Sankshipta Jain Itihas Part 03 Khand 02

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Title: Sankshipta Jain Itihas Part 03 Khand 02 (A Concise History of Jainism, Part 3, Volume 2)

Author: Babu Kamtaprasad Jain (described as a "Sahitya Manish" - a scholar of literature, and a connoisseur of Jain Siddhanta)

Publisher: Mulchand Kisandas Kapadia, Surat (published in memory of Seth Kisandas Poonamchandji Kapadia)

Focus: The primary focus of this volume is the history of Jainism in South India during the medieval period.

Key Themes and Content:

1. Ancient Roots of Jainism: The book begins by establishing Jainism as an ancient and independent religion, distinct from Vedic and Buddhist traditions. It asserts that Jainism predates the emergence of Lord Mahavir and was prevalent in India from very ancient times, citing archaeological evidence. The text emphasizes that Jainism, as a science of truth, has always existed, originating with the first Tirthankar, Lord Rishabhdev, and spreading to South India.

2. Historical Division of South India: The author notes that the history of South India is often presented in two distinct phases due to regional differences, particularly before the Vijayanagar Empire. This volume delves into the medieval period, covering significant dynasties.

3. Pallava Dynasty:

   • Origin: The text discusses the debate surrounding the Pallava origin, refuting the theory of foreign (Parthian) descent and supporting their indigenous Tamil origin.
   • Political Context: It details their rise to prominence after the decline of the Chera, Chola, and Pandya kingdoms. The Pallavas' capital was Kanchi, which was also a significant center for Jainism.
   • Jainism under Pallavas: The book highlights the significant presence of Jainism in Kanchi, with numerous Jain temples and a large Jain monastic community. It mentions the patronage of Jainism by several Pallava kings, including instances of land grants for Jain temples and support for Jain Acharyas like Jinadatta.
   • Challenges to Jainism: It also acknowledges periods of decline, such as when King Mahendravarman I converted to Shaivism and destroyed a Jain monastery, replacing it with a Shaivite one. The rise of Brahmanism and the eventual decline of Jainism under later Pallavas are also noted.
   • Art and Architecture: The Pallavas are recognized for their contributions to art and architecture, with mentions of cave temples, like the one at Sittanavasal, which features beautiful Jain murals. These murals are described in detail, showcasing their artistic skill.

4. Pandya Dynasty and the Kalabhra Interregnum:

   • Kalabhra Rule: The text discusses the significant influence of the Kalabhra dynasty, who conquered the Tamil country in the 5th-6th centuries CE. Under their rule, Jainism flourished, and the Kalabhras are described as patrons of Jainism and Tamil literature. The compilation of the valuable Tamil text "Naladiyar" by Jain ascetics is attributed to this period.
   • Decline of Jainism in Pandya Kingdom: The return of the Pandya kings, particularly Kunumindara or Nedumaran, marked a shift. Influenced by their queens and Shaivite gurus (like Thirugnana Sambandar), the Pandyas converted to Shaivism. This led to the persecution of Jains, with a grim account of the alleged martyrdom of eight thousand Jains.

5. Chola Dynasty and Jainism:

   • Persecution: The book details the hostility of the Chola kings, particularly Rajaraja Chola, towards Jainism. He imposed religious taxes on Jains and discriminated against them.
   • Resilience: Despite persecution, Jainism survived. Rajaraja's sister built a Jain temple, and Jain Acharyas found support among the indigenous Kurumb people, whom they converted to Jainism, gaining their protection.

6. Kadamba Dynasty:

   • Territory and Capital: The Kadambas ruled in parts of present-day Mysore, North Canara, Dharwar, and Belgaum districts, with their capital at Vanavasi.
   • Origins and Rulers: The book traces their lineage, starting with Mayurasharma, who is considered the founder. It details the reigns of various Kadamba kings, including Krishnavarma, Mrigeshavarma, Ravivarma, Harivarma, and Krishnavarma II.
   • Jainism under Kadambas: The Kadambas are highlighted as significant patrons of Jainism, especially from Mrigeshavarma to Harivarma. Kings like Mrigeshavarma and Ravivarma are noted for their donations to Jain monasteries and support for Jain Acharyas like Jinendra Abhishek. The prevalence of various Jain sects (Yapaniya, Nigrantha, Kurkaka, Maharashtriya, Shwetapata) in their capital, Palasika, is mentioned.
   • Art and Architecture: The Kadambas also contributed to art and architecture, with examples like the "Sapamatrika" idol and temples at Badami.
   • Decline of Kadamba Power: The dynasty eventually declined due to internal conflicts and invasions by the Chalukyas, particularly Pulakeshin II.

