Early 8th century Telugu inscription discovered at Pitikayagulla in A.P.

A Telugu inscription dating back to the 8th century CE has been discovered at Pitikayagulla village in Bestavaripeta mandal of Prakasam district, Andhra Pradesh, shedding light on the evolution of the Telugu language and early published works in the region.

A Telugu inscription dating back to the 8th century CE has been discovered at Pitikayagulla village in Bestavaripeta mandal of Prakasam district, Andhra Pradesh, shedding light on the evolution of the Telugu language and early published works in the region.

The inscription was engraved on a stone slab erected in front of the historic Pitikesvara temple at Pitikayagulla. Written in Telugu language and characters of the 8th century CE, the record is considered significant for both epigraphical and historical studies.

The four-line inscription reads: “Svastisri Nandelu Vari, Chensinavanthu Prani, Milli Achari,” and “Padasina Nava Katta”. Epigraphists interpret the inscription as recording the construction of a new embankment (nava katta). The work is attributed to Pranimilli Achari, identified as a sculptor or craftsman, indicating the active role of artisans in public infrastructure during that period. The reference is believed to date to a time when the Renadu region was under royal administration, although the name of the ruling king is not mentioned in the text.

K. Muniratnam Reddy, Director (Epigraphy), Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), said the inscription represents a new epigraphical exploration. He noted that such early Telugu records are crucial for understanding the transition of Telugu from Prakrit influences to an independent literary and administrative language.

Scholars said that the discovery adds to the limited corpus of early Telugu inscriptions from the 8th century CE and provides valuable insights into temple-centric settlements, irrigation practices, and the social status of craftsmen in early medieval Andhra Pradesh.