Mula Malurung Copperplate, Kediri, Indonesia

February 22, 2025Pandian Ramaiah Leave a comment

India, also known as Bharat, is a Union of States. As India has a name Bharat from it’s historical background, Nusantara is an equivalent in Indonesia. Nusantara is the name of Indonesian Archipelago or Malay Peninsula.

Indonesians, with diversified cultures and dialects, promise a unified region in the name of Nusantara. From where this word came into usage? That’s what we will see today.

Gajah Mada is a popular prime minister of Majapahit kingdom lived in late 13th and early 14th century. He took a oath, not to give up until uniting ‘Nusantara’ aka the archipelago, during the ceremony of his appointment. It is recorded in Pararaton, the Javanese literature. It is believed to happen in 1336 AD.

The oath goes like this –

Lamun huwus lost the archipelago of amukti palapa, seagrass defeat of the Desert, Seram ring, Tanjung Pura, Ring Haru, Ring Pahang, Dompo, ring Bali, Sunda, Palembang, Tumasik, saman isukti palapa.

I understood that the translation is somewhat equivalent to this –

If I have united Nusantara, I will break my fast. If I have conquered Gurun, Seram, Tanjung Pura, Haru, Pahang, Dompo, Bali, Sunda, Palembang, Tumasik, only then will I break my fast.

Does Tumasik refer to Singapore? Should be. He listed several territories he vowed to conquer before he would ‘amukti palapa‘ (break his fast or enjoy rest). Tumasik was one of the places mentioned in this ambitious oath, representing the island that would later become modern-day Singapore.

But the archeological evidences predates the coining of the word Nusantara. It should be first coined by King Kertanagara in Mula Malurung inscription dated 1255 AD.

To understand this we need to see the successive kings of Singasari of Tumapel, the Javanese Hindu-Buddhist kingdom located in east Java between 1222 and 1292. The list of Kings names them – Tunggul Ametung (overthrown) > Ken Angrok / Ken Arok (assassinated) > Anusapati >Wisnuwardhana > Kertanagara.

The fifth king Kertenagara, based in Kediri, located near the Brantas River in the province of East Java, positioned himself as a combined embodiment of Siva and Buddha. Both Hinduism and Buddhism flourished in Java at that time. In a way, I see his positioning as a way to unify the followers of both religion.

I have a reason to believe so. During later years 1365 AD (1287 Saka year), Mpu Prapanca, authored Desawarnana (also known as Nagarakretagama), under King Hayam Wuruk, registers the competency of religions gaining traction.

During his journey to Darbaru monastery, people on the way raise concerns to Prapanca over people started worshiping Parameswara instead of Buddha. So the kingdom, known for its support to both religion, should have a way to nurture both followers.

But all these lineage existed as Javanese poetry/literature. There was no artifact found to convince the modern historians, until suitable evidences were discovered. One of the significant discovery is existence of the Kingdom is the Mula Malurung Inscription, dated 1255 AD (or 1177 Saka).

The inscription was in the form of a copper plate issued by King Kertanegara, who at that time was still a young king. It was issued to legalize Malurung Village and Mula Village. The gift of the village is offered to one Pranaraja, who is the loyal and diligent employee of Kediri Kingdom. As ordered by his father Wisnuwardana aka Seminingrat, his son Kertanagara carried it out.

The inscription contains the first recorded use of the term “Nusantara”, showcasing Kertanagara’s vision of a vast, interconnected kingdom beyond Java.

As dreamed, Kertanagara formed an alliance with Champa, another dominant state in Southeast Asia, indicating his interest in extending influence beyond immediate borders. During his reign, he subjected Bali to vassalage likely in 1284 AD (1206 Saka), gained control of the Melayu Kingdom in eastern Sumatra, and possibly established hegemony over the Strait of Malacc. These actions demonstrate the practical implementation of his expansionist vision.

It is considered as an evidence of Kertanegara’s vision to unite maritime kingdoms as a defense against the expanding Mongol-led Yuan dynasty of China.

The new capital of Indonesia, which was conceived before Covid pandemic period is named as Nusantara to reflect Indonesian nationalistic pride. I am still searching for the right image of this copper plate. I do not have a verified one. Hence this post goes without any images.

I am just learning about Javanese history. There are high chances of misrepresentation or misunderstanding. Hence, I would be making corrects to this text, as and when I found one.