7. Ganga Dynasty:

   • Founding and Early Rulers: The Ganga dynasty, prominent in present-day Mysore, is described as having Jain origins. The founding myth involves Gengadatta, son of Harshchandra. The dynasty's rulers, like Didiga and Madhava, were aided by Jain Acharya Singhanandi. The text chronicles the reigns of numerous Ganga kings, including Kongunivarma, Harivarma, Vishnugopa, Avinita, Durvinita, Mushkara, Sri Vikrama, Bhuvikrama, Shivamara, Sri Purusha, Marasimha, Nitimarga, Butuga, and Chamundaraya.
   • Jainism as State Religion: Jainism held a significant position, often considered the state religion, especially during the early and later periods of the Ganga rule. Many kings and their families were devout Jains, supporting Jain monasteries, temples, and Acharyas.
   • Patronage and Achievements: The book details the significant contributions of Ganga kings to Jainism, such as the construction of temples, erection of monumental statues, and support for Jain scholars. Chamundaraya is highlighted for his pivotal role as a minister and general, his patronage of Jain literature and art, and his commissioning of the colossal statue of Bahubali (Gommateshwara) at Shravanabelagola.
   • Literary Contributions: The period of Ganga rule was also a golden age for Kannada literature, with prominent Jain poets like Pampa, Ponna, and Ranna contributing significantly. The text discusses their works and their patronage by Ganga kings.
   • Art and Architecture: The Gariga era is noted for its sophisticated art and architecture, including temples, pillars, and sculptures, with the Gommateshwara statue being a paramount example of their sculptural prowess.
   • Administration and Society: The book briefly touches upon the administrative system, social practices, education, and the prominent role of women and Jain Acharyas in the Ganga kingdom.

8. Minor Dynasties: The latter part of the volume briefly covers other smaller dynasties and their rulers who were also influenced by or patrons of Jainism. These include:

   • Nolamba Dynasty: Kings like Singhapota, Charuponna, and Polalchora, who initially ruled under Ganga patronage but later became independent.
   • Santara Dynasty: Founded by Jindattaraya, these rulers initially patronized Jainism and built monasteries, though later converted to Lingayatism.
   • Changalva Dynasty: These rulers, originally from Changalv region, were patrons of Jainism and built temples.
   • Kongalva Dynasty: Kings like Panchva, Adyataraditya, and Tribhuvanamalla, who were devout Jains and contributed to the spread of Jainism.
   • Punnata Dynasty: An ancient kingdom in South Mysore, with rulers like Skandavarma and Ravidatta, whose legacy is intertwined with Jainism.
   • Senvara Dynasty: Rulers like Jimmuthavahana and Mahavira, who were Jain followers and contributed to the construction of Jain temples.
   • Salva Dynasty: These rulers, who later controlled parts of Vijayanagar, had Jain origins and patrons.
   • Jain Kings of Dharanikota: Rulers in the Krishna district who patronized Jainism during the 12th-13th centuries.
   • Mahabali Dynasty: Rulers like Sri Vijaya, known for their valor and contributions to literature and faith.
   • Eliya Dynasty: Rulers in Kerala who were associated with Jainism.

Overall Significance:

"Sankshipta Jain Itihas Part 03 Khand 02" is presented as a pioneering work in Hindi on the history of Jainism in South India. It aims to fill a gap in historical literature by providing detailed information about the dynasties that patronized Jainism, the role of Jain Acharyas, and the cultural and artistic contributions of the Jain community during the medieval period. The author's extensive research and use of various historical sources are evident throughout the text. The book emphasizes the deep-rooted presence and significant influence of Jainism in South India, despite periods of persecution and decline.