava celebrated his coronation in 892 Saka corresponding to A.D. 970-971. Nilakanta Sastri wrote, “ The Canjeevaram inscription of Jatacoda Bhima states that he slained Danarnava and his allies and took procession of the Chalukya dominion until 1002(84) till thrown out by Saktivarman I, with the help of Rajaraja (85). N. Venkataramanaya wrote, “The death of Danarnava did not result in the submission of Vengi. The Samntas and other adherents of the dead monarch still held out. They fall into three groups. First, there was the Vaidumba king. Ganda Trinetra whom Danarnava had recently reduced to subjection. He was the hereditary enemy of the Telugu Cholas, and he was not disposed to accept Bhima, whom he must have regarded as an equal, as his overlord and sovereign. The clash between the two became inevitable. The Vaidumba was presumably worsted in the contest and had to acquiesce in the supremacy of the Telugu Chola. Next come the Samntas, Manyas, and the wild tribes dwelling in the jungles in the east. The hilly regions situated in the Madhya or Central Kalinga corresponding to the present Agency tracts had already been the home of warlike savage tribes who showed no inclination to submit to authority. It was not an easy task to keep them under control, and the Chalukya rulers of Vengi had to adopt special measures to enforce their authority. They assigned estates to their nobles in this region; and one of the branches of the royal family migrated early to this district and settled down there permanently. No wonder that the Samntas and Manyas at the head of the jungle tribes, confident of the natural strength of their mountain strongholds, held out against Bhima and defied his authority. Bhima was a brave warrior and capable leader. Undaunted by the numerous difficulties that beset his path, he led an expedition against them and put them down with a stern hand (86).” He further said, ‘The war with the eastern Samntas and Manyas involved Bhima in a war with Kamarnava, the Eastern Ganga king of Kalinga. The causes of this war are not difficult to surmise. Danarnava was related, through his mother, to the Kalinga royal family and Kamarnava might have been naturally desirous of avenging the death of his cousin, and restoring to his children their patrimony. More important than this was, perhaps, his ambition to re-establish the sovereignty of his family over the Central and the Southern Kalinga, this had remained in the possession of the Chalukyas since the time of Kubja- Vishnuvardhana. Kamarnava was not, however, destined to achieve his ambition. Though he held out for a while against the Telugu Chola, he had to succumb ultimately. Notwithstanding the great distance which he had to traverse, Bhima, it is said, marched at the head of an army to Kalinga and after some hard fighting put to death not only Kamarnava but also his younger brother, Vinayadiya who, on his death, succeeded him on the throne of Kalinga.(87)”. He further said, “The Kalinga war was not an easy walk over to Bhima, as the language of the Kailasanatha temple inscription seems to suggest. He had to 367 Dynasty History of United Koraput 368 spend several years fighting with the Eastern Ganga princes in the hilly tracts of Kalinga. Though he slew Danarnava and took possession of his kingdom as early as A.D. 972-3, it was not until A.D. 981, some eight years later, that he was able to overcome the opposition of the Kalingas. Kamarnava seems to have offered stubborn resistance until he fell heroically fighting against the enemy in A.D. 978. The task of defending the realm seems to have then devolved upon his younger brother. Vinayaditya, who carried on the fight for three years longer, until he too laid down his life on the battlefield. With the death of Vinayaditya in A.D. 981, the backbone of the opposition was finally broken, and Kalinga submitted. Bhima having thus successfully destroyed all his enemies became the undisputed master of the kingdoms of Vengi and Kalinga and his authority was not seriously questioned until the end of the century.”(88). Nadupuru in Pottapi-nadu During Ganga Vijayaditya III, a Eastern Chalukya king‘s period; the Eastern Ganga, the Vaidumba, the Nolamba and the Telugu Cola Chief were all involved in internecine warfare. (89) The Vaidumbas ruled Pottapi-nadu that extended across the Eastern Ghats from Rajampeta in the Cuddapah district to Kalahasti in Chittore district. Bhubana Trinetra Vaidumba Maharaja ruled Kadapa -twelve and neigbhouring country ‘from his capital (Vidu) at Pottapi in Paka-nadu’ in AD 972 (90) is known for his Madras Museum Copper-plate Grant. His authority extended over Western Cuddapah district is known from Upparpalle on Cuddapah-Pusphagiri Road, dated 972-3A.D (91) N. Venkataramanaya said,” An element of doubt, however, creeps in, on account of the existence of another tract of territory known also as Pattapi-Nadu in a different part of the Telugu country. An epigraph at Calukya-Bhimavaram in the Cocanada taluk of the East Godavari district dated A.D.1027 registers the gift by a certain Sankyaraja, an illegitimate son of Nungananti Semmarangirija of Nagavamsa, of the village of Nadupuru in Pottapi-nandu. It is obvious that the village of Nadupuru and Pottapi-nandu in which it was included must have been situated some where in the neighbourhood of Calukya-Bhimavaram.” (92). He further continued, “Though these inscriptions (An epigraph at Calukya- Bhimavaram and Akkaliapundi Grant dated A.D. 1368) are late in date, it is not unreasonable to belie on the strength of their evidence that there was in South Kalinga a district called Pottapi nandu corresponding to apart of the East Godavari district. This might very well have been the district of Pottapi-nandu which Danarnava granted as an appanage to the Mudugonda Calukya chiefs, 368 Dynasty History of United Koraput 369 Malliyaraja and Gondyaraja.If this definition of Pottapi-nandu and the Pampa river as correct, there are no grounds for supposing that Danarnava ever subjugated the Pottapi- nadu in Southern Telugu country, and came, as a consequence, into conflict with Colas of Tanjore.”(93) I am of the opinion that the Pottapi-nandu is the present day Pottangi area of Koraput district and the Nadupuru is the Nandapur located in Pottangi area and are well with in the South Kalinga region as pointed out by Venkataramanaya. Western Gangas in Kalinga (Nandapur) and Konga Western Ganga kingdom as whole is mentioned in Epigraphic as Ganga- rajya, Gangeya-rajya, Gangapati and Gangavadi, but from 8th Century onwards they were referred with suffix 96,000, Gangavadi-96, 000, Ganga- 6000 and Gangapadi- 32000. The Madviala inscription of Nitimarga-Permanadi shows that ,” when illustrious Kongonivarman-Dharmma maharajadhiraja, Paameswara, the master of Nandagiri, the chosen lord of the city Kovalal, Nitimarga-Permanadi was ruling over the earth (by) governing Gangavadi-96,000 When the illustrious hero of the Pallava family, the lord of the goddess wealth and the goddess earth, Nolambadhiraja, who was entitled to the band of the five great instruments was ruling Ganga-6000.”(94) This indicates clearly that the Gangavadi-96000 and Ganga-6000 are two different countries or two different administrative-geographical locations. The Pallava were friendly subordinate rulers to the Western Gangas. The Husukuru inscription of Rajamalla-Permandi (870-71 A.D.) indicates that Satyavakya- Konganivarma Rajamall-Permandi, the lord of Kovalapura and master of Nandagiri was ruling over the earth, and when Butarasa, anointed as the Crown-prince, was governing Kongal –nadu and Pu-nadu on the boarder of Permadi ( i.e. the ruling king).