Punya Shloka Mahamatya Vastupalna Aprasiddha Shilalekho Tatha Prashastilekho

Here's a comprehensive summary in English of the provided Jain text about Vastupal and Tejpal, focusing on the newly discovered inscriptions and eulogies:

The book, "Punya Shloka Mahamatya Vastupalna Aprasiddha Shilalekho tatha Prashastilekho" (Previously Unknown Inscriptions and Eulogies of the Virtuous Minister Vastupal), authored by Punyavijay, presents two previously unpublished stone inscriptions and ten eulogies (Prashastis) related to the esteemed ministers Vastupal and Tejpal. These significant findings primarily concern their activities at the holy site of Shatrunjaya.

Key Findings from the Inscriptions and Eulogies:

• Shatrunjaya's Significance: The two inscriptions were found together and dated to the same day, confirming their direct connection to the construction and dedication activities undertaken by Vastupal and Tejpal on Shatrunjaya hill.
• The "Vaghnpol" Connection: One of the inscriptions mentions the construction of a "Pol" (a gate or passage) in front of the temple of Lord Aadiishvara on Shatrunjaya. The authors suggest that this "Pol" might be what is currently known as "Vaghnpol," especially since the inscriptions were discovered during renovations of Vaghnpol. The text poses questions about when this original Pol might have fallen into disrepair, when it was renovated or replaced, and why the new one acquired the name "Vaghnpol."
• Literary Connections: Several verses found in these inscriptions are also present in other known eulogies related to Vastupal, such as the Lunavasi (Abu) Prashasti by Someshvara Deva, Sukriti Kirti Kallolini by Udayaprabh Suri, Sukriti Sankirtan by Arsinh Thakkar, and Vastupala Prashasti by Narendrprabh Suri. This confirms that the poetic portions of these new inscriptions are drawn from existing Vastupal-related literature.
• Vastupal and Tejpal's Character and Achievements:
  • Philanthropy and Devotion: The inscriptions highlight Vastupal and Tejpal's continuous and selfless expenditure of wealth for good causes. They were not only victorious warriors but also astute politicians.
  • Temple Construction and Renovation: They are credited with building five memorial temples on Shatrunjaya named Ujjayanta-avatar, Ratambhanak-tirth-avatar, Satyapur-tirth-avatar, Nandishwar-avatar, and Shakunikavihar-avatar. They also commissioned the Indramandapa and renovated the temple of Kapardiyaksh. Tejpal's wife, Anupama, built the Anupama Sarovar (lake).
  • Family Mentions: The inscriptions mention the names of Vastupal's parents and brothers, indicating the importance of family lineage.
  • Respect for the Sangha: Their profound reverence and devotion towards the Shvetambara Jain Sangha (community) are clearly evident.
  • Praise for Contemporaries: The eulogies extensively praise Vastupal and Tejpal, and also mention King Viradhvala (Gurjara ruler), Vastupal's elder brother Lavanyanga-nig (also known as Maldeva), his younger brother Tejpal, Vastupal's son Jaitrasinh, and Tejpal's son Lunsingh.
• Artisans and Scribes:
  • Inscription Scribes: The scribe for both inscriptions was Jayantsinh, son of Vajad, who had the surname Dhruvak. Based on other inscriptions, his full name and lineage are identified.
  • Stone Carvers: The sculptor for the first inscription was Purushottam, son of Dhruvak, son of Bakulswami. Purushottam was the son of Somdev, the chief sculptor of the Indramandapa and Nandishwar-avatar on Shatrunjaya, as indicated by the Girnar inscriptions. The scribe for the second inscription was Kumarsinh, son of Vahad.
  • Emphasis on Craftsmanship: The text notes Vastupal's meticulous selection of skilled writers and sculptors to ensure the high quality and aesthetic appeal of his inscriptions, a testament to his appreciation for art and detail.
• Newly Discovered Eulogies: The book then provides the verbatim text and brief introductions to ten previously unknown eulogies dedicated to Vastupal. These eulogies, authored by prominent scholars and poets of the time like Narendraprabh Suri, Udayaprabh Suri, Someshwaradeva, Harihar Pandit, Yashvir, and Arsinh Thakkar, offer rich details about Vastupal's character, his contributions to Jainism, his generosity, his military prowess, his intellectual acumen, and his administrative skills. They highlight his exemplary life as a patron of arts and learning, a devout follower of Jainism, and a benevolent ruler.

Overall Significance:

This work by Punyavijay significantly expands our understanding of the illustrious minister Vastupal and his brother Tejpal. The newly published inscriptions and eulogies offer fresh historical and literary insights into their multifaceted lives and their immense contributions to the Jain faith and the broader cultural landscape of their time. They reinforce Vastupal's legacy as a model of virtue, generosity, and administrative excellence, and the collection serves as a valuable resource for scholars and enthusiasts of Jain history and literature.