Porwar Mahajano Ka Itihas

Here is a comprehensive summary in English of the provided Jain text, "Porwar Mahajano Ka Itihas" by Thakur Lakshmansinh Choudhary:

Book Title: Porwar Mahajano Ka Itihas (History of Porwar Mahajans) Author: Thakur Lakshmansinh Choudhary Publisher: Thakur Lakshmansinh Choudhary Publication Date: March 22, 1930

Overview:

This book is a detailed historical account of the Porwar (also referred to as Pragwat or Porwal) community, a significant group within the Jain merchant class. The author, Thakur Lakshmansinh Choudhary, aims to provide a comprehensive history, tracing their origins, migrations, social customs, and contributions to society and Jainism. He emphasizes the importance of understanding caste origins and criticizes the rigid social structures that lead to societal decline.

Key Themes and Content:

1. Introduction and Acknowledgements (Pages 1-16):

   • The book begins with dedications to prominent figures, including His Highness Sir Shri Kula-Avatans Sapt Sahasra Senapati Pratinidhi Shri Tukojirao Maharaj Pawar, KCSI, the ruler of Dewas, and esteemed individuals like Shri Motilalji Mathuralalji Raythor of Indore and Thakur Shri Ganpatsinhji Padamsinhji of Dewas.
   • The author lists an extensive bibliography of English, Hindi, Sanskrit, Magadhi, Gujarati, and Marathi books and texts that were consulted for the research.
   • The preface (Prastavika Bol) highlights the complexity of caste histories in India and the author's attempt to find authentic origins, criticizing baseless theories and societal dogmas. He stresses the need to break down self-destructive traditions for the betterment of the community and laments the decline in mental fortitude among some communities.
   • The author expresses hope that this work will foster unity and a broader perspective among the Porwar community, encouraging them to shed internal divisions and embrace progressive reforms.

2. Origins of Castes and the Porwar Community (Pages 19-38):

   • The book delves into the origins of the caste system in India, referencing ancient texts like the Mahabharata and Suddharma Sutra. It explains that in earlier eras, society was divided by varnas (Brahmin, Kshatriya, Vaishya, Shudra) based on occupation and conduct, not rigid birth.
   • The author discusses the concept of anuloma (hypergamous) and pratiloma (hypogamous) marriages and how the mixing of these varnas led to the formation of sankar (mixed) castes.
   • The rise of Jainism and Buddhism is presented as a movement against the rigid caste system, advocating for equality and unity within their religious orders.
   • The text discusses the historical context of the emergence of numerous jatis (sub-castes), attributing it to scriptural interpretations, regional variations in customs, and the need to regulate social interactions following the mixing of varnas.
   • The author argues that the term "Vanik" (merchant) was initially an occupational descriptor, not a caste name, and that many individuals from Brahmin, Kshatriya, and Vaishya backgrounds engaged in trade.
   • The emergence of specific merchant jatis is linked to the broader societal changes, including religious movements and the need for social cohesion.
   • The Shri Mal connection: The book extensively explores the connection of the Porwar community to the ancient city of Shri Mal (also known as Bhinmal). It details the legends from the Shri Mal Puran about the city's founding and the establishment of various communities, including the Shri Malis (merchants) and Sonis (goldsmiths), who are said to have originated from this city. The author analyzes the conflicting narratives regarding the city's name changes and founding periods.
   • The Porwars are presented as a branch or a segment that emerged from the Shri Mal community.

3. Porwar Identity and Migration (Pages 38-50):

   • The text emphasizes that the Porwar community has deep roots in Shri Mal Nagar and migrated from there to various regions like Gujarat, Marwar, Mewar, and Jangal Padmavati after the city's decline.
   • The author explains that the name "Pragwat" (meaning "eastern region" or "eastern people") was used for the Porwars, suggesting their origin from the eastern regions relative to their later settlements or their connection to Pururava's lineage.
   • The transition from "Pragwat" to "Porwal" or "Porwad" is explained as a linguistic evolution.
   • The text suggests that the Porwars likely originated from Kshatriya warrior stock sent by Emperor Pururava to protect Shri Mal, thus explaining their martial traditions and later emergence as influential merchants.
   • Evidence from inscriptions and historical accounts supports their connection to the Puru dynasty.

