Prachin Jain Smarak Madhyaprant Madhya Bharat Rajuputana - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Prachin Jain Smarak Madhyaprant Madhya Bharat Rajuputana" (Ancient Jain Monuments of Central Provinces, Central India, and Rajputana) by Shitalprasad, as requested, based on the provided pages.

Book Title: Prachin Jain Smarak Madhyaprant Madhya Bharat Rajuputana (Ancient Jain Monuments of Central Provinces, Central India, and Rajputana) Author: Shitalprasad Publisher: Mulchand Kisandas Kapadia Year of Publication: 1926 (as indicated on page #3)

Overall Purpose: This book, compiled by Shitalprasad, aims to document and present information about ancient Jain monuments (temples, idols, inscriptions, etc.) found in three major regions of India: the Central Provinces (Madhya Pradesh), Central India (Madhya Bharat), and Rajputana (Rajasthan). The author highlights the current state of disrepair and neglect of many of these historical sites due to the absence of Jain communities in those areas, emphasizing the importance of their preservation and study.

Key Themes and Content:

Inspiration and Collaboration: The book was undertaken at the inspiration of Seth Vaijnath Saravagi of Calcutta. The author gratefully acknowledges the assistance provided by various individuals and institutions, including the Deputy Curator of the Nagpur Museum (Mr. E. A. Debro) and Mr. M. A. Suboor (Coin Expert), as well as Rai Bahadur Pandit Gaurishankar Ojha (Curator, Ajmer Museum). Support was also received from the Imperial Library, Calcutta, and the Bombay Royal Asiatic Society Library, Bombay.
Decline of Jain Heritage: The author expresses concern that many Jain temples and large idols in these regions are in a state of neglect and disrepair because Jain populations no longer reside there. He stresses that if further exploration is conducted, more Jain monuments could be discovered, revealing the extensive influence of Jainism and the devotion of many kings to the faith. He urges Jains to recognize and protect their heritage.
Regional Breakdown: The book is structured into three main parts, covering the respective geographical areas:
- Part 1: Central Provinces (Madhya Prant):
  - Description: This section details the history and archaeological findings of the Central Provinces, which are divided into two parts: the Central Provinces proper (including 18 districts) and Berar (Varaar, with four districts). The region is historically linked to Gondwana, South Kosala, and Dandakaranya, known for its ancient ashrams and the presence of Vanara (monkey) dynasty kings who adhered to Jainism.
  - Historical Context: The text touches upon the region's connection to the Maurya Empire (mentioning the Rupnath inscription of Ashoka), various dynasties from the 4th century CE onwards, and significant rulers like the Kalachuris. The Kalachuris are highlighted as initially patrons of Jainism, with their kingdom extending widely. Their close ties with the Rashtrakutas, who were also great patrons of Jainism, are noted.
  - Key Jain Sites: Important Jain pilgrimage sites mentioned include Muktagiri (Betul district), Siddhavarkoot (Nimar district), and Kundalpur (Damoh district). Descriptions of their temples, statues, and historical significance are provided, with dates for inscriptions ranging from the 14th to 17th centuries CE, and some temples appearing to be from the 12th-13th centuries.
  - Berar (Vidarbha): The ancient name Vidarbha is discussed, with its mention in the Ramayana and Mahabharata. Royal princesses from Vidarbha were prominent figures in Jain history. The rise and fall of various dynasties like the Chalukyas and Rashtrakutas, who patronized Jainism, are noted. The text also recounts a narrative about an El-Jain king of Elichpur and his conflict with a Muslim ruler. The contribution of Jain poets from Vidarbha, such as Dhanpal, is also mentioned.
  - Dynasties and Jainism: The book details the involvement of dynasties like the Kalachuris, Rashtrakutas, Chalukyas, and Parmars with Jainism, citing their patronage, inscriptions, and family connections. It notes the presence of Jain Jain Kalsar caste who have forgotten their Jain heritage.
  - Specific Locations: Numerous districts and specific locations within the Central Provinces are discussed, including Jabalpur (with mentions of Rupnath, Tewar/Tripuri), Sagar (Eran, Madanpur), Damoh (Kundalpur), Shivni, Hoshangabad, Nimar (Maheshwar, Burhanpur, Asirgarh, Mandhata, Siddhavarkoot), Betul (Muktagiri), Chhindwara, Wardha, Nagpur, Chanda (Bhandak), Bhandara, Balaghat, Durg, Raipur (Arang, Sirpur), and Bilaspur (Ratanpur, Dhanpur). The archaeological findings at these locations, including Jain sculptures, inscriptions, and temple ruins, are described.
- Part 2: Central India (Madhya Bharat):