(95) As mentioned in early chapter, Kuknur plates on Marasimha II, A.D. 968-69, states that he was ruling Dhavala-visaya and Gangapati-96000.We are of the opinion that the Gangapati was contagious to Dhavala-visaya in South Kosala. So Gangapati is a part of the Gangavadi-9600. (96) Marasimha, having conquered all the feudatory kings; was ruling the entire Ganga-mandala. (97) 369 Dynasty History of United Koraput 370 In some inscriptions there is mention of Gangakuta. B.V. Rao (1973) writes,” He also stated to have cut off the head of Mangi, drove the Gangas of the south i.e. the Western Gangas to flee before his armies and take refuge on the top of the hill Gangakuta, which apparently a fugitive expression meaning the capital of the Gangas, humbled Baddega and defeated the Rashtrakuta Krishna on the battle field. (98)” Vikramaditya VI, W. Chalukya prince conquered Gangakunda? Vengi and Chakrakuta. (99) The southwest of Vengi-mandala was invaded by Western Gangas is a valuable indication. During the period of Vijayaditya III, the Trikalinga was occupied by the Vengi rulers. So, the South-west of the Vengi can be the Trikalinga portion also. However it is not very clear. The Kudlur plates of Marasimha, the Western Ganga king (962-63 A. D.) speaks of his victory over Kerala, Pandya, Konga, Kalinga, Kosala and other countries. (100) Kadalur Grant (101) of Marasimha, 962 A.D. says, ‘of the king Jayaduttaraya (i.e. Butuga II), the queen was Kallabba, daughter of Simhavarman of the Calukya family, to them was born the king Satyavakya Marasimha, the brother of the king Marula (Verse, 34).(102). The summary note indicates clearly the patronising Jainism by queen Kallabba (103). We are inclined to think that the following names in the Western Ganga inscription have much to do in relation to Koraput-Bastar Jainism. They are Nandagiri, Kongunivarman, Konga country and queen Kallabba of the king Jayaduttraya with the existing name of the places and rivers of Koraput. The findings clearly indicate that Jainism persisted in between the Kolab river and Indravati river doab and both join at different points in Bastar district of Chhattisgarh to form the Godavari river that flows down in Andhra Pradesh., The Nandapur was one of main pithas of Jainism in Koraput, and was the ancient capital of the Jeypore state. There is one large single granite stone Elephant, beautifully carved on the banks of Isani Ganga at Nandapur. This was probably the first capital of Western Gangas where Jaina temples were prevalent. It is 370 Dynasty History of United Koraput 371 agreed by all that the existing all Jaina idols of Kalika temple of Jeypore was all from Nandapur which were transferred after the shift of capital to Jeypore. There is no written inscription on Western Gangas; discovered from Koraput as it is. This may be due to the fact that the land being under occupation of ruling or allied Dynasties may be Chalukyas and Rastrakutas; and Western Gangas were only interested in making Jainism influence. The other aspects also that subsequent king erased out all evidences to this effect. We believe that it was the queen Kallabha, wife of king Jayaduttranga (Batuga II) and mother of Satyavkya Marasimha of Western Ganga dynasty who had established the Jainism through teachers and mulasanghas all over Nandapur, Jeypore sub-division and the great river flowing from Nandapur down to Bastar is named after her and since known as Kolab river. The Nandapur as it may run for various historical findings, it looks to be Western Ganga capital in this part and ruled by one branch and is described out of Nandagiri title, which Western Gangas used to bear. There is no concrete evidence yet. The Nandapur Jaina temple was totally destroyed and in ruins, we don’t have its history may be the Bhairaba cult and Virasaivites entry through the advent of Jangamas and Omanatyas may have attributed to it. (104). Thus the idols were placed under earth and elsewhere, which subsequently surfaced out in small temples like Subaie and Jamunda, and elsewhere. The ruin mounds of the said temple in Nandapur need excavation and history shall appear. More ever, there are several place names that are common to Koraput district, especially the Nandapur region with that of the Western Ganga Inscriptions and have been enumerated for future scholars to look into it. They are as following. The Hosakote Plates of Konganyadhiraja (5th Century) mentions,’ under the great tank in the village of Pulli-uru in division (bhoga) called Korikunda. (105) The Pulli-uru is the Bhagra; Pulli means tiger in both Telugu and Kanada. The Korikunda may be the modern Korkunda of Koraput. The Mercara Plates of Avinita (9th A.D.) speaks of places like Badanaguppe, Dasnur and Polma also Kottgara. (106) In Koraput, near Semiliguda a Poroja village called, Polma does exist. The Dasnur may be Daspur, and Kattgara may be the Kottragdha. 371 Dynasty History of United Koraput 372 The Manne plates of Marasimha (798 A.D.) says of places like Puli-tank, Kacchava tank, Kondakonda lineage, Salmali village, Jaina Gana: Puspandi etc.It is all in Ganga-mandala.(107) The Kacchava may be Kacchala, Salmali may be the Salmi village in Koraput, and the Jaina Gana Puspandi may be the Putpandi Koraput block village. The Kudulur Plates of Marasimha King Raja mall----“such was the Dharma- maharajadhiraja Paramesvara Nitimarga-Konguni varma who had the first name of Rajamalla [ he was also known as ] Kacceyaganga(.108) The village Kecchala in Nandapur rejoin, close to Koraput town is one of the magnificent Jaina monuments of Koraput district. This may have relevance to Kacceyaganga? Foot Note: Verse II of the Kerehalli Plates, describing Satyavakya Rajamalla, son of Nitimarga Ereganga does find a place in this charter, So also, the epithet Komaravedenga ( the prince charming) attributed to Nitimarga Ereganga in line 72 of the text of the present charter, is found omitted in the Kerehalli plates.(109) Further, it is mentioned, ‘Nitimarga -Kongunivarma alias Eregangadeva who ever meditating at the feet of the god Arahat.’ (110). There is one Jaina temple in Kumaradevaganjana in Nandapur and another at Erenga village in Jolaput area of Koraput. The first may be the Komaravedenga and the second may be due to Eregangadeva who as ardent believer of Jaina Arhat may have constructed the temple or named after them. Vinayacandra’s Kavyasiksa, e.g. mentions Parta70, 000 villages along with Surastra, Lata-desa, Gujara-desa, Dahal etc. (111). In Bendiganahalli Plates of Vijaya- Krishanavarmaman (5th A.D.) is stated,’’ He , on the 13th day of Asvayuja in the first year of his prosperous reign, when he was at the victorious camp of Kavipada, made a gift of the villages Kuru-ura in Perati-bhoga, a sub-division within Paruvi-visaya to Matrri-sarma.”(112) With reference to the above, the village Parata in Nandapur seems to have some historical connection and has been described in Western Ganga chapter. It is the opinion of the author that an attempt has been made here to narrate the literature that speak of Nandapur and has nearly close proximity to Nandapur of present Koraput. The interaction of major dynasties like Eastern Ganga, Eastern Chalukya, Choda, Western Chalukya and Chindaka Nagas even the minor 372 Dynasty History of United Koraput 373 dynasties of South Kalinga needs attention with relation to Nandapur history. The future research in the topic will be useful. References 1. Singh Deo, K.B. (1938) Nandapur (A Forsaken Kingdom), Vol.I.p.1-11. 2. Ibid. 3. Singh Deo, K.B. (1938) op.cit. p.10. & vide Oram’s Report on Nandapuram or Jeypore A.D. 1784 cited by Singh Deo, K.B. 4. Bell, R.C.S. (1945) Orissa District Gazetteer, Koraput.p.22. 5. Ibid.p.25 6. Singh Deo, K.B. (1938) op.cit. p.9. 7. Ibid.p.22-25. 8. Devi Yashoda. The History of Andhra Country 1000A.D.-1500 A.D. 9. Singh Deo, K.B.op.cit, p.1-3 10. Ibid.p.7 11. Ibid.p.1. 12. Devi Yashoda.op.cit.p.332 13. Ibid 14. Ibid. 15. 289 of 1899; S.I.I.VI 891. 16. 309 of 1899; S.I.I. VI 950 17. 281 of 1896; S.I.I. V.1162 18. JAHRS, VI.p.13 19. Vizagapatam Gazetteer.p.26; Vizag District Manual.p.284. 19. Devi Yashoda. Op.cit.p.336-337 20. Ibid. 21. E.I. XX.p. 22. JBORS.IV.p.91ff 23. JBORS, Vol.XIII.pp.237, 241; Sachau, Vol.II.pp5-7 24. E.I. XX.p75 25. Sahu, N.K. Kharavela. P.35-41 26. H.C. Raychaudhury India in the Age of Nandas: in K.A.N.Sastri Edi. Age of the Nandas & Mauryas.p.26-27. 27. Majumdar, R.C and Altekar. The Vakataka –Gupta Age. p.110-111 28. Singh, R. L. India- a regional Geography. p.776 373 Dynasty History of United Koraput 374 29. Majumdar, R.C and Altekar, A.S. op.cit p.112 30. Ibid. 31. Ibid. op.cit 32. E.I.XXXIV, p91ff. 33. Roy, R.K. Feudatory States of Medieval Orissa, Sambalpur University Thesis, PhD.Thesis.Un-published. p.103. 34. Mohapatra, Jadumani. Mandala Kingdoms. Comprehensive History and Culture of Orissa.Vol.I.p.276 35. Senapati, N.et.al (Edi) Gazetteer of India: Orissa, Dhenkanal i/c 1972, p.52. 36. JBORS, XVI.p.459ff; E.I.XXVII, p.325-30 37. Sahu, J.K. et al. History of Orissa, Cuttack, p.139 38. Sircar, D.C. The Classical Age: Bharatya Vidya Bhavan,p.212. 39. Bell, R.C.S.op.cit.p.58 40. Sastri, K.A.N. A History of South India. P.155.. 