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Veerabhadra, Madurai

February 21, 2025Pandian Ramaiah Leave a comment

Madurai‘s bustling street, or ‘kasakasa‘ as we call them in Tamil, were my frequent haunt during my under-graduate years. I’d navigate the crowded Town hall road, hunting for electronic parts for my often-unsuccessful projects. The city’s energy was intoxicating, allowing me to venture there after classes and return home late in the night. Evenings often found me at Periyar bus stand, happily munching onion bajji-s that filled my belly with utmost happiness!

Sri Meenakshi Temple, (mīnākṣī/मीनाक्षी) a stone’s throw from Town Hall Road, became my sanctuary. My reverence for the queen of Madurai grew with each visit, continuing even after I started working, with frequent trips between July and October 2002.

Armed with newfound passion for photography and digital camera, I set out to verify my readings about the temple in person. Sadly many of those captured moments have been lost over time.

The temple stands as testament to magnificent sculpture, with Nayaka dynasty’s contributions during 16th and 17th centuries, being particularly impressive. In the mukha-mandapa of the Sri Sundareswara shrine (śrī sundarēśvarā/श्री सुन्दरेश्वरा), The Agni veerabhadra (agni vīrabhadrā/अग्नि वीरभद्रा) and Agora Veerabhadra sculptures captivate visitors.

Agora Veerabhadra, Madurai | Picture (c) Giridhar

Veerabhadra, born from Shiva’s wrath, is a formidable figure Hindu purana-s. The sculpture’s imposing presence is really scary with its four arms on each side wielding various weapons, including a bow in his right hand and left hand taking an arrow from quiver at his back. Notably a long sword – instrument of Daksha’s demise – is in one of his left hands.

As per iconography, Daksha should be depicted with the head of a goat nearby with his hands in a worshiping position. This representation symbolizes his resurrection and humility after Shiva restored him.

Agora Veerabhadra | Picture source: Unknown.

Additionally Bhadrakali, who was also created from Shiva’s anger along with Veerabhadra should be beside him. I don’t recall seeing them. I’ll have to check next time to be sure.

One concerning practice I observed was people throwing butter balls at the sculpture. This ritual, of unclear origin, mars the sculpture’s beauty and combined with inadequate maintenance, is a worrying sight.

The story of Daksha resonates even today, reminding us of the consequences of unchallenged ego. His transformation, symbolized by the goat’s head, represents the potential self-recovery and ensure we are on the way to enlightenment.

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Laboring women, Darasuram

February 20, 2025Pandian Ramaiah Leave a comment

I had an opportunity of attending a temple tour of Sri Airavatesvara Temple (Airāvatīśvara, ऐरावतीश्वर) at Darasuram (Dārāsūram, दारासुरम) by one of the best historian Mr Kudavayil Balasubramaniam. That was my first time visiting this temple. I had been there alone few times to explore. Yet, I need to read and understand about this temple in detail.

Airavateshwarar Temple, Darasuram | Picture: Pandian Ramaiah 27 Dec 2011

This a marvel in south Indian temple architecture. Built by RajaRaja Chola II and later renovated by Kulothunga III as per the inscriptions in this temple.

This marvelous temple is a gallery of fine carvings of Periyapuranam (Periyapurāṇam, पेरियपुराणम्), stories about 64 Saivite devotees. In addition it has micro carvings, small sculptures, ornamental pillars. It makes any visitors mad and forcing them to come back to this temple again and again.

One of the small sculptures in the rear prakaram (pathway) of the temple is the focus of today’s discussion. The panel is of half foot or even lesser. This unique carving shows a pregnant woman giving birth, assisted by two other women, while one other woman is watching near by (probably waiting to hold baby).

Laboring woman, Darasuram | Picture: Pandian Ramaiah 27 Dec 2011

This carving is notable for its detailed portrayal of child birth and the support provided by women during delivery at that time. Giving birth in standing position is widely practiced in many parts of the world. The techniques may vary. When I search for similar sculptures, there a few within in Tamil Nadu itself. But this is one of the best in aesthetically.

People there says, these sculptures are worshiped by conceived ladies for better laboring. In addition to spiritual symbolism, it stands still as a documentation of ancient delivery (which was practiced until recently), the skillful artistry of Chola kingdom.

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Bodhisattva Manjushri, Central Java

February 19, 2025Pandian Ramaiah Leave a comment

Java had several small villages. During earlier periods, Indians traders believed the cities in Indonesian archipelago were made of Silver and Gold. This piece of world is called in swarnabhoomi in Sanskrit in India. So when the monsoon starts, they board on ships to reach the islands. They realize what they believed was not fact, yet they do their trade – mainly spices, precious metals, aromatics – and go back to India with several travel baggage.

