Doobi Copper Plate Inscription of Kamarupa Dynasty

The article covers the discovery of the Doobi Copper Plate Inscription in Doobi village, their contents including Sanskrit verses, and their significance in understanding governance and social stability in Kamarupa. It also touches upon the linguistic aspects of the inscription, the excavation site, and the preservation of the plates at the Assam State Museum.

Doobi Copper Plate Inscription

The Doobi Copper Plate Inscription refers to a set of ancient copper plates containing inscriptions that were issued by Bhaskaravarman, a ruler of the Kamarupa kingdom in present-day Assam, India. It is considered the earliest of all the copper plate grants discovered so far from the Kamarupa kings.

Important Points of Doobi Copper Plate Inscription:

• Earliest known copper plate grant from the Kamarupa kingdom.
• Issued by Bhaskaravarman, a ruler of the Kamarupa dynasty.
• Contains five copper plates with Sanskrit verses.
• Written in the eastern variant of the North Indian alphabet.
• Provides insights into the political and administrative practices of the time.
• Discovered in the 1950s near a Siva temple in Doobi village, Assam.
• Four plates are preserved in the Assam State Museum.
• Offers a glimpse into the cultural and literary aspects of ancient Kamarupa.
• Contributes to the understanding of language evolution and regional linguistic patterns.

Historical Context of the Doobi Copper Plate Inscription

Kamarupa Kingdom: The Kamarupa Kingdom, located in present-day Assam, played a pivotal role in shaping the history and culture of ancient Northeast India. Ruled by a succession of powerful kings, Kamarupa thrived as a prominent political and cultural center. The Doobi Copper Plate Inscription belongs to this era, offering glimpses into the political and administrative structures of Kamarupa.

Bhaskaravarman: Bhaskaravarman, a notable king of the Varman dynasty, ascended the throne of Kamarupa during the sixth century. His reign witnessed significant political and cultural developments, making him an important figure in the region’s history. The Doobi Copper Plate Inscription provides valuable information about his rule and the policies implemented during his time.

Discovery & Contents of the Doobi Copper Plate Inscription

Unearthing History: The Excavations in Doobi Village

The story of the Doobi Copper Plate Inscription began in the 1950s when a remarkable discovery was made during excavations near a Siva temple in Doobi village. Archaeologists and historians stumbled upon a set of five copper plates, buried beneath layers of time and soil. This excavation marked the beginning of an exciting journey into the past.

Set of Five Plates: Structure and Material

The Doobi Copper Plate Inscription comprises five copper plates intricately engraved with Sanskrit verses. Crafted with precision and care, these plates provide a tangible connection to the era they belong to. The choice of copper as the material for inscribing these grants ensured their durability and longevity.

Sanskrit Verses: Insights into Language & Literature

The verses inscribed on the Doobi Copper Plates are composed in Sanskrit, the language of ancient India’s scholars and intellectuals. These verses, written in the eastern variant of the North Indian alphabet prevalent during the sixth and seventh centuries, offer a fascinating glimpse into the literary styles and themes of the time. The meticulous choice of words and the poetic expressions used in these verses highlight the rich linguistic heritage of the region.

Historical Significance

• The Doobi Copper Plate Inscription holds immense historical significance as the earliest known copper plate grant issued by a ruler of the Kamarupa kingdom.
• It provides valuable insights into the political and administrative practices of the Kamarupa dynasty during the reign of Bhaskaravarman.
• The inscription serves as a crucial piece of evidence for understanding the governance and social structure of ancient Kamarupa.
• It contributes to our knowledge of the early developments in the use of copper plates as legal and administrative documents in ancient India.
• The Doobi Inscription offers a glimpse into the cultural and literary milieu of the Kamarupa kingdom during that period.
• It serves as a primary source for researchers and historians studying the history of the Kamarupa kingdom and its influence in the region.
• The discovery and study of the Doobi Inscription help us appreciate the achievements and legacies of our ancestors and the preservation of ancient heritage.
• By exploring the inscription, we gain a deeper understanding of the historical, linguistic, and cultural tapestry that shaped the foundations of our society today.
• The Doobi Inscription acts as a bridge connecting the present generation with the rich cultural heritage of ancient India.
• It reminds us of the importance of preserving and cherishing our shared past for future generations.

Linguistic & Cultural Significance

The Doobi Copper Plate Inscription showcases the linguistic diversity and cultural richness of the Kamarupa kingdom. The Sanskrit verses inscribed on the plates reflect the literary styles, linguistic variations, and regional nuances prevalent during that time. It offers a window into the evolution of language and script in the region.

Beyond its administrative value, the Doobi Inscription offers a glimpse into the cultural and literary milieu of ancient Kamarupa. The poetic sensibilities, thematic elements, and literary conventions displayed in the Sanskrit verses provide valuable insights into the artistic expressions and intellectual vibrancy of the kingdom.

Preservation & Legacy

• The Doobi Copper Plate Inscription is preserved at the Assam State Museum, ensuring its long-term protection and accessibility for research and public viewing.
• Its preservation allows scholars, historians, and researchers to continue studying and analyzing the inscriptions, gaining deeper insights into the political, administrative, and cultural aspects of the Kamarupa kingdom.
• The Doobi Inscription contributes to historical knowledge by providing valuable information about governance, society, and literary traditions during the Kamarupa period.
• It serves as a primary source for reconstructing the historical context, power structures, and socio-economic fabric of the Kamarupa kingdom.
• The inscription’s preservation and study help preserve and promote the cultural heritage of the region, highlighting the importance of safeguarding historical artifacts for future generations.
• By appreciating and studying the Doobi Inscription, we honor the legacy of our ancestors and gain a deeper understanding of ancient Indian civilization.
• The inscription’s legacy lies in its ability to connect us with the past, offering a tangible link to our ancestral heritage and fostering a sense of cultural continuity.
• The Doobi Copper Plate Inscription contributes to a broader understanding of ancient Indian history, enriching our knowledge of the region’s political, administrative, and cultural practices.

Conclusion

The Doobi Copper Plate Inscription stands as a testament to the rich history and cultural legacy of the Kamarupa kingdom. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the political, administrative, linguistic, and literary aspects of the era. The inscription’s discovery, excavation, and preservation have contributed significantly to our understanding of ancient India’s past. As we delve into the depths of the Doobi Inscription, we unravel the stories of a bygone era, preserving their legacy for generations to come.

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