41. Kornel Das and Gamang, Giridhar (2010) Lost Jaina Tribes in Trikalinga. 42. Tripathy, Sunderlal. Meghaduta burnit Ramagiri ki Bhogalika Punarbichar (in Hindi). (1974) ANC IND.History and Archaeology, Sagar University, Madhya Pradesh. p.29 43. Majumdar, R.C. and Altekar, A.S. op.cit.p.146 and JAHRS.I, p228. 44. Pedda purappadu Plates of Vismagiddhi, Bharti, Oct. 1983, 1984 and May 1985. 45. Jawaharlal, G. Jainism in Andhra – As depicted in inscriptions. 29B. Peddapurappadu Plates of Vismasiddhi. p. 225-230 46. A.S.I, AR, 1910-II, pp.78-87 47. SII, IX, Pt. I, No.278 48. Kurkyala Inscription of King Arikesarin II was found in Karimnagar taluk in Karimnagar district. The King was from Chalukyas of Vemulavada. It also records the installation of the images of this family deities, the Adyanta (the first and the last) Jinas and Chakresvari on the Siddha-sila (the rock of the Siddhas) and the construction of a basadi called Tribhuvanatilaka, a tank Kavitagunarnava by Jinavallabha, son of Bhimapayya and Abbanabbe who are said to have belonged to Kamme – Brahma caste and hailed from Vamgiparra village in Venginadu. Cited by Jawaharlal, G. Jainism in Andhra – As depicted in Inscriptions. 37. Parbhani Plates of king Arikesarin III. p.253-257. 49. Kornel Das and Gamang, Giridhar (2010) op.cit. 50. N. Venkataramanayya, Chalukyas of Vemulavada, pp.92-98 51. Ray, H.C. DHNI, Pt.II, p.751; C.I.I. Vol IV.Insc. No. 51. 52. Sharma, R.K. The Kalachuris & Their Times: The Kalachuri Imperialism at Its Zenith. Chapter III, p.21-29. 374 Dynasty History of United Koraput 375 53. C.I.I.IV.,Ins.No.77 54. E.I.XIII., Ins.No.85 55. E.I.XIII, Ins.No. 100, V.8 56. E.I.XIII., Ins. No.89, V.11. 57. Kornel Das (1999) Tribal Cultural Heritage and Cult. The Gutob Gadaba Tribe of Orissa. p.5. 58. Sewell, Robert. (1900) A Forgotten Empire (Vijayanagar) London. p.291 59. Ibid.p.319 60. Ibid.p.354 and 355 61. Singh Deo, K.B.op.cit.p.6-7 62. 474 of 1919 Madras Epigraphy Report. 63. Sewell, Robert. Antiquities. Vol.I 64. Bell.R.C.S.op.cit.p.25. 65. K.A. Nilakanta, Sastri. The Colas. p.338 66. Ibid. 67. Ibid. p.322 68. Sathianathaier, R. The Classical Age: Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan: The Pandyas, p.268. 69. Kornel Das and Gamang, Giridhar op.cit. p.237. 70. Santhianathaier, R., Dynasties of South India: The Pallavas. In The Classical Age. Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan.p.267-268. 71. E.I.IX, p.232 72. Sastri, K.A, Nilakanta. The Pandyan Kingdom. pp.11, 15. 73. Yashoda Devi. The History of Andhra Country: The Dynasties in South Kalinga. p.307 74. Sircar, D.C. Ceylon. In The Struggle for Empire. Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan.p.261.. 75. E.I. Vol.IX, p.45. 76. I.A.Vol. XII, p.263 77. JAHRS.Vol.V, p.101&E.I. Vol. V, p.305 78. E.I. Vol.X, p.27 79. Rao, B.V. History of the Eastern Chalukya of Vengi (610-1210 A.D). p.196. 80. E.I. Vol. V.p.133 81. Cp.23 of 1916-17 & N.V.p.154 82. S.I.I. No. 37,p.45 83. I.A. XIII,p.214 84. E.I. vol.XXI,p.29 85. K.A.N.Sastri, The Colas.pp.218-19 375 Dynasty History of United Koraput 376 86. Venkataramanaya, N. The Eastern Calukyas of Vengi.p.203-05 87. Ibid 88. Ibid 89. E.I. XXIV, No 26, p.183f; JOR, XII, pp.196 f 90. Cp .7 of 1935-36 91. 325 of 1905, A.R.E. 1935-36, Part II, p.58. 92. S.I.I. V.55. 93. Venkataramanaya.N. op.cit. p.305-06 94. Ramesh, K.V. (1984) Inscriptions of Western Ganga. Madviala inscription of Nitimarga-Permanadi No. I. p.316-17. 95. Ramesh, K.V. (1984) Inscriptions of Western Ganga. Husukuru inscription of Rajamalla-Permandi.No. 102. p.318-319 96. Ramesh, K.V. (1984) op.cit. Kukkanur Inscriptions of Marasimha II.p.490-513 97. Ramesh, K.V. (1984) Ibid. 98. Rao, B.V. op.cit. p.185 99. E.I. Vol. V, p.122. 100. Buhler (Ed.) Vikramankadevacharitam (1875). Introduction p.31. 101. Ramesh, K.V. (1984) op.cit Kudlur plates of Marasimha.No.138. p.411 102. Ramesh, K.V. (1984) op.cit. Kadalur Grant of Marasimha.p.430 103. Ramesh, K.V. (1984) Ibid.p.447 104. Rao Hanumantha, B.S.L.Religion In Andhra.p.197-202 105. Ramesh, K.V. (1984) op.cit Hosakote Plates of Konganyadhiraja.p.15 106. Ramesh, K.V. (1984) op.cit. Mercara Plates of Avinita.p.65 107. Ramesh, K.V. (1984) op.cit. Manne plates of Marasimha.p.204 108. Ramesh, K.V. (1984) op.cit. . Kudulur Plates of Marasimha.p.427 109. Ibid.p.427 110. Ibid.p.377 111. Rajsekhara’s Kavyamimamsa G.O.S. ed. Pp.284-49 of. Nos.6, 10,25,29,37 and 38 of the Skanda Purana list quoted 112. Ramesh, K.V. (1984) op.cit Bendiganahalli Plates of Vijaya- Krishanavarmaman p.17. 376 Dynasty History of United Koraput 377 NANDAPUR ARCHAEOLOGICAL REMAINS Remains of Sati Stones and others Elephant half above ground, Jaina? Lateral view of the elephant Sati Stone, Nandapur 377 Dynasty History of United Koraput 378 Sati stone, Nandapur Bhairaba, Nandapur Subaie old Jaina temple Laxami, Nandapur door, Nandapur 378 Dynasty History of United Koraput 379 Batrisha singhasana, Ganesha idols, Nandapur reconstructed Chakreswari, Subaie- Sati Stone or Hata pakana originally from Umbel 379 Dynasty History of United Koraput 380 Fore view from Paliba Jaina temple remains Pitaiegumpa of Mahavira Front view from Pitaiegumpa of Umbel Jaina temple, Mahavira Nandapur 380 Dynasty History of United Koraput 381 Ardha-Siva, Banamaliput, Honjore, Jaina temple remains Nandapur Siva Linga, Banamaliput, Tirthankara Subaie Jaina Nandapur temple 381 Dynasty History of United Koraput 382 Visnu, Banamaliput, Amba, Jaina temple, Umbel Nandapur Visnu, Banamaliput, Nandapur Jaina Temple Remains in Umbel 382 Dynasty History of United Koraput 383 BHAIRABA SINGAPUR There are two Singapurs in Koraput district and both are having archaeological importance remains; one is Kalyana Singapur and the other is Bhairaba Singapur. These Singapur as spelled in present days is actually Simhapur of the past. It is with reference to the context of the above Simhapur the possible linkage and reference can be drawn with ample evidence as following. The Bhairaba Simhapur got the prefix title of Bhairaba, mostly after the Bhairaba sect who attained superiority in the region. Jogi and Omanatya are the two sects who came possibly from the Karnataka in the remote past with the urge Bhairab cult of Saivities and further propagated. These communities are still to be seen in the region and the former Jogis are still in-charge of the important Siva temples in the district. The present day Bhairaba Singapur is located east to Borigumma under the west foot hills of eastern ghat. The Bhairaba Singapur was the gateway ancient city to Kalinga and Vengi that is to the coastal region of eastern India; thus probably the name has been derived. The other version is also there that the famous Jain teacher Simhandadini preached and passed to south from this place. This is also a great seat of Jainas (Digambars) from ancient period, which is a well documented fact (1). There is very scanty information except few Sanskrit inscriptions about this place of interest. The details of the archeological finds have been dealt by several authors. The other pathway is ‘Kathargad’ which is located close to the river Indravati and Murian configure which is another gateway to the Eastern ghat hills and both the walking paths i.e. B.Singapur also lead to Dasmanthpur and thence to Kakrigumma and is about in 3 hours of walk to plains of Narayanpatna which leads to Babli and thence to coastal belt. This Bhairaba Singapur is the second capital of Kalinga, is postulated by the present author.  The Pedda-dugam plates of Sri Sattrudamanadeva (2) Place of issue: Simhapura and Topography Giri-Kalinga. The donor of this inscription seems to be a subordinate king, posted at Simhapura, most probably under the Gangas of Kalinga who captured the 383 Dynasty History of United Koraput 384 country after the extinction of the Mathras from that region. The term Giri-Kalinga might have been under the hill portion of the Kalinga.  