Those who want more valuable spices stayed back to continue their exploration. They were accompanied by Brahmins who shared stories of the Hindu trinity and Buddhist enlightenment in various villages. Over time, these group of villages developed into power centers, eventually giving rise to the kingdoms of Srivijaya and Sailendra.

Sailendra-s controlled central Java where as Srivijaya-s dominated Sumatra. Both of them had trade and cultural relationship. Sailendras formed a powerful Buddhist kingdom. Its rulers were known for their patronage of Buddhism and the construction of numerous temples including Buddhist temple complex at Borobudur and Hindu temples at Prambanan.

The bodhisattva Manjushri, Candi Plaosan | Picture researchgate.net

One of the sculptures – belongs to Sailendra period, from their capital Central Java – is the focus of today’s post – The Bodhisattva Manjushri. He is a significant figure in Mahayana Buddhism. He is one of the four great Bodhisattva-s in Chinese Buddhism – Avalokiteshvara (Compassion), Manjushri (Wisdom), Samantabhadra (conduct) and Maitreya (future enlightenment).

The specific sculptor of this piece remains unknown. It is likely attributed to the Sailendra rulers who were prominent patrons of Buddhist art and architecture during the 9th century. The presence of Manjusri statues in Central Java such as Candi Sewu, suggests a strong reverence.

The sculpture embodies the cultural and religious influences that spread gradually through the interactions of Indian traders, sailors, and monks, who brought Hindu and Buddhist ideas to the region, blending these with local Javanese elements.

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Carnelian beads of Padang

February 18, 2025Pandian Ramaiah Leave a comment

The term “Padang” means “field” in Malay, similar to “medan” in India, which were also part of early British urban planning. The Padang was designated for public use during the early British occupation of Singapore. It has been depicted in several 19th-century artworks. Notably, it was also a site where Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose addressed a gathering during WWII, highlighting its role in broader historical narratives.

Parts of the Padang are leased to social and athletic clubs, including the Singapore Cricket Club (SCC). An excavation at the SCC site in 2003 revealed that human activities significantly impacted the soil and vegetation of the Padang as early as the 14th century. Artifacts like Chinese porcelain and stoneware, Chinese coins were collected during this excavation. But our focus is on discovery of Carnelian beads from this site.

Carnelian bead found at SCC excavation| Image (c) epress.nus.edu.sg

While talking about Carnelian beads, we need to go back in history. The Indus Valley Civilization was renowned for its sophisticated craftsmanship, including the production of carnelian beads. The Indus craftsmen developed advanced techniques for drilling and decorating carnelian beads. Carnelian beads were extensively traded across the ancient world, reaching as far as Mesopotamia, the Arabian Peninsula, and even Greece. The production and trade of carnelian beads not only reflect the technological prowess of the Indus craftsmen but also highlight the civilization’s strategic position in ancient trade networks. These beads were often used as symbols of status and wealth.

The carnelian beads found at Keeladi, a significant archaeological site in Tamil Nadu, India, are part of the extensive discoveries that highlight the region’s rich cultural and historical significance. Carnelian beads have been found in various forms and quantities at Keeladi. For instance, two barrel-shaped beads were discovered in an urn, one of which was etched with a wavy pattern and lines5. Additionally, a cluster of 74 carnelian beads was found underneath an offering pot at the Keeladi-Kondagai burial site.

The two carnelian beads that were found in Konthagai. | Photo Credit: The Hindu

Coming back to our Singapore Cricket Club story, Four beads of red carnelian were found during the excavation. They are not perfectly spherical; they are rather irregular in shape. They measure approximately 2 cm in diameter. Prof John Miksic mentions that these were the first carnelian beads found in Singapore. It is highly probable that these were imported from India although an origin of Myanmar can not be completely discounted.

Beads found in SCC excavation site | Image c: epress.nus.edu.sg

One of these beads are displayed at Indian Heritage Center, Singapore. If you happen to visit Singapore, you may visit to realize the connection between Indian land and southeast Asia in the past.

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Victoria Arch – A historical ignorance of Pudukkottai

February 17, 2025Pandian Ramaiah Leave a comment

I lived in and around this town. This has many historical buildings, fit to be museums, but encroached by Government agencies. These buildings, once offices of autocratic kings, became the abode of democracy. If you cross this town, you may visit the collector office, district courts and colleges. You will know how badly are they maintained. This place, once directly connected to British rule, has seen its historical charm fade under democracy.

