Sharda script, a historical writing system with unique features and cultural significance, often raises a specific question among enthusiasts and historians alike: Is Sharda written from right to left? In this blog post, we will delve into the origins, development, and orientation of the Sharda script to answer this fascinating question.
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A Brief History of Sharda Script
The Sharda script, dating back to approximately the 8th century, has its origins in the Northern regions of India, primarily the areas of Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh. Named after the Goddess of learning, Sharada Devi, this script bears a close affinity to other contemporaneous Brahmi-script derivatives, including Siddham, Devanagari, and Gurmukhi. Sharda was widely employed for various literary works, inscriptions, and manuscripts, especially among Kashmiri Pandits, Buddhists, and Sikhs. Despite its regional popularity, the script experienced a decline following the 14th and 15th centuries, eventually being replaced by Devanagari and Persian scripts.
Characteristics of Sharda Script
Sharda script possesses several unique features that distinguish it from other scripts in its family. It is an abugida, which means each consonant-vowel combination is represented by a single character, with an inherent vowel sound. One notable component is the three-head horizontal line that forms the top of the Sharda characters, akin to the Shirorekha of the Devanagari script. Additionally, the script contains a set of independent vowels, consonants, numerical symbols, and special characters that allow for versatile usage in various contexts.
Direction of Writing in Sharda Script
Contrary to scripts such as Arabic or Hebrew, which are written from right to left, the Sharda script is primarily written from left to right. This directionality aligns with the majority of Indian scripts, including its contemporary counterparts like Devanagari and Gurmukhi. While researchers may find occasional instances of right-to-left writing, they are generally attributed to unique artistic endeavors or specific cultural practices and do not alter the primary orientation of the script.
In conclusion, the Sharda script is predominantly written from left to right, much like most of the Indian scripts, enriching the diversity of writing systems in the Indian subcontinent. Its fascinating historical and cultural background, coupled with the unique characteristics embedded within it, still captivate the curiosity of modern scholars and enthusiasts alike.
