Pratishtha Lekh Sangraha Part 02

This document is the second part of the Pratishtha Lekh Sangraha (Collection of Consecration Inscriptions), compiled and edited by Mahopadhyay Vinay Sagar. Published by Prakrit Bharati Academy and M.S.P.S.G. Charitable Trust, both in Jaipur, this volume, released in 2003, is a significant contribution to Jain archaeology and history.

Key aspects of the book:

• Content: It is a compilation of 757 inscriptions found on Jain idols and stone slabs. These inscriptions date from V.S. 1054 (997 CE) onwards and are presented chronologically.
• Purpose: The book aims to preserve and make accessible important historical data embedded in these inscriptions, which are crucial for understanding the history and development of Jainism.
• Structure:
  • Introduction: A foreword by Prof. Ramesh Chandra Sharma and an introductory note by the publishers highlight the importance of these inscriptions and the monumental effort involved in their collection.
  • Main Body: The core of the book contains the transcription of 757 inscriptions, each with a unique reference number. Details like the type of idol (stone, metal), the Tirthankara, the name of the sculptor's lineage, clan, father/mother, the consecrating Acharya and his lineage (Gachha), and the specific temple or location are noted where available.
  • Appendices: Seven appendices are provided for researchers' convenience:
    1. Modern locations of the inscriptions.
    2. Names of Gachhas (lineages) mentioned in the inscriptions.
    3. Names of Acharyas and monks.
    4. Alphabetical list of villages mentioned.
    5. Names of kings.
    6. Names of castes/communities.
    7. List of Gotras (lineages).
• Significance of Inscriptions: The inscriptions detail various aspects of Jain religious life, including:
  • The names of donors, their families, and their achievements.
  • The lineages of Acharyas and monks.
  • The dates of consecration, often including the specific day, month, and year.
  • Mention of rulers and administrative details.
  • Descriptions of festivals, temple construction, and other religious activities.
  • In some cases, insights into political and social upheavals are also found.
• Editor's Contribution: Mahopadhyay Vinay Sagar is highly lauded for his painstaking work in collecting these inscriptions from various temples across numerous towns and villages. He started this work under the guidance of his gurus and with the support of prominent scholars like the Nahata brothers. The first part of this collection was published in 1953, and this second part, delayed for fifty years, is a testament to his dedication.
• Notable Examples: The summary highlights specific inscriptions (e.g., 117-118, 129, 179, 228, 234, 272, 298, 328, 373, 420, 441, 506, 523, 555, 557, 593, 601-618, 640) to showcase the richness and diversity of information contained within the inscriptions, including details about patrons, rulers, artistic descriptions, and historical events like Akbar's reign and the mention of the "Alai Samvat" (42), which points to his connection with Jainism.
• Challenges: The editor notes the difficulty in accurately locating some of the inscriptions due to the passage of time and the changing status of temples and private places of worship. Some inscriptions might have been lost or moved due to renovation, theft, or lack of proper upkeep.
• Language: The inscriptions are in Sanskrit, Prakrit, Rajasthani (Marwari), Gujarati, Hindi, and a mix of Sanskrit and Hindi.

In essence, Pratishtha Lekh Sangraha Part 02 is a valuable scholarly work that provides an extensive and organized record of Jain consecration inscriptions, offering invaluable primary source material for researchers and enthusiasts of Jain history, archaeology, and religious traditions.