900 Year old Chalukyan Inscription

900 Year old Chalukyan Inscription 

News: Recently, in Gangapuram, Telangana, a 900-year-old Kannada inscription dating back to the Kalyani Chalukya dynasty was unearthed. The inscription, found in a neglected state, bears significance as it was issued by Customs Officers during the reign of Tailapa-III, the son of Emperor Bhulokamalla Someswara-III of the Kalyani Chalukya dynasty..

About Chalukyas:
• The Chalukyas governed regions of Southern and Central India from the 6th century to the 12th century.
• Their kingdom was primarily centered around the Raichur Doab, situated between the Krishna and Tungabhadra rivers.
• Distinct Chalukya Dynasties:
• Badami Chalukyas: They were the earliest Chalukyas, with their capital at Badami (Vatapi) in Karnataka. Their reign commenced in the mid-6th century and waned following the demise of their prominent ruler, Pulakesin II, in 642 AD. 
• Eastern Chalukyas: Arising after the demise of Pulakesin II, they established their domain in the Eastern Deccan with the capital at 
Vengi. Their rule extended until the 11th century.
• Western Chalukyas: Descendants of the Badami Chalukyas, they emerged in the late 10th century and held sway from Kalyani.

Administration and Cultural Contributions:
• Strong Military: The Chalukyas upheld a comprehensive army comprising infantry, cavalry, elephant units, and a robust navy.
• Religious Harmony: Despite being Hindu rulers, they exhibited tolerance towards Buddhism and Jainism.
• Literary and Numismatic Achievements: They made notable contributions to Kannada and Telugu literature and their coins showcased Nagari and Kannada inscriptions, temple cryptograms, and symbols like lions, boars, and lotuses. 

Architectural Marvels:
• Cave Temples: The Chalukyas constructed temples that blended religious and secular motifs, embellished with exquisite mural paintings.
• Aihole Temples: Noteworthy temples include Lady Khan (Surya), Durga, and Huchimalligudi.
• Badami Temples: Renowned for their architectural grandeur.
• Pattadakal Temples: This UNESCO World Heritage site comprises 10 temples representing both Nagar and Dravida styles, including the Virupaksha and Sangameshwara Temples.

Aihole Inscription of Pulakesin II:
• The Aihole inscription, situated in the Megudi temple at Aihole, Karnataka, provides significant insights into Chalukya history and 
achievements.
• Aihole is renowned as the Cradle of Indian temple architecture.
• Crafted by the celebrated poet Ravikriti, the inscription is a lyrical tribute to the Chalukya dynasty, particularly King Pulakesin II, 
revered as the embodiment of truth (Sathyasraya).
• This inscription chronicles the Chalukya dynastys victories over adversaries, including the notable defeat of Harshavardhana. 
• Pulakesin II: The Pinnacle of Chalukya Power –
- Conquered various kingdoms including Kadambas, Gangas of Mysore, Mauravas of North Konkan, Latas of Gujarat, Malavas, and Gurjars.
- Secured submissions from Chola, Chera, and Pandya kings.
- Defeated King Harsha of Kannauj and Pallava king Mahendravarman.

Decline:
• Following the decline of the Chalukya Kingdom of Kalyani by the end of the 12th century, several new kingdoms emerged in South India. These included the Yadavas of Devagiri, the Kakatiyas of Warangal, the Hoysalas of Dwarasamudra, and the Pandyas of Madurai.