Jain Dharm Se Anuprerit Shasak

Here is a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, focusing on the ruler Jayasinha Siddharaja:

The text, authored by Indrakumar Kathotiya, is titled "Jain Dharm se Anuprerit Shasak" (Rulers Inspired by Jain Dharma) and specifically focuses on the life and reign of Jayasinha Siddharaja, a prominent king of the Chaulukya dynasty of Gujarat.

The book highlights Jayasinha's lineage, noting his maternal grandfather was Jayakeshi, the king of Konkan, and his mother, Mayanalldevi, was a remarkable woman who played a crucial role in shaping his early life. She ensured he received military training under the supervision of Minister Shantu after the death of his father, King Karna. Jayasinha's reign commenced in Vikram Samvat 1150 (1094 CE) and lasted for approximately forty-nine to fifty years, ending in 1199 Vikram Samvat (1143 CE).

The text emphasizes Jayasinha's establishment of a vast empire, extending from Sambhar in Rajasthan to Konkan. His dominion included modern Gujarat, parts of Rajasthan, Malwa, and Central India. He is described as a determined warrior who expanded upon the territories inherited from his ancestors.

Key military achievements and conquests of Jayasinha are detailed:

• Malwa Campaign: This was his first significant undertaking. It is noted that the Paramara ruler Naravarman of Malwa attacked Anhilpatan when Jayasinha was on a pilgrimage to Somnath with his mother. After being forced to agree to unfavorable terms, Jayasinha later retaliated by conquering Malwa, capturing Naravarman, and extracting a large sum of gold coins. This victory earned him the titles "Maharajadhiraja Parmeshwara" and "Tribhuvana Gand." The text notes that the war with Malwa, particularly against the weak ruler Yashovarman, was prolonged, lasting twelve years. It describes the eventual capture of Dhara, the capital, with the aid of an elephant named "Yashahpat."
• Saurashtra Conquest: Jayasinha defeated the powerful Khangar of Saurashtra. He appointed Sajjan, a devout Jain, as his governor (Danddhadhipati) to manage the region.
• Victory over Barbarak: Jayasinha's victory over the "anarya rakshas raja" Barbarak was a significant achievement, leading to him being honored with the title "Siddharaja."
• Other Campaigns: The text also mentions his victories over rulers of Sindhu and his campaigns in South India, including a significant encounter at Devagiri. He also assisted the Parmar king Someshwar of Kiradu in regaining his lost kingdom.

The text extensively discusses the influence of Jainism on Jayasinha's rule and personal life:

• Patronage of Jainism: Jayasinha was deeply influenced by Jainism, especially by the great Jain saint Hemachandracharya. Hemachandracharya served as his royal priest, court historian, and moral and religious guide.
• Religious Tolerance and Equality: Jayasinha believed in the principle of "Sarvadharma Samabhava" (equality of all religions). He respected all religious traditions and undertook pilgrimages to Jain holy sites like Revatak and Shatrunjaya, in addition to the Hindu pilgrimage to Somnath.
• Endowment and Support: The text highlights his patronage of Jain scholars and the creation of Jain literature during his reign. He commissioned the construction of temples and supported the religious activities of Jain monks. He is also credited with prohibiting animal slaughter on certain days, influenced by Jain practices.
• Charitable Acts: Jayasinha is praised for removing the 'Bahuloda' tax, which generated significant revenue, demonstrating his concern for his subjects' well-being. He also established the post of Kotwal (city protector) for urban defense, with a Jain follower named Jayadev holding the position in Anhilpur.
• Coinage: The text analyzes Jayasinha's coinage, noting the presence of an elephant motif and the inscription "Shri Mad Jayasinha Priy." It discusses various theories regarding the meaning of "Priy" and the weight and composition of his coins, comparing them to earlier dynasties.
• Final Years and Death: In the latter part of his life, Jayasinha's influence from Jainism grew so profound that he is said to have embraced Jain rituals for his final moments, passing away through Santhara (voluntary fasting unto death) in accordance with Jain practices.

The text also touches upon Jayasinha's diplomatic actions, such as marrying his daughter to the Ajmer king Arnoraja and returning a conquered kingdom with financial compensation to the king of Sapadalaksha.

In conclusion, "Jain Dharm se Anuprerit Shasak" portrays Jayasinha Siddharaja as a powerful and capable ruler who not only expanded his empire through military prowess but also demonstrated profound respect and adherence to Jain principles, making him a significant figure inspired by Jainism.