Kevalaodhi Buddhist And Jaina History Of Deccan Vol 2

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Kevala-Bodhi: Buddhist and Jaina History of the Deccan, Vol. 2," based on the provided pages:

Overview of the Book:

"Kevala-Bodhi: Buddhist and Jaina History of the Deccan, Vol. 2" is a collection of scholarly papers dedicated to Professor B.S.L. Hanumantha Rao, a prominent historian known for his contributions to Indian epigraphy, history, and the study of Telugu culture and Andhra history. This commemorative volume specifically focuses on the historical trajectory of Buddhism and Jainism in the Deccan region, examining their spread, entrenchment, and development during the early historic and early medieval periods. It is notable for being one of the first attempts to discuss these two religions together in this geographical and chronological context, highlighting their distinct paths and valuable insights gained from their comparative study.

Key Themes and Scope:

The book covers a wide spatial and chronological range, including areas contiguous to the Deccan for comparative analysis, demonstrating inter-regional contact and the dynamic dissemination of ideas. The contributions span from the earliest archaeological evidence of these religions to modern and near-contemporary times. Almost all thematic aspects of Buddhist and Jaina history in the Deccan are explored, including:

• Archaeology: Excavations and discoveries of sites, structures, and artifacts.
• Art and Architecture: Analysis of temples, stupas, sculptures, and their stylistic evolution.
• Epigraphy: Interpretation of inscriptions to understand patronage, religious practices, and historical events.
• Religious Thought and Philosophy: Examination of doctrines, beliefs, and intellectual currents.
• Rituals and Practices: Understanding the customs, festivals, and daily religious life.
• Literature: The role of Jain and Buddhist texts in shaping history and religious understanding.
• Social and Economic History: The impact of these religions on society, economic activities, and patronage networks.
• Specific areas of focus: While covering the broader Deccan, there is a special emphasis on Andhra Pradesh, reflecting Professor B.S.L. Hanumantha Rao's research interests.

Structure of the Volume:

The book is divided into three parts:

• Part I: The Past: This section begins with a visual and narrative journey through the life and chief events of Professor B.S.L. Hanumantha Rao's life, presented as a "Profile" and "Memories" contributed by his colleagues and friends.
• Part II: The Present: This forms the core of the volume, containing the research papers. It includes an "Introduction and Background" section, followed by papers on Buddhism (Section A) and Jainism (Section B).
• Part III: The Future: This section concludes with an "Epilogue" intended to generate debate and discussion on the ongoing research in the history of religions and related issues, emphasizing the importance of current discoveries.

Notable Contributions on Jainism (as excerpted):

The provided text includes several articles specifically on Jainism in the Deccan:

