For the first time, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has confirmed the coronation date of Vijayanagara ruler Devaraya I based on a set of five copper plates. These inscriptions, in Sanskrit and Kannada using the Nagari script, are dated Śaka 1328, which corresponds to November 5, 1406 CE, according to K. Muniratnam Reddy, Director (Epigraphy) at ASI.
The copper plates, currently with Falcon Coins Gallery Pvt Ltd, document the grant of the village Guḍipalli—renamed Devarayapur Agrahara—along with two hamlets, to multiple Brahmins of different gotras by King Devaraya I, son of Harihara. This marks the first epigraphical evidence confirming the exact date of his coronation.
Unveiled in Bengaluru, the plates offer a rare glimpse into the Vijayanagara Empire’s history. Notably, the royal seal features an image of Vamana instead of the customary Varaha, the empire’s traditional insignia. The inscriptions trace the genealogy of the Sangama Dynasty, linking Devaraya I to his forebears from Chandra, Yadu, and Sangama to his five sons: Harihara, Kampa, Bukka, Marapa, and Muddapa.
S. Nagarajappa, Deputy Superintending Epigraphist at ASI, explained that the grant included 61 shares distributed among Brahmins proficient in the Vedas and shastras, with a portion dedicated to temples of Somanatha (Shiva) and Janardhana. The inscriptions also specify the location of the grant within Mulbagal Rajya, Hodenada-sthala.
The plates surfaced through a coin collection acquired by Falcon Coins Gallery. Kirti M. Parekh, the gallery’s Managing Director, revealed that they were approached by an individual claiming the plates belonged to his grandfather. Upon discovery, the ASI was promptly informed and took imprints for further study.
K.M. Reddy emphasized the importance of such artifacts in preserving historical authenticity and urged the public to report similar discoveries to the ASI for documentation and conservation.