Tamil Brahmi Inscriptions Discovered in Egypt Reveal Ancient Trade Links with Tamilagam
Researchers have identified nearly 30 inscriptions in Tamil Brahmi, Prakrit, and Sanskrit at tombs in the Valley of the Kings, Egypt, dating between the 1st and 3rd Centuries CE. This path-breaking finding sheds light on ancient trade links between Tamilagam, other parts of India, and the Roman Empire. The name 'Cikai Korran' appears repeatedly, inscribed eight times across five tombs. Scholars suggest these individuals were visitors from the Indian subcontinent who followed the practice of leaving their names inside tombs. The findings signify a shift in archaeological focus from Red Sea ports like Berenike to the Nile River valley.
Key Points
- Inscriptions were found in the Theban Necropolis, specifically the Valley of the Kings in Egypt.
- The discovery confirms active trade and cultural exchange between the Indian subcontinent and the Roman Empire during the early centuries CE.
- The name 'Korran' found in the inscriptions is also present in the Sangam corpus, specifically in Purananooru.
- The inscriptions were identified by researchers Charlotte Schmid and Ingo Strauch during a study in 2024-2025.
Exam Facts
- Inscriptions date back to the 1st to 3rd Century CE.
- The name 'Cikai Korran' is linked to the Sanskrit 'shikha' and the Tamil 'korram' (victory).
- Berenike is a known ancient Red Sea port city where previous Indian inscriptions were found.
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