Researchers from Tamil Nadu have deciphered an ancient inscription found in a cave on the Courtrallam Hill in Tenkasi district. The inscription, believed to be from the 9th century CE, is written in an early form of Tamil known as *Vattezhuthu*, and contains 8 lines of text.
The research team, led by V. Poonguzhali and K. Pandidurai from the Tamil Nadu Archaeological Research Centre, Tiruchi, identified the inscription as a record of land grant made to a local assembly (*sabha*) by a Paravar chieftain named Kopperun Kumarulaingan. The land was granted to Brahmins for maintaining a temple.
The inscription details the boundaries of the donated land, referencing specific landmarks and natural features of the area. It also mentions the names of individuals involved in the transaction, providing insights into the social structure and administrative practices of the time.
Significantly, the inscription uses a unique orthographic feature – the consistent use of the letter ‘ṉ’ (Tamil ‘n’) instead of ‘ṇ’ (retroflex ‘n’) which is typical of later Tamil. This finding supports the theory that the shift in orthography occurred gradually over time. Researchers believe this inscription provides crucial evidence for understanding the evolution of Tamil script and language.
The Courtrallam Hill cave itself is historically significant, with evidence of human habitation dating back to the prehistoric period. Previous archaeological investigations have uncovered pottery and tools from the Stone Age. This new inscription adds another layer to the site’s rich history, demonstrating its continued importance through the medieval period.
The decipherment of this inscription contributes to a better understanding of the political and social landscape of the Pandya region during the 9th century. It highlights the role of local chieftains in land administration and religious patronage, and provides valuable data for reconstructing the history of Tamil Nadu. Further research is planned to explore the surrounding area for additional inscriptions and artifacts.
