Archaeological Sources of Assam’s Past

Archaeological sources provide tangible evidence of ancient Assam’s past. These include material remains, coins, and inscriptions, which help reconstruct the region’s political, religious, and cultural history.

 6.1 Material Remains

🔹 Temples, Palaces, and Forts

• • • • The Gupta Period marks the earliest phase of architectural activity in Assam, especially under the Varman dynasty.

      • Evidence suggests temple construction began during Surendravarman’s reign (450–485 A.D.), notably the Umachal cave temple dedicated to Balabhadraswamin.

      • Though no complete temples from ancient Assam survive today, ruins and foundations provide key insights.

      • Temples were primarily dedicated to Shiva, Vishnu, Surya, and Devi, reflecting religious diversity.

      • The Ahoms later reused ancient temple sites, often building over them (e.g., Da-Parbatia near Tezpur).

🔹 Sculptures and Stone Tools

• • • • Sculptures served as decorative temple elements (e.g., doorways, walls, ceilings).

      • These include detailed carvings of deities, mythical figures, and motifs.

      • Neolithic and Megalithic tools found across Assam, like grooved hammer stones, provide clues about prehistoric technology and lifestyle.

 6.2 Coins and Numismatics

🔹 Ahom Coinage

• • • • The first Ahom coins were likely issued by King Sutyinpha (Jayadhwaj Singha) in 1648 CE (Saka 1570).

      • These coins bore inscriptions such as:

        • “Sri Sri Hari Hara Charana Parayanasya Sri Sri Svarga Narayanasya” (Gold Mohur)

      • These numismatic finds are vital in identifying regnal years, dynastic titles, and religious affiliations.

🔹 Coinage of Varman and Mleccha Dynasties

• • • • In 1972, 31 gold coins were discovered at Paglatek near Goalpara.

        • One coin inscribed “Sri Kumara” (in Brahmi-Prakrit) is considered the earliest numismatic evidence from Kamarupa.

      • Mleccha Dynasty introduced copper coinage in the 9th century A.D..

        • Large hoards were found in Dhulapadung Tea Estate, Tulip Tea Estate, and other places.

        • Coins bore proto-Assamese scripts like Va and Ha, indicating linguistic transition.

 6.3 Inscriptions

🔹 Importance and Historical Value

• • • • Inscriptions are primary historical documents that record:

        • Royal genealogies

        • Political events

        • Religious donations

        • Cultural and administrative details

      • Assam lacked continuous literary chronicles like Rajatarangini or Harshacharita, making inscriptions critical for reconstructing history.

🔹 Material, Language, and Style

• • • • Materials used:

        • Copper plates, stone, bronze, burnt clay.

        • Copper plates were often tied with copper rings sealed with heart-shaped bronze medallions.

      • Languages:

        • Mostly Sanskrit, with influences of local Prakrit (Kamarupi dialect).

        • Some later inscriptions show early forms of the Assamese language.

      • Script styles:

        • Siddhamatrika/Kutila script, transitioning from Brahmi, with regional East Indian influences.

      • Writing Style:

        • A mix of prose and verse, often eulogistic, composed by learned Sanskrit scholars.

        • Poetic sections often display refined literary style.

🔹 Categories of Inscriptions

• • • • Inscriptions can be grouped into the following types:

        1. Commemorative

        2. Royal Decrees

        3. Commemorative cum Donative

        4. Eulogistic cum Donative

        5. Eulogistic cum Commemorative cum Donative

      • These categories help understand their intent—whether to glorify kings, record victories, or grant land.

🔹 Key Examples

• • • • Umachal Rock Inscription (Surendravarman): Oldest architectural record.

      • Tezpur Rock Inscription: Example of a royal directive.

      • Dubi and Nidhanpur Copper Plates: Issued by Bhaskaravarman, detail land grants and genealogy.

      • Kanaiborsiboa Rock Inscription: Mentions early Turko-Afghan invasions.

      • Ambari Stone Inscription: Reflects pre-Ahom era writing practices.

      • Gachtal Pillar Inscription (1362 A.D.): Written in early Assamese, marking linguistic evolution.