  - Historical Overview: This section covers the history of Central India, including its ancient kingdoms like Avanti (Ujjain). It discusses the influence of Jainism during the time of Mahavira, Chandragupta Maurya, and Emperor Ashok. The text mentions the Vikram Samvat's origins, attributed to a Jain-following king Vikramaditya.
  - Dynasties and Jainism: The influence of various dynasties such as the Guptas, Hunas, Gujjars (including Parihars and Paramars), Chandelas, and Kalachuris is discussed in relation to Jainism. The rise of Jainism from the 9th-10th centuries CE is noted, with significant patronage from rulers of Dhar and Gwalior.
  - Key Jain Sites: Famous Jain sites mentioned include Ujjain, Besanagar, Dhar, Mandasor, Narwar, Sarangpur, Ajaygarh, Amarkantak, Bagh, Baro, Barwani (Bawan Gaja), Bhojpur, Chanderi, Datia (Sonagiri), Dhamnar, Gwalior (Urwahi valley), Gyaraspur, Khajuraho, Mandu, Nagod, Narod, Orchha, Pathari, Rewa, Sanchi, Sonagiri, Udayagiri, and Udaipur.
  - Gwalior Fort: A significant portion is dedicated to the Gwalior Fort, detailing its history, inscriptions, and numerous Jain idols in the Urwahi valley, some of which are very large.
  - Chanderi: The historical significance of Chanderi and its Jain temples and sculptures are described.
  - Khajuraho: The Jain temples at Khajuraho, particularly in the southeastern part, are highlighted, with mentions of the Ghantai temple and its inscriptions dating back to the 9th-10th centuries CE.
  - Bavangaja: The monumental idol of Rishabhadeva at Bavangaja (Barwani) is described as a significant Jain pilgrimage site.
  - Dubkund Inscription: A detailed account and transcription of the Dubkund inscription (dated V.S. 1145/1088 CE) is provided, listing various kings of the Kachchhapaghata dynasty, their lineage, and their patronage of Jainism. It also mentions the presence of Jain merchants and scholars.
- Part 3: Rajputana (Rajasthan):
  - Historical Context: This section begins with the geographical overview of Rajputana and its administrative divisions. It traces the region's history, including the presence of Buddhist and Greek rulers, followed by Shakas, Guptas, Hunas, and various Rajput dynasties like the Guhilots, Chahamanas (Chauhans), Bhatis, Paramaras, and Rathores.
  - Jain Influence: The text emphasizes the significant role of Jainism in Rajputana, particularly among the Kshatriya class. It highlights the contributions of Jain individuals in royal courts, administration, and military leadership. The rise of prominent Jain communities like the Oswals and their integration into the socio-political fabric is noted.
  - Key Jain Sites: Numerous important Jain sites are covered, including Udaipur (Ahar, Nagda, Delwara), Chittor (Kirti Stambha, Singarchauri), Jaisalmer (Lodrawa), Sirohi (Nandiya, Zeroli, Mirpur, Mungthal, Patanarayan, Oria, Neematora, Kojra, Vamanwarji, Balda, Kalar, Paldi, Vagin, Uthaman, Javal, Katandri, Udarat, Jirawal, Varman), Jaipur (Amber, Virat, Chatrsu, Jhunjhunu), and various locations in the erstwhile princely states.
  - Dilwara Temples: The world-renowned Jain temples at Dilwara on Mount Abu are described in detail, with mentions of the Vimalavasahi temple (Adinath) built by Vimalashah and the Lunavasahi temple (Neminath) built by Tejpal. The exquisite marble carving, large idols, and historical inscriptions are highlighted.
  - Kirti Stambha (Victory Pillar) at Chittor: The Kirti Stambha at Chittor is described as a significant Jain monument, with various accounts of its construction and renovation, including its connection to Rana Kumbha and possibly Kumarapala. The monumental stature and the Jain figures adorning it are noted.
  - Jain Idols and Sculptures: The text frequently mentions the discovery and significance of various Jain idols, particularly Tirthankaras like Adinath, Parshvanatha, Shantinath, Mahavir Swami, Neminath, and others. Their artistic merit, material (stone, metal), and the inscriptions found on them are often described.
  - Jain Community: The book notes the presence and activities of Jain communities, particularly mentioning the Oswals, Porwals, Saraogis (Khandelwals), and Agarwals. Their role in trade, their religious practices, and their contribution to the preservation of Jain heritage are acknowledged. The distinction between Digambara and Shvetambara sects is also implicitly or explicitly mentioned in relation to specific temples and idols.

Concluding Remarks: The book concludes with the hope that by presenting this collection of ancient Jain monuments, readers will be inspired to recognize the historical significance of these sites and contribute to their preservation. The author, through his work, aims to shed light on the rich but often overlooked Jain heritage in these regions. The concluding poem by Hiralal Jain encapsulates the sentiments of remembrance and the enduring beauty of these ancient structures, while lamenting their current state and the loss of ancient texts.