Archaeologists have discovered a stone inscription bearing the name of Manavikraman, one of the earliest Zamorins of Kozhikode, at a temple at Avala near Perambra in Kozhikode district.
The inscription, according to historians and epistemologists who deciphered it, sheds new light on the early history of the Zamorins, specifically during the 12th or 13th century, a period that has remained somewhat obscure until now.
The inscription in Vattezhuthu was found on the ‘Balikkallu’ (sacred stone) of Kuttoth Sree Narasimha Moorthi Temple at Avala. Vattezhuthu is an ancient script used in Kerala, particularly during the medieval period.
“This find is highly significant,” said K. Krishnaraj, archaeologist in charge of the Pazhassi Raja Archaeological Museum, Kozhikode. “It is one of the earliest records of the Zamorin and the second inscription to reference Manavikraman.”
Veteran epigraphist M.R. Raghava Varier (seated in a chair) and archaeologist K. Krishnaraj examining an inscription at Avala. | Photo Credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT
