ಎಪಿಗ್ರಾಫಿಯ ಕರ್ನಾಟಿಕ- Epigraphia Carnatica (Vol-XIII)

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The study of history, society and culture of Kannada Nadu is based on sources which may be classified into two types: unwritten and written. Among the written sources inscriptions have a predominant place. It is true that they are mainly related to the political power or creeds. It is impossible to draw a complete picture of our ancient society merely based on a study of inscripitons. However, many factors related to the life of common folk have been incorporated in epigraphs. Their fairs and festivals, disputes and agreements, customs and beliefs are mentioned in inscriptions. They throw light on the antiquity of our language and literature. In fact the earliest Kannada literature is epigraphical literature.

Many scholars and epigraphists are of the opinion that in variety and essence Kannada inscriptions occupy the foremost place in the world of Indian epigraphs. This is really a matter of pride. Benjamin Lewis Rice (A.D. 1837-1927) collected, edited and published-in twelve volumes of Epigraphia Carnatica Series-8869 epigraphs from old Mysore State and Coorg region, between 1884 and 1906. Later on thousands of inscriptions have come to light.

The volumes of Epigraphia Carnatica are indispensable primary source books for the study and research work of scholars and students. But they had run out of stock since many years; there was a long-felt need for bringing out their new edition. As per the unanimous recommendations of the Co-ordination Committee for the Research Work on Karnataka Life and Cutlure in 1970 the responsibility of this work was entrusted to the Institute of Kannada Studies of the University of Mysore. The work was entrusted to the Institute by the Government. However, the work actually began in the latter half of December, 1971, with meagre expert staff. An Advisory Committee was formed and it worked under the Chairmanship of the Director of the Institute.

However, the set pattern in the editing of the Epigraphia Carnatica volumes followed from 1 to 13 volumes has to be changed for the remaining volumes. The reasons for this change are many. Mention must be made a few precise reasons: the impossibility of appointing suitable persons to the posts in the section, because of government's restrictions; and the retirement of all elder scholars of the section.

Hence a different administrative policy had to be followed for the perpetuation of the editing work of the volumes, Accordingly, volumes have been given for editing and other. works to various scholars in the field. Each scholar is the whole and sole editor of the volume allotted to him. From revising the text of the inscription, translation, editing, getting DTP work done and correcting the proofs up to the handing over the tracing sheets to the Institute. the entire responsibility belongs to the editor of the concerned volume. And the entire financial burden for the work is to be borne by the University. The Institute has the responsibility of getting the volumes printed. A time limit has been set for all the editors. The editors after the completion of their work will be duly rewarded with remuneration.

**Contents and Sample Pages**