The spelling of "Gupta script" uses the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) to represent the sounds of the word. The first syllable "Gupta" is pronounced with a voiced velar stop /g/, followed by an unvoiced bilabial stop /p/. The second syllable "script" starts with a voiceless alveolar fricative /s/ and ends with an unvoiced bilabial plosive /p/. The complete word is spelled as ɡʊptə skrɪpt. The Gupta script is one of the oldest writing systems of ancient India.
The Gupta script is an ancient script used during the Gupta Empire in India, which lasted from approximately the 4th to the 6th century CE. This script is known for its elegant and round characters, and it was primarily used to write the Sanskrit language. The Gupta script is considered one of the most important and influential scripts during this period, as it served as the basis for several other scripts that emerged later in India.
The character shapes in the Gupta script are characterized by a certain fluidity and prominence of curves, displaying a high level of artistic finesse. This script is written from left to right, with the characters having clear and distinct forms. It is known for its well-developed vowel signs, and each character represents a syllable rather than an individual consonant or vowel.
The Gupta script was widely used for various literary and religious texts, as well as for inscriptions on monuments and sculptures. It played a crucial role in the spread and preservation of knowledge, as it was employed for numerous philosophical, scientific, and historical works. The script's influence extended beyond India, reaching other parts of Asia, such as Sri Lanka and Southeast Asia, where it had a significant impact.
Due to its aesthetic appeal and widespread usage, the Gupta script holds a significant place in the history of Indian scripts. It represents a period of cultural and intellectual flourishing in India, characterized by advancements in literature, art, and philosophy.
The term "Gupta script" refers to a group of scripts used during the Gupta Empire in ancient India (4th to 6th century CE). The word "Gupta" itself comes from the Gupta dynasty, which was the ruling dynasty during this period. The dynasty was named after its founder, Sri Gupta. The script used during this era is often referred to as "Gupta script" because it was widely used and promoted by the Gupta rulers. However, it is important to note that there were multiple scripts used during this time, including Brahmi and its variations.