Consider the following statements regarding the Thazhekad Copper Plates: 1. They were issued by the Chera monarch Rajashekhara in the ninth century to regulate weights and measures in Malabar markets. 2. They granted special social and commercial status to two Christian merchants named Chathan Vadukkal and Iravi Chathan. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

💡 Solution & Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect because the Thazhekad inscriptions were issued by the later Chera/Kulasekhara ruler (specifically linked to traditions involving King Bhaskara Ravi Varman or contemporary regional chieftains). Statement 2 is correct as the plates conferred high aristocratic titles and tax concessions upon Christian merchant brothers, allowing them to collect dues and maintain armed escorts. These epigraphs underscore the high standing of minority trading communities in medieval Kerala polity.