A Historical Study of the Memorial Stones from the Present Khorda District, Odisha: Their Political and Socio-Religious Significance

Abstract

Humankind’s innate need to remember, honour and forge a connection with their ancestral past is demonstrated by the tradition of erecting memorial stones. These stones have been utilized to honour notable figures and occasions, symbolize cultural identity and maintain communal memory. The memorial stones are placed in remembrance of someone’s bravery, sacrifice and dedication. The sites of Kanjiyagarh, Chandramapatapur, Lendo, Sisupalgarh, Pandiabili, and Banapur in the present Khorda district of Odisha bear the traces of memorial stones having enormous historical significance. From the eighth to seventeenth century CE, there were various dynasties such as Bhaumakara, Somavanshi, Eastern Ganga, Gajapati, and Bhoi that ruled over the Khorda region. Their battle for political supremacy led to the erection of a number of memorial stones in honour of warriors and rulers. These portray the political and socio-religious facets of the area, which make them important from a historical standpoint. Highlighting the nature, origin and historical background of these memorial stones is the main aim of this paper.