logo
Rare 6th-century shell script inscriptions discovered in Kadapa, first in South India

Rare 6th-century shell script inscriptions discovered in Kadapa, first in South India

KADAPA: In a significant archaeological breakthrough, three rare shell character inscriptions dating back to the 6th century CE have been discovered in Lankamalla forest of Siddhavatam range, Kadapa district. The find, announced by Director (Epigraphy) at the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) Dr K Munirathnam Reddy, marks the first-ever discovery of Shell script inscriptions in South India.
Previously found only in northern and Deccan regions, the Shell script is considered one of the most enigmatic ancient writing systems in the subcontinent. The newly unearthed inscriptions, etched on stone slabs and composed in Sanskrit, are believed to be pilgrimage records. They bear texts such as Bhagate(ni) Radhiya, Dharadhisha Bhagavata, and (Go)sata Dharma.
'These inscriptions are of immense historical value, offering insights into ancient pilgrimage routes and religious practices in the region,' said Dr Reddy. He noted that despite decades of scholarly effort, the Shell script remains partially deciphered. Noted scholars like the late Prof BN Mukherjee and Prof Richard Solomon had made significant strides but could not fully decode it.
The ASI has now called for a comprehensive and comparative study of all known Shell inscriptions to deepen understanding of the script's origins and historical context.

Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Central Sanskrit Universities unite for Sanskrit's digital renaissance
Central Sanskrit Universities unite for Sanskrit's digital renaissance

Hans India

time14 hours ago

  • Hans India

Central Sanskrit Universities unite for Sanskrit's digital renaissance

TIRUPATI: Vice-Chancellor of National Sanskrit University (NSU), Tirupati, Prof GSR Krishnamurthy called for a united and technologically-driven approach to revitalise Sanskrit and Indian knowledge systems for the next generation. He addressed the Fourth Utkarsha Samaroh (Excellence Ceremony) of India's Central Sanskrit Universities in Nashik on Monday. The event brought together eminent scholars, students and leaders of Sanskrit academia. The guests included Prof Murali Manohar Pathak, Vice-Chancellor of Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri National Sanskrit University, and Prof Srinivasa Varkhedi, Vice-Chancellor of the host institution, Central Sanskrit University. Together, they contributed to the success and intellectual richness of the ceremony. In his keynote address, Prof Krishnamurthy stressed that the three Central Sanskrit Universities are working in close coordination to develop comprehensive strategies aimed at promoting Sanskrit education and cultural knowledge. 'We are in an era where ancient wisdom and modern tools must go hand in hand. Our universities are not working in isolation. We are pooling our resources, expertise and vision to take Sanskrit to greater heights,' he said. He underscored the significance of adapting Sanskrit pedagogy to suit contemporary learners. 'Our goal over the next decade is to harness modern technology to make Sanskrit's profound knowledge accessible to students across India and beyond,' Prof Krishnamurthy remarked. He emphasised that this approach would not only preserve Sanskrit but also make it a dynamic force in modern education and intellectual discourse. The Utkarsha Samaroh also featured extensive discussions by leading Sanskrit scholars on the integration of Indian culture and values into modern education. Speakers explored how digital platforms, multimedia resources and interdisciplinary approaches can make Sanskrit more engaging and impactful. During this Utkarsha festival, a book on Vedic Mathematics, authored by Head of the department of Mathematics at NSU Prof V Ramesh Babu, was also released. Similarly, the book 'Sri Chaitanya Philosophy' was unveiled by the guests.

Reduce import dependence on Lithium and Cobalt with AI: Union Minister
Reduce import dependence on Lithium and Cobalt with AI: Union Minister

The Hindu

timea day ago

  • The Hindu

Reduce import dependence on Lithium and Cobalt with AI: Union Minister

Union Minister for Coal and Mines G. Kishan Reddy said India's future economic strength depends on reducing dependence on import of key minerals like lithium and cobalt through AI-powered, clean, and efficient exploration methods. Emphasizing the strategic importance of critical minerals, the minister urged geoscientists to embrace emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Quantum Computing for enhanced exploration, including predicting hidden mineral resources and interpreting seismic data with greater precision. He was speaking at the inauguration of the two-day 'Next-Gen Geophysics 2025: Unlocking Earth's Hidden Treasures' international conference organised by the Geological Survey of India Training Institute (GSITI), Bandlaguda-Nagole, here on Monday (June 9, 2025). India is entering a new era where science, sustainability, and technology will play a pivotal role in mineral exploration. There is also a need for innovation alongside collaboration with academia, and industry. Flagship initiatives like the ₹10,300 crore India AI Mission and the ₹6,000 crore National Quantum Mission could become catalysts for innovation, he said. Mr. Reddy highlighted the establishment of the National Landslide Forecasting Centre and a recent Memorandum of Understanding with Italy for enhancing disaster preparedness. He called for the expansion of monitoring networks and the adoption of cutting-edge forecasting technologies. Responsible mining practices The Minister stressed the importance of responsible mining practices that benefit local communities and protect the environment. He highlighted the vital role of geophysics in achieving the goals of 'Viksit Bharat' by providing innovative tools to address challenges such as climate change, urbanization, and disaster risk mitigation. Earlier in the day, Mr. Reddy, along with Malakjgiri MP Eatala Rajender, inaugurated two newly inducted Hydrostatic Drill Rigs, the next-gen geophysics expo pavilion, showcasing advanced geophysical tools and AI-enabled exploration models. GSITI's deputy director general S. Ravi, GSI DG Asit Saha, additional director S.D. Patbhaje, leading geoscientific experts from the country and abroad participated, as per a press release.

Rare 6th-century shell script inscriptions discovered in Kadapa, first in South India
Rare 6th-century shell script inscriptions discovered in Kadapa, first in South India

New Indian Express

timea day ago

  • New Indian Express

Rare 6th-century shell script inscriptions discovered in Kadapa, first in South India

KADAPA: In a significant archaeological breakthrough, three rare shell character inscriptions dating back to the 6th century CE have been discovered in Lankamalla forest of Siddhavatam range, Kadapa district. The find, announced by Director (Epigraphy) at the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) Dr K Munirathnam Reddy, marks the first-ever discovery of Shell script inscriptions in South India. Previously found only in northern and Deccan regions, the Shell script is considered one of the most enigmatic ancient writing systems in the subcontinent. The newly unearthed inscriptions, etched on stone slabs and composed in Sanskrit, are believed to be pilgrimage records. They bear texts such as Bhagate(ni) Radhiya, Dharadhisha Bhagavata, and (Go)sata Dharma. 'These inscriptions are of immense historical value, offering insights into ancient pilgrimage routes and religious practices in the region,' said Dr Reddy. He noted that despite decades of scholarly effort, the Shell script remains partially deciphered. Noted scholars like the late Prof BN Mukherjee and Prof Richard Solomon had made significant strides but could not fully decode it. The ASI has now called for a comprehensive and comparative study of all known Shell inscriptions to deepen understanding of the script's origins and historical context.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into the world of global news and events? Download our app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store