Uthiramerur Information | Photos | Location

Uthiramerur is a panchayat town located in the Kanchipuram district of the state of Tamil Nadu, India. Town was founded in the reign of Nandivarma in 7^th century. It is known for its historical and cultural significance, as it was once a prominent center for governance and administration during the medieval Chola period.

The Uthiramerur Inscriptions, located in this town in Kanchipuram district, Tamil Nadu, are a significant repository of ancient Tamil epigraphy. Dating back to the 9th century AD, these inscriptions provide valuable insights into the administrative and societal structures of the Chola dynasty. The inscriptions are celebrated for their detailed descriptions of local governance, community participation, and the democratic processes of the time.

Uthiramerur is famous for its Uthiramerur inscriptions, which are a set of stone inscriptions containing rules and regulations for local governance and administration. These inscriptions provide valuable insights into the political and social organization of that time. Stone edicts which belong to over centuries when the area was ruled by various kings like Pallavas, Cholas, Nayakars, and Vijayanagar etc. The engravings and edicts say that certain election system termed as “Kudavolai” was in existence then. Also the inscriptions in the “Grama Sabha Mandapam” depicts that the elections were conducted in those era following specific guidelines and judicial commands.

Uthiramerur also has several ancient temples, including the Varadaraja Perumal Temple and the Vedagiriswarar Temple, which are popular pilgrimage sites among locals and tourists.

In addition to its historical attractions, Uthiramerur is surrounded by picturesque landscapes and agricultural fields, making it a serene destination for nature lovers.

Overall, Uthiramerur offers visitors an opportunity to explore ancient history, traditional culture, and natural beauty all in one place.

Overview of Uthiramerur Inscriptions

• Location: Uthiramerur Village, Kanchipuram District, Tamil Nadu, India
• Date: The inscriptions are primarily from the 9th century AD during the reign of the Chola dynasty.
• Key Features: The inscriptions are engraved on stone and are renowned for their detailed accounts of the local self-government system and electoral procedures.

Historical Significance

• Administrative Details: The Uthiramerur Inscriptions are invaluable for understanding the administrative practices of the Chola period. They describe the workings of the local self-government system, known as the "Sabha," which was responsible for managing village affairs.
• Electoral System: One of the most remarkable aspects of these inscriptions is their detailed account of the electoral process used to select members of the village council. This system included criteria for eligibility, election procedures, and the roles and responsibilities of elected officials.
• Social and Cultural Insights: The inscriptions provide insights into the social and cultural practices of the time, including community responsibilities, land grants, and religious contributions.

Key Inscriptions and Their Content

• The Sabhapanis Inscriptions: These inscriptions detail the qualifications for candidates vying for various administrative posts within the village council. They outline the educational and moral criteria required for eligibility.
• The Election Procedures: The inscriptions describe the election procedures, including the method of voting and the role of the village assembly in electing officials. This offers a glimpse into the democratic processes of ancient Tamil society.
• Land Grants and Community Contributions: The inscriptions include records of land grants made to temples and descriptions of community contributions for public works. This highlights the role of religion and community in governance.

Visitor Information

• Access: The Uthiramerur Inscriptions are located in the Uthiramerur village, which is approximately 30 kilometers from Kanchipuram and 80 kilometers from Chennai. The site is accessible by road.
• Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit is during the cooler months from November to February. This period offers more comfortable weather for exploration and sightseeing.
• Facilities: As the site is a historical location, basic facilities such as restrooms and refreshment options may be limited. Visitors should plan accordingly and consider carrying water and snacks.

Nearby Attractions

• Kanchipuram: Known for its historical temples and silk weaving, Kanchipuram is located about 30 kilometers from Uthiramerur. Key attractions include the Kamakshi Amman Temple, Varadaraja Perumal Temple, and the Kanchi Kudil museum.
• Mahabalipuram: Approximately 60 kilometers from Uthiramerur, Mahabalipuram is renowned for its ancient rock-cut temples and sculptures. Notable sites include the Shore Temple, Pancha Rathas, and Arjuna’s Penance.
• Chennai: About 80 kilometers away, Chennai offers a range of attractions including Marina Beach, Fort St. George, and the Government Museum.

Tips for Visitors

• Research Before Visiting: Familiarize yourself with the historical context of the Uthiramerur Inscriptions to enhance your visit. Consider reading academic articles or guidebooks on Tamil epigraphy.
• Respect the Site: As the inscriptions are of historical significance, it is important to respect the site and avoid touching or damaging the inscriptions.
• Plan Your Trip: Check local travel advisories and transport options. Plan your visit to include nearby attractions for a more comprehensive experience of the region.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the Uthiramerur Inscriptions?

• The Uthiramerur Inscriptions are ancient Tamil epigraphs from the 9th century AD that detail the administrative and electoral systems of the Chola dynasty period.

2. Where is Uthiramerur located?

• Uthiramerur is a village in the Kanchipuram district of Tamil Nadu, India, located approximately 30 kilometers from Kanchipuram and 80 kilometers from Chennai.

3. What is the historical significance of the Uthiramerur Inscriptions?

• The inscriptions provide detailed accounts of local governance, including the electoral system and administrative practices of the Chola period, offering valuable insights into ancient Tamil society.

4. When is the best time to visit Uthiramerur?

• The best time to visit is from November to February when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for sightseeing.

5. Are there any facilities available at the Uthiramerur Inscriptions site?

• Basic facilities may be limited at the site. Visitors should plan accordingly and bring essentials such as water and snacks.

6. What are some nearby attractions to visit?

• Nearby attractions include the temples of Kanchipuram, the rock-cut monuments of Mahabalipuram, and the city of Chennai.

Conclusion

The Uthiramerur Inscriptions stand as a remarkable testament to the advanced administrative and electoral systems of ancient Tamil Nadu. They offer a unique window into the governance, societal norms, and cultural practices of the Chola dynasty. For historians, researchers, and curious visitors, Uthiramerur provides a profound glimpse into India’s rich historical heritage.