Ahmedabad Yuddh Ke Jain Yoddha

Here is a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Ahmedabad Yuddh ke Jain Yoddha" by Vikramsinh Gundoj:

The book chapter "Ahmedabad Yuddh ke Jain Yoddha" (Jain Warriors of the Ahmedabad War) by Vikramsinh Gundoj highlights a lesser-known aspect of Jain history: their significant participation and bravery in warfare. While Jains are traditionally known for their peace-loving nature and success as merchants, this text demonstrates that they also played crucial roles in political and military affairs during medieval India, particularly in Rajasthan.

The author begins by acknowledging the importance of medieval Indian history and the impact of political events on its culture. He notes that while the majority of brave warriors were Kshatriyas, many individuals from other communities also achieved fame and glory through their valor. He then focuses on the Jain community, describing them as peace-loving individuals who also proved adept at adapting to changing social environments. Their success as merchants ("बिणज करेगो बाणियो" - only a merchant can do trade) led to respect and influence, and their intelligence also made them successful in administration, holding positions like Diwan and Kamdar (stewards) for rulers.

While Jains generally supported wars indirectly, their direct involvement as combatants was rare. The Ahmedabad War is presented as a unique example where many Jain warriors displayed extraordinary bravery and skill. The author provides context for the war, which took place in Vikram Samvat 1787 (October 10, 1730). The ruler of Gujarat, Sarbuland, had rebelled against the Delhi Badshah Muhammad Shah. When no one else dared to confront Sarbuland, Maharaja Abhay Singh of Jodhpur accepted the challenge. After a fierce three-day battle, Sarbuland surrendered on the fourth day. The author mentions that poets like Karnidan and Veerbhan Ratanu, who were present at the war, have detailed these events in their works, such as "Surajprakash" and "Rajarupak."

The text then delves into the specific contributions of Jain military officials in Maharaja Abhay Singh's army during this war. It mentions that upon reaching Kochrapaladi on Ashwin Sudhi 7, Vikram Samvat 1787 (October 7, 1730), five fronts were established for attacking Ahmedabad and the Bhadra fort. Various Jain individuals held important positions in these fronts.

Key Jain Warriors and Their Contributions:

• Ratsingh Bhandari: He entered the Bhadra fort in October 1730 and was appointed Naib (deputy) by Maharaja Abhay Singh, as confirmed by the "Gazetteer of the Bombay Presidency" and the Jodhpur Rajya ki Khyaat. He was a trusted commander, known for his bravery, political acumen, and diligence. He played a significant role in Gujarat's governance and military campaigns. The Surajprakash extols his battlefield prowess in vivid detail.
• Vijayraj Bhandari: Son of Khetsi Bhandari, he was a prominent Oswal official who served the Jodhpur state with distinction. He was appointed Hakim (governor) of Merta by Maharaja Ajit Singh and even supported Prince Farrukhsiyar during the Delhi succession war. In the Ahmedabad campaign, the army was divided into three parts, with one under Vijayraj Bhandari's command. He also led one of the five fronts during the battle.
• Anopsingh Bhandari: Son of Rai Bhandari Raghunath Singh, who was a powerful figure and Diwan to Maharaja Ajit Singh, Anopsingh was also brave, skilled in warfare, and a wise statesman. He served as the Hakim of Jodhpur and was successful in military endeavors, including being sent to Ahmedabad.
• Amarsingh Bhandari: Son of Khimsi Bhandari, who had influence with the Mughal Emperor Farrukhsiyar and helped in the abolition of the Jaziya tax on Hindus, Amarsingh was a capable and intelligent individual. He served as the Diwan of Jodhpur and was Maharaja Abhay Singh's representative (Vakil) in Delhi during the Ahmedabad War. He was a shrewd politician.
• Girdhardas Bhandari: Another significant Jain warrior, Girdhardas Bhandari was chosen by Maharaja Abhay Singh as a representative to negotiate the Chauth (tribute) from Gujarat with Bajirao. This indicates his dual capacity as a strong warrior and an intelligent politician. The Surajprakash describes his valiant fighting in great detail.
• Jivraj Bhandari: When Maharaja Abhay Singh conquered Baroda, Jivraj Bhandari was appointed to collect money from wealthy individuals there.
• Jodhmal Singhvi and Gokuldas Mehta: These two Jain warriors also fought bravely on behalf of Maharaja Abhay Singh in the Ahmedabad War. The text includes verses praising their valor.
• Other Jain Warriors: The chapter also mentions other Jain warriors who participated in the war, including Udai Chand Bhandari, Badhchand Bhandari, Pemchand Bhandari and his son, Thanchand Deepchand, Maidas Bhandari, Ranchhoddas, Khushalchand, and Muhnot Suratram, whose names are cited from the Surajprakash. The author acknowledges that many more unnamed Jain warriors likely participated.

The text also highlights a moment of defiance by some Jain leaders. When Maharaja Abhay Singh made a peace settlement with Umabai, the widow of Khanderao Dabhade (who had attacked the Maharaja), Bhandari Ratsingh, Bhandari Vijayraj, Mehta Jivraj, and Pancholi Lalji were displeased with the perceived humiliating compromise. They subsequently attacked Umabai's forces, with Mehta Jivraj and his companions sacrificing their lives in the process. This act demonstrates the Jain leaders' willingness to emulate the Kshatriya tradition of fighting bravely for honor, even at the cost of their lives.

In conclusion, the chapter emphasizes that despite adhering to the Jain principle of Ahimsa Paramodharma (non-violence is the highest dharma), the Jain community readily accepted the responsibility of defending against enemies when necessary. Their inherent gentleness did not prevent them from embracing the demands of their era, proving themselves true warriors. The author links this adaptability and harmonious integration of seemingly contradictory principles to the strength and resilience of Indian culture, which has historically welcomed diverse traditions.