Tirlingi Inscription of Devendravarman, son of Guniarpava (Ganga Year 192)
By R. K. Ghoshal
Summary
R.K. Ghoshal’s study of the Tirlingi inscription of Devendravarman, son of Guniarpava, presents a critical edition and historical analysis of a copper‑plate inscription dated to the 192nd year of the Ganga era. The inscription, discovered at Tirlingi, sheds light on the Eastern Ganga dynasty, which ruled parts of coastal Odisha and Andhra. After providing a transliteration and translation of the Sanskrit text, the article examines the genealogical portion that traces Devendravarman’s lineage from King Gunapava and situates him among the later Ganga rulers. The document records a land grant made to Brahmanas and describes the boundaries, witnesses and religious merit associated with the gift. By comparing the titles and regnal years with other inscriptions, the author argues that the inscription dates from the late 5th or early 6th century CE, filling a chronological gap in the Ganga dynasty’s history. The article also discusses the script and palaeography, noting features that connect it to contemporary South Indian epigraphic traditions. It highlights the significance of the record for understanding local administration, land revenue and the spread of Brahmanical institutions in the Eastern Deccan. The study enriches our knowledge of the Eastern Ganga chronology and underscores the importance of inscriptional evidence for reconstructing regional histories.
Conclusion
The Tirlingi copper‑plate inscription provides valuable information on the lineage and land grants of the Eastern Ganga ruler Devendravarman. By editing and contextualising the document, the article clarifies the sequence of Ganga kings and offers insights into administrative practices around the 6th century. This evidence contributes to a more coherent history of the Eastern Ganga dynasty and its cultural milieu.