During a field survey at Javadhu Hills, members of the Tiruvannamalai District Historical Research Centre, including Balamurugan, C. Palaniswami, Chiringur Raja, and Nandakumar, discovered four inscriptions from the Vijayanagara and Pallava periods in three different locations.
Two inscriptions from the Vijayanagara era were found in Talur village in Javadhu Hills. One of these inscriptions, dating back to the reign of Krishnadevaraya, is engraved on a stone slab. It details an agreement involving Manukama Nayakkar Atiyan Varadhan, the guardian of Krishnadevaraya, and several counts and local people from the South Malayalam country. Another inscription found nearby mentions the duties to be performed by Kotutthalaipattu and the Thirumugapadi, as well as financial obligations, indicating it is related to a treaty held at Avvur during that time.
In Perumalpattu village, a Pallava-era middle stone inscription was discovered. This inscription features a warrior ready for battle, holding a short sword in his right hand and a bow in his left hand. Although parts of the inscription are defaced, its sculptural style suggests it belongs to the later Pallava period.
In Payyanur village, a 10th-century middle stone inscription was found. This inscription depicts a hero with a short sword in his right hand and a bow in his left hand, with an inscription above him. The inscription, though partially defaced, mentions a man named Erkaruman from Thulur in the hilly country of Mangalam, who died in battle. This middle stone, referred to as Patan Sami, is worshipped by the local people in memory of the deceased.
The Tiruvannamalai District Historical Survey continues to research and document the rich history of the Javadhu Hills, which spans over 5,000 years. The discovered inscriptions provide valuable insights into the local history and customs of the area. The numerous midden stones with inscriptions scattered throughout the hills are considered historical treasures, crucial for historical and cultural studies. It is important to document and protect these inscriptions properly.
