KASARAGOD: The victory stones of Ikkeri Nayaks, who ruled Kasaragod region from Shivamogga in Karnataka, are disappearing over the course of time. Historians have called to preserve stones remaining in the Kanhangad region.
Major rulers of the dynasty, namely Shivappa Nayaka (1645-1660), Sadashiva Nayaka (1530-1566), and Somasekhara Nayaka (1714-1739), established these victory stones with engravings of Tulu insignia – a sun and crescent moon with a Shivalinga – whenever they conquered native kingdoms during their campaigns, says Dr Nandakumar Koroth, historical researcher and head of the history department at Nehru Arts and Science College.
During their rule, Kanhangad was conquered by Shivappa Nayak and the victory stones were established in the region. One such victory stone is situated inside the Karattuvayal. Unfortunately, the stone is sinking into the soil and is barely noticeable. “It took us some time to find the stone and it is likely that we may lose it soon,” says Nandakumar.
Meanwhile, another victory stone is near Durga Higher Secondary School in Kanhangad which has become a stone of worship. “There was another such stone opposite to Rajah school in Nileshwar town. The stone is nowhere to be seen though it was present in the 90s,” he says, stressing the importance of preserving such historical relics.
The literary work ‘Keladi Nrupa Vijaya’ by Keladi Basavaraja mentions that Shivappa Nayaka defeated the Portuguese, brought Nileshwaram under his control, and established a victory pillar there.
It is unsure how many such victory stones were lost in the past. Govinda Pai’s research thesis “Tulu Nadu Poorva Smruthi” (Ancient Memories of Tulu Nadu) suggests that most of the victory pillars might have been destroyed in subsequent military campaigns following the rule of the Ikkeri kings.
“So, we need to protect the remaining remnants of history,” added Nandakumar. It is believed that Ikkeri Nayaks established the fort system in the district to protect the trade route during their rule.
