Early Tamil Epigraphy: From the Earliest Times to the Sixth Century A.D. c23.s23.t1: 4.20.1 Countries

Early Tamil Epigraphy: From the Earliest Times to the Sixth Century A.D. c23.s23.t1

Language: English

4.20.1 Countries

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Two expressions from these inscriptions have been regarded as suggesting links with Sri Lanka, but neither is quite conclusive.

The expression *iḻa-kuṭumpikaṉ* at Tirupparankunram (No. **55**, ca. 1st century A.D.) has been connected with Īḻam, the Jaffna region of Sri Lanka. However, it is preferable to regard *īḻa-kuṭumpikaṉ* as a 'householder of the family of toddy-drawers (*īḻavar*)', as personal names in this inscription betray influence of Kannada pointing to Karnataka rather than Sri Lanka.¹

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¹ For discussion, See section 3.2.4.

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(ii) Caiyaḷaṉ

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The personal name *caiyaḷaṉ* occurring in an inscription from Muttuppatti (No. **57**, ca. 1st century A.D.) has been interpreted as one belonging to Sri Lanka; cf. Skt. *saimhala/aka-* 'one from *simhala* (Sri Lanka)'. However, other interpretations are also possible deriving the name from Skt. *siṁha* 'lion' or *sahya* (Ta. *caiyam*) 'the Sahyādri' (as discussed in the Commentary).

Linked texts (2)

No. 55 (No. 489 of 1913) — Prakrit
No. 57 (No. 501 of 1913) — Prakrit