Acing a new skill: Students learn to decipher Tamil-Brahmi script

The students had taken part in a recently-held event in Madurai, aimed at creating awareness among people about Jain inscriptions. The event was organised by Chennai-based Ahimsai Nadai and Ramanathapuram Archaeological Research Foundation (RARF). 

According to Rajaguru, President, RARF, the event is conducted by Ahimsai Nadai every month in various parts of the state and this month the discussion was titled ‘Tradition of Jainism in Madurai’. 

He said inscriptions are found in the caves, where Jain saints stayed, and on ‘stone-beds’ on top of which they slept. The inscriptions are found in Tamil-Brahmi script. 

“In 9th Century AD, a Jain saint, Achananthi,  had constructed various Jain monuments and temples from Chitharal in Kanyakumari district to Madurai. In Madurai, Jain inscriptions are found in Keezhakuyilkudi, Perumalmalai, Thirupparankundram and Sitharmalai,” Rajaguru said. 

Students of various government higher secondary schools in Ramanathapuram were given training in deciphering the inscriptions by RARF. The students read the inscriptions and explained to others their meaning.  

Several students excelled in reading the inscriptions. They were highly appreciated and awarded with gifts as token of encouragement, said Rajaguru.