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VOL. 12, ISSUE 12 (2025)
Alagar Malai: Epigraphy and religious continuity in Tamil Nadu
Authors
Dr. J P Vivekanandan
Abstract
Alagar Malai (Azhagar Hill) in Tamil Nadu, near Madurai, poses
historical, religious, as well as epigraphical, significance of vast
proportion. Although it is commonly known today as an important Vaishnavite
pilgrim centre and also as one of the “108 Divya Desam’s,” its earlier
historical connection as a seat of monastic Jain tradition in the Sangam Age
has been ascertained by archaeological as well as inscriptive findings. Alagar
Hill houses inscriptions in Tamil-Brahmi & Vatteluttu script from the 3rd
century BCE to the 9th century CE; these describe the donations made by
merchants, guild officials, as well as individuals, to set up “Jain Palli” or
monastic shelters in those early times. This paper will explore the Alagar
Malai’s historical development, from different literary as well as inscriptive,
architectural, as well as interpretation inputs, as it stands today as a
multi-layered cultural topography chronicling both “continuity and change” in
ancient Tamil Nadu.
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Pages:226-228
How to cite this article:
Dr. J P Vivekanandan "Alagar Malai: Epigraphy and religious continuity in Tamil Nadu". International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research and Development, Vol 12, Issue 12, 2025, Pages 226-228
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