Nalanda inscription of Devapaladeva facts for kids
The Nalanda Copper-plate of Devapaladeva is an ancient Buddhist inscription found in Nalanda, which is in the Bihar state of Northeastern India today. It was made around the year 860 CE.
This special copper plate tells us about King Devapaladeva of the Pala Empire (also known as Bengala). He agreed to a request from Sri Maharaja Balaputra, a king from Suvarnadvipa (which means "Golden Island," likely referring to parts of Southeast Asia, possibly Srivijaya in Sumatra). Balaputra wanted to build a Buddhist monastery at Nalanda. The inscription mentions that Balaputra was the son of Samaragrawira and the grandson of a famous king from the Śailendra family, who ruled Java. Balaputra's mother was Tārā, the daughter of King Dharmasetu.
The copper plate was discovered by Hirananda Shastri in 1921. He found it in a room of Monastery 1 at Nalanda.
Contents
What is the Nalanda Copper Plate?
The Nalanda Copper Plate is like an old official document carved onto a piece of copper. It's important because it gives us a glimpse into history, showing how kings from different parts of Asia worked together long ago. It also tells us about the spread of Buddhism and the importance of places like Nalanda as centers of learning.
Who are the Main People?
This inscription is mainly about two important kings:
- King Devapaladeva: He was a powerful ruler of the Pala Empire in India. His empire covered a large area, including parts of modern-day Bihar and Bengal. He was known for supporting Buddhism.
- King Balaputra: He was a king from Suvarnadvipa, which was likely the Srivijaya kingdom. This kingdom was a major sea power in Southeast Asia, controlling important trade routes. Balaputra was a devout Buddhist and wanted to support the religion by building a monastery in India.
What Did the Inscription Say?
The inscription on the copper plate is a formal record of King Devapaladeva's decision. It explains that King Balaputra sent a messenger to Devapaladeva. Balaputra asked for a monastery to be built at Nalanda.
Why Was the Monastery Built?
The monastery was meant to be a place for Buddhist monks (called bhiksus) from all over the world. It would provide them with:
- Offerings and food
- Shelter and clothing
- Beds and medicines
- A place to write and study important Buddhist texts
- Funds for keeping the monastery in good repair
The inscription says that King Devapaladeva granted five villages. The income from these villages would help pay for the monastery's needs. This was done for the well-being of King Balaputra, his parents, and the whole world.
Balaputra's Family
The inscription also talks about Balaputra's royal family. It mentions his grandfather, a king from Java who was part of the famous Sailendra dynasty. This dynasty was very powerful and known for its strong rulers. Balaputra's father was Samaragravira, a brave warrior. His mother was Queen Tārā, who was the daughter of a great ruler named Dharmasetu. She was compared to the Buddhist goddess Tara.
The inscription ends with a wish that this good deed – the grant for the monastery – would last forever, as long as the ocean exists, the Ganges River flows, and the sun rises and sets.
Where Was it Found?
The Nalanda Copper Plate was found in 1921 during excavations at Nalanda. Nalanda was once a very famous Buddhist monastery and learning center in ancient India. It was like a huge university, attracting scholars and students from all over Asia. Finding the copper plate there helps historians understand the connections between India and Southeast Asia during that time.
Images for kids
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A map of the excavated remains of Nalanda, where the copper plate was found.
