Ancient Graffiti in Egyptian Tombs Reveals Early Indian Visitors to Valley of the Kings

Recent translations of 2,000-year-old inscriptions found in Egypt's Valley of the Kings provide evidence of early Indian travelers to the region. The graffiti, discovered in six tombs and dating from the 1st to 3rd centuries CE, includes writings in Old Tamil, Sanskrit, and Kharosti languages alongside Greek and Roman markings. Researchers presented these findings at a February conference in Chennai, India, noting that one individual named Cikai Korran inscribed his name eight times across five tombs. Archaeologists had known about these markings since the 19th century but only recently translated them. Experts suggest these inscriptions demonstrate not just Indian presence in ancient Egypt but also their engagement with local culture.