Idar Samsthanna Ketlak Puratan Avshesho - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Idar Samsthanna Ketlak Puratan Avshesho" (Some Ancient Relics of Idar State) by Pandharinath A. Inamdar, based on the provided text:

Overall Purpose:

The book, published in 1937 by the Department of Archaeology, Idar State, aims to document and bring to public attention the ancient relics and historical sites within the Idar State. The author, Pandharinath A. Inamdar, Director of Public Instruction and Archaeology, emphasizes the rich cultural and historical heritage of the region, urging its preservation and further study.

Author's Motivation and Introduction:

Inamdar was inspired to undertake this work during his inspections of schools within the Idar State. He was deeply impressed by the natural beauty, hilly terrain, lush vegetation, river valleys, and, most significantly, the ancient artistic remnants like beautiful temples, sculptures, historical monuments, and stepwells (vavs). Recognizing the immense archaeological importance of these finds, he sought permission to establish an archaeology department, which was granted by His Highness the Maharaja. This book is a culmination of his three years of dedicated work in this endeavor.

Geographical and Historical Context of Idar State:

Location: Idar State was a first-class princely state located in the northeastern part of Gujarat, India. It was situated between latitudes 23.6 and 24.30 and longitudes 72.49 and 73.43, bordering Rajasthan (Sirohi and Mewar) to the north and east, and British districts and Vadodara State to the south and west.
Natural Features: The region is characterized by the Aravalli hills, which form its natural northern and eastern boundaries. It is endowed with hills, forests, fertile valleys, and is watered by tributaries of the Sabarmati River like the Sei, Harnav, Hathmati, Meb, Vatrak, and Majum.
Connectivity: Himmatnagar, the administrative capital, was 55 miles from Ahmedabad and connected by the Ahmedabad-Prantij railway line. Important stations within the state included Idar and Vadali. Motor services operated throughout the region.
Historical Lineage: The ruling family of Idar had migrated from Marwar in Rajasthan three times since the 11th century, leading to its colloquial name "Chhoti Marwar" (Little Marwar).
Ancient History: The text traces the history of the region from the Dwapar Yuga, mentioning its association with demons like Vatapi and Ilvala. It discusses the rule of kings like Venivatsaraj, whose birth was linked to the Idar hills. Later, in the 6th century AD, Guhaditya, son of Shiladitya, conquered Idar from the Bhil people. The text then details the succession of various dynasties, including the Parihars from Marwar, their valiant stand against Ghori, and the rule of the Rava kings for approximately 500 years. The current ruling dynasty traces its lineage back to Anand Singhji and Raysinghji, brothers of Maharaja Abhay Singhji of Jodhpur, who took over Idar in 1731 AD.

Key Archaeological Sites and Relics Mentioned:

The book systematically details numerous historical and archaeological sites within Idar State, providing descriptions of their architectural features, historical significance, and notable artifacts. Some of the prominent places discussed are:

