Bharat Ke Digambar Jain Tirth Part 5

The book "Bharat ke Digambar Jain Tirth Part 5" by Rajmal Jain, published by Bharat Varshiya Digambar Jain Mahasabha, is the fifth volume in a series dedicated to documenting the Digambara Jain pilgrimage sites and historical/archaeological locations across India. This particular volume focuses on Karnataka, following the previous volumes which covered Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Bengal, Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Maharashtra.

The book highlights Karnataka as a region where Jain faith, art, and architecture have flourished, leaving a significant cultural legacy. It emphasizes that while Jainism's presence in Karnataka dates back to ancient times, the focus in this volume is on the unique aspects of its development in South India, which differ from the Panchkalyanak traditions prominent in other regions.

Key themes and contents of the book include:

• The profound influence of Jainism on Karnataka's history, culture, and art: The book quotes scholars like M.S. Ramaswami Aiyangar and C. Shivaramamurti, who acknowledge Jainism's significant impact on South India's political, religious, and literary institutions, with Karnataka being a major center for the Digambara Jain faith.
• Historical overview of Jainism in Karnataka: The text traces the spread of Jainism from the times of Tirthankaras like Rishabdeva and Parshvanatha, through the eras of influential figures like Acharya Bhadrabahu, Bhagwan Kundakunda, and important rulers and patrons like Chamarajendra Wodeyar, Tipu Sultan, and the various dynasties that supported Jainism. It details the presence of Jainism in Karnataka even before the arrival of Chandragupta Maurya and Acharya Bhadrabahu.
• The significance of various historical dynasties: The book discusses the patronage of Jainism by dynasties such as the Nanda-Vansha, Maurya-Vansha, Satavahana-Vansha, Kadamba-Vansha, Ganga-Vansha, Chalukya-Vansha, Rashtrakuta-Vansha, Kalchuri-Vansha, Hoysala-Vansha, Vijayanagar Empire, and the Mysore Odeyar dynasty.
• Detailed description of Jain pilgrimage and archaeological sites in Karnataka: The book provides a district-wise catalog of important Jain sites, including:
  • Bidar: Mentioned for its historical connection to the Nanda dynasty and the presence of Jain remnants.
  • Gulbarga: Highlighted for its historical significance as a center of Jainism during the Rashtrakuta period, with mentions of ancient Jain temples and sculptures in places like Malkhed (ancient Manyakheta).
  • Bijapur: Noted for its significant Jain heritage, including a Jain temple that was later converted into a mosque. The book also mentions the famous "Sahastraphani Parshvanath" idol in Daraga.
  • Belgaum: Described as a stronghold of Jainism, home to the famous Kamal Basadi, and numerous other Jain temples and institutions. It highlights the contribution of Belgaum district in producing modern Jain spiritual leaders.
  • Panaji (Goa): While focusing on Karnataka, it briefly mentions Jain remnants in Goa, citing historical articles.
  • Shimoga District: Features Humcha, a prominent pilgrimage site known for the Yaksi Padmavati, and its historical significance. It also covers other places like Bidnur, Bakor, Kaladi, Avallinadu, Kuppattur, Bandalike, Balligavi, and Chikkamagadi.
  • Chikkamagalur District: Mentions Melgi and Jaipura, highlighting ancient Jain temples and sculptures.
  • Hassan District: This section heavily focuses on Shravanabelagola, detailing the historical and mythological significance of Chandragiri and Vindhyagiri, the colossal statue of Lord Bahubali, and the elaborate Mahamastakabhishekam rituals. It also covers other sites like Halebidu and Belur, emphasizing their artistic and cultural importance, and the Jain connections within them.
  • Mangalore District: Covers important sites like Moodbidri, known for its stunning architecture and the iconic thousand-pillared temple, Karkala with its prominent Bahubali statue, Venur with its own Bahubali statue, and Mangalore itself with its Jain temples. It also mentions Bangar Manjeshwar in Kerala for its historical Jain connection.
  • Dharwad District: Discusses sites like Lakshmishwar, famous for its intricate Sahastrakuta Jinnalaya, Bankapur, and other places with Jain remnants.
  • Other Districts: The book also covers sites in other districts like Bidar, Gulbarga, Bijapur, Belgaum, Karwar, Chitradurga, Tumkur, Mandya, and Mysore, providing brief introductions to their Jain heritage.
• Architectural and Artistic Marvels: The book details the evolution of Jain temple architecture in Karnataka, from wooden temples to cave temples and stone structures. It highlights the unique features of Jain art, including the intricate carvings, sculptures, and the famous Manastambhas.
• Focus on Key Figures: It also brings to light the significant contributions of various Jain Acharyas and lay patrons, such as Acharya Bhadrabahu, Bhagwan Kundakunda, Acharya Nemichandra, Chamundaraya, and Pattamahadevi Shantala, whose lives and deeds are woven into the fabric of these pilgrimage sites.
• Detailed Travel Information: For each location, the book provides practical information on routes, distances, and sometimes accommodation facilities, aiming to serve as a guide for pilgrims and tourists.

In essence, "Bharat ke Digambar Jain Tirth Part 5" is a comprehensive and richly illustrated guide that serves as a testament to the vibrant and enduring presence of Jainism in Karnataka, showcasing its historical depth, architectural grandeur, and spiritual significance. The book aims to both inform and inspire readers about the rich heritage of Digambara Jainism in this southern Indian state.