One of them was the ornamental archway built in 1897 by King of Pudukkottai princely state to commemore the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Victoria as a token of his respect for a queen. East Main Stree is the high street (even now!) in Pudukkottai. He built the arch at the beginning of the high street.

*Diamon Jubilee arch, Pudukkottai | Pandian Ramaiah, 16 July 2006*

It was notable for its beauty. Thanjavur has such a arch too. Aesthetically, this arch was more appealing. It featured a unique image of Queen Victoria with black hair, her face resting on her left arm. Ironically, when the arch was built, the Queen had lost her husband and had retreated into an isolated life, often wearing mourning dresses. She stopped attending much public meetings. In addition, she never visited India. People used to say, she looks like an Indian queen than British!

*The close-up | Pandian Ramaiah 16 July 2006*

It provided a good look to the landscape, despite some political statues were erected later, as the entrance of high street.

Until recent days, the arch was standing with its glory. When I get my first camera, I went here to take my first few photographs. The town was under direct influence of British, due to which it was managed by no-nonsense people.

Dewan Seshaya Shastry improved the balance sheet of the state and planned the city with squared streets and roads with excellent water management with multiple ponds.

B.C. Holdsworth, another administrator, built a dam in Kadayakkudi. Present day Gandhi park was originally named after him. As per Indian antique records, a clock tower was declared open in 1933 by him. Swaminatha Pillai was the architect who designed the tower. The actual execution of the structure was entrusted to a contractor named M.K. Mahamadhaneef.

*Holdsworth park during colonial times, renamed to Gandhi park | Pandian Ramaiah 16 July 2007*

Unfortunately, these structures were poorly maintained over time. Political and cinema posters were stuck on the arch, and the park became uninviting due to poor maintenance. Recently there was some improvement in the maintenance of Park.

But a devastating destruction of legacy happened on Nov 14, 2009.

*Erasing the legacy. Picture (c) The Hindu, 14 Nov 2009*

as a vehicle rammed into the arch. Despite the arch did not lose its shape and fit to be conserved in other places, the district management demolished it into pieces. The legacy stood majestically for 112 years, vanished leaving a void that reflecting such minds.

You can never object to the justifications given by the management. But historians raised their concerns. Despite being led by highly qualified individuals, the management seemed to lack the historical awareness needed to preserve these remnants in a museum for future generation.

Similar demolition happened in Thanjavur as well. Though the people were different, common denominator is the historical ignorance of democracy and its bureaucracy.

After all, that is the town, had my history teacher, received Government salary, taught me that Ghajini Mohamed came, saw the pulchritude of the sculptures, felt it is fit for his bedroom and smuggled away! Despite this series talks about cultural traces, we need to talk about our own ignorance too.

For further reading –

Watch tower – antique record
Pudukkottai – summary of historic monuments

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Mahishasura Mardini of India and Southeast Asia

February 16, 2025Pandian Ramaiah Leave a comment

Before the advent of cave temples, gods took shelters in structures made of brick, bamboo, or similar materials. These structures were vulnerable to time and eventually vanished.

To overcome this, excavation of cave temples started.

Mandagapattu is recognized as one of the earliest cave temples in Tamil Nadu, built by Pallava king Mahendravarman I in the early 7th century. Mahishasura Mardini cave of Mamallapuram was also mentioned often when we discussed about similar early structure. It is dated back to late 7th century during the reign of Pallava Narasimha Varman.

Mahishasura Mardini Cave, Mamallapuram

Upon visiting, I stood in awe of the life-sized bas-relief of Mahishasura Mardini, considered one of the finest examples of Pallava art. The bas-relief depicts Goddess Durga fiercely battling with eight arms, wielding a sword, bow, and arrow, as she forces Mahishasura into retreat.

The bas-relief also depicts her attendants, including female warriors and gana-s (dwarfs) in action. Notably, one servant is shown holding an umbrella over the goddess’s head.

Vietnam: Po Nagar Temple

Mahishasura Mardini, Po Nagar Temple | Picture (c) Linda De Volder

Mahishasura mardini is widely depicted in southeast Asia as well. We talked about 7th century caves. Around the same time or later, we have a sample from Vietnam – Po Nagar Temple.

The goddess of this temple is believed to be worshiped for agricultural prosperity. She is linked with Bhagavati. But there is a doorway which represents goddess Durga with four hands, dancing on top of a buffallo, holding a chakra, lotus and trident. The face and crown resembles Chamba artistry. Yet it has the same concept.

