Nestled in the Shikaripura taluk of Shimoga district in Karnataka lies Talagunda, a village steeped in history and culture, often regarded as the birthplace of the Kadamba dynasty, the first Kannada-speaking dynasty. Known in ancient times as Sthanakundura or Sthanakunjapura, Talagunda’s historical significance stretches back to the 1st and 2nd centuries AD, when it was under the rule of the Satavahanas.
The Founding of Talagunda: A Brahmin Settlement with Noble Beginnings
The village of Talagunda was initially established as an agrahara—a settlement for Brahmins—where 32 Brahmins (or families) were relocated from Ahichchhatra in Uttar Pradesh. This relocation was overseen by Mukanna (also known as Trilochana or Trinetra), the ancestor of Mayura Sharma, founder of the Kadamba dynasty. This move laid the groundwork for what would become a celebrated dynasty in Karnataka’s history, marking Talagunda as the original home of the Kadambas.
The Pranaveshwara Temple: A Testament to Early Shiva Worship
Talagunda is also home to the Pranaveshwara Temple, a small, square-shaped structure housing a tall Shivalinga known as the Pranaveshwar Linga, said to be the oldest Shivalinga in Karnataka. The temple’s origins date back to the Satavahana period, and it is thought that this temple may have initially been constructed in the 1st or 2nd century AD and later renovated by the Kadambas around the 4th century AD.
Inside the temple, a significant inscription from around 450 AD reveals that the temple was a place of worship even during the Satakarni’s reign (possibly Gautamiputra Satakarni of the Satavahana dynasty). An additional Sanskrit inscription on the temple’s right doorjamb mentions a grant provided by Kakustha of the Bhatari family to feed residents of Talagunda, showing early patronage and religious support from the Kadamba family.
The Iconic Talagunda Pillar Inscription: A Window into Karnataka’s Past
The Talagunda Pillar Inscription, dating from approximately 455-470 AD, stands prominently in front of the Pranaveshwara Temple. This inscription, discovered by archaeologist B. L. Rice in 1894, is a testament to the Kadamba dynasty’s rich history. The pillar, measuring 5.36 feet in height, has an octagonal section featuring Kannada script with box-headed Kadamba characters and poetic Sanskrit verses composed by Kubja, the court poet of King Santivarman of the Kadamba dynasty.
This inscription provides remarkable insights:
- It recounts the life of Mayura Sharma, who traveled to Kanchi with his grandfather and guru Veerasharma for Vedic studies. After being humiliated by a Pallava soldier, Mayura Sharma abandoned his studies to become a warrior, successfully rebelling against Pallava rule and establishing the Kadamba kingdom.
- It records the succession of Kadamba rulers up to King Santivarman, showcasing the dynasty’s lineage.
- It highlights the values expected of rulers, such as compassion, protection of the people, and support for religious causes, painting the Kadambas as both devout Brahmins and fierce Kshatriya-like warriors.
The inscription also mentions a marriage alliance between the Kadambas and the Gupta dynasty, symbolizing the social and cultural connections between northern and southern Indian kingdoms during that period.
Talagunda’s Recent Archaeological Discoveries
In 2013-2014, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) conducted excavations at the Pranaveshwara Temple site, unearthing structures from the temple’s Satavahana period origins and additional modifications by the Kadambas. Among these were the remains of a mahamandapa (main hall), with distinctive lion balustrades on steps leading to the temple.
Notably, these excavations also brought to light inscriptions dating back to approximately 370 AD. These inscriptions, written in Brahmi script and containing Kannada words, are potentially the oldest Kannada inscriptions discovered, even older than the Halmidi inscription (circa 450 AD). Words such as kotta (gave), nalku (four), and halimi (remaining) showcase the Kannada language’s early usage.
Talagunda: A Cultural and Historical Treasure of Karnataka
Talagunda is not just a village but a symbol of Karnataka’s rich history, where the Kadamba dynasty took root. With its ancient temples, legendary inscriptions, and ongoing archaeological significance, Talagunda provides invaluable insights into the religious, cultural, and linguistic heritage of the region. For history enthusiasts and spiritual travelers alike, Talagunda stands as a unique testament to Karnataka’s ancient and storied past.