During an archeological dig close to Mangaluru, a renowned archaeologist uncovered an astounding discovery. They discovered an uncommon inscription connected to the Alupa dynasty, which provided fresh insight into the historical fabric of the area.
About Alupa Dynasty
- Alupa Dynasty: The inscription is the earliest known reference to the Alupa dynasty, a historically significant Tulu Nadu ruling family.
- Regal Demise: Interestingly, the inscription honors the passing of an Alupa king, offering a rare window into the past of this antiquated dynasty.
- References to the Siri Cult: The inscription also includes terms that allude to the cultural and religious customs of the time, such as Siri, Dalya, and Chattara (Chatra).
Archaeological Findings
- Keerthi Sthamba: The inscription emphasizes Kesava’s contribution to the construction of a Kulashekara Alupendra monument. Within the inscription is a pillar known as a Keerthi sthamba, which is a reflection of an original pillar in the Mangaluru neighborhood of Kulashekara.
- Fine Details: The inscription, which announces the death of Alupendra I and has two panels at the top with Kannada script below, features characters from the 12th century.
- Royal Illustrations: The inscription’s human figures stand in for Kulashekara Alupendra. In one panel, he is shown carrying a gurani (shield) and brandishing a sword in the Tribhanga pose. The image of the king next to it shows him sitting in a contemplative position with his hands resting on his knees.
Significance in Tuluva History
- Tuluva Culture: This finding sheds important light on the traditions, convictions, and social organization of the Alupa dynasty.
- Soma Cult: There is a link between this area and the Soma cult, which was founded in Gujarat in the eleventh century AD by Soma Sharma. The Someshwara temple, constructed during Kulashekara Alupendra’s reign as a tribute to Soma, is evidence of this blending of cultures.
Who was Kulashekara Alupendra?
- The Alupa Legacy: Kulashekara Alupendra I, a well-known Alupa king of South Canara, was a major historical figure in the area.
- City Establishment: He established the city of Kulashekara in Mangaluru and passed strict laws governing temple management, which still have an impact on temple governance in the area.
- Language and Culture: Alupendra I supported the preservation and advancement of the Tulu language and culture. His rule lasted from 1156 to 1215 A.D. Based on paleography, this inscription can be dated to the 12th century.