Tamils Inscription Found in Rudrama Devi Era Site at Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu
A significant archaeological discovery has been made with the unearthing of a Tamil inscription at the Nataraja temple in Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu, which makes a rare reference to the renowned Kakatiya ruler, Rudrama Devi. This 13th-century inscription provides valuable insights into the inter-regional political dynamics of medieval South India.
Key details:
The inscription was found engraved in classical Tamil (Centamil) on the western ‘gopuram’ (left of the entrance) to the Nataraja temple in Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu.
The inscription dates back to the 13th century.
The significance of this inscription lies in its rare explicit reference to Rani Rudramadevi, the valiant female ruler of the Kakatiya dynasty (from the region of modern-day Telangana). While her name is not directly mentioned, it refers to a powerful woman ruling to the north.
The verses primarily praise the victory of the Pandya King Vikrama Pandya over Venadan (Travancore) at Podiyil, bestowing upon him epithets like Bhuvanekavira and Korkai-kavalan.
Historical Context:
The most intriguing part of the inscription, found in its second and third verses, states that King Vikrama Pandya did not pursue further conquests to the north.
This was because that region was “ruled by a woman”, identified by historians as Rudramadevi, daughter of the Kakatiya King Ganapatideva.
One line reportedly advises the king not to proceed northward as it is governed by “a woman with a man’s name”.
Significance:
This is considered a rare instance of epigraphic evidence from Tamil Nadu explicitly referring to a woman monarch from the Deccan
It provides valuable insight into the contemporary regional political history and the acknowledgment of powerful rulers in neighbouring territories.
It highlights Rudramadevi’s strength and influence that commanded respect and possibly caution from powerful contemporary rulers like Vikrama Pandya.
Discovery Process: The verses were recently noticed by K Munirathnam Reddy, Director (Epigraphy) of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), while re-reading inscriptions for a parliamentary question.
Kakatiya Dynasty & Rudramadevi:
Rudramadevi’s Reign (1263-1289 CE):
- One of the few female monarchs in Indian history to rule a major kingdom independently.
- Belonged to the Kakatiya dynasty of Warangal, which ruled large parts of present-day Telangana and Andhra Pradesh.
- Adopted the masculine title “Rudradeva Maharaja” to assert her legitimacy in a patriarchal society.
Military and Administrative Excellence:
- Led successful military campaigns to defend the kingdom from internal revolts and external threats (e.g., Yadavas, Pandyas).
- Implemented administrative reforms, including fortification of towns, irrigation projects, and support for temples and trade.
- Demonstrates Kakatiya influence in southern India, beyond Telangana – including Tamil cultural and political spaces.
Pandya Dynasty Context:
- The inscription also hints at the 13th-century power struggles, especially with Vikrama Pandya, indicating territorial contests between the Kakatiyas and Pandyas.
- Suggests inter-dynastic rivalries and military diplomacy in medieval South India.
Inter-Regional Political Relations:
- Shows awareness and interaction between major South Indian powers Kakatiyas of Warangal and Pandyas of Madurai.
- Points to fluid boundaries and evolving alliances/conflicts in the Deccan-Tamil region.
Cultural and Archaeological Significance:
- The location Nataraja temple, Chidambaram is a key Shaivite pilgrimage site with layers of Chola, Pandya, and now Kakatiya-era heritage
- Reflects the multi-dynastic patronage of religious institutions across South India.
Women in Medieval Indian Politics:
- Reinforces the role of women in power, like Rudramadevi, who challenged patriarchal norms through effective governance and military leadership.
- Provides a historical anchor to discussions on gender and kingship in Indian history