Dantavaktra near Chicacole in the same district at Kalinga-nagara, modern Mukhalingam in Srikakulam district; and the second capital at the old city of Dantapura, identified the Easter Ganga capital. (3) The Kalinga kings about 5th-6th century are known for their charters. A royal city named Simhapuram, modern Singupuram near Chicacole is mentioned in some of these records, but finds no mention in the Allahabad inscription and thus may have flourished after the middle of the 4th century. Pitribhktas of Kalinga also issued grants from Simhapura. (4) Some Mathra kings of Kalinga also issued grants for Simhapura, but they were ruling simultaneously with Pitrabhaktas from their capital at Pishtapura. (5) D.C. Sirkar (1988) wrote, “When the Pitribhaktas were ruling from Simhapura in Central Kalinga, the royal family of the Matharas had their capital at Pishtapura in the south. The Ragolu Grant of the Mathara Maharaja Sakti-varman, which records a gift of land near Chicacole, was issued in the king’s 13th regnal year from the city Pishtapura. The king bears the title “lord of Kalinga”. This shows that the Matharas of Pishtapura conquered the heart of the Pitribhakta kingdom in Central Kalinga. This is also supported by the fact that the Sakunaka Grant issued in the 28th regnal year of another Mathara king named Ananta-Sakti-varman, who enjoyed former capital of the Pitribhaktas. Maharaja Ananta-Sakti-varman was one of the immediate successors of Sakti-varman of the Ragolu grant. This is suggested by the fact that an official mentioned as Amatya Arjunadatta in the Ragolu grant of Sakti-varman, has been credited with a higher official designation and called Desakshapataladhikrita-Talavara Arjunadatta in Ananta-Sakti- varman’s record. The Amatya was probably raised to higher offices during the latter part of his life. According to some writers, the name Ananta-Sakti-varman actually indicates ‘Ananta-varman’s son Sakti-varman.” It has also been suggested that Ananta-Sakti-varman was a successor of Sakti-varman, a third king named Ananta-varman probably intervening between the reigns of the two. (6) At present, there is a good population of ‘Omanatya’ at B.Singapur of Koraput district. These Omanatya as they call themselves are also found in Ganja district of Orissa. It thus gives evidence that B.Singapur and Kalinga region had some kind of linkage from the past This locality has much more historical evidence above and under the earth. The ancient Jain images scattered around Kumuli, Pakanaguda, Narigaon, Borigumma 384 Dynasty History of United Koraput 385 and Khebdi depict of a rich history of the region which Kulottunga I ’s inscription described it to be the ‘Jain hills’.. (7) The capital of Kalinga before Gangas was at Simhapura. (The Gangas did not prefer to have their headquarters there. So, for the purpose of administration they kept out-post at Simhapura by appointing a member of the royal family as their sub-ordinate (vide Pedd-duggam plate). The Gangas had their capital at Dantapura at the beginning of the rule. Maharaja Indravarman issued his grant in G.E.39 from Dantapura. But in Samanta-varman’s grant the royal seat is called Srinivasa. We cannot say it refer to Dantapura of Kalinganagar. (8) It is known form classical Greek writers like Diodorus, Curtius and Plutarch that the last Nanda King Agrammes or Xandrammes (Augrasaniya) who was ruling at the time of Alexander’s invasion, had suzerainty over Phasii (Magadha) and Gangaridae. (9) Only the Gangaridae portion described by Megasthenes as ‘Gangaridae Calingarum Regia’ continued under the last Nanda ruler. (10) References 1. Kornel Das and Gamang, Giridhar (2010) Lost Jaina Tribes of Tri- kalinga (Under publication) 2. JAHRS Vol XXI, p.159 ff., E.I.XXXI pp.89-93 ff. 3. Pedd-Dugam Plates.No.52: Inscription Orissa, VilIi,p-237. 4 Sircar, D.C. (1988) The Pitribhaktas, II Kalinga. The Classical Age, Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, Bombay. P-212 5. Ibid. 6. The Matharas. HAIP- The Classical Age, Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, Bombay. p213 7. Inscription of Orissa Vol.I. pt. II, pp.59.62 8. Rajaguru, S.N. Inscriptions of Orissa, Vol II. P-338 9 Mc Crindle, Invasion of India by Alexander, pp.221 and 228 10. Mc Crindle, Ancient India. P.137 385 Dynasty History of United Koraput 386 ARCHAEOLOGICAL REMAINS IN BHAIRABA SINGAPUR Pair of Feet in Bhairaba Singapur Siva Temple Rsabhanatha Bhairaba in Bhairaba Singapur Parsvnatha in Bhairaba Singapur unearthed from Siva temple 386 Dynasty History of United Koraput 387 Visnu in Bhairaba Singapur Virasaivite holding his head Bhairaba Singapur Hill needs (The head was reconstructed recently) exploration and opening of the cave 387 Dynasty History of United Koraput 388 Bhairaba from Bhairaba Singapur 388 Dynasty History of United Koraput 389 INDEX Asoka, 7, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 60, 61, 63, 82, 83, 84, 88, 89 A Atavi, 2, 11, 19, 45, 46, 48, 49, 83, 133, 134, 179 Acharya, P, 33, 43, 44, 336, 339, 340 Adhirajendra, 211 B Aihole Inscription, 115 Aila, 76, 80 Badami, 8, 11, 12, 115, 180, 182, 197 Aira, 76, 85, 87 Bagata, 3 Aiyar Natesa, 176 Bagdari, 187 Aiyar, K.V.Subrahmanya, 236 Baipariguda, 101 Akkalapundi grant, 334 Bajpai, K.D, 114 Allahabad, 6, 27, 29, 46, 49, 53, 63, 66, 80, 86, bali, 69 87, 88, 91, 92, 93, 94, 96, 98, 100, 138, 146, Balimella, 256, 257, 364 147, 308, 364, 384 Banerji, R.D, 44, 89, 343 Allahabad Pillar inscription, 6, 46, 49, 87 Bangalore copperplates, 273 Ambabhalli river, 258 Banpur plates, 291, 292 Ambavadi Mandala, 257, 258 Bansuli, 321 Amma I, 31, 36, 102, 178, 190 Barasur, 16, 297, 301, 305, 324, 326, 327, 329, Amma II, 69, 70, 178, 184, 185, 191, 192 330 Amurkottam, 230 Barigaccha, 133 Amvavadi-Visaya, 277 Barigachha, 69, 299, 315 Anangabhima II, 341 Barsur, 300, 301, 305, 308, 311, 321, 322, 324, Ananta Chodaganga, 364 326, 327, 328 Anantavarma Chodaganga, 223, 224, 225 Barsur inscription, 301, 305, 311 Anantavarman Choda Ganga, 17, 222 Bastar, 1, 2, 3, 4, 7, 8, 9, 10, 14, 15, 16, 17, 19, Anantavarman Choda Gangadeva, 207 20, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 31, 35, 37, 38, 40, 46, Anantavarman Chodaganga, 207, 208, 221, 229, 48, 50, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 58, 59, 66, 67, 69, 233, 294, 323, 327, 341, 363 82, 83, 88, 96, 98, 101, 103, 104, 106, 111, Anantavarman I, 252, 253, 254 112, 113, 114, 115, 118, 120, 122, 137, 138, Anantaverman IV alias Vajrahasta, 254 140, 143, 145, 146, 147, 149, 157, 158, 169, Anantaverman Vajrahastadeva V, 254 187, 189, 197, 199, 201, 203, 206, 207, 211, Anchala, 244, 245, 246, 247 212, 214, 222, 229, 231, 232, 233, 239, 241, An-Chola, 231, 244 247, 248, 249, 250, 255, 256, 257, 258, 260, Ancholagumma, 233, 242, 243, 244 261, 279, 280, 281, 282, 283, 285, 290, 293, Andhra, 1, 8, 9, 11, 20, 24, 25, 28, 36, 37, 42, 61, 294, 297, 298, 299, 302, 304, 305, 308, 314, 62, 65, 71, 73, 83, 85, 87, 97, 99, 100, 102, 316, 317, 318, 321, 322, 323, 324, 326, 327, 103, 112, 121, 123, 135, 136, 149, 169, 178, 328, 333, 334, 337, 338, 339, 355, 362, 363, 195 364, 365, 366, 370, 371 Andhri, 333 Bastar district, 7, 101 Aparajita, 12 Batrisha singhasana, 351 Arikesari I, 297 Bayyaraju, 344, 345, 348, 354 Arikesari II, 189, 191 Bell, R.C, 331, 373, 374 Arikesarin III, 71, 361, 374 Bell, R.C.S, 373, 374 Arthapati, 8, 50, 138, 139, 140, 141, 142, 143, Benares, 35 144, 145, 147, 148, 154, 155, 169 Bendiganahalli Plates, 285, 372, 376 Ashoka, 6, 34, 61 Berger, Peter, 73 Bhagavati, 201, 298 389 Dynasty History of United Koraput 390 Bhagvati temple of Jeypore, 71 C Bhairab Singhpur, 245 Bhairaba, 81, 82, 83 Caldwell, 32, 33, 43, 62 Bhairaba Singapur, 199, 257, 295, 317, 326, 333, Calingae, 34, 60, 61 383, 386, 387, 388 Candragupta, 174 Bhandarkar, G. R, 49 Chakkarakottam, 204, 206 Bhandarkar, G.R, 52 Chakora, 7 Bhandarkar, R.G, 29 Chakrakota, 200, 202, 297, 300, 301, 302, 304, Bhanjas, 291, 305 305, 306, 307, 311, 312, 316, 317, 323, 326 Bhanumurti, V, 57 Chakrakote, 2, 15, 16, 19, 55, 58, 71, 114, 179, Bhatiporlu inscription, 359 197, 204, 209, 215, 229, 239, 240, 242, 247, Bhattra, 3, 167 298, 300, 314, 315, 316, 355, 362, 364 Bhauma king, 9 Chakrakuta, 7, 14, 15, 55, 56, 112, 118, 119, 120, Bhauma Kings, 9, 248, 262 187, 188, 203, 209, 211, 213, 214, 215, 239, Bhauma-Kara, 312 240, 293, 297, 298, 300, 308, 309, 314, 316, Bhaumakaras, 36 366, 370 Bhavadatta, 8, 137, 139, 141, 142, 145, 146, 147, Chalukya Bhima, 38, 70, 178, 184, 185, 186, 189, 154, 155, 169 190, 191, 284, 366 Bhavadatta varman, 8 Chalukya Bhima I, 178, 184, 185, 186, 189, 190 Bhavadattaraja, 141, 147 Chalukya Bhima II, 70, 178, 190, 191, 284, 366 Bhavadattavarman, 137, 138, 139, 140, 143, Chalukya of Badami., 12 146, 147, 148, 154 Chalukya of Kalyani, 317 Bhavadatta-varman, 8 Chalukyas of Badami, 8, 79, 182, 197 Bhavadatta-varman, 169 Chalukyas of Kalyani, 16, 117, 123 Bhavadatta-varman, 169 Chalukyas of Lata, 197 