Select Inscriptions of Tamilnadu (An Old and Rare Book)

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Traditionally known as the land mass that spread from Vadavengadam to Thenkumari and lying between the two seas on either side of the southern Peninsula, Tamil Nadu has a rich cultural heritage and chequered history. Its ancestry dates back to the pre-historic times. Archaeologically, it is one of the most interesting states, considering the antiquity of monuments, richness of artifacts and variety of its cultures. Its temple architecture, sculptures and bronzes are world-renowned. In epigraphy the state can proudly boast of having the largest number of inscriptions in the country.

The State Department of Archaeology was established in the year 1961 with the objectives of (a) conservation and preservation of ancient monuments in Tamil Nadu, and (b) to conduct excavations at historical sites. Subsequently, its activities were expanded to include Epigraphy, setting up of site museums, chemical preservation of art objects, registration of antiquities etc. It is essentially a research department and aims to disseminate knowledge about Tamil Nadu's ancient cultural heritage through a combination of fieldwork, analysis and publication.

Epigraphy is the study of inscriptions on rocks, pillars, temple walls, copper plates and other writing material. It is one of the most fascinating and instructive studies. It deals with the art of writing, which distinguishes man from animals and provides us with an instrument for conservation and transmission of historical traditions from generation to generation. Inscriptions are the main source for reconstructing the history and culture of ancient civilizations. It serves as primary documentary evidence to establish legal, socio-cultural, literary, archaeological and historical antiquity on the basis of engravings.

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