A fourth century Sanskrit inscription written in Brahmi script has been found near Gilgit in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The inscription found from Gilgit mentions that Pushpasingh had established Maheshwarling for the merit of his guru (name is partially lost).
Earlier in 2024, a 10th-century Sanskrit and Sharada script (used for Sanskrit and Kashmiri in Kashmir) inscription was discovered near Peshawar, which referred to Buddhist Dharini mantras with the mention of “Da(Dha)rini” in the sixth line. Buddhist Dharini refers to sacred mantras or chants, used in Buddhism to invoke protection, purification and blessings. These mantras are believed to have spiritual power and are often chanted in rituals to promote well-being. Dharini usually contain sacred syllables or phrases.
What is the importance of historical records
- Primary historical sources: Records are authentic and direct sources for reconstructing ancient Indian history, offering evidence free from later interpolations and biases.
- The dates and events recorded help establish accurate historical timelines.
- Insights on political history: Inscriptions provide valuable details about rulers, dynasties, conquests, treaties and administration in ancient India.
- Administrative systems: Inscriptions often contain information about revenue systems, land grants, taxation and judicial structures. For example, the Junagadh (Girnar) inscription of Rudradaman describes the construction and repair of the Sudarshan lake dam, providing evidence of administrative priorities in water management.
- Linguistic evolution: Inscriptions document the evolution of languages, scripts and literary styles.
- Ashoka’s edicts, inscribed in Prakrit, Greek and Aramaic languages, throw light on linguistic diversity and the use of local scripts to effectively communicate governance.
- Socio-economic structures: Information on trade practices, social norms, caste systems and economic details is often obtained from inscriptions. Inscriptions reveal details about ancient religions, temple construction, rituals and royal patronage.
Some important inscriptions of ancient India
Political inscriptions
- Junagadh (Girnar) inscription (Rudradaman): A Sanskrit inscription of the 2nd century AD which describes the achievements of Rudradaman and mentions the construction of the Sudarshan lake dam by Pushyagupta, a governor of Chandragupta Maurya.
- Bhitari Pillar Inscription: Describes the military success of Skandagupta against the Huns and his administrative reforms.
Administrative and Land Grant Inscriptions
- Paharpur Inscription (Buddhagupta): This inscription found in Bangladesh throws light on land grants and religious patronage during the Gupta period.
- Mandsaur Inscription: Describes the victory of Yashodharman over the Huns, and emphasizes his role in restoring stability in the region.
- Gwalior Inscription (Raja Bhoj I): It describes grants made to Brahmins and mentions agraharas, indicating socio-economic practices under the Gurjara-Pratiharas.
- Banskheda Copper Plate: Signed by Harshavardhana, it provides details about his dynasty, administration and rule.
- Devapara Prashasti: Describes the achievements of the conquering army of Bengal, and gives insights into the socio-political scenario of the time.