Severed-head-hero-stone of 14th century found at Barkuru in Udupi district
A rare 14th-century "sidi tale" (severed head) hero stone has been discovered at Barkuru in Udupi district, Karnataka, India. This significant archaeological find, depicting a self-sacrificing person and celestial ascent, is the first of its kind in the Tulunadu region and was found during a temple renovation survey.
Why it matters
This discovery provides valuable insights into historical practices of self-sacrifice and religious beliefs in South India, contributing significantly to the understanding of regional archaeology and cultural heritage.
A hero stone ( veera gallu ) believed to be from the 14th century has been found at Barkuru in Udupi district of Karnataka. Being a sidi tale (severed head) hero stone, it is believed to be of great importance.
“The hero stone under study from Barkuru is a rare example of sidi tale type. Such a stone has been found for the first time in Tulunadu,” said senior archaeologist T. Murugeshi.
“Stylistically, the hero stone under study belongs to the 14th century,” he said.
It was found in the outer ‘prakara’ of Panchalingeshwara temple in Barkuru during an epigraphical survey conducted jointly in the temple by Veera Rani Chikkayi Tayi Trust, Gulladi, and Adima Kala Trust of Udupi. The temple is being renovated.
Mr. Murugeshi, representing Adima Kala Trust, said that Barkuru was a capital city during the reign of the Alupas, and also the Vijayanagar empire.
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