Anchalgacchiya Pratishtha Lekho Part 01 And 02

"Anchalgacchiya Pratishtha Lekho Parts 01 and 02" is a comprehensive collection of inscriptions related to the Anchalgachcha (a lineage within Jainism). Compiled and researched by Parshwa and published by Shree Akhil Bharat Anchalgachcha (Vidhi Paksha) Shwetambar Jain Sangh, this work aims to preserve and make accessible crucial historical and religious data for scholarly and personal use.

Key aspects and content highlighted in the text:

• Purpose: The primary goal of this compilation is to provide foundational material for historical research and documentation of the Anchalgachcha lineage. Such inscriptions are considered vital for understanding the past and are of great use to the scholarly community.
• Scope: The collection includes inscriptions on stone and metal idols, as well as epigraphs on rocks and copper plates. It aims to be an exhaustive compilation of such records for the Anchalgachcha.
• Research and Compilation: The research involved extensive travel across Kutch, Saurashtra, North Gujarat, and South Gujarat to gather these inscriptions. Special emphasis was placed on Kutch due to the significant historical presence and influence of the Anchalgachcha in that region. The author's dedication, meticulousness, and scholarly approach in preparing this reference work are highly praised.
• Integration of Previous Works: The collection incorporates previously published inscriptions (up to page 112) that were initially released under the title "Anchalgachchiya Lekh Sangrah" by Shree Anantnathji Trust, Mumbai. This ensures that all inscriptions related to the lineage are available in a single, comprehensive source.
• Historical Significance: The inscriptions offer valuable insights into various aspects of Jain history, including:
  • Key figures: Details about Acharyas, Sadhus, Sadhvis, Kings, Badshahs, Ministers, and Royal Officials associated with the lineage.
  • Social and Religious Practices: Information on Jati (caste), Vansh (lineage), Gotra, branches, geographical locations (countries, cities, villages, rivers, mountains), and social customs like the practice of 'Sati'.
  • Religious Installations: Records of the establishment of Jinabhavana (temples), Pratishthas (consecrations of idols), and the roles of patrons (Shresthis, ministers, royalty) in these activities.
  • Chronology: Dating of events through Samvat (Jain era) and Shaka (Indian eras).
  • Linguistic and Artistic Insights: The inscriptions reveal the evolution of Jain scripts and languages, as well as artistic representations in sculptures, such as the 'Chhatradhari' (umbrella-bearing) figures often found in Anchalgachchi iconography.
• Specific Features of Anchalgachchiya Inscriptions:
  • Iconography: The presence of a distinct image of a deity holding an umbrella or chhatra, often depicted in a dancing posture, is noted as a unique characteristic not commonly found in other Gachchas.
  • Ritual Authority: The text highlights that in the Anchalgachcha tradition, Pratishtha (consecration) is considered the duty of a Shravak (lay follower) rather than a renunciate (Tyagi). This is reflected in the inscriptions, which typically mention the Pratishtha being performed "under the instruction of the Acharya" rather than by the Acharya themselves, using terms like "Shrāvakena" or "Sanghena".
  • Prohibition of Guru-Idols: The compilation notes that according to the 'Shatapadi' (a canonical text of the Anchalgachcha), the installation of idols of Gurus was prohibited. Consequently, inscriptions related to Guru-idols are generally absent, although inscriptions related to 'Gurupaduka' (footprints of gurus) are available. However, there's a historical observation that this practice changed in later centuries, with the installation of idols of influential Acharyas like KalyanSagar Suri.
• Broader Context: The preface emphasizes the importance of epigraphy as a primary source for historical research, highlighting its authenticity compared to textual accounts which can be prone to exaggeration or bias. It also touches upon the influence of Western scholarship in this field and acknowledges the contributions of both Western and Indian scholars.
• Organizational Efforts: The establishment of the "Akhil Bharat Anchalgachchha (Vidhi Paksha) Shwetambar Jain Sangh" is presented as a significant step towards consolidating and promoting the ancient literature of the Gachcha. The publication of this collection is seen as the beginning of a new phase for literary and historical publications within the Sangh.
• Affordable Pricing: The book is priced at a nominal Rs. 3/- despite its comprehensive nature, indicating a focus on propagating knowledge rather than profit.
• Future Publications: The text mentions the upcoming publication of "Anchalgachchiya Ras Sangrah," further demonstrating the Sangh's commitment to documenting the history and literature of the Anchalgachcha.

In essence, "Anchalgachchiya Pratishtha Lekho Part 01 and HIND 02" is a monumental work that serves as a critical resource for anyone interested in the history, rituals, and cultural heritage of the Anchalgachcha tradition within Jainism, offering a tangible link to the past through its collection of invaluable inscriptions.