Development of Nagari Script

SR No.: 006800
Original Sutra Author: N/A
Author: A K Singh
Publisher: Parimal Publication
Publication Year: 1991
Total Pages: 386
Language: English
Classification: Book_English
File Size: 6 MB

Page 221

120
Development of Nāgarī Script
which only the protrusive stroke is wanted. The top of ņa becomes flat as in northern inscriptions. Dha develops an oblique stroke in the upper portion. A distinct sign for ba occurs in Table E14 which is shaped with double loops to the left of a vertical line. The right limb of bha becomes vertical. Sa with outer loop denotes the modern phase of the letter.
On the whole, these inscriptions furnish developed form of the letters in which the development is required only in the letters cha, ja, dha, ba and bha. Of these, left curve of ja is shorter than other inscriptions.
13th Century
Table F, is taken from Kālegāon plates of Yādava Mahādeva (A.D. 1260). This inscription apprises of further development in Nāgari script. As for initial vowels a, ā and e are of fully developed variety. Initial ri also completes the way of developed in which only the lower hook still remains to develop. Initial vowels i, u and consonant chha denote peculiarities which resemble the corresponding letters in Jaina-Nāgarī. The breadth of ja is broader as in Jaina-Nāgari. The most remarkable development which occurs in this inscription is the use of advanced and modern form of ba, while in other regions the letter is generally represented by the sign of va. Left vertical slant of bha prolongs upward, which shows that it is still in the process of developing into the modern shape. The development requires only in cha, ja and bha.
In ligatures, modern form of ñ occurs in this inscription. Superscript n is formed by a single stroke as in modern western style. Medial vowels display modern shapes along with the usual both forms of e, ai, o and au of the period. In such type of formation top-stroke form of e is more common.
Karnataka 11th Century
Table D16 is taken from Ittagi Plates of Kadamba Jayakesi I (A.D. 1062) to represent the Nāgarī script of the region. In place of western double curved form of initial a, here we find the use of northern shape