Jaina Stupa At Mathura Art And Icons

The book "The Jaina Stupa at Mathura: Art & Icons" by Dr. Renuka J. Porwal is a comprehensive study of the Jaina presence in Mathura, focusing on the art and iconography of the Jaina stupa found there. The book aims to reconstruct the history of Jainism through the archaeological and artistic evidence available from Mathura.

Here's a summary of the key aspects covered in the book, based on the provided table of contents and introductory sections:

Central Theme: The book emphasizes Mathura's crucial role in understanding the history of Jainism in India. It argues that a proper understanding of Jainism's development, its various sects, and its art cannot be achieved without a thorough study of the archaeological findings from Mathura, particularly the Jaina stupa at Kankali Tila.

Key Arguments and Findings:

• Mathura as a Focal Point: Mathura is presented as a vital center for Jainism from the period of Mahavira (and even earlier, as suggested by the tradition of Parsvanatha) up to the medieval period. Its strategic location as a commercial hub facilitated the spread of religious ideas and artistic styles.
• The Jaina Stupa at Kankali Tila: The book details the excavations at Kankali Tila, which revealed the existence of a significant Jaina stupa, often referred to as 'Deva Nirmita' (built by gods). This stupa served as a religious monument for over a millennium and was a hub for the Jain community.
• Artistic Evolution: The book extensively analyzes the evolution of Jaina art and iconography as evidenced by the sculptures found at Mathura. It traces the development from the Kushana period through the Gupta and medieval periods, highlighting stylistic features, the influence of Gandhara art, and the depiction of Tirthankaras, Jinas, and associated deities.
• Iconography of Deities: A significant portion of the book is dedicated to the iconography of various deities assimilated into the Jaina pantheon, including Yaksha-Yakshis, Sarasvati, Lakshmi, Ambika, Chakreshvari, and Naigamesha. It discusses their origins, development, and representation in Mathura art.
• Epigraphic Records: The book places great importance on the numerous Brahmi and Devanagari inscriptions found on Jaina artifacts. These inscriptions provide invaluable data on dates, donors, ruling kings, preceptor lineages (Gana, Kula, Shakha), and the evolution of religious practices. The inscriptions are crucial for establishing the antiquity of Jainism and its presence in Mathura.
• Spread and Development of Jainism: The book traces the spread of Jainism across India, discussing the migration of Jain communities in groups and their establishment of shrines and monasteries. It also touches upon the interrelationship and mutual influence between Jainism, Buddhism, and Hinduism, as well as the development of Jain ascetic orders.
• Sectarian Evolution: The archaeological evidence from Mathura, particularly the presence of both naked and clothed ascetic figures on pedestals and the coexistence of various traditions, suggests that the clear demarcation between Svetambara and Digambara traditions developed over time, possibly after the Kushana period.
• Synthesis of Traditions: The book highlights the synthesis of Vedic and Shramanic traditions in India, noting how Jainism, like Buddhism, absorbed certain elements from Hinduism and vice versa, leading to a rich cultural and religious tapestry.
• Scholarly Contributions: The author acknowledges and builds upon the work of various scholars who have studied Mathura's Jaina antiquities, providing a comprehensive overview of the field.

Structure of the Book: The book is structured into seven chapters, covering:

1. Place of Mathura in Jainism: Historical background, cultural significance, and the importance of Mathura for Jainism.
2. The Tradition of Stupa in Jainism: The concept and history of stupas in Jainism and specifically the Mathura stupa.
3. Mathura School of Jaina Art: Evolution of Jina images, stylistic features, and influences.
4. The gradual development of Deities in Jaina Pantheon: The assimilation and iconography of various deities.
5. The other Excavated Artefacts of Mathura: Analysis of Ayagapatas, railing pillars, Salabhanjikas, toranas, and other significant findings.
6. The Early Epigraphic Records of Mathura: A detailed study of inscriptions found on Jaina artifacts, their language, script, and the information they provide about the Sangha and its traditions.
7. Spread of Jainism: Tracing the geographical and historical spread of Jainism in India, with a focus on the contributions of Mathura.

Overall Significance: "The Jaina Stupa at Mathura: Art & Icons" aims to provide a scholarly and comprehensive account of Mathura's significant contribution to Jain art, history, and iconography. It emphasizes the importance of archaeological evidence in understanding religious traditions and offers insights into the early development and spread of Jainism, particularly highlighting the enduring legacy of the Jaina stupa at Kankali Tila. The book is a valuable resource for scholars, students, and anyone interested in the art, history, and religion of ancient India.