Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
The Chola dynasty (848-1279 CE) is renowned for its efficient administration, military prowess, and cultural contributions. Among the invaluable sources illuminating Chola governance are the Uttaramerur inscriptions, specifically those issued during the reign of Parantaka I (907-955 CE). These inscriptions, discovered in Uttaramerur, a village in Kanchipuram district of Tamil Nadu, provide a remarkably detailed account of the functioning of local self-governance institutions – the *sabhas* and *urars* – during the Chola period. They are considered a unique record of democratic practices in ancient India, offering insights into the election of committee members, their qualifications, and the rules governing their conduct.
Historical Context and Discovery
The Uttaramerur inscriptions were primarily discovered by V.R. Raghav Iyengar in 1905. They consist of a series of inscriptions etched on the walls of the Vaikuntha Perumal temple at Uttaramerur. The village itself was known as *Perumattur* during the Chola period and was a *brahmadeya* – a village granted to Brahmins. This context is crucial as the inscriptions primarily detail the functioning of the village assembly (sabha) composed of learned Brahmins.
Key Features of the Uttaramerur Inscriptions
The Sabha and its Functions
The inscriptions meticulously outline the structure and functions of the *sabha*. The *sabha* was responsible for managing the affairs of the village, including land revenue collection, maintaining law and order, resolving disputes, and overseeing irrigation works. It acted as a self-governing body with considerable autonomy.
Election Process – The Kudavolai System
Perhaps the most remarkable aspect of the inscriptions is the detailed description of the election process. The system, known as the *kudavolai* system (drawing lots), was a unique method of selecting committee members. The process involved:
- Writing the names of eligible candidates on palm leaves (olais).
- Placing the palm leaves in a pot (kudam).
- A young boy would then draw lots to select the committee members.
This system ensured a degree of fairness and transparency in the selection process, minimizing the potential for corruption or manipulation.
Qualifications for Sabha Members
The inscriptions specify the qualifications required for becoming a member of the *sabha*. These included:
- Ownership of land and a house.
- Knowledge of Vedic scriptures.
- Ability to read and write.
- Age between 35 and 65 years.
- Absence of any criminal record.
These qualifications demonstrate that membership was restricted to the elite and educated sections of society, primarily Brahmins and landowning Vellalars.
The Various Committees (Variyam)
The *sabha* functioned through various committees, each responsible for specific tasks. The inscriptions mention several such committees, including:
- Panchavaram: Managed land records and assessed land revenue.
- Pon-varam: Responsible for collecting taxes.
- Eri-varam: Oversaw irrigation works and water management.
- Thotta-varam: Managed gardens and public spaces.
- Patalavaram: Maintained law and order.
Each committee had a specific number of members and was accountable to the *sabha*.
Rules and Regulations
The inscriptions also detail the rules and regulations governing the conduct of *sabha* members. These included prohibitions against accepting bribes, engaging in fraudulent activities, and abusing their power. Strict penalties were prescribed for those who violated these rules.
Significance of the Uttaramerur Inscriptions
Insights into Chola Administration
The inscriptions provide invaluable insights into the decentralized nature of Chola administration. While the king held ultimate authority, local self-governance institutions played a crucial role in managing the affairs of villages and towns. This decentralized system allowed the Chola rulers to effectively administer a vast empire.
Evidence of Democratic Practices
The *kudavolai* system, though not a modern democracy, represents a unique experiment in participatory governance. It allowed for a degree of popular participation in decision-making, albeit limited to a specific segment of society. This demonstrates that democratic ideas and practices existed in ancient India.
Social Stratification
The qualifications for *sabha* membership reveal the social stratification prevalent in Chola society. The system was largely dominated by Brahmins and landowning classes, excluding lower castes and marginalized communities from participating in governance.
Comparison with Modern Local Governance
The Uttaramerur system shares some similarities with modern local governance structures. The emphasis on accountability, transparency, and the formation of committees for specific tasks are features that are also present in contemporary Panchayati Raj institutions. However, the Uttaramerur system was limited in its scope and participation compared to modern democratic systems.
Conclusion
The Uttaramerur inscriptions stand as a testament to the sophisticated administrative and social structures of the Chola period. They offer a rare glimpse into the functioning of local self-governance institutions and provide evidence of democratic practices in ancient India. While the system was not without its limitations, it demonstrates the Cholas’ ability to blend centralized authority with decentralized administration, fostering a stable and prosperous empire. The inscriptions continue to be a valuable source for understanding the complexities of medieval South Indian society and governance, and offer lessons for contemporary local governance systems.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.