Indian Epigraphy c16.s2.112

c16.s2.112

In medieval times, *Rājan* was often spelt *Rāya* or *Rāva* and similar change is also noticed in respect of *Mahārāja*.⁶ Sanskrit *Rājaputra* was likewise modified to *Rāvata* (spelt as *Rāutta*, *Rāuta*, *Rāhutta*, etc., in Orissa) which was used as a title of nobility. After the formal dedication of the Gaṅga kingdom to the god Puruṣottama-Jagannātha of Purī, the Gaṅga kings, who then regarded themselves as subordinates of the god, usually called themselves Rāuta.¹