Kadamba

Kadamba is a term used in Indian history and botany that may refer to a tropical tree, an ancient dynasty centered in present-day Karnataka, and an early script associated with that region. The multiple uses reflect the cultural and historical significance of the name in South Asia.

Kadamba tree

Kadamba refers to Neolamarckia cadamba, a large evergreen tree native to South and Southeast Asia. It is known for its dense canopy and spherical clusters of fragrant orange-yellow flowers, which form ball-like inflorescences. The tree is used for timber, resin production, and traditional medicine, and its flowers and foliage are valued in ornamental and ceremonial contexts in some regions.

Kadamba dynasty

The Kadamba dynasty was an early Indian kingdom that ruled parts of present-day Karnataka and neighboring areas from roughly the 4th to the 6th centuries CE. It is traditionally dated to the time of Mayurasharma, who established Banavasi (present-day Banavasi town) as the capital. The Kadamba rule is noted for contributing to the early development of the Kannada language and script and for establishing a regional political center that influenced later polities in the Deccan. The dynasty gradually declined and was absorbed by succeeding powers, including the Chalukyas.

Kadamba script

The Kadamba script is an ancient writing system associated with the Kadamba period. Used to inscribe Kannada and related languages, it represents an early stage in the development of the Kannada-Telugu script family and influenced later forms of the regional scripts. Inscriptions bearing Kadamba script help historians trace the political and linguistic history of early medieval Karnataka.