Bheraghat, 110 Chandra Gupta, 3, 92 Bhimesvara temple at Draksharama, 216 Chandragupta II, 4, 107 Bhogavatipura, 298, 304, 310 Chattopadhyaya, S, 333 Bhramanakotya, 215, 300 Chedi, 44, 48, 63, 76, 79, 80, 86, 282, 298, 307, Bhramarakotta-mandala, 300 308, 310, 314, 323, 366 Bhramaravdra-desa, 323 Chedi King, 48 Bhumia, 3, 72, 101, 294 Chellia Porajas, 72, 364 Bhupendraverman, 254 Chelluru plates, 223 Bhvadatta verman, 143 Chera, 198, 217, 219 Bindusara, 6 Cheras, 8, 13 Bisna Sisa, 363 Cheti, 76, 79, 80 Bisnaga King, 363 Chhattisgarh, 2, 19, 24, 53, 111, 145, 170, 171, Bodo Poraja, 135 173, 175, 176, 197, 257, 281, 283, 297, 333, Bondo, 3, 202 363, 370 Bondos, 202 Chhindaka Naga, 297, 301, 306, 307, 326 Borigumma, 7, 70, 77, 81, 83, 188, 231, 244, Chhindaka Nagas, 16, 71 247, 295, 315, 317, 326, 333, 339, 383, 384 Chhindika Nagas, 315, 327 Buddhism, 3, 7, 20, 32, 102, 133, 173 Chicacole plates, 254, 255, 283 Buddhist, 5, 7, 79, 99, 102, 135, 151, 170, 171, Chikma hill, 7 175, 176, 203, 332, 339, 361 Chindarja, 315 Buhler, 45, 47, 75, 121 Chindika, 293 Buihler, George, 89 Chitrakut, 322 Burnell, 252, 271, 272, 273, 287, 336 Chitrakuta, 16, 25, 26, 55, 107, 108, 109, 110, Butuga II, 281, 370 114, 243, 257, 282, 283, 297, 310, 357, 366 Chitramaya, 358 Choda Ganga, 17 390 Dynasty History of United Koraput 391 Chodaganga, 17, 36, 42 Devi, Yashoda, 343, 347, 350 Chodas, 207, 224, 227, 229, 232, 241, 246, 247, Dey, N.L, 52 293, 298, 308, 314, 315, 326, 327, 328, 355, Dhara, 14, 55, 209, 235, 240 364 Dhara at Chakrakota, 55 Chola, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 42, 55, 56, 58, 116, Dharalladeva, 327, 329 117, 118, 119, 120, 122, 123, 186, 190, 192, Dharalladeva-Varman, 327 193 Dharavarsha, 208, 210, 215, 222, 300, 301, 304, Cholas, 3, 8, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 20, 42, 116, 306, 307, 326 117, 119, 192, 197, 198, 200, 203, 204, 207, Dharmakirti, 5 208, 219, 220, 223, 224, 225, 226, 233, 234, Dharmalingeswar plates, 255 235, 237, 240, 242, 244, 246, 247, 282, 298, Dharmapala, 58, 201 304, 305, 312, 313, 314, 317, 326, 341, 344, Dharmkirit, 5 345, 364, 367 Dharua, 3 Conjeeveram, 216, 218 Dharvarsa, 15 Cowell, C.B, 333 Dhavala, 248, 261, 310, 369 Cunningham, 32, 33, 34, 67, 75, 89, 145, 171, Dhavala visaya, 9, 248 176, 200, 238, 335, 336 Dhobalinga, 339 Dhruva Nirupama, 183 Dhuruva, 101 D Didayi, 3 Dahala, 38, 79, 186, 188, 189, 191, 278, 280, Doms, 280 293, 306, 307, 308, 309, 310, 323, 339, 366 Dongria, 59 Dakshina Kosala, 3, 10, 19, 249, 307, 327 Draksharama, 218, 219, 220, 221, 342, 345 Danarnava, 70, 178, 186, 191, 192, 193, 255, Dravidian, 43, 170 257, 277, 284, 285, 366, 367, 368 Durga, 89 Dandaka forest, 27 Durvinita, 9, 115 Dandakapura, 323, 362 Dvendravarma, 250 Dandakaranya, 4, 5, 6, 7, 1, 2, 4, 5, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 29, 105, 106, 107, 108, E 109, 111, 112 Dandekar, R.N, 99 East Godavari district., 360, 368 Dankini, 321 Eastern Chalukya, 3, 9, 16, 17, 20, 38, 41, 51, 55, Danteswari, 301, 321, 322 69, 70, 98, 101, 116, 134, 178, 181, 182, 183, Dantewada, 35 184, 185, 186, 187, 191 Dantewara, 24, 300, 301, 326 Eastern Chalukyas, 4, 8, 11, 14, 18, 42, 70, 72, Dasmanthpur, 12, 135, 180 102, 103, 116, 121, 134, 136, 178, 181, 185, Deisya, 69 187, 189, 193, 197, 198, 204, 226, 232, 282, Deshpande, C.D, 29 283, 284, 298, 304, 311, 342, 343, 355, 359, Desia, 3, 19, 68, 69, 72, 73 365 Desia-Kondhs, 247 Eastern Ganga, 250, 273, 345, 349, 358, 368 Desiga, 69 Eastern Gangas, 3, 8, 9, 10, 31, 36, 37, 38, 39, 62, Desigana, 68, 69, 101 94, 103, 119, 150, 168, 178, 182, 189, 206, Desika, 69 208, 225, 227, 233, 248, 251, 254, 258, 271, Desiya gana, 69 273, 274, 277, 283, 298, 314, 334, 337, 342, Devagiri, 122, 124, 125, 127, 131 344, 358, 365 Deva-sena, 8 Eastern Ghats, 21, 22, 23, 24, 37, 40, 84, 103, Devendravarman, 207, 208, 209, 217, 218, 219, 137, 184, 186, 187 220, 221, 253, 254, 255, 258, 271, 272, 273, Edenga hoard, 138, 140, 142 275, 277, 283, 294 Erandapalli, 95, 97, 99 Devenravarman II, 254 Ereganga, 278, 279, 372 Devi Yashoda, 373 391 Dynasty History of United Koraput 392 F 207, 217, 221, 222, 224, 225, 227, 228, 247, 250, 262, 281, 317, 332, 333, 336, 338, 339, Fleet, 46, 47, 49, 91, 99, 234, 241, 253, 263, 271, 356, 359, 368, 370 287 Gokarnasvamin, 275 Gond, 3 Gonds, 244 G Gondwana, 339 G.Ramdas, 10, 31, 32, 40, 41, 50, 53, 137, 144 Gonka II, 225 Gadaba, 3, 73, 280, 375 Gopal, B.R, 121, 123, 235, 287 Gadia, 300, 301, 311, 322 Goriahandi, 71 Gajapatis, 308, 343, 352 Govinda III, 309, 310 Gamang Giridhar, 73 Greeks, 335, 336 Gamang, Giridhar, 374, 375, 385 Gumma’, 247 Gang, 248, 275, 301, 342 Gunaga Vijayaditya, 184, 185, 186, 187, 188, Ganga, 199, 200, 201, 205, 206, 207, 208, 210, 189, 190 215, 216, 217, 218, 219, 220, 221, 222, 223, Gunaga Vijayaditya III, 365, 366 224, 225, 230, 240, 244, 248, 249, 250, 251, Gunarnava, 277 252, 255, 256, 257, 258, 260, 261, 262, 263, Gunda- mahadevi, 17 268, 272, 273, 274, 275, 276, 277, 278, 279, Gunda Mahadevi, 71, 306 280, 281, 282, 285, 294, 295, 324,髈328, 336, Gunupur, 5 341, 342, 345, 346, 348, 349, 351, 352, 354, Gupta, 6, 63, 64, 66, 67, 93, 94, 96, 97, 99, 111, 355, 358, 360, 363, 367, 368, 369, 370, 371, 136, 137, 169, 196 372, 376, 384 Guptas, 7, 86, 99, 278, 307, 364 Gangaikondachola, 200 Gutob, 375 Gangamandalam, 213 Gangapati, 9, 248, 261, 369 H Gangarides, 34, 60 Gangaridum Calingarum Regia, 60 Haihaya, 3, 20, 186 Gangas, 3, 8, 9, 10, 17, 33, 35, 36, 38, 42, 62, 63, Halva, 3 72, 94, 115, 123, 133, 178, 181, 184, 185, 186 Harisena, 9, 96, 115, 149, 248 Gangas of Jantarnadu, 341, 342, 344, 348 Hari-sena, 8 Gangas of Kalinga, 227, 246, 254, 283, 284 Hari-sena, 169 Gangas of Mysore, 197, 258, 274, 275, 277 Harsagupta, 175 Gangavadi, 274, 275, 276, 277, 369 Hastivarman, 251, 256 Gangeshani, 351 Hathigumpha, 7, 48, 49, 60, 75, 76, 81, 82, 83, Gangeyadeva, 203, 292, 307, 323, 362 84, 85, 86, 87, 168, 197, 355, 356, 357 Gangraju, 349 Henjery, 362 Ganguly, D.C, 123, 235, 318 Hieun-Tsiang, 200 Ganjam, 7, 25, 26, 28, 36, 38, 40, 41, 62, 63, 64, Hira Lal, 171, 177, 321, 322 91, 92, 94, 96, 97, 104, 150, 195 Hiralal, 25, 26, 29, 30, 56, 113, 137, 138, 145, Garh Dhanora, 338 157, 234, 236, 241, 297, 311, 312, 314, 318, Gauda-sangha, 361 326, 331 Gautamiputra Satakarni, 7, 85, 92 Hiralal, Sukla, 29, 30 Gidrisinghi, 215 Hiuen Tsang, 66 Giri pascima, 134 Hiuen-Tsang, 64, 253 Girikalinga, 2, 19, 57, 95, 188, 196 Honjeru, 69 Girini, 33 Honjore, 362 Godavari, 1, 7, 8, 13, 16, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, Hoysalas, 3, 14, 20 26, 33, 36, 37, 39, 41, 55, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, Hultzsch, 11, 12, 45, 47, 59, 119, 180, 200, 201, 63, 68, 85, 87, 88, 92, 93, 94, 95, 97, 98, 101, 202, 234, 235 103, 105, 109, 110, 180, 187, 188, 195, 199, Human sacrifice, 321 392 Dynasty History of United Koraput 393 I 314, 319, 322, 339, 342, 343, 351, 352, 353, 354, 357, 358, 359, 360, 362, 363, 364, 370, Ikshavaku, 8, 134 371, 373 Ikshvaku, 9, 133, 134, 135, 248 Jeypore Agency, 9, 115 Indravarman, 9, 10, 11, 32, 35, 46, 159, 179, Jharakhanda, 2, 19 248, 249, 250, 251, 253, 255, 262, 271, 272, Jhodia Poraja, 71, 135 335, 385 Jijingi, 10 Indravati, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 38, 55, 59, 68, 98, Jijingi village, 10, 250 101, 103, 109, 110, 111, 137, 176, 201, 243, Jirjingi copper plate, 248 261, 281, 297, 322, 333, 370, 383 Jirjingi plate, 10, 249, 250 Indravati., 322 Jirjingi plate of Indravarman I, 249 Iyer, Gopala, A., 236 John, Wyld, 29 J K J.K.Sahu, 9, 10, 97, 168, 248, 249, 251, 252, 254, Kadalur Grant, 279, 281, 370, 376 357 Kadamba, 8, 10, 115, 249 J.P. Jain, 102, 112 Kadambas, 8, 9, 10, 92, 115, 133, 134, 178, 249, Jabalpur, 290, 323, 362 342, 343 Jagadalpur, 55, 58 Kakayara-desa, 323, 328 Jagdalpur, 215, 229, 297, 300, 305, 314, 321, Kalachuri, 17, 37, 38, 39, 42, 44, 103, 203, 291, 322, 323, 338 292, 294, 295, 303, 307, 308, 309, 323, 324, Jain, B.C, 312 327, 328, 337, 362, 374 Jain, J.P, 136 Kalachuris, 16, 31, 38, 39, 42, 79, 121, 123, 176, Jaina, 4, 6, 7, 8, 12, 44, 48, 60, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 203, 235, 290, 291, 293, 294, 295, 298, 303, 73, 80, 81, 101, 102, 111, 112, 113, 120, 133, 306, 312, 314, 323, 325, 327, 334, 362, 374 135, 181 Kalahandi, 1, 2, 4, 7, 16, 19, 20, 23, 24, 31, 37, Jainism, 3, 7, 20, 70, 71, 73, 102, 112, 133, 136 38, 40, 41, 48, 50, 53, 54, 66, 67, 83, 88, 91, Jajalla I, 17 92, 94, 96, 98, 