Kotera Copper Plate Inscription of Malugideva: Saka Year 1106
By Bal Chandra Jain
Summary
This paper publishes the Kotera copper plate dated Saka 1106 (A.D. 1184) issued by the ruler Malugideva of Karnataka. Written in Kannada script, the inscription records the grant of a village to a Brahmin, detailing land boundaries, tax privileges and conditions of enjoyment. The author situates Malugideva within the Hoysala or allied dynastic context and compares the plate’s contents with other grants. The analysis highlights standard epigraphic formulae, revealing the legalistic nature of medieval land transactions and the spread of Kannada in official records.
Conclusion
The Kotera plate enhances our understanding of 12th‑century Kannada epigraphy and land‑grant practices. It sheds light on regional administration and underscores the value of publishing local inscriptions.