A Glimpse into the Ancient Tulu World: The Alupa Inscription of the 7th–8th Century

--Glimpse into the Ancient Tulu World: The Alupa Inscription of the 7th–8th Century

The Alupa dynasty, one of the earliest ruling dynasties in the Tulu-speaking region of South India, left behind a legacy that continues to intrigue historians, linguists, and cultural enthusiasts. Among their treasures is a rare Tulu inscription from the 7th–8th century, attributed to King Alupa II. This inscription is a window into the socio-political, cultural, and linguistic heritage of the time, offering a detailed view of governance, justice, and community welfare in ancient South India.

Decoding the Inscription

The inscription begins with an auspicious invocation:

“Swastîsri Vrushbhantû brahaspathi tule tiga t iruvatta eNma postanata adityavaratāni.”

This opening sets the event’s time—a Sunday aligned with specific astrological configurations. In ancient India, celestial alignments were deeply significant, guiding everything from daily rituals to critical administrative decisions. The invocation reflects the spiritual ethos of the era, where harmony with the cosmos was deemed essential for success.

The Role of Governance: A Participatory Approach

The narrative of the inscription moves to a royal assembly:

“Arasu moodillaya kilatura iruvatta naluveren tatthu ijistanadekaaperunarasuku samudaya iruv adikarigu astanatutu eraboduvendhu.”

Here, King Alupa II is recorded as having summoned 24 representatives from Kilattur to discuss an important administrative task—appointing a community welfare officer. This participatory approach to governance highlights the Alupa dynasty’s progressive administrative policies, emphasizing the involvement of local leaders in state affairs.

This unique participatory model ensured that decisions were localized and inclusive, reflecting the needs of the community while maintaining the king’s overarching authority.

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Justice and Dharma: The Trial of Varandeva Perbappena

The inscription also delves into a judicial matter:

“Bramher utti varanasitdu sara kabilen kerustu pasunu ade kuntattanayagu.”

This passage describes the sentencing of Varandeva Perbappena Bamanna Pervarasa, who was punished for committing the grievous crime of murdering Brahmins in Varanasi. The inscription categorizes this act as “unforgivable” and emphasizes the ethical standards of the time.

The execution of such a high-profile individual underscores the Alupa dynasty’s unwavering commitment to justice and dharma (righteousness). This incident also sheds light on the strict societal and moral codes governing ancient South Indian society.

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Administrative Efficiency and Hierarchy

The inscription notes the delegation of authority:

“Arasu adhikari upuppanata varandeva perbappena bāmana pervarasanu kerustu.”

The appointment of Uruppana, a royal officer, to oversee the welfare officer’s selection reflects the well-structured administrative hierarchy of the Alupa dynasty. This system of delegation ensured accountability while maintaining royal oversight, a hallmark of efficient governance.

The mention of a specific officer also highlights the importance given to localized administration, ensuring that the needs of smaller communities were addressed effectively.

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Linguistic and Cultural Significance

The inscription’s use of the Tulu language offers invaluable insights into the linguistic landscape of the time. Terms like Kilattur and Uruppana showcase the vernacular’s integration into official communication, providing clues about its evolution and its role in daily life.

The Tulu language, still spoken in parts of Karnataka and Kerala, finds its historical roots in inscriptions like these, solidifying its importance as a medium of administration and cultural expression.

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Legacy of the Alupa Dynasty

The Alupa rulers, often referred to as the protectors of the Tulu-speaking region, were instrumental in shaping the cultural and administrative framework of ancient South India. This inscription is a testament to their forward-thinking governance, commitment to justice, and respect for cultural traditions.

By combining spirituality, participatory governance, and strict ethical codes, the Alupa dynasty laid the foundation for a vibrant society that thrived on principles of inclusion and fairness.

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Why This Inscription Matters Today

Studying this ancient Tulu inscription is not merely an academic exercise. It serves as a reminder of the values that once guided our ancestors—values of justice, inclusivity, and reverence for cultural heritage. As we navigate modern complexities, the lessons embedded in such artifacts inspire us to create societies rooted in ethical governance and mutual respect.

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Closing Thoughts

The 7th–8th century Alupa inscription is more than just a historical document; it is a bridge to a bygone era, offering a profound connection to the rich tapestry of Tulu heritage. By preserving and interpreting such inscriptions, we honor the legacy of the Alupa dynasty and celebrate the timeless wisdom they impart.

Let us continue to explore and cherish these remnants of history, for they hold the keys to under

standing our past and shaping our future.

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Tags: #TuluHistory #AncientIndia #AlupaDynasty #CulturalLegacy #LinguisticHeritage