103, 104, 137, 175, 204, 215, Jamunda,, 282, 371 231, 297, 298, 299, 306, 310, 317, 333, 337, Janamejaya, 31, 39, 42, 290, 293, 306, 308, 334 338, 339, 359, 363 Janamejaya I, 306 Kalidasa, 4, 25, 37, 103, 104, 105, 107, 108, 109, Janamejaya II, 308 110, 111, 113, 114, 261, 356 Jani, 72, 244, 302 Kalinga, 3, 6, 7, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, Jantarnadu, 17, 348, 349 18, 19, 20, 26, 27, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, Jatapu, 3 38, 39, 40, 41, 43, 45, 46, 48, 49, 53, 54, 55, Jawaharlal, G, 374 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 69, 70, Jawaharlal, G., 73, 113 75, 76, 77, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, Jayangondachola-mandalam, 207 93, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 102, 103, 104, 113, Jayangondar, 213, 222, 227 115, 116, 117, 119, 123, 135, 149, 167, 178, Jayankondacholamandalam, 230, 231 179, 180, 182, 183, 185, 186, 187, 188, 189, Jayapura Kotta, 357 191, 192, 193, 195, 196, 197, 198, 199, 204, Jayapura plate, 252 207, 208, 209, 210, 211, 215, 217, 218, 219, Jayasimha I, 11, 180 220, 221, 222, 223, 225, 226, 227, 228, 229, Jayasimha II, 116, 123, 202, 210, 292, 323 230, 232, 233, 246, 247, 249, 250, 251, 253, Jayavarman,, 250, 271 254, 255, 256, 257, 271, 272, 273, 274, 275, Jaypur inscription, 271 276, 277, 278, 280, 282, 283, 284, 285, 291, Jaypura plates, 255 292, 293, 294, 296, 298, 306, 307, 309, 310, Jeypore, 9, 10, 17, 22, 40, 59, 81, 93, 107, 115, 314, 316, 317, 334, 335, 336, 337, 338, 339, 156, 168, 231, 243, 249, 250, 255, 256, 257, 341, 342, 343, 344, 345, 346, 347, 348, 349, 271, 272, 280, 281, 282, 286, 294, 295, 298, 350, 352, 354, 355, 356, 357, 358, 360, 361, 393 Dynasty History of United Koraput 394 363, 364, 365, 366, 367, 368, 369, 370, 373, Khaling, 339 375, 383, 384, 385 Kharavela, 3, 7, 34, 48, 49, 60, 63, 75, 76, 79, 80, Kalinga., 11, 14, 31, 32, 40, 41, 45, 46, 60, 62, 63, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 90, 168 80, 81, 82, 83, 86, 99, 179, 185, 193, 195, Kharavella, 197 197, 209, 223, 226, 227, 228, 251, 253, 254, Khibira Rishi, 77 255, 256, 257, 273, 274, 276, 277, 282, 284, Khillingar plates, 255, 257 285, 291, 292, 310, 316, 334, 335, 337, 341, Khond, 3 342, 343, 348, 350, 355, 365, 366, 367, 368, Kielhorn, 56, 171, 177 375, 383, 384, 385 Kimidi, 215 Kalingam, 198, 206, 207, 217, 219, 228 Kimling, 339 Kalinganagara, 9, 11, 31, 35, 38, 62, 82, 178, Kirtivarman, 9, 10, 11, 12, 115, 116, 149, 180, 179, 219, 248, 251, 256, 258, 271, 272, 274, 182, 249 277, 278, 307, 334 Kirtivarman I, 9, 10, 11, 115, 116, 249 Kalingattupparani, 17, 213, 217, 218, 219, 220, Kirtivarman II, 12, 180, 182 222, 223, 227, 228, 236 Kirtivarmana I, 10, 115, 116, 249 Kalingraja, 362 Ko-Chola-gumma, 242 Kalingttu Parani, 56 Kodinga hoard, 302, 303, 304 Kalyan, 4, 120, 122, 123, 124, 130, 256 Kokalla I, 323, 362 Kalyan Singpur, 122, 123, 124, 130 Kokalla II, 307 Kalyana Singapur, 243, 257, 270, 383 Kolab, 24, 59, 68, 101, 106, 135, 187 Kalyana Singapur., 243, 257 Kolaru Surayanarayana, 16, 55, 56 Kalyanakaraka, 101, 102, 111, 112 Komalaraja, 308 Kalyana-Karaka, 4, 37 Konamandala, 224 Kamalraji, 362 Kond, 3 Kamarnava, 225, 277, 283, 284, 285, 341, 367, Konda Porajas, 72 368 Kondagaon, 140, 143 Kanaka Durga, 322 Kondai, 117, 118, 205, 229, 317 Kandha, 3 Kondala, 212, 216, 229 Kanker, 22, 23, 41 Kondh, 3, 59 Kantaka-Varttini, 277 Kondhs, 247, 315 Kantara, 2, 19, 53, 137, 146, 148, 150 Konga, 2, 19, 207, 260, 278, 279, 280, 281, 369, Kanthikavandhurakantha, 277 370 Karandai, 205, 206 Kongunivarman, 248, 280, 281, 370 Karnataka, 7, 6, 8, 9, 13, 68, 73, 115, 131, 182, Koraput, 1, 4, 5, 6, 7, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 248, 281, 292, 383 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 18, 19, 20, 22, 24, 25, 26, Karunda-Mandala, 215, 298, 310 28, 31, 37, 38, 40, 46, 48, 50, 53, 54, 56, 57, Kathargad, 176, 256, 317, 383 59, 61, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 77, 81, Kathargada, 245, 295 82, 83, 88, 94, 96, 97, 98, 101, 103, 104, 105, Kavi, 204, 206, 207 106, 107, 110, 111, 112, 114, 115, 120, 122, Kavi-Konga, 204 123, 133, 134, 135, 137, 140, 144, 145, 147, Kelga plates, 293 148, 149, 151, 155, 156, 168, 169, 175, 176, Kerala, 200, 280, 370 179, 180, 181, 182, 183, 187, 189, 191, 196, Keregodi - Rangapur Plates, 278 197, 202, 204, 207, 211, 229, 231, 233, 239, Kerhalli Plates, 278 240, 241, 242, 243, 247, 248, 249, 250, 252, Kesaribeda, 138, 139, 140, 141, 143, 144, 148, 253, 255, 256, 257, 260, 261, 271, 278, 279, 154, 155, 156 280, 281, 282, 285, 286, 290, 294, 297, 299, Kesaribeda grant, 333 302, 305, 306, 314, 317, 321, 323, 324, 326, Keselaka, 333 327, 328, 331, 333, 334, 337, 338, 339, 342, Keskal, 338, 339 352, 355, 356, 358, 359, 360, 363, 364, 365, Khagapati Pradhani, 233 369, 370, 371, 372, 373, 383, 384 Khajuribandha, 243, 319 394 Dynasty History of United Koraput 395 Koraput district, 197, 202, 207, 229, 231, 241, Law, Bimala Churn, 47, 52 243, 249, 250, 256, 261, 271, 278, 282, 285, Leiden plates, 212, 236 294, 297, 299, 302, 324, 326, 333, 339, 342, Lingdarha Nadi, 338 356, 359, 369, 371, 372, 383, 384 Lord Rama’s Feet, 5, 105 Kornel Das, 73, 374, 375, 385 Korni plates, 207, 219 Kosala,, 8, 12, 17, 38, 50, 53, 54, 56, 67, 91, 92, M 93, 98, 99, 104, 109, 122, 149, 169, 170, 172, Macco-Calingae, 34 175, 182, 188, 200, 232, 276, 278, 292, 293, Madgole Zamindars, 343 307, 308, 323, 327, 338, 362 Madhukamarnava, 13 Kosalai, 200, 201, 202, 203, 205, 206 Madhurakantaka, 16 Kosalai-nadu, 58, 200, 201, 202 Madhurantaka, 202, 215, 300, 305, 306 Kotia, 3 Madhurantakadeva, 297 Kotilingi, 339 Madhya Pradesh, 1, 2, 10, 19, 20, 31, 53, 66, 93, Kotpad, 257, 258, 269, 298, 321, 362, 363 94, 96, 98, 107, 110, 114, 137, 141, 143, 170, Kottimba grant, 259 171, 210, 249, 290, 297, 303, 323, 331, 374 Koya, 3 Madhyadesa, 51, 60 Koyas, 247 Madia, 3 Krishana Deva Raya, 363 Madras Museum Copper-plate Grant, 368 Krishana Kumari, M, 318 Madras museum plates, 215 Krishna Kumari, M, 235, 312 Madras Presidency, 332 Krishnamacharlu, C.R, 158 Madurai, 7, 8, 13, 14, 58 Krishnarao, M.V., 136 Maduraimandalam,, 58, 202 Kubja Vishnuvardhan, 115 Madura-mandala, 200, 202 Kudal – Sangama, 14 Maduramandalam, 58 Kudal Sangama, 206 Madura-mandalam, 200 Kudal-Sangama, 204, 205, 206 Madura-mandalam, 201 Kudhur Plates, 260 Madura-mandalam, 202 Kudlur Plates, 279 Magadhas, 279 Kukkanur Plates, 260, 262 Magasthenes, 34 Kulenur Inscription, 325 Magodhia Goudos, 7 Kulia Hoard of Gold Coins, 141 Mahabharata, 25, 26, 29, 34, 39, 50, 52, 53, 82, Kulottunga I, 14, 15, 16, 17, 56, 72, 89, 117, 118, 94, 146, 151 119, 200, 204, 208, 209, 210, 211, 212, 216, Mahabhavagupta I Janamejaya, 290, 291 217, 218, 219, 220, 222, 223, 227, 229, 231, Mahabhavagupta II Bhimaratha, 291 232, 235, 236, 239, 240, 241, 242, 246, 247, Mahabhavagupta IV Uddyotakesarin, 291, 293 260, 304, 306, 317, 364, 385 Mahakantara, 2, 10, 19, 53, 54, 91, 92, 93, 94, Kumari Krishna, M, 236, 237 95, 96, 97, 98, 146, 249, 276, 308, 359 Kumari, Krishna, 123 Mahanadi, 23, 27, 28, 37, 40, 62, 63, 92, 97, 103, Kumilinadu, 230, 231 196, 200, 333 Kumuli, 231, 245, 384 Mahasiva Tivara, 170, 174 Kumulura, 12, 134, 179, 180, 181 Mahasivagupta I Yayati, 291 Kundkundanvaya, 68 Mahasivagupta II Dharmaratha, 291 Kuntala, 206, 212, 214, 216, 219, 224, 357 Mahasivagupta III, 292, 293 Kuruspal, 215, 300, 306, 309, 311, 312, 322, 327 Mahasivagupta IV Janamejaya, 293, 294 Kusuma-bhoga, 323, 328, 363 Mahasivagupta Karna, 291 Kuttia, 59 Mahasivagupta V Karna, 294 Mahasivagupta Yayati, 307, 323 L Mahavira, 49, 69 Mahendra mountain, 207, 227 Langulini, 25, 28, 29 395 Dynasty History of United Koraput 396 Mahendragiri, 7, 14, 15, 21, 25, 93, 95, 97, 98, Mookerji Radhakumud, 47 99 Mudirabada, 202 Mahendragiri,, 220, 247 Mudira-bada, 201 Mahendravarman I, 8 Mudli, 244 Mahipal I, 203 Mudlipada, 202 Mahishasuramardini, 321 Mukhalingam, 251, 294, 344, 345, 384 Mahtab, H. K, 44 Mula Sangha, 68, 69 Majjhima gauri, 69 Munda, 3 Majjhima Prava, 69 Muran, 257, 295, 299, 315, 356 Majumdar, R.C, 65, 67, 99, 136, 176, 295, 373, Muran river, 26, 98, 315 374 Maladhari, 362 Malis, 6 N Malkangiri, 22, 23, 26, 28, 57, 196, 286, 363, 364 N.K.Sahu, 4, 46, 48, 50, 53, 65, 66, 75, 83, 86, 88, Mama-Bhanja ka Mandir., 321 93, 137, 138, 195, 248, 290 Mamata Choudhury, 51, 52 Nadavali, 323 Manda I, 246 Naga, 201, 215, 293, 294, 295, 297, 298, 299, Mandakini, 26, 27, 109, 