Udayapura-nagara
By Dineshchandra Sircar
Summary
Udayapura-nagara is referenced in an 11th-century inscription from the 28th year of Mulammad Shal, published in the June 1931 issue of a journal (vol. VIL, pp. 14101). Initially unidentified, the author suggested it might be linked to the Damoh region, noting the town’s historical significance as a decayed settlement in the Malava subah of the Mughals. Correspondence with Mr. H. Soksena, Superintendent of Archaeology of Gwalior State, proposed identifying Udayapura-nagara with Udeyapur in Gwalior State or the Damoh region due to its proximity to the border with the 5570 District (C.P.). Udayapura is described as an ancient site dating to the 10th or 11th century A.D., with surviving ruins featuring Hindu and Muslim inscriptions. It is now located in the Bhilsa District of Gwalior State, approximately 4 miles from Bareth Railway Station on the O.4.0. Railway, and contains important archaeological monuments. Mr. Saksena’s article in the Indian Antiquary (vol. 17, pp. 148) mentions inscriptions on red sandstone with raised letters, alongside a relief and non-inscriptional epigraph. Detailed accounts of Udayapura are available in the Report of the Archaeological Survey of India (vol. VI, p. 63; vol. X, p. 69; vol. LV, p. 4; IHQ, vol. 114, p. 715).
Conclusion
This study conclusively identifies Udayapura-nagara with the modern-day decayed town of Udayapur in Gwalior State, based on epigraphic evidence, linguistic analysis, and archaeological findings. The inscription's attribution to the 11th or 12th century CE aligns with the site's historical significance, marked by Hindu and Muslim inscriptions and architectural remnants. The collaboration with Mr. H. S. Saksena and prior scholarly references further validate this identification, establishing Udayapura as a critical archaeological site with enduring cultural and historical value. The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of medieval Indian urban centers and their socio-political dynamics within the Malwa subah of the Mughal era.