Chajahad Gautriya Oswal Vansh Ka Itihas

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Chajahad Gautriya Oswal Vansh ka Itihas" by Bhanvarlal Nahta, based on the provided pages and catalog link:

Overall Theme:

This historical work by Bhanvarlal Nahta aims to trace the origins and history of the Chajahad Gotra within the Oswal community, a prominent Jain community in India. The author acknowledges the often obscure nature of Jain community histories and emphasizes the importance of relying on authentic sources like inscriptions, manuscripts, and genealogies (Bhats' records) to separate historical facts from myths. The central focus is on establishing the lineage and significant contributions of the Chajahad clan, particularly their connection to Jainism and its propagation.

Key Arguments and Historical Context:

• Challenging Early Origins: Nahta critically examines traditional claims about the Oswal community's origins, particularly the notion that the Oswals were established by Parshvanath-sanatani Shrimad Ratnaprabhasuri approximately 70 years after Mahavir. He points out the lack of historical evidence to support this, suggesting that the Parshvanath tradition had merged with the Mahavir lineage well before this. He also questions the authenticity of some texts due to repetitive names, indicating later compilations.
• Dating the Community: The author argues that clear evidence for the existence of Oswal and similar Jain communities before the 6th century Vikram Samvat is scarce. Temples in places like Swarnagiri, Jalore, and Sanchor, as well as inscriptions of Kakukk and Baukk, do not firmly establish their existence prior to this period. He also notes that texts like the Upakeshagachchhatracharita are from the 13th-14th centuries, and palm-leaf manuscripts with praise verses also point to later origins.
• Rethinking Community Identity: Nahta highlights the spirit of Jainism as expressed by Acharya Abhaydev Suri, who emphasized that a fellow Jain follower of the Navkar Mantra is closer than a blood relative. This sentiment suggests a focus on religious brotherhood over lineage, implying that historical records might have been influenced by this ideal, leading to less emphasis on genealogical origins in earlier texts.
• The Rise of the Chajahad Gotra: The book focuses on the Chajahad Gotra, tracing its lineage back to the Rathore-Rashtrakuta dynasty. It presents a detailed genealogy and highlights the prominent figures within this clan.

Central Narrative of the Chajahad Gotra:

The core of the book revolves around a Sanskrit eulogy (Prashasti) written in 48 golden-lettered verses, dating back approximately 500 years. This eulogy, originally found in a manuscript with illustrations, is presented with a translation.

Key Figures and Events in the Chajahad Lineage (as presented in the Prashasti):

1. Origins from Rathore-Rashtrakuta Dynasty: The Chajahad Gotra traces its roots to the Kshatriya dynasty of Rathores. King Jayachandra of this lineage is mentioned.
2. The Role of Asthan: From Jayachandra's lineage, Asthan and his thirteen sons, including Dhandhla, became prominent. Dhandhla's son was Udala, who was wealthy.
3. The Foundation of the Chajahad Name: Udala's grandson, Thakursinh, received pure lay discipleship. His son, Brahm, was prosperous in business. Brahm's son, Uddharan, was a wealthy merchant in the beautiful city of Shri Khed. Uddharan built a magnificent golden "chhajj" (verandah/balcony) in a temple of Shri Parshvanath in Chittor. This act of building the golden verandah gave rise to the Chajahad Gotra.
4. Religious Patronage and Acaryas:
   • Uddharan also built a temple of Shantinath in Khed and had its consecration performed by Shri Jinpatisuri.
   • He accepted the lay disciplehip from this Guru and undertook many religious activities.
   • The lineage continues through prominent figures who were patrons of Jainism, building temples, undertaking pilgrimages (like Shatrunjay), and supporting Jain Acharyas.
5. Key Acharyas of the Kharatar Gachchha: The text extensively details the succession of prominent Acharyas from the Kharatar Gachchha, including:
   • Shri Jinadattasuri
   • Shri Jinakushalanama
   • Shri Jinpadmasurindra, Shri Jinlabdhistan, Shri Jinchandrasurisha
   • Shri Jineshwarasurindra, Shri JinshekharaSurat
   • Shri Jindharmamuniishvara
   • Shri Jinchandrasuri (credited with miraculous events and spreading Jainism)
   • Shri Jineshwarasurindra (first Acharya of the Vegad branch)
   • Shri Jinagunarprabhasuri (with extensive biographical details and miracles).
   • The text meticulously traces the discipleship and succession of these Acharyas, highlighting their influence and the impact of the Chajahad clan's patronage on their work.
6. Notable Descendants and Their Contributions:
   • Rajsingh: A particularly significant figure, Rajsingh, a minister, is described as charitable, influential, and a pillar of his lineage. He commissioned the writing of the Kalpasutra in golden letters and was actively involved in various religious ceremonies.
   • Gangadatta: A virtuous son of Rajsingh, who also had a virtuous wife, Gelamdevi.
   • Chacha and Desuru: Sons of Gangadatta.
   • Jasa, Rana, Minister Duda, Mahikaran: Other prominent members of the family.
   • Uddharan's Family: The text traces the lineage from Uddharan, detailing his sons and grandsons, including Malha, Malaysingh, Juthel, and Kalu, who continued the tradition of religious patronage.
   • Jhajhan: A minister and son of Malaysingh, who served the Chauhan king Bhim in Sachor.
   • Verdant and Its Significance: The text explains the origin of the "Vegad" title associated with the Chajahad clan, linking it to their patronage of the Kharatar Gachchha and a specific incident where they were granted the title by the Gujarat Sultan.

Epigraphical Evidence and Inscriptions:

The latter part of the provided text includes references to several inscriptions (labeled "Nahar collection") that document the activities of the Chajahad Gotra. These inscriptions detail:

• Temple building and consecrations: Numerous instances of building and consecrating Jinabimbas (images of Tirthankaras) by various members of the Chajahad clan are recorded.
• Patronage of Acharyas: The inscriptions show their support for prominent Acharyas of the Kharatar Gachchha, such as Shri Jinachandrasuri, Shri Jinamruisuri, and Shri Jinagunaprabhasuri.
• Genealogical connections: They provide specific details about family members, their wives, and their contributions.
• The "Chajahad" Name: The inscriptions reinforce the origin of the Chajahad name from the golden "chajj" built by Uddharan.

Conclusion:

Bhanvarlal Nahta's "Chajahad Gautriya Oswal Vansh ka Itihas" is a meticulously researched historical account that aims to provide an authentic record of the Chajahad clan within the Oswal community. By relying on ancient Prashastis, inscriptions, and a critical analysis of traditional narratives, the author establishes the lineage of the Chajahad Gotra, its deep connection to Jainism, and the significant role it played in supporting and propagating the faith through temple construction, patronage of Acharyas, and various religious activities. The book underscores the importance of critical historical inquiry in understanding community origins and the lasting impact of devoted patrons on religious traditions.