ABSTRACT
The concept of the Dravidian languages was constructed at two levels by Alexander Campbell and F. W. Ellis, Secretary and Chairman of the Board of Superintendence of the College. Thomas R. Trautmann designated it the Madras School of Orientalism, and its historic accomplishment was construction and publication of the concept of the Dravidian language family by Campbell and Ellis in 1816. The Dissertation of Ellis constructed a clear, analytical and scientific proof for the independent origin and identity of the Telugu language and of the Dravidian language family. The advancement of linguistic studies in British India was a product of fruitful interaction between the traditions of diverse cultures, and one of its finest findings was formulation of the concept of the Dravidian language family. The construction of the concept of the Dravidian language family was a watershed in the study of Indian history and linguistics.
