Tamil Brāhmī Script of Madurai

Summary

This article explores the Tamil-Brāhmī inscriptions found in cave sites around Madurai, highlighting their linguistic features, chronology, paleography, and Jaina associations. Key Points: 1. Cave Sites and Inscriptions: Dr. I. Mahadevan documented 76 inscriptions from 21 caves in Tamil Nadu, with 52 from Madurai alone. These inscriptions, written in Tamil language using Brāhmī script, often show Prakrit loanwords and symbolic notations at the end rather than the beginning. 2. Chronological Classification: Inscriptions are dated from 2nd century BCE to 6th century CE, classified into four periods—Archaic, Early, Middle, and Transitional. Most belong to the first two periods, indicating active use for over 400 years. 3. Script Features: i) Use of Tamilized Brāhmī where, for example, ta substitutes da (e.g., tana for dāna). ii) Orthographic variations observed in repeated inscriptions. iii) Strong resemblance to Asokan characters with some deviations (e.g., ra form). iv) Names use Tamil case endings, avoiding Prakrit genitives. 4. Architectural Features: i) Two cave types: natural (geologically formed) and excavated (man-made). ii) Architectural elements include drip-ledges, overhangs, latticed windows, and regular access steps. iii) Though primitive compared to Bihar’s caves, their origin may lie in southern structural concepts. 5. Jaina Connections: i) Many inscriptions mention Jaina donors and monks, with similarities noted between Madurai and Vaddamānu (Andhra) Jaina sites. ii) Literary connections are drawn to Kanakabhikshu (Kanakabhūta), possibly identified with Kaniyananta of the Mankulam cave. iii) Inscriptional evidence includes guild-based patronage (goldsmiths, merchants) akin to Amaravati and Ajanta.