Himmatnagar: The present administrative capital, founded by Sultan Ahmed Shah of Gujarat in 1426 AD as Ahmednagar. Notable relics include a fragmented part of the old fort wall, the Kazi Vav (stepwell), Jumma Masjid, and a kund (water tank). The city was renamed Himmatnagar in honor of Maharaja Shri Himmat Singhji.
Idar: The traditional seat of the state, historically known as Ilvadurg or Illanadurg. It was naturally fortified by surrounding hills, earning it the name "Idar nu Gadh" (Fort of Idar). Despite facing numerous attacks, it successfully defended itself. Ancient Jain temples are mentioned, along with other sites like Vajmata Temple, "Ruthi Rani nu Maliyu," Rav Ranmal ni Choki, Kalnath Mahadev, Liigam ni Puratan Vav, Asha Dabhi ni Vav, and Chaturbhuj ni Vav.
Vadali: Identified as "Ochalhi" by the Chinese traveler Hiuen Tsang in the 6th century AD, and as "Vatpalli" in the 12th century. It was a prosperous city. Ancient temple ruins, and inscriptions dating back to the 12th and 13th centuries (mentioning Vaidyanath Mahadev temple, Arjunadev, and Shantinath Jain temple) are noted. The use of local granite ("vivav" and "dantral") for construction is highlighted.
Khedbrahma (Brahmakshetra): Considered the most ancient site in the state, situated at the confluence of three rivers. It was a dwelling place of Rishi Bhrugu and a center for yajnas. Remains of temples to Shiva, Devi, and Surya, along with dilapidated stepwells, indicate its past grandeur. Inscriptions point to its significance up to the 13th century. The mention of large bricks and the discovery of Gupta period coins ("gadheya" stamped coins with images of sacrificial horses) further reinforce its antiquity. The Brahmaji temple, Bhrigu Ashram, Kshetramba Mataji temple, Pankhnath Mahadev temple, Amba Mataji temple, and Hatkeshwar temple are significant structures.
Roda: Located near Jambudi village, these are ancient temples dating back to before the 10th century AD. The extensive temple complex suggests it was a significant Hindu pilgrimage site and a prosperous city. Temples dedicated to Shiva, Vishnu, Devi, and Surya are present, along with a large rectangular kund. The architecture, craftsmanship in pillars, ceilings, and walls are noted as excellent examples of ancient art.
Bhavanath Mahadev: Known as the abode of Rishi Chyavan. The water and soil from a kund here are believed to have miraculous properties. The temple has undergone renovations in 1650 AD and 1927 AD. An inscription from 1298 AD mentions a Sun temple built in memory of a warrior who died protecting cows during the reign of King Karna.
Bhiloda: The main village of the Bhiloda Pata. It features Jain temples and a Kirtistambh (victory pillar) from the 15th century, comparable to the Kirtistambh at Chittor. The pillar is adorned with sculptures of Hindu deities, Diggajas, and scenes from daily life.
Bhetali: Features a Shiva Panchayatan temple, a Jain temple, and a stepwell. The Shiva temple is older and well-preserved.
Shamalaji: A famous pilgrimage site, known for its annual fair. It's primarily a Vaishnav temple (Gadhadhar Kshetra) but also shows evidence of significant Shiva worship in the past. The main temple, dedicated to Krishna, is a beautiful example of Hindu architecture with intricate carvings depicting scenes from the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and Krishna's life. The architectural style is compared to the Belur and Hoysala temples. Other significant structures include the Gadhadari temple (Anant Brahma), Raghunathji temple, and Harishchandra ni Cheri. The Anant Brahma idol is unique and its classification is uncertain.
Modasa: Now in British territory, it was formerly a village of Idar State and retains ruins of an old fort, a stepwell, and a three-storied mansion.
Raygadh: Named after Maharaja Raysinghji, brother of the state's founder. It has a large Jain temple (now disused), Vaidyanath Mahadev temple, a 12th-century Devi temple, and stepwells. Evidence suggests it was once a significant iron smelting center.
Davad: Known historically as "Kavad" in the 12th century and possibly "Dilippur Patan" in earlier times. It was revived in the 9th century and flourished during the reign of King Siddharaja. Inscriptions mention the rule of King Lunkdhaval. The Hansaleshwar lake, attributed to Queen Hansalde, and the Ankel Mata Vav are notable.
Sasnath Mahadev: Located on the banks of the Sabarmati, this temple is believed to be the dwelling place of seven Rishis. The temple is underground, housing seven lingas representing the Rishis. A natural spring flows over the lingas into a kund.
Vadiyavir: Features a large, partially ruined Shiva temple with intricate carvings and sculptures.
Madh-Kasangadh: Houses an old temple of Khadeshwari Mata with richly carved mandap ceilings and sculptures of goddesses on the outer walls. A striking carving of intertwined serpents is also noted.
Pratapgadh (Sabli): Known for a well-decorated kund and an inscription from 1526 AD. It has several Jain temples, indicating past prosperity.
Agia-Matedha: Villages with remnants of Jain and Hindu temples, the latter being older.
Panthal: Appears to have been completely destroyed, with only ruins of Hindu and Jain temples and houses remaining.
Posina: Situated on the northern border, it contains a Shiva temple, a stepwell, a Sun temple, and Jain temples with 15th-century inscriptions. A well-carved marble seat for an idol and sculptures of male and female devotees are noteworthy.
Delvada: Near the confluence of Sabar and Vakhal, it features the Chitravichitraeshwar Mahadev temple, associated with the sons of King Shantanu. An annual fair attracts large numbers of Bhil people.
Reth: Contains a stepwell built in 1543 AD with inscriptions mentioning names of men and women.
Temples of Roada: The text describes a large collection of temples from before the 10th century, dedicated to Shiva, Vishnu, Devi, and Surya. The architecture and sculptural work are praised.

Emphasis on Jain Heritage:

While the book covers the broader archaeological landscape, it specifically highlights the presence and significance of Jain heritage. The presence of numerous Jain temples and the discovery of Jain sculptures are noted in various locations like Idar, Vadali, Khedbrahma, Raygadh, Panthal, and Posina. The text mentions the historical prosperity of the Digambara Jains and their contribution to the region's culture. The discovery of ancient palm-leaf manuscripts in Kannada and Devanagari scripts at Idar suggests connections with South India.

Archaeological Significance and Preservation:

The author emphasizes that the discovered artifacts are crucial for understanding the ancient history and art of the region. He expresses gratitude to His Highness the Maharaja for generously funding the archaeology department and to Diwanji Rai Bahadur Lala Shri Jagannathji Bhandari for his continuous support. The text also mentions that some ancient sculptures and architectural fragments have been preserved in the Himmatnagar museum, with efforts underway to bring more artifacts there. The book itself aims to generate interest in the public and contribute to shedding light on the region's ancient history and culture.

Inscriptions and Sculptural Descriptions:

The book includes detailed descriptions of various sculptures, noting their approximate age, material, and artistic features. Several inscriptions are also transcribed and translated, providing historical data and insights into the reigns of various rulers and the construction of religious structures. The plates at the end of the book visually showcase many of these archaeological findings.

In essence, "Idar Samsthanna Ketlak Puratan Avshesho" is a pioneering work that meticulously documents and champions the rich, multifaceted archaeological and historical legacy of the Idar State, with a particular focus on its ancient temples, sculptures, and inscriptions, including significant Jain heritage.