The 812 AD Charter: Chola Empire’s copper Plate to Padaiveedu Devanga Kula Guru

 

The 812 AD Charter: A Glimpse into the Chola Empire’s Governance and Cultural Influence on the Devanga Community

In the year 812 AD, a significant charter was issued during the reign of Kulothunga Chola, marking an essential moment in the history of the Chola Empire and the Devanga community. This charter, written on copper plates, sheds light on the administrative and social structure of the time, particularly highlighting the interaction between the Chola kings and the Devanga people—an ancient community with a rich cultural heritage.

Context: The Chola Empire in the Early 9th Century

The Chola dynasty, one of the most influential and longest-ruling empires in South India, was renowned for its administrative prowess, military conquests, and flourishing arts and culture. By the early 9th century, the Chola kingdom was well-established, with its territories extending over much of Tamil Nadu and reaching into parts of present-day Kerala, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh.

Kulothunga Chola I, the ruler during this time, was known for consolidating and expanding the Chola Empire. His reign was marked by political stability, territorial expansion, and significant cultural and religious developments. One of the most important aspects of his rule was maintaining social harmony and the relationship between the various communities that lived under Chola's rule.

The 812 AD Copper Plate Charter

The charter issued in 812 AD, also called the Copper Plate, was a formal document from the Chola king to the Padaiveedu Devanga Kula Guru, a prominent figure within the Devanga community. The Devangas, a social group known for their expertise in weaving and textiles, had a long-standing relationship with the Chola dynasty. This charter provides a rare insight into the governance practices of the time, specifically in relation to taxation, tributes, and the community’s role within the empire.

The essence of the charter reads as follows:

"Sri Kanthimathy Amman, Panchavarneswarar Deputy, instructing the Devanga clans living in the Chola country, adjacent to the Pandya country, to pay a tribute of Brahmacharis per caste—Kav-Rupee families-2-Rs."

The Social and Religious Context

The reference to Sri Kanthimathy Amman and Panchavarneswarar is likely a religious invocation, reflecting the integration of spirituality into the governance system. In the Chola Empire, religion played an integral role in both governance and the social structure. Deities like Sri Kanthimathy Amman were revered, and their influence extended into the daily lives of the people, especially in the context of royal decrees and administrative orders.

The mention of Brahmacharis (celibates) and the tribute in terms of “Kav-Rupee families” suggests a system of tribute based on caste and familial units. The “2-Rs” could denote a form of taxation or tribute amount that was to be paid by the Devanga families. The payment of tributes was a common practice in ancient kingdoms, where various communities contributed to the royal treasury, ensuring the stability of the empire.

The Devanga Community's Role

The Devanga community, known for its skills in weaving, played a vital role in the economic and cultural life of the Chola Empire. Weaving was a highly regarded profession, and Devangas were considered experts in creating intricate textiles that were highly valued. The Chola kings recognized the importance of this community not only for their economic contributions but also for their cultural significance.

The order to pay a tribute could have been a way of formalizing the relationship between the Chola rulers and the Devanga people. It may have also been a way of ensuring that the Devangas continued to thrive within the empire while also contributing to the state in a structured and regulated manner.

The Significance of the Copper Plate

The copper plate itself is of great historical importance. During the Chola period, copper plates were commonly used to issue royal decrees, land grants, and other important documents. These plates were often inscribed with intricate details, written in the Tamil script, and then distributed to the concerned parties. The use of copper plates ensured that the decrees were durable and could withstand the passage of time.

In the case of this particular charter, the copper plate serves as a tangible record of the Chola king's orders and the interaction between the royal administration and the Devanga community. It also helps us understand the social structure of the time, including the roles of different castes and communities and the relationship between the Chola rulers and their subjects.

"Kali Yuga Year" – A Symbolic Reference

The reference to Kali Yuga is an intriguing aspect of the charter. In Hindu cosmology, Kali Yuga is considered the fourth and final age, characterized by moral decline and a gradual loss of spiritual wisdom. However, in the context of this charter, the mention of Kali Yuga likely serves as a symbolic marker of time, reflecting the cyclical nature of history according to Hindu philosophy.

This reference may also indicate the connection between the Chola kings and Hindu traditions. By referencing the Kali Yuga, the king might have invoked a sense of divine authority, aligning his reign with the larger cosmic order. It serves as a reminder that the governance of the Chola Empire, including its interactions with the various communities, was believed to be guided by a higher, divine force.

Conclusion

The 812 AD copper plate charter issued by Kulothunga Chola to the Padaiveedu Devanga Kula Guru is a remarkable historical document that not only provides insight into the governance of the Chola Empire but also sheds light on the relationship between the ruling dynasty and the Devanga community. The charter reflects the intricate web of religious, social, and economic practices that defined the Chola period, offering a glimpse into the vibrant and diverse society that thrived under the empire's rule.

Through this charter, we can appreciate the role of the Devanga community in the broader cultural and economic landscape of the Chola Empire. It serves as a testament to the Cholas’ ability to integrate various communities into their governance system, ensuring both their prosperity and the empire's stability.