The historical connection between Itgi village in Khanapur taluka and Goa’s Kadamba dynasty has come into renewed focus following the discovery of an ancient inscription dating back to around 1062 AD. A team of historians and researchers from Goa visited Itgi on Friday to explore its historical and archaeological heritage and examine its links with the Kadamba rulers of Goa.

The delegation comprised senior Goa historian Rajendra Kerkar, archaeologist Dr Varad Sabnis, Vithoba Gawde, Prudent Media’s Pramod Fonde and Vedant Parodkar. The team visited several historical monuments, temples, inscriptions and archaeological remains to gather information about the region's connection with the Kadamba period.

Before beginning their field study, the researchers visited the village's Arivu Centre, digital library and information centre to understand its historical background and cultural heritage.

The team subsequently visited the famous Shri Kamal Narayan Temple, associated with the Kadamba period, along with the Shri Shankarling Temple situated in the middle of the Malaprabha River, Shri Ramalingeshwar Temple on the riverbank, Shri Kalleshwar Temple, an old temple at Kalamath and other archaeological sites.

Local residents and historian Dr Bahubali Handur briefed the delegation about the historical monuments and their significance.

**Historical Links Between Goa And Khanapur**

Speaking during the visit, senior historian Rajendra Kerkar said that Itgi and Khanapur share historical connections with Goa. He highlighted the importance of Itgi in the context of the Kadamba dynasty and its association with Goa Kadamba king Jayakeshi.

Archaeologist Dr Varad Sabnis said that the Shankarlingeshwar Temple situated in the Malaprabha River and other archaeological remains in the region provide important insights into Goa's Kadamba history.

**1062 AD Inscription Opens New Research Avenues**

The visit assumes significance following the discovery of an ancient stone inscription near the Kamal Narayan Temple. A stone fragment lying among other ancient stones was retrieved, revealing an inscription believed to date back to around 1062 AD and associated with the period of Goa Kadamba king Jayakeshi.

The upper portion of the inscription is damaged, while 21 lines in the Old Kannada script are currently visible. Researchers believe the complete inscription may have contained approximately 56 lines.

Preliminary observations suggest similarities between its contents and references found in earlier Sanskrit copper plate inscriptions discovered near the Hanuman Temple in Itgi.

These copper plates reportedly refer to Itgi as an Agrahara in the Kalagiri province, with the village mentioned as 'Ittige' or 'Ishtige' in historical records.

**Eight-Foot Narayana Idol Reflects Ancient Heritage**

The approximately eight-foot-tall Narayana idol inside the Kamal Narayan Temple stands as a testament to the region's rich artistic and religious heritage. Preliminary historical references associate the temple's construction with the period of King Jayakeshi.

Researchers believe that a comprehensive study of the inscriptions, ancient temples, sculptures and archaeological remains in Itgi could help establish a clearer understanding of the historical links between the Goa Kadambas and the Khanapur region.

The visit has also highlighted the need for systematic archaeological research, documentation and conservation of the region's valuable historical heritage.