Tamil Nadu to Host International Epigraphy Conference in Chennai
The Tamil Nadu state government is set to organize a four-day international epigraphy conference in Chennai, scheduled from February 11 to 14. This prestigious event will bring together more than 50 epigraphists from across India and various countries, including Switzerland, France, and Sri Lanka, to share and discuss groundbreaking research in the field of epigraphy.
Focus on Diverse Historical Themes
Participants will present papers on a wide range of themes, highlighting the latest findings in epigraphic studies. Key topics include inscriptions related to hero stones, trade guilds, oil presses, and sluices. These inscriptions offer invaluable insights into the social, cultural, political, economic, and technological aspects of ancient and medieval societies in Tamil Nadu.
Professor K Rajan, the academic and research adviser for the Tamil Nadu state department of archaeology, emphasized the significance of these records. "Tamil Nadu boasts the highest number of documented inscriptions in the entire country. These inscriptions serve as a mirror to the lives of people from the early historic to the medieval period, revealing details about their daily activities, governance, and innovations," he stated.
Special Projects and Publications
In preparation for the conference, Tamil Nadu has undertaken a project to document all sluice inscriptions within the state. A book based on these inscriptions, focusing on traditional water management systems, is expected to be released during the event. This publication aims to shed light on ancient engineering and agricultural practices.
Additionally, the state department of archaeology plans to release new volumes on stone inscriptions, which will serve as essential resources for research scholars. These volumes are designed to facilitate further academic exploration and preservation of historical data.
Insights into Medieval Dynasties
Scholars at the conference will also present papers on political administration and social life during the reigns of the medieval Cholas and Pandyas. R Sivanandam, joint director of the Tamil Nadu state department of archaeology, highlighted the primary importance of these inscriptions. "Inscriptions are the primary sources of historical information, as they reflect the society of their time without any alterations. They reveal the evolution of script, language, administrative systems, land measurement, maritime trade, and taxation practices," he explained.
Broader Epigraphic Topics
The conference sessions will cover a variety of other epigraphic materials, including copper plate inscriptions, palm leaf manuscripts, and old coins minted by kings. These discussions will provide a comprehensive view of the historical and cultural heritage preserved through these artifacts.
This event follows last month's international science symposium on recent scientific studies at archaeological sites in Tamil Nadu, which attracted scholars from around the world. The upcoming epigraphy conference continues the state's commitment to advancing archaeological research and promoting global academic collaboration.
