Ancient copper plates unearthed on Elephanta Island reveal lost trade secrets

Two ancient copper plates have been discovered on Gharapuri Island, also known as Elephanta. The find was made by the Archaeological Survey of India during the 2025-26 excavation season at Morabander. These artefacts shed new light on the region’s political and commercial past. The plates were unearthed inside storage jars near the remains of a warehouse-like structure. The first plate is linked to the Chalukyas of Navasarika and dates to the seventh or eighth century. It bears a royal seal with the inscription 'Shri Jayashrayah', believed to belong to King Jayashraya Mangalarasa.

The second plate belongs to Maharaja Indrasena of the Traikutaka dynasty, which ruled between the fourth and sixth centuries AD. Together, the discoveries cover nearly 300 years of western Indian history.

Gharapuri was once a key maritime trading hub, connecting western India to global networks. Earlier excavations at the site had already revealed Roman amphora fragments and imported pottery, proving its role in international trade. The copper plates provide fresh evidence of early coastal commerce and regional governance. They confirm the island’s historical significance as a centre of trade and political activity. The ASI’s findings deepen the understanding of western India’s past.