Kharoshthi

Kharoshthi is an ancient script that originated in the northwestern region of the Indian subcontinent, particularly in the areas around modern-day Pakistan and northwestern India. It is one of the earliest known scripts used in the Indian subcontinent, with its earliest inscriptions dating back to the 6th century BCE. The script is most prominently associated with the Gandhara region, which was a significant cultural and religious hub during the time of the Mauryan Empire and later under Greco-Buddhist influence.

Kharoshthi is an abugida, meaning each consonant carries an inherent vowel sound, typically "a," which can be modified with diacritical marks for other vowels. The script is written from right to left and features a mix of Aramaic and indigenous influences. It was primarily used for writing Prakrit languages, particularly the Gandhari Prakrit, which was the vernacular language of the Gandhara region. The script also appears in inscriptions related to Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism, reflecting its widespread use across religious traditions.

The most famous examples of Kharoshthi inscriptions are found on Buddhist relics and stupas, particularly those associated with the early spread of Buddhism in Central Asia. The script was later replaced by Brahmi in many regions, though it persisted in certain areas until the 4th century CE. Kharoshthi’s influence extended beyond the Indian subcontinent, as it was used in parts of Central Asia, where it coexisted with other scripts like Bactrian and Greek.

Today, Kharoshthi is considered an extinct script, with no native speakers. However, it remains an important subject of study for historians, linguists, and archaeologists due to its role in the cultural and religious history of South Asia. Research into Kharoshthi provides valuable insights into the linguistic and scriptural evolution of the region during the pre-classical and classical periods.