4. The "Dasa" and "Visa" Division (Pages 50-78):

   • A significant portion of the book is dedicated to explaining the origin and meaning of the "Dasa" and "Visa" division found within many Jain merchant communities, including the Porwars, Shrimatis, and Oswals.
   • The author cites inscriptions and texts like the Shri Maliono Jati Bhed and the Prabandh Chintamani to explain that "Dasa" and "Visa" refer to degrees of excellence or status, with "Visa" (meaning twenty) generally indicating a higher or more esteemed position compared to "Dasa" (meaning ten).
   • This division is primarily attributed to the actions and status of the ministers Vastupal and Tejpal, who were sons of a widow. Their association with certain segments of the community during a specific event (a feast) led to this social differentiation. Those who supported them were deemed "Visa" (higher status), while those who opposed or abstained were considered "Dasa" (lower status).
   • The author argues that this division was not a separate caste but rather a social distinction that became entrenched over time.

5. Notable Personalities and their Contributions (Pages 92-136):

   • Vimal Shah: The book details the life and achievements of Vimal Shah, a prominent Porwar merchant and minister to the Chalukya king Bhimdev. His major contribution was the construction of the magnificent Adinath temple on Mount Abu, a marvel of Jain architecture. The author discusses the inscriptions and legends related to Vimal Shah and the temple, noting the estimated cost and the artistic grandeur.
   • Vastupal and Tejpal: These two brothers, ministers to King Viradhaval of Gujarat, are presented as pivotal figures in the history of the Porwar community and Jainism. They were renowned warriors, administrators, patrons of arts and literature, and immense philanthropists.
     • Their rise to power, their military campaigns against various rulers, and their role in ensuring the prosperity of Gujarat are described.
     • Their significant contributions to Jainism include the construction of numerous temples, monasteries, and the organization of large-scale Jain pilgrimages. The famous temples at Mount Abu (Vastupal's temple, distinct from Vimal Shah's) and the Chaturmukh Jain temple at Ranganpur are highlighted as their major architectural feats.
     • The author elaborates on their patronage of poets like Someshwar and their involvement in religious and social reforms.
   • Pethad Shah and Munjal: These figures from the Praghvat lineage are also mentioned as influential individuals who served under the Chalukya kings. Pethad Shah organized Jain pilgrimages, and Munjal held the significant position of minister.
   • Dharana and Ratna: These brothers are recognized for their extensive philanthropic activities, including sponsoring religious structures and pilgrimages.

6. Porwar Clans and Lineages (Pages 50-110):

   • The book identifies various subgroups within the Porwar community, such as the Sorathia Porwars (who migrated to Saurashtra), Kapol Porwars (associated with Kundal Mahasthan), Jangada Porwars (from Jangal Desh), and Padmavati Porwars.
   • The author also lists various Gotras (clan names) associated with the Porwars, derived from historical inscriptions, noting that many of these Gotras were established by Jain monks and might not have a strict lineage connection to ancient sages.
   • The influence of the Chaudhary clan from Dewas is particularly noted for their historical association with the Pawar rulers and their significant contributions.

7. Social and Religious Practices:

   • The book touches upon aspects of Porwar social life, including marriage customs and the importance of maintaining lineage.
   • It highlights their deep devotion to Jainism, evident in their extensive patronage of Jain temples, monasteries, and religious scholars.

Overall Significance:

"Porwar Mahajano Ka Itihas" is a valuable historical document for understanding the evolution of the Porwar community. It provides insights into their origins, their migrations from Shri Mal, their socio-religious practices, and the influential roles played by prominent figures like Vimal Shah and Vastupal-Tejpal. The book also critically examines the origins of caste divisions and the later "Dasa" and "Visa" differentiation, offering a detailed, evidence-based perspective. The author's extensive research and reliance on historical inscriptions, Puranas, and other ancient texts make this work a significant contribution to Jain historiography and the study of Indian merchant communities.