Sharada Letter E

It is the vowel letter used when a syllable starts with a vowel.

Independent vowel letters stand alone; a dependent vowel sign instead attaches to a preceding consonant. The related 𑆼 is the dependent e sign. In Sanskrit-oriented writing, 𑆍 represents long e. For Kashmiri, a supplementary short-e sign can follow 𑆍 to distinguish the shorter vowel.

How did Sharada develop?

It developed from older regional forms of Brahmic writing.

Brahmic scripts are a family of writing systems used across South Asia. Proto-Śāradā, an earlier stage, is documented across the 6th–10th centuries; surviving records clearly showing Sharada include 9th-century coins of Kashmir’s Utpala rulers and inscriptions. One inscribed jar is associated with King Avantivarma’s reign, 855–883. Sharada served Sanskrit learning and appeared on inscriptions, coins, charters, temple records, and administrative documents.

Sharada also wrote Kashmiri. A 2023 proposal records revival work, primers, and added vowel signs for Kashmiri distinctions. Takri descended from Sharada through Devāśeṣa, an intermediate form that emerged in the 14th century. Gurmukhi and Landa are related northern scripts.