A significant archaeological find has emerged in Elehole village, Harihara taluk, Davanagere district, where a 13th-century stone inscription, known as a Veeragallu, was uncovered during the renovation of the ancient Kalleshwar temple. This site dates back to the Kalyana Chalukya period.
The inscription, measuring 4 feet in length and 2.5 feet in width, is carved from charcoal stone and dates back to 1283 AD. It features a five-line inscription that connects to the Sevuna dynasty, also referred to as the Devagiri Yadavas. The inscription honors Ramachandra Chakravarti, a prominent ruler of the Sevuna dynasty, highlighting his title, Yadava Narayana Bhujbala Praudhapratapa Chakravarti. This discovery emphasizes the strong influence of the Devagiri Yadavas in the region during the late 13th century.
Archaeologist K Ravi Kumar noted that the lower part of the stone depicts a fierce battle scene involving Bhoja Narayana and Vambhava, showcasing one brother beheading an enemy while another enemy lies defeated, with cows representing the cattle they defended. The central section illustrates the brothers’ journey to Kailasa, the abode of Lord Shiva, featuring celestial nymphs lifting a vimana (celestial chariot) with musicians celebrating the heroes’ valor. This representation signifies their ascent to divine realms in honor of their sacrifices.
At the top of the stone, the brothers are depicted in Anjalimudra, worshipping a Shivalinga, symbolizing eternal peace and glory. The sun and moon in the background suggest that their fame will endure as long as these celestial bodies exist.
The Sevuna dynasty, or Devagiri Yadavas, were a Kannada-speaking dynasty whose kingdom extended across parts of present-day Karnataka and Maharashtra. Initially serving as vassals under the Kalyana Chalukyas, they asserted their independence in the 12th century. Ramachandra Chakravarti, who reigned from 1271 to 1312 AD, was notable for his military victories and cultural patronage, including the construction of the Lakshmi Narayan temple in Harihara.
This newly discovered inscription not only illuminates the political and cultural dynamics of late 13th-century Karnataka but also highlights the significance of local heroes in the region’s history. The Kalleshwar temple continues to be a focal point for archaeological study.