Indonesia: Prambanan Temple

In Indonesia, Mahishasura Mardini is depicted in the 9th-century Prambanan Temple complex, showcasing the influence of Hindu mythology on Javanese art.

Durga Mahishasuramardini aka Loro Jonggrang, Prambanan, Central Java, Indonesia.
Picture (c) rarebooksocietyofindia.org

Cambodia: Sambor Prei Kuk

Sambor Prei Kuk is an important archaeological site having over 100 brick temples from the pre-Angkorian period, primarily dedicated to Hindu deities. The site is renowned for its early Khmer architecture and art.

Durga Mahishasuramardini, Sambor Prei Kuk, Khmer, 1st half of the 7th century
National Museum of Cambodia | Picture (c) art-and-archaeology.com

Durga story is perceived as the triumph of good over evil. There are several Mahisha-s roam around freely in Tamil Nadu right now. Just as Mahishasura threatened harmony, modern societal issues like drug abuse disrupt our communities, and we hope for a similar triumph of good over evil.

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Avalokiteśvara / Padmapani of Ajanta

February 15, 2025Pandian Ramaiah Leave a comment

Padmapani mural of Ajanta captivated my boss. I could feel many times as I worked with him for my first three years. That might have pushed me to take the train and a car to Ajanta. We were searching for someone in a large complex. How would we feel if the person we’re searching for suddenly appeared before us? That’s how I felt, when I saw the popular Padmapani and Vajarapani murals in very first cave.

From left to right: Padmapani, Sanctum, Vajrapani | Pandian Ramaiah 16 Dec 2007

A Bodhisattva is a person who is on the way of attaining enlightenment to become Buddha. Compassion is his/her essence. Commitment to attain enlightenment to assist those who are in stress is his/her vow.

Avalokiteśvara, the lord who looks down, is a revered Bodhisattva in Mahayana Buddhism. Known as Padmapani, he embodies infinite compassion. He is depicted in various forms across the cultures. I have seen at least two of them. Most of the Indian forms shows avalokiteśvara as male. In Southeast Asia, Avalokiteśvara is often depicted as the female Bodhisattva Guanyin. I used to highlight this similarities when I do my museum tours. I understand that Tibetans and Mongolians have their own counterparts.

Bodhisattva Cintamanicakra Avalokiteśvara a.k.a Guānyīn, Tooth relic temple, Singapore | Picture (c) buddhatoothrelictemple.org.sg

The eyes of Padmapani painting looks extremely calm and soothes us. With a lotus flower in hand represents purity and abundant compassion. He is ready to delay his own enlightenment, to help others like us.

Bodhisattva Padmapani, Picture (c) www.indian-heritage.org

His Mantra Om Mani Padme Hum, symbolizes his compassionate nature and it is widely chanted for protection from suffering.

Kannadasan wrote கருணை தேடி அலையும் உயிர்கள் உருகும் வார்த்தை அம்மா ‘Mother, the word that melts souls wandering in search of compassion’. Kirupananda Variyar said in one his his speeches, ‘As god can not take care of every home, he sent a mother on his behalf’. Avalokiteśvara embodies compassion in all its forms, offered unconditionally and without expectation, much like a mother’s love for her child.

Reading recommendation:

AJANTA CAVE PAINTINGS – the many-splendoured delights of Ajanta compiled by Subramanian Swaminathan

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Horsemen pillars of Vijayanagara/Nayaka

February 14, 2025Pandian Ramaiah Leave a comment

Sri Varadharaja Perumal Temple in Kanchipuram is popular for its exquisite architectural features, including the 100 Pillared Hall. When I went there for the first time, the shrine was closed as the lord Varadharaja is taking his afternoon nap. Until the temple opens, I was roaming around this hall.

from Sri Varadharaja Perumal Temple | Pandian Ramaiah 17 Sep 2006

I found intricately carved pillars, which depict horses and mystical creatures or Yalis ridden by warriors. Sadly, the mandapam was closed. I could not enjoy all the creative skills of artistry skills. These pillars are not only aesthetically wonderful but also showcase the advanced craftsmanship of the Vijayanagara era.

The 100(0) pillared mandapam, Sri Varadaraja Perumal Temple, Kanchipuram | Pandian Ramaiah, 17 Sep 2006.

I understood that this 100 Pillared Hall is a significant part of the temple’s expansion during the Vijayanagara Empire’s reign. The carvings on the pillars include scenes from the depictions of Vishnu and his avatars. The nearby temple tank made my presence serene.