110, 111, 260, 261 300, 301, 302, 303, 304, 305, 307, 308, 309, Mandakini river, 27 310, 311, 314, 316, 317, 323, 324, 327, 328, Mandala Kingdom, 357 362 Mangalam, S.J, 100 Naga dynasty, 122, 298, 302, 311, 317 Marasimha, 248, 254, 260, 261, 262, 277, 279, Nagavali, 11, 25, 29, 180 280, 281, 282, 286, 369, 370, 371, 372, 376 Nagavamsi, 14, 15, 55, 56, 58, 59, 71, 201, 208, Marasimha I, 248 210, 211, 215, 231, 239, 297, 298, 300, 301, Masunidesa, 58, 59, 69, 200, 234 302, 307, 308, 309, 310, 311, 312, 314, 315, Masuni-desam, 201 316, 326 Masunidesha, 2, 19 Nagli, 119 Mathara, 54, 85, 98, 147, 167, 168, 195, 196 Nala, 4, 8, 10, 50, 52, 54, 66, 67, 115, 137, 138, Matia, 196 139, 140, 141, 142, 143, 146, 147, 148, 149, Matias, 101 150, 151, 153, 154, 155, 156, 160, 169, 175 Matsya dynasty, 341 Nalas, 9, 10, 18, 46, 50, 54, 67, 115, 137, 138, Matsya family, 11, 134, 179, 342 140, 144, 146, 147, 148, 149, 150, 156, 157, Matsyas, 17, 341, 342, 343, 344, 345, 348, 349, 159, 168, 169, 175, 248, 249, 262, 333 354, 365 Namanaikkonam, 200 Matsys of Oddadi, 341 Namanaik-konam, 201 Matya,, 3 Nanda, 6, 60, 78, 81, 88, 142, 167, 355, 356, 357, Matyadesa, 365 358, 385 Mauryas, 6, 10, 98, 115, 249, 357, 373 Nandanaraja, 142 Mc Crindle, 385 Nandapur, 6, 17, 59, 69, 71, 72, 101, 135, 137, McCrindle, 33, 65, 336 156, 168, 188, 231, 250, 255, 257, 260, 270, Megasthenes, 60, 385 281, 282, 285, 286, 321, 326, 351, 352, 353, Meghaduta, 4, 104, 105, 107, 108, 109, 110, 111, 354, 355, 356, 357, 358, 359, 360, 361, 362, 112, 113, 114, 357, 374 363, 364, 365, 369, 370, 371, 372, 373, 382 Megha-duta, 37 Nandapur Suryavamsi dynasty, 354 Megha-duta, 103 Nandavalli, 362 Mirashi, 297, 304, 307, 308, 309, 310, 313, 323, Nandavarman, 254, 277 326, 331 Nandi Puja, 71 Mirashi, V.V, 158, 176, 177 Nandipuram, 358 Misra, P.L, 157 Nandi-Sangha, 68 Mitra, R.L, 89 Nandivardana, 356 Mittal, J.P, 29 Nandivardhana, 355 396 Dynasty History of United Koraput 397 Nandivarman Pallavamalla, 358 P Nandodbhava family, 168, 357, 358 Nandodbhavas, 357 Pachipetta, 59 Nangili, 213, 216 Padamula, 151, 153, 154 Nanndigrama, 358 Padmaprabha Maladhari, 69 Narasimha, 259, 301, 346, 348, 349 Padmapur, 5 Narayan, Sankar. S, 262 Paika -Puki, 12, 181 Narayanapal inscription, 301, 311 Pakanaguda, 176, 384 Narayanapatna, 351 Pakkanaguda, 135 Narayanpal, 322 Paliva, 359, 365 Narendra Sena, 169 Pallava king, 11, 93, 95, 180, 181 Narigaccha, 133 Pallavaraja, 218, 219, 221, 223 Narigachha, 69, 299, 315 Pallavas, 3, 8, 12, 17, 20, 133, 135, 181, 186, 197, Nayak, 326 341, 342, 344, 348, 365, 375 Nisadha, 2, 19, 50, 51, 181, 359 Pallavas of Virakuta, 341, 342, 344, 348 Nishada, 8 Pancap-palli, 58 Nishidhi memorials, 72 Panchappalli, 200, 201 Nitimarga Kongunivarma, 279 Panda L.K, 159 Nolambas, 8 Pandava-Perumal temple, 216 Nowrangpur, 9, 12, 71, 96, 98, 199, 207, 231, Pandavas, 39, 50, 172 233, 242, 244, 249, 257, 261, 285, 295, 355 Pandeya, L.P, 312 Panduvamsi, 10, 137, 150, 170, 175, 249 Panduvamsis, 8, 170, 171, 172, 174, 175, 176 O Pandya, 7, 14, 15, 17, 32, 51, 72, 79, 84, 186, Oddadi, 17, 134 197, 200, 202, 204, 213, 216, 219, 222, 227, Oddadi,, 341, 344, 365 280, 335, 358, 364, 365, 370 Oddadivishaya, 341, 365 Pandyas, 8, 12, 13, 72, 186 Oddas, 116, 200 Panigrahi, K.C., 234, 262, 312 Odda-visaya, 58, 292 Panigrahi, Krishna Chandra, 295, 312 Odda-vishaya, 200, 201 Papdahandi, 247, 266 Odilinga, 339 Parabrahma Sastry, 121 Odra, 43, 60, 61, 217, 218, 221, 223, 234, 290, Paralakhemundi, 260 306, 309, 339 Parata village, 260 Odradesa, 31 Parbhani plates, 361 Odras, 64, 200, 234 Parenga, 3, 72, 358 Omanatya, 3 Pargiter, D.K, 90, 157 Orissa, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 13, 19, Paroja, 3 20, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 31, 34, 35, 36, 37, 39, Paruvi-vishya, 240 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 46, 48, 49, 50, 52, 53, 54, Paschimakalinga, 2, 19 57, 60, 61, 62, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 72, 73, 76, Patasivaram inscription, 362 81, 86, 89, 90, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 99, 100, Patel, C.B, 67, 159, 262 101, 103, 105, 110, 111, 113, 120, 134, 137, Pedda-dugam plates, 257, 263, 285, 383 145, 151, 157, 158, 159, 168, 174, 175, 176, Peddaperappadu plates, 359 195, 196, 197, 199, 200, 202, 203, 206, 207, Pengo, 72, 241, 244, 247 215, 231, 234, 241, 247, 248, 250, 258, 260, Pengo Porajas, 72, 247 261, 262, 263, 271, 276, 283, 287, 290, 291, Peninsula, 6, 33 294, 295, 297, 302, 305, 308, 309, 310, 312, Pentia, 3 314, 321, 323, 324, 328, 331, 333, 334, 336, Penukonda Plates, 240, 259 337, 339, 343, 352, 357, 358, 359, 362, 373, Perati-bhoga, 260, 285, 372 374, 375, 384, 385 Pfeffer, 68, 73 Oriya Paikos, 12, 181 Phampuni, 257, 321 397 Dynasty History of United Koraput 398 Pillai, Kanakasabhai, V, 237, 238 R Pillai, V.K, 236, 237, 238 Pithicampa,, 69 Raipur, 41, 53, 66, 92, 93, 96, 97, 141, 145, 170, Pitrabhakta, 167 171, 175, 176 Pitribhaktas, 167, 195 Rajabhushana-maharaja, 301 Pitribhktas, 384 Rajadhiraja, 14, 117, 199, 203, 204, 210, 282, Plaki-vishaye, 12, 180 293, 342 Pliny, 33, 34, 41, 60, 65, 336 Rajadhiraja I, 199, 203, 204, 293 Podagada, 4, 8, 9, 10, 137, 138, 143, 144, 145, Rajaguru, S.N, 57, 65, 99, 100, 157, 158, 159, 146, 147, 149, 150, 151, 152, 153, 154, 155, 262, 263, 287, 311, 312, 313, 385 156, 157, 229, 231, 243, 244, 245, 249, 250, Rajaguru,S.N, 311, 312 258, 322, 333 Rajamalla I, 9, 248 Podagadha, 115 Rajaraja, 13, 14, 15, 17, 36, 59, 116, 117, 119, Potinar inscriptions, 301, 326 190 Pottapi Vishaya, 360 Rajaraja I, 198, 200, 204, 207, 211, 219, 220, 294, Pottapinadu, 360 348 Pottapi-nadu, 368 Rajaraja II, 225, 341, 345, 366 Pottapi-nadu, 368 Rajaraja III, 341 Pradhani Family, 233 Rajasundri, 119 Pratapa Gangaraju, 349, 354 Rajendra, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 42, 55, 56, 58, 59, Pravhavati Gupta, 356 62, 116, 117, 118, 122 Prithivivygara, 359 Rajendra Chola, 200, 203, 208, 225, 239, 242, Prithvi-Vyagrah, 8 291, 292, 304, 305, 316, 323, 365 Prthivivyaghra, 51, 181 Rajendra I, 199, 202, 203, 210, 211, 231, 242, Ptolemy’s, 335, 336, 340 292 Pujariguda, 5, 105, 107, 111 Rajendra II, 199, 204, 211, 241, 254, 293, 317 Puki, 12, 134, 135, 179, 180 Rajendravarman, 252, 254, 258, 271, 272, 273 Puki-Vishaya’, 12, 180 Rajendravarman I, 182, 254 Pukiya family. The King's daughter Atavi-Santisri Rajendraverman II, 254, 255 was married to an, 133 Rajenra I, 242 Pulakesh II, 115 Rajim stone inscription, 139, 145 Pulakeshin II, 8, 178 Rama Rao, M, 136 Pulakesin I, 9, 115 Ramachandra Rao, C.V., 65 Pulakesin II, 9, 11, 92, 115, 116, 178, 180, 182, Ramachandran, T.N, 89 249 Ramagiri, 4, 5, 26, 30, 37, 98, 101, 102, 103, 104, Purle plates, 335 105, 107, 108, 109, 110, 111, 112, 114 Purushottama, 345, 346 Ramagiri., 4, 102, 105, 107, 108 Purva desam, 199 Ramagiri-svami, 356 Purvadesa, 2, 15, 19, 118, 199, 209, 212, 215, Ramatirthan, 361 239, 240, 241, 316 Ramayana, 4, 1, 2, 20, 25, 26, 29, 49, 50 Purvadesha, 199, 231, 232, 241, 242, 247 Ramdas, G, 43, 52, 54, 157, 158, 159, 262 Pushapagiri,, 115 Ramesh, K.V, 262, 263, 376 Pushkari, 137, 140, 144, 145, 146, 148, 149, 151, Ranka Jayavarman, 251 152, 153, 154, 155 Rao Krishna, B.V, 157 Pushkarni Vishaya, 258 Rao, B.V, 311, 318, 375 Puskari,, 249 Rashtrakuta, 309, 310, 370 Pustaka gaccha, 68, 69 Rashtrakutas, 197, 307 Rastrakutas, 12, 13, 14, 122, 181, 182, 191 Rastrakutas., 13 Q Rastrakuttas, 3, 20 queen Kallabha, 282, 371 Rath, B.K, 44 398 Dynasty History of United Koraput 399 Ratnadeva II, 323, 327, 363 Sastri, K.A.N, 65, 90, 121, 241, 318, 374 Ratnagiri plates, 293, 308 Sastri, K.A.Nilakanta, 234, 235, 238 Ratnapur, 306, 309, 312, 323, 324, 327, 328, 362 Satavahana, 48, 49, 63, 66, 85, 88 Ray Choudhuri, H.C, 54, 67 Satavahans, 332 Ray Choudhury, H.C, 52 Sathianathaier, R, 234, 375 Ray, H.C, 44 Satipillars, 156 Ray, H.C., 374 Satyavarman, 253, 272 Ray. H.C, 325 Saubhagyadeva, 346 Rayagada, 59, 68, 69, 97, 120, 122, 124, 181 Saumya vatika, 255 Risi Khibidi, 70, 81 Senapati, 374 Ronas, 364 Seven Kalinga, 228 Sewell, R, 237 Sewell, Robert, 287, 343, 375 S Shangam corpse, 7 S.N. Rajaguru, 236, 258 Sharabharpuriyas, 8 Sabara, 3, 8, 51, 170, 176, 190 Sharma, R.K, 325, 374 Sabbi country, 71 Shastri Ajay Mitra, 295 Sabbi –thousand, 361 Shastri, Ajay Mitra, 43, 44 Sahu J.K, 262 Silaharas, 14 Sahu, J.K, 65, 100, 168 Silas of Nandapura, 341 Sahu, N.K, 47, 49, 52, 54, 65, 67, 89, 90, 99, 100, Silavamsa, 353, 354, 355 157, 