Shishupal Gadh

Here is a comprehensive summary in English of the provided Jain text concerning Shishupal Gadh:

This text, titled "Shishupal Gadh," authored by Prajabandhu and published by Prajabandhu, discusses the archaeological significance of the ancient fort of Shishupal Gadh in relation to Jain history.

Key Points and Discoveries:

• Connection to Emperor Kharavela: The text highlights the importance of the inscription of Emperor Kharavela, which archaeologists unequivocally recognize as Jain. It points out that many other ancient Jain architectural styles, idols, and carvings have often been misattributed to Buddhism or Brahmanism due to a lack of consideration of Jain literature in historical research. The discovery of Kharavela's inscription is considered a significant Jain historical achievement.
• Location and Importance: Shishupal Gadh is located about two miles east of Bhubaneswar in the Orissa region. It is described as a strong fort and its excavation suggests progress in understanding ancient Indian history. The text posits that Shishupal Gadh is likely the ancient city of Kalinganagara, the capital of Kharavela's Kalinga empire. This is based on inscriptions found on the Khandagiri-Udayagiri hills, which mention