The Horse armour from Varadharaja Perumal Temple | Pandian Ramaiah, 17 Sep 2006

The horsemen pillars are typical style of Vijayanagara and Nayaka-s who are Vijayanagara’s chieftains. Typically such pillars elevate the temple’s status as a masterpiece of Vijayanagara architecture, reflecting the rich cultural and religious heritage of the region.

I wish to highlight two more places with pillars depicting horsemen –

Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, Srirangam – The temple’s 1000 Pillared Hall features sculptures of rearing horses with riders exemplifying Vijayanagara artistry. The hall is a notable example of planned theatre-like structures, to gather devotees.
Shikakiriswara temple, Kudumiyamalai – I spoke about this temple in this series earlier. Similar to 100 pillard mandapam of Kanchipuram and 1000 pillared mandapam of Srirangam, there is a Anivetti-k-kal-mandapam contributed by Nayaka-s.

Let me quote from the documentation of Prof S Swaminathan and MV Kiran –

The portrayal here of figure of horsemen treading over the foot soldiers is of particular interest. One can see here weapons used respectively by the horseman and the foot soldiers and the method in which the foot soldiers defended themselves from the attacks of the horsemen.

– Kudumiyamalai, SS, MVK

Horsemen pillar at Kudumiyamalai | Pandian Ramaiah, 23 ‎April ‎2007

All three temples share similarities in their architectural features: a hall with pillars adorned with riders on horse/mythical yali/other animals.

Additionally, I’d like to mention an artifact often highlighted during my museum tours: the Chettiar Doorway at the Indian Heritage Centre in Singapore.

Chettinad Door way, Indian Heritage Center, Singapore | Picture credit: indianheritage.gov.sg

This doorway is adorned with over 5000 carvings, including Ramayana, Vishnu riding on Garuda’s shoulders, Ganesha, Subramanya, Gajalakshmi and other motifs. On the side, we saw beautiful armours riding horses and Yali-s. It reflects the influence of Nayaka art on Chettinad architecture.

The door way, side view | Picture (c) arizonahandbook.com

Breathtaking, isn’t it?

While discussing South Indian temple architecture, it is essential to acknowledge the contributions of the Vijayanagara and Nayaka dynasties, particularly, Nayakas’ colossal sculptures. At first sight, it pins your mind with it majestic beauty. If you have the opportunity, visit these sites and share your experiences with me.

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Rosetta Stone of Egypt

February 13, 2025Pandian Ramaiah Leave a comment

When Google maps were not used, I was searching for the bus routes to reach British Museum from Croydon in the UK where I was staying for a short while. The purpose of my trip was not related to history, but I thought like having traveled so far, why can’t I visit the locations I was eager to explore. More importantly the Rosetta Stone.

If you ask me why I am so curious to understand my fascination, let’s go back to 2000. During my work on an exhibition about the evolution of scripts, my team and I delved into various writing systems. We had been talking about the Indic scripts and others across the world. If I was surprised to realize only a few scripts that started several millenniums ago and still in practice.

Indic and Chinese scrips are of the kind. However, this post focuses on something else. One of the interesting fact in this exercise is to document the deciphering the scripts – ie, origin or Cuneiform, Hieroglyphs, Mesoamerican scripts etc.

We are discussing about Egypt and its Rosetta stone. It contains same message was carved in the stone in more than one script forms.

Following our discussions, I worked on creating a compelling exhibition panel. I was so obsessed with Rosetta Stone and I paid special interest to come out with a better version of panel.

Cleopatra written in Hieroglyphs | Story of scripts PPT

This stone was found in Egypt, but why do we need to talk about the British Museum? Because it is displayed over there. This story is similar to many others where artifacts are taken from their countries of origin and moved to Western museums—a practice that is not new.

There has been ongoing debate between Egypt and the UK, with Egypt requesting the return of the artifact. But I understood that UK thinks that it is good to be displayed in British Museum because, it attracts global audience, so it provided Egypt a replica of the same!

But politics is not the focus of this post, the artifact is.

In 1799, This stone was discovered in a fort in Rosetta, Egypt. It contained same message in three script forms – Egyptian hieroglyphic, then extinct, Egyptian demotic script and Greek of 4th to 1st centuries BCE. Demotic and Greek were known to researchers. So, both helped them to decipher Hieroglyphics.

I read about the stone and captivated it. The visit to the museum that day, was mainly focused on scripts and Indian arts. They had a original and a replica. Standing before the Rosetta Stone, memories of discussions with my Boss from years ago flooded back.