TAMIL BRAHMI INSCRIPTIONS IN EGYPT

NEWS: A recent discovery of Tamil Brahmi, Prakrit, and Sanskrit inscriptions in Egypt’s Valley of the Kingsà provided fresh evidence of ancient trade connections between Tamilagam (ancient Tamil region), other parts of India, and the Roman Empire.

Background

• Nearly 30 inscriptions identified.
• Located in six tombs in the Theban Necropolis (Egypt).
• Dated between 1st–3rd century CE.
• Identified in 2024–25 by: Charlotte Schmid (EFEO, Paris), Ingo Strauch (University of Lausanne)

Tamil Brahmi is:

• An early script used to write Old Tamil.
• Derived from Brahmi script.
• Used between 3rd century BCE – 3rd century CE.
• Found in caves, trade routes, pottery, and coins in Tamil Nadu

Supporting Evidence from Other Sites

The name “Korran” also found at:

• Berenike (Red Sea port city, Egypt) – sherd inscription (1995)
• Sangam literature – Chera king Pittānkorran
• Pugalur inscriptions (ancient Chera capital, 2nd–3rd CE)

Significance of the Discovery

• Confirms Indo-RomanàTrade Between: Tamilagam (Malabar Coast), Roman Egypt, Mediterranean world
• Expands Geography of Indian Presence: Nile Valley & Valley of the Kings
• Cultural & Civilizational Interaction: Demonstrates–>Mobility of merchants, cultural confidence, participation in global networks