Later Gangas Mandali Thousand

This comprehensive summary outlines the key aspects of the book "The Later Gangas: Mandali-Thousand" by Dr. Nagarajaiah Hampa.

Book Title: The Later Gangas: Mandali-Thousand Author: Dr. Nagarajaiah Hampa Publisher: Ankita Pustaka

Overview:

This monograph delves into the history, administration, society, religion, and cultural achievements of the Later Gangas, specifically focusing on their rule over the Mandali-Thousand region in Karnataka. The book aims to shed light on a previously under-documented principality, filling a significant gap in the historical understanding of this period.

Key Themes and Content:

• The Gangas and Jainism: The book highlights the strong patronage and promotion of Jainism by the Ganga dynasty. It details how Jainism became the predominant faith in the Mandali-Thousand region, influencing its political, social, and cultural landscape. The text discusses the construction of numerous Jain temples (basadis), the support for Jain ascetics (preceptors), and the liberal grants made to Jain institutions.
• Mandali-Thousand Region: The monograph meticulously defines the geographical boundaries of the Mandali-Thousand region and its administrative subdivisions. It traces the origin and evolution of this territory from its early Ganga roots, through its period as a distinct political entity, and its eventual absorption into larger kingdoms.
• Genealogy and Rulers: The book provides a detailed genealogy of the Later Ganga rulers of the Mandali-Thousand, meticulously reconstructing their lineage and reign periods based on extensive epigraphical evidence. It identifies key rulers, their consorts, sons, and their respective contributions. The work also clarifies the significance of royal titles and epithets.
• Political Administration: The text elaborates on the political structure and administrative system of the Mandali rulers. It discusses their role as feudatories to larger empires like the Kalyana Chalukyas and Hoysalas, while also highlighting their considerable autonomy. The administrative hierarchy, revenue systems, and the role of local officials like the Gavundas and Perggades are explained.
• Society and Culture: The monograph paints a vivid picture of the social fabric of the Mandali-Thousand region. It touches upon aspects like inter-caste marriages, the role of women in society and religious life, the prevalence of performing arts, and the influence of merchant guilds. The book also emphasizes the religious tolerance and catholicity displayed by the rulers, even while actively patronizing Jainism.
• Religion and Patronage: The book places a strong emphasis on the religious life of the Mandali region. It details the significance of Jainism as the state religion, the prominent role of the Pārśva Jinālaya as the crown temple, and the veneration of Goddess Padmāvatidevi. It also acknowledges the respect and patronage extended to other faiths like Shaivism and Vaishnavism.
• Architectural and Artistic Contributions: The monograph highlights the significant contributions of the Later Gangas to art, architecture, and sculpture. It discusses the characteristic features of Jain temple architecture of the period, as evidenced by the surviving structures and the detailed illustrations provided.
• Epigraphical Sources and Research: Dr. Nagarajaiah's work is grounded in extensive personal research and field work, drawing heavily on numerous inscriptions (charters) from the region. The book details the importance of these inscriptions in reconstructing the history and provides a list of key epigraphs with their dates and locations. The author also addresses some of the challenges and discrepancies in existing epigraphical data and offers his own interpretations and corrections.
• Preceptors and Monastic Life: The book dedicates a significant section to the role of Jain preceptors (ascetics) who served as spiritual guides and advisors to the rulers. It traces the lineage of prominent monks, their scholarly contributions, and their influence on state policy and the spread of Jainism. The importance of monastic institutions (Mathas) and their role in education and cultural preservation is also discussed.

Significance of the Book:

"The Later Gangas: Mandali-Thousand" is a pioneering work that brings to light a previously under-researched aspect of Karnataka's history. It provides an authentic and comprehensive account of a minor principality that played a crucial role in the political, religious, and cultural landscape of medieval South India, with a particular focus on the flourishing of Jainism. The author's rigorous research and detailed presentation of evidence make this book an invaluable resource for historians, scholars, and anyone interested in the history of Jainism and the Ganga dynasty.