• "An Unwritten Chapter in the History of Early Deccan" by T.V.G. Sastri: This paper delves into the early presence of Jainism in the Deccan, discussing figures like Vikramaditya of Ujjain, the Sakas, and the Räsabha kings. It highlights archaeological findings from Vaddamanu and inscriptions that shed light on the political and religious landscape, linking it to figures like Kharabela and the Sada kings. It also discusses the possible Mauryan traditions and the emergence of Sakas in Andhra.
• "Advent of Jainism in Andhra" by D. Kiran Kranth Choudary & P. Hema: This article examines various scholarly opinions on the arrival of Jainism in Andhra Pradesh, analyzing literary and epigraphical evidence. It discusses claims of Mahavira's presence in Kalinga and the significant role of King Samprati in promoting Jainism. The paper also touches upon the migration of the Jaina Sangha under Bhadrabahu and the influence of the Godasagana.
• "Jainism in Maharashtra: History and Development" by Viraj Shah: This extensive paper provides a comprehensive overview of Jainism in Maharashtra, tracing its presence from the pre-Christian era through various periods up to modern times. It details the historical development, strongholds, patronage patterns, and the rise of Jainism alongside the decline of Buddhism. The paper includes a substantial list of Jaina remains chronologically arranged by place and date, and discusses the socio-economic factors influencing its popularity, particularly the role of the mercantile community.
• "Religious Patronage and Identity Formation - A Study of Jaina Inscriptions (6th-12th Centuries AD)" by A. Aruna: This article focuses on Jaina inscriptions from the Deccan, particularly from the Chalukyan periods. It analyzes patronage patterns by ruling elites and various social groups as a mechanism for forming religious and social identities. The paper examines the role of inscriptions in documenting genealogical traditions, the economic function of temples, and the increasing involvement of diverse social strata, including women, in supporting Jainism.
• "Patronage of the Imperial Cholas to Jainism" by V. Balambal: This paper highlights the religious tolerance and patronage extended by the Imperial Cholas towards Jainism, despite their primary allegiance to Saivism. It discusses Jaina centers in the Chola region, the contributions of royal figures like Princess Kundavai, and the existence of Jaina nunneries. The inscription detailing the donation for a perpetual lamp to Lord Arhat and the Mahadeva of Tiruvinniccaram is presented as an example of Saiva-Jaina cordial relations.
• "Kannada Inscriptions of Jaina Affiliation from Andhra Pradesh" by C.S. Vasudevan: This contribution analyzes Kannada inscriptions from Andhra Pradesh that reveal the popularity and status of Jainism under various dynasties like the Rashtrakutas, Chalukyas of Vemulavada, Chalukyas of Kalyana, and the Vijayanagara rulers. It focuses on donation patterns, land grants, and the socio-economic aspects reflected in these inscriptions, noting the significant patronage during the Chalukyas of Kalyana.
• "Dimensions of Babanagara Inscription" by Hampa Nagarajaiah: This paper discusses a significant inscription from Bābānagara, detailing donations to Jaina temples and providing insights into the Kalachuri dynasty, particularly the faith of Bijjanadeva II and his family. It highlights the importance of Jina-gandhodaka (sacred water for ablution) and the Astānhika festival in Jaina ritual, along with the role of Jaina preceptors.
• "A New Chola Inscription Revealing Saiva-Jaina Cordial Relations" by G. Vijayavenugopal: This article focuses on a specific Tamil inscription from Peravur, datable to 1072 AD, during the reign of Chola king Kulottunga I. It interprets the inscription as evidence of cordial relations between Saivism and Jainism, as a donor makes a donation to a Jaina temple and seeks protection from Saivite authorities.
• "Syncretism, Tamil forms of Worship and Jaina Influence" by M.N. Rajesh: This paper examines the rise of the Tamil bhakti movement and how Saivism and Vaishnavism, in their attempt to gain popular appeal and assert supremacy, appropriated certain aspects of Jainism and folk cults. It discusses religious conflict, the decline of heterodox sects, and the adoption of Jaina ideas like social equality and ecstatic worship.
• "Sakti-cult in Jainism with Special Reference to Deccan" by G. Jawaharlal: This article explores the surprising presence of Sakti-worship within Jainism, particularly in the Deccan. It attributes this to the influence of the Yāpaniya sect, who were more liberal in their ritual practices and introduced the cult of Yakshinis. The paper details the role of Yakshas and Yakshis (Sasanadevatas) in the Jaina pantheon and their sculptural representation in Andhra Pradesh, noting the popular worship of Ambika and Padmavati.
• "A Kunthunatha Jinalaya at Hampi" by K.M. Suresh: This paper provides architectural and art-historical details of the Kunthunatha Jinalaya (Ganagitti temple) at Hampi, a significant Jaina religious site from the Vijayanagara period. It discusses Jainism's historical presence in Karnataka, its patronage by rulers, and the impact of Jaina Purāṇas and Tantric practices.
• "Contribution of Jainas to Medicine in Ancient Deccan" by P. Hymavathi: This article highlights the significant contributions of Jainas to the field of medicine in ancient Deccan. It discusses the Samantabhadra Sampradaya of Jaina medicine, the works of prominent scholars like Samantabhadra, Pujyapada, and Ugraditya (author of Kalyāṇakāraka). The paper emphasizes the Jaina adherence to the principle of Ahimsa in medical practices and the establishment of hospitals and learning centers by Jaina monks.
• "Somadevasuri's Nitivākyāmṛitam - A Jaina Sanskrit Classic of the Tenth Century AD" by G.S. Dikshit: This paper focuses on Somadeva Suri's "Nitivākyāmṛitam," a significant work on polity and statecraft. It discusses the author's life, the context of his writings (Yaśastilaka and Nitivākyāmṛitam), and his views on kingship, ministers, and administration, comparing them with Kautilya's Arthashastra. The paper highlights Somadeva's unbiased approach and his emphasis on moral principles within statecraft.
• "Jaina Themes in Deccan Miniature Painting" by Jagdish Mittal: This article investigates the limited but significant presence of Jaina themes in Deccan miniature painting, primarily from the late 17th century onwards. It analyzes surviving examples like the Pancha-Kalyānaka pata and manuscript illustrations, discussing their stylistic influences (Rajasthani, Mughal, Golkonda) and the reasons for their sparse production, often linked to the patronage patterns of Digambara Jainas.
• "More Evidence on Ancient Indian Mathematics and Astronomy" by I.K. Sarma: This article discusses the scientific achievements of ancient India, including mathematical and astronomical knowledge. It touches upon Harappan civilization's understanding of time and measurement, Vedic astronomical allusions, and the knowledge of instruments like the astrolabe. It also highlights the presence of mathematical riddles in Telugu literature.
• "India's Cultural Heritage and Public Education" by K. Paddayya: This essay reflects on the importance of educating the public about India's rich and composite cultural heritage, especially in the context of contemporary challenges like the misuse of history for partisan purposes and the impact of modernization. It advocates for increased public engagement with historical and archaeological research and praises the efforts of institutions like the Deccan College in this regard.
• "Recent Buddhist and Jaina Discoveries from Deccan" by B. Subrahmanyam and E. Sivanagi Reddy: This epilogue provides an update on recent archaeological discoveries of Buddhist and Jaina sites and artifacts in Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka. It notes the persistence of Buddhism into early medieval times and the conversion of some earlier Jaina centers into Saivite ones, highlighting the need for further scholarly attention.

Significance of the Volume:

"Kevala-Bodhi: Buddhist and Jaina History of the Deccan, Vol. 2" serves as a valuable resource for scholars and students interested in the religious history of the Deccan. It offers a multifaceted perspective by bringing together diverse research on Buddhism and Jainism, covering a broad spectrum of themes and periods. The book not only celebrates the legacy of Professor B.S.L. Hanumantha Rao but also contributes significantly to our understanding of these dynamic religious traditions that shaped the Deccan's cultural landscape.