Assam, a land steeped in history and cultural richness, holds within its soil the secrets of its past. Two key disciplines, epigraphy and numismatics, play a crucial role in unraveling these mysteries and shedding light on the ancient civilizations that once thrived in this region.
Epigraphy, the study of inscriptions, delves into the writings etched on various surfaces like stone, copper plates, and other materials. These inscriptions, often royal proclamations, religious dedications, or land grants, provide invaluable insights into the socio-political, economic, and religious landscape of ancient Assam.
Numismatics, the study of coins, offers a unique window into the past. Coins, bearing the insignia of rulers and symbols of the era, serve as tangible evidence of trade, economic prosperity, and artistic expression.
Together, epigraphy and numismatics form a powerful duo, corroborating and complementing each other in reconstructing the historical narrative of Assam.
Important Inscriptions of Assam
Assam boasts a rich collection of inscriptions that have significantly contributed to our understanding of its history. One prominent example is the Nidhanpur Copperplate Inscription.
Nidhanpur Copperplate Inscription: Discovered in Nidhanpur, Sylhet (now in Bangladesh), this 7th-century inscription, issued by King Bhaskaravarman of the Mlechchha dynasty, is a crucial source of information about the Kamarupa kingdom. It sheds light on the king's genealogy, land grants, and administrative system, providing valuable details about the socio-political structure of ancient Assam.
Other notable inscriptions include:
Dubi Copperplate Inscription: Records the grant of land by King Bhaskaravarman to a Brahmin.
Kanai-Boroxiboa Rock Inscription: Mentions the construction of a temple dedicated to the god Vishnu.
Tezpur Rock Inscription: A late inscription from the reign of King Harjjaravarman, providing insights into the later rulers of the Kamarupa kingdom.
These inscriptions, along with numerous others, help piece together the puzzle of Assam's past, revealing the dynasties that ruled, the religions practiced, and the cultural exchanges that shaped the region.
Ancient Coins of Assam
Numismatics provides a fascinating glimpse into Assam's economic and political history. Ancient coins, discovered across the region, reveal a diverse range of minting practices and artistic styles.
Pre-Ahom Coins: Early coins, mostly punch-marked, indicate trade connections with other parts of India and even beyond.
Ahom Coins: The Ahom dynasty, which ruled Assam for over 600 years, introduced a unique coinage system. These coins, typically made of gold and silver, often featured the Ahom king's name and the Saka era year.
Tribal Coins: Various tribes in Assam, such as the Jaintias and the Kacharis, also minted their own coins, showcasing their distinct cultural identities.
The study of these coins reveals not only the economic prosperity of different periods but also the artistic sensibilities and technological advancements of the time