History of the Pallavas of Kanchi c9.s2.92

c9.s2.92

*Is the Chola Interregnum Possible?*—This interregnum according to which a number of Pallava kings in the fourth and the fifth century are supposed to have lost possession of Kāñchi some time in the fourth century has become a favourite notion among the epigraphists which however does not appear to be supported by the historical facts of the period known to us. Even the late Mr. Venkayya has expressed himself in favour of the theory of a Chōḷa interlude in the midst of the Pallava rule. In his ‘ Ancient History of the Nellore District ’³ for instance, dealing with the Pallava kings of this period he says, ‘ The extent of Pallava dominions during this period from the fourth century to the end of the sixth century A.D. cannot be ascertained. At any rate they appear to have been in possession of the modern Nellore District or at least a portion of it. In fact four of the above-mentioned grants are from that district. Kāñchi which was the capital during the reign of Śivaskandavarman and Viṣṇugopa, figures as such only in the last two ¹ of the above-mentioned grants which are evidently later than the rest.' 'If this is not due to a mere accident it may be that the Pallavas had to retreat from Conjeevaram owing, perhaps to a coalition among the Chōḷa, Pāṇḍya and the Chera kings, or to the domination of one of them. In this case, the Pallavas, had probably to confine themselves to the Nellore District or to a portion of it, where the villages granted in two of the copper-plate inscriptions may be traced.'