Dakshin Bharatiya Ka Jain Puratattva

Here is a comprehensive summary in English of the provided Jain text, "Dakshin Bharatiya ka Jain Puratattva" by Bhagchandra Jain:

This book, "Dakshin Bharatiya ka Jain Puratattva" (Jain Archaeology of South India) by Dr. Bhagchandra Jain 'Bhaskar', meticulously documents the extensive presence and rich history of Jainism across various regions of South India, primarily focusing on Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu. The text highlights the deep roots of Jainism, predating Mahavir himself in some areas, and traces its significant influence on the culture, art, and architecture of the south.

Key Themes and Findings:

• Early Origins and Spread: Jainism reached Andhra Pradesh from Magadh, with evidence suggesting its existence in South India even before Mahavir. Acharya Kundkund, a prominent Jain figure from the border region of Andhra and Karnataka, is considered second only to Mahavir in Jain tradition. The "Kundkundamnaya" (tradition of Kundkund) became a recognizable form of Jainism.
• Royal Patronage and Flourishing Periods: Numerous dynasties and rulers provided patronage to Jainism, leading to its widespread establishment.
  • Rashtrakuta Dynasty: King Amoghavarsha was a Jain follower and commissioned a Jain temple at Virudankarypolu.
  • Chalukya Dynasty: Both the Western Chalukyas and Kalyani Chalukyas supported Jainism. Pulakeshi II's victories led to the spread of Jainism in regions like Kaling, Pipistpura, and Vengi. Taila II of the Kalyani Chalukyas actively promoted Jainism, with significant Jain temples and sculptures found at Potalcheru (Patancheru).
  • Ganga Dynasty: The Gangas, along with other dynasties like Chalukyas and Rashtrakutas, significantly patronized Jainism, making the region "Jain-infused."
  • Hayahaya Dynasty: This dynasty was fundamentally Jain and oversaw the construction of numerous Jain temples in the Godavari Delta.
  • Velanti Cholas: This period was also favorable for Jainism, with King Gonka II building a Jain Vasti named Prithvitilak in Guntur district.
  • Kakatiyas: Before becoming the capital of the Kakatiyas, Warangal had a large Jain Vasti.
  • Vijayanagar Kings: Patronized Jainism, with significant contributions from ministers like Irugappa.
• Architectural and Artistic Contributions: The text details numerous Jain temples (Vasti, Pallis, Jinayalas), cave temples, sculptures, and inscriptions found across South India.
  • Sculptures: The book describes various Jain sculptures, including those of Tirthankaras like Rishabhnath, Parshvanath, Mahavir, Neminath, and Bahubali, as well as Yakshas and Yakshinis like Padmavati and Ambika. The artistic merit and craftsmanship of these sculptures, often made of granite and carved with great skill, are highlighted.
  • Cave Temples: Numerous cave temples, carved into hillsides, served as both places of worship and residences for Jain monks. Examples include those at Guntipudi, Ramatirtham, Hanamkonda, and Adoni.
  • Inscriptions: Hundreds of Jain inscriptions have been discovered, providing valuable information about donations, royal patronage, and the history of Jain traditions, including the mention of Jain Acharyas and their disciples.
• Key Jain Centers and Sites:
  • Andhra Pradesh: Kunda Konda, Aryavatam, Gudivada, Dharmavaram, Danavalpad, Adoni, Nakkal, Ponnar, Kondamapalli, and Warangal are mentioned as significant Jain centers.
  • Karnataka: Sravana Belgola (detailed extensively), Aihole, Pattadakal, Belgum, Lakkundi, Bankapur, Lakshmeshwar, Humcha, Halebid, Belur, Karakal, and Mudbidri are highlighted as major hubs of Jain art, architecture, and tradition. The sheer number of Jain sites and inscriptions in Karnataka is emphasized.
  • Tamil Nadu: Kanchipuram (Jain Kanchi), Tirupparutthikunram, Pulal, Thirunelveli, Madurai, Tiruchirappalli, Pugalur, Aruthur, Palakkad, and Pudukkottai are discussed as important Jain centers. The text notes that Tamil Jain literature was significant, and many Jain sites were later converted into Hindu temples or mosques.
• Prominent Jain Acharyas: The text mentions several influential Jain Acharyas who contributed to the propagation and philosophical development of Jainism in South India, including Kundkund, Samantabhadra, Pujyapada, Akalanka, Vachandev, Balasaraswati, Shrimandir Dev, Gopanandi, Gunadhara, Pushpadanta, Bhootabali, and Nemichandra Siddhanta Chakravarti.
• Decline and Conversion: The text also touches upon the decline of Jainism in some areas due to persecution by Shaivites (especially Veerashaivas) and other religious groups. Many Jain temples were destroyed, converted into other religious structures, or their historical identity obscured. The role of figures like Shankaracharya and the impact of invasions are indirectly alluded to.
• Specific Mentions:
  • Sravana Belgola: A significant portion of the book is dedicated to Sravana Belgola, a major Jain pilgrimage site. It describes the Chandragiri and Vindhyagiri hills, the iconic Gomateshwara statue, various Vasti temples, Brahmadeva temples, manastambhas, and the historical importance of the inscriptions found there. The construction of the Gomateshwara statue by Chamundaraya is detailed, along with its measurements and artistic significance.
  • Kundkund: His birthplace, Kundakunda betta, is identified, and his importance in the Jain tradition is reiterated.
  • Battles and Persecutions: The text mentions instances of destruction of Jain temples and persecution of Jain followers by Veerashaivas and others.
• Enduring Legacy: Despite the decline, the book emphasizes that Jainism's cultural contributions continue to be visible in the art, architecture, and traditions of South India. The spirit of Jainism, though diminished in some areas, remains evident in the archaeological remains and the enduring influence on regional culture.

In essence, "Dakshin Bharatiya ka Jain Puratattva" is a comprehensive archaeological and historical account of Jainism's profound impact on South India. It serves as a testament to the rich heritage, architectural brilliance, and spiritual depth of the Jain tradition in the region, tracing its rise, flourishing, and the challenges it faced over centuries.