Nala Dynasty of Koraput
The Nala dynasty was a significant ruling power in the Koraput region of southern Odisha and the adjoining Bastar area of Chhattisgarh during the 5th–6th centuries CE. They are best known for their remarkable gold coinage, which provides valuable insights into their economy and culture.
Origins and Territory
The Nala dynasty traces its name to the legendary Nala of the Nala-Damayanti story in the Mahabharata. They established their kingdom with its capital at Pushkari (modern Podagada in Koraput district). Archaeological remains at Podagada include fortifications, brick structures, and sculptural fragments that indicate a prosperous urban centre. The Nalas controlled a territory rich in mineral resources, including gold deposits, which enabled them to issue an impressive series of gold coins.
Rulers and Chronology
The most prominent Nala ruler was Bhavadatta Varman, who assumed the title of Maharaja and issued gold coins bearing his name. Other known rulers include:
- Arthapati Bhattaraka: Known from a copper-plate grant found at Rithapur (Maharashtra), which records a land grant to Brahmins.
- Skanda Varman: Mentioned in later records as a Nala king.
The Nala dynasty appears to have maintained its independence until the rise of the Somavamsis and the Eastern Chalukyas, who gradually absorbed their territory.
Economy and Coinage
The Nalas are remarkable for their gold coinage, which is among the most distinctive in ancient India:
| Coin Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Weight | About 4 grams (similar to Gupta gold coins) |
| Obverse | Standing king holding a standard; Brahmi legend “Nala” |
| Reverse | Goddess Lakshmi seated on a lotus; or a humped bull |
| Design | Cruder than Gupta coins but distinctive and vigorous |
The existence of gold coinage indicates a prosperous economy, likely based on gold mining in the Koraput region and trade with both the Deccan and coastal Kalinga. Copper and lead coins have also been attributed to the Nalas.
Religion and Culture
The Nalas were patrons of Brahmanical Hinduism, particularly the worship of Vishnu and Shiva. Their inscriptions invoke Hindu deities, and the royal seals feature the Garuda emblem. However, the region also had a strong presence of tribal deities and folk traditions, reflecting the diverse cultural landscape of southern Odisha.
The Nala dynasty represents an important phase in the history of the Dandakaranya region, demonstrating that even relatively remote highland areas participated in the broader political and economic developments of early medieval India.