158, 159, 196, 295, 373 Sileru, 247, 364 Sailodbhava, 254 Simhachalam, 223, 226, 345, 346, 348, 349, 354 Saivism, 3, 8, 20, 173, 175 Simhanandi, 133, 276 Sakala-Kalingadhipati’, 36 Simhapatha Queen, 79 Sakkarakottam, 55, 58, 59, 210, 212, 214, 216, Simhapura, 257, 285, 358, 383, 384, 385 229 Simhapura., 167, 195, 196, 257, 384, 385 Sakkara-kottam, 200 Sindas, 298 Sakkara-kottam, 201 Singama, 354 Sakkara-Kottam, 16, 55, 297 Singh Deo, J.P, 54 Saktipitha, 156 Singh Deo, K.B, 343, 373, 375 Saletore, B.V., 136 Singh, R.B.P, 73 Salthianathaiyer, 136 Singh, R.L, 29 Samantavarman, 250, 251, 255, 256, 262, 263 Sircar, 8, 26, 27, 29, 30, 45, 47, 57, 62, 65, 85, 91, Sambalpur, 40, 41, 66, 93, 97, 175 93, 99, 107, 114, 138, 144, 157, 159, 168, Samudra Gupta, 3, 6, 7, 96 171, 174, 176, 178, 193, 195, 196, 283, 288, Samudragupta, 10, 46, 49, 53, 63, 66, 86, 87, 88, 296, 297, 309, 311, 312, 313, 326, 327, 328, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 144, 146, 249, 331, 357, 358, 365, 374, 375, 385 276, 308 Sircar, D.C, 29, 30, 57, 65, 99, 114, 157, 159, 168, Samudragupta Maurya, 249 193, 196, 296, 311, 312, 331, 374, 375, 385 Sangam, 197 Siva Parvati, 156 Sankara Dynasty of Nandapur, 351 Sivagupta, 290 Sankhini, 321 Sivagupta Balarjuna, 172, 173, 174, 175 Santhianathaier, R, 375 Sivalinga, 111, 132, 156, 157 Saora, 3 Skanda varman, 8 Saravasiddhi taluka, 11, 180 Skanda Varman, 143 Sarma, Bina Kumari, 295 Skandavanman, 149 Sarma, M.S, 121 Skandavarman, 249 Sarvati in Nandapur, 69 Smaller Lieden Plate, 235 Sastri, K.A, Nilakanta, 375 Smith, V, 89, 333 Sastri, K.A. Nilakanta, 121 Soda Mandala, 277 399 Dynasty History of United Koraput 400 Sodia Poraja, 315 Tel, 23, 41, 91, 154, 204, 326, 332, 333, 338, 339 Somavamsi, 42, 65, 203, 276, 283, 294, 295, 306, Tel river, 204 308, 324, 328 Telavaha river, 332 Somavamsis, 16, 31, 39, 42, 72, 234, 290, 294, Telin Ghatt, 338 295, 306, 312, 331, 334 Telinga, 2, 19, 31, 32, 334, 335 Sombartuta, 250, 256 Telingiri, 332, 333, 339 Somesvara, 14, 15, 16, 17, 56, 117, 118, 119, Telivaha, 333 120, 122, 123, 199, 203, 204, 208, 210, 214, Telugu, 3, 9, 11, 12, 16, 32, 33, 62, 64, 116, 121, 215, 224, 239, 282, 293, 294, 295, 300, 301, 134, 135, 144, 178, 186, 192, 193 302, 304, 306, 307, 308, 309, 316, 317, 323, Telugu Choda, 116, 295, 305, 306, 307, 309, 313, 324, 326, 327, 328, 329, 362 324, 326, 327, 328 Somesvara I, 300, 301, 307, 309 Telugu Chodas, 3, 12 Sondi Khibidi, 70, 81 Telugu-Choda, 294, 295, 307, 308, 309 Sonepur, 295, 308, 309, 323, 324, 326, 327, 328 Tentulikhunti, 231, 242, 247 South Kalinga, 17, 38, 41, 104, 338, 341, 364 Thana plate, 335 South Kosala, 3, 8, 9, 10, 16, 20, 31, 37, 38, 54, Timmapuram, 11, 178, 179, 180, 193 66, 67, 71, 86, 91, 93, 94, 96, 97, 98, 103, 104, Tirathgarh, 322 149, 169, 170, 171, 172, 173, 175, 197, 215, Tirumalai Inscriptions, 201, 244, 365 249, 290, 294, 295, 307, 323, 326, 327, 328, Tirumalai rock, 199, 202 334, 337, 338, 362, 369 Tirumukkudal inscription, 204 Southern Kosala, 199, 200 Tiruvalangadu grant, 199 Srikakulam, 1, 20, 25, 28, 37, 38, 62, 83, 85, 95, Tramiradesaanghatam., 197 97, 98, 103, 104, 168, 188, 195 Tribhuvana Mahadevi, 248, 277, 290 Srirangam plates, 334 Tribhuvnamalla Vira, 362 Srisaila,, 273, 275 Trikalayogi Siddhantadeva, 361 Srivaraha, 141 Trikalinga, 2, 9, 10, 16, 17, 19, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, Stambha, 138, 142 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 46, 54, 55, 60, Stirling, A, 89 62, 69, 70, 71, 73, 95, 101, 102, 149, 150, Strumpell, Christian, 73 183, 185, 190, 248, 249, 250, 251, 252, 255, Subaie, 71, 282, 361, 371 256, 257, 258, 276, 284, 297, 306, 307, 314, Subaie in Nandapur, 71 334, 335, 336, 337, 338, 339, 341, 355, 359, Subramanian K.R, 99 361, 364, 365, 366, 370, 374 Subramanian, K.R, 65, 136 Tri-kalinga, 298 Sukhla, H.N, 158 Trikalinga-atavi, 190, 366 Sukla, H.L, 29 Trikalingadhipati, 10, 31, 35, 36, 39, 40, 41, 42, Sukla,H.L, 52 43, 62, 113, 224, 249, 250, 251, 256, 276, Sunarpal inscriptions, 301 290, 307, 362, 366 Sundara, 198 Trilinga, 31, 32, 33, 43, 60, 62, 253, 334, 335, Suraparaju, 344, 345 336, 339 Suryanarayana, K, 311 Trilinga,, 334, 335, 336, 339 Suvarnapura, 276, 290, 295, 307, 323, 326 Tripathi, Sunderlal, 29 Svetaka Gangas, 251, 252 Tripathy, S, 43, 157, 196, 312, 339 Tripathy, Sunderlal., 374 Tripuri, 203, 278, 280, 290, 292, 323, 334, 362 T Tsrling, 339 Tamil, 7, 12, 16, 55, 56, 58, 84, 87, 88, 117, 186, 197, 198, 200, 207, 211, 217, 220, 223, 227, U 230, 235, 238, 239, 240, 316 Tammara inscription, 301 Udayana, 8, 51, 170, 172, 173, 359 Tamsa, 27 Uddiyana, 170 Tanjore inscription, 198 Ugraditya, 101, 102, 104, 111, 112 400 Dynasty History of United Koraput 401 Ugradityacarya, 4, 37, 103 209, 210, 211, 213, 214, 219, 220, 222, 226, Umbel, 72 239, 288, 292, 297, 305, 365, 366, 368, 370 Umerkote, 4, 8, 9, 10, 50, 137, 140, 145, 150, Vijayaditya I, 182, 183 175 Vijayaditya III, 16, 55, 56, 184, 185 Un-Chola-gumma, 242 Vijayaditya IV, 366 Utkala, 31, 34, 36, 39, 40, 41, 43, 47, 52, 54, 60, Vijayaditya IV Kollabhaganda, 366 61, 62, 65, 170, 174, 203, 292, 293, 294, 306, Vijayaditya IV Kollabhiganda, 189 307, 323, 334, 337, 338, 339, 357, 362 Vijayaditya VI, 70, 191 Uttama Chola, 198 Vijayaditya VII, 116, 202, 208, 209, 210, 214, 219, 222, 292 Vijayanagar Empire, 363 V Vijrahasta, 277 V.Kanakasabhai Pillai, 230, 232 Vikrama Chola, 17, 222, 223, 224, 225 Vaidumbas, 368 Vikramaditya, 200, 203, 208, 209, 211, 213, 214, Vaishnavism, 3, 20, 114 216, 224, 239, 240, 304, 305, 307, 316, 317, Vajrahasta II, 366 318, 323, 327, 356, 358, 366, 370 Vajrahasta V, 35, 294 Vikramaditya I, 9, 115, 137, 149 Vajrahastadeva, 254, 277 Vikramaditya II, 36, 102, 190 Vakataka, 4, 8, 9, 10, 67, 107, 111, 115, 136, 137, Vikramaditya VI, 117, 118, 119, 120, 200, 208, 143, 147, 148, 149, 169, 178, 196, 241, 248, 209, 211, 216, 224, 239, 305, 307, 316, 317, 249, 356, 373, 374 318, 327, 370 Vakatakas, 4, 3, 8, 54, 66, 92, 94, 114, 137, 147, Vilasatunga, 139, 143, 145, 175 148, 149, 156, 169, 356 Vimaladitya, 198, 211, 361 Vamsadhara, 25, 28 Vinayaka Deo’s, 353 Vamsdhara rivers, 23, 24 Vinayaka Deva, 354 Varaharaja, 138, 139, 140, 141, 143, 147 Vindyavedhana, 146, 147 Vayiragaram, 212, 216, 222 Vira Choda, 119, 120, 178, 222 Velanti Rajendra Choda, 246 Virachoda, 17, 247, 306, 360 Veng, 37, 284 ViraChola, 17 Vengi, 3, 7, 8, 11, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 19, 20, 31, Viranandi- Sidhanta, 362 36, 37, 38, 42, 55, 58, 59, 62, 63, 70, 72, 92, Virarajendra, 14, 15, 117, 118, 119, 122, 199, 93, 94, 95, 98, 101, 102, 113, 116, 117, 118, 204, 207, 208, 209, 211, 213, 214, 220, 229, 119, 120, 121, 123, 136, 178, 179, 180, 181, 232, 233, 236, 239, 293, 307, 316, 317, 318 182, 183, 184, 185, 186, 190, 191, 192, 193, Visakhapatanam, 11, 180 197, 198, 199, 200, 201, 202, 204, 206, 207, Visakhapatnam, 1, 11, 20, 26, 38, 95, 134, 179 208, 209, 210, 211, 213, 214, 215, 218, 219, Vishamasiddhi, 359 220, 222, 224, 227, 228, 229, 232, 239, 240, Vishnu, 4, 107, 114, 122, 146, 151, 153, 154, 241, 246, 247, 271, 282, 283, 284, 285, 292, 156, 157, 171, 174, 175, 180 297, 298, 301, 304, 306, 309, 310, 311, 314, Vishnuvardhana, 9, 10, 11, 12, 16, 51, 55, 101, 316, 317, 318, 334, 344, 345, 359, 361, 365, 102, 116, 135, 178, 179, 180, 181, 182, 183, 366, 367, 368, 370, 375, 376, 383 184, 192, 193, 200, 249, 292, 342, 346, 359, Venkatakrishna, B., Rao, 193 367 Venkataramanaya, N, 136 Vishnuvardhana I., 11, 179, 180 Venkataramanayya, N, 193 Vidyadhara, 2, 19, 48, 49, 83, 84, 86, 88 ' Vidyadhara territory, 2, 19, 48, 49, 83 Vijayadittya II, 184 'Visnuvardhana I, 134 Vijayaditya, 13, 14, 15, 16, 36, 38, 55, 56, 70, 102, 116, 117, 178, 182, 183, 184, 185, 186, 187, 188, 189, 190, 191, 202, 203, 207, 208, V Vizagapatam, 207, 225, 275, 277, 341, 373 401 Dynasty History of United Koraput 402 Vrihatkodila grant, 219 Western Gangas, 4, 9, 94, 248, 258, 260, 262, Vyaghraraja, 91, 93, 94 273, 274, 275, 276, 278, 281, 282, 358, 369, Vyghraraja, 92, 146, 359 370, 371 Wilson, H.H, 52, 113, 114 W Y Watters, 67 Western Chalukya, 9, 11, 15, 115, 116, 117, 119, Y.K. Deshpande, 171, 177 120, 122, 123, 137, 149, 178, 180, 181, 187, Yadavas of Devagiri, 12, 122, 123 199, 200, 204, 206, 210, 211, 216, 249, 316, Yasoraja, 328, 329 364, 372 Yayatinagar, 203, 292 Western Chalukyas., 119, 298 Yayatinagara, 202, 203, 292 Western Ganga, 9, 13, 69, 133, 191, 248, 258, Yazdani, G, 295 279, 355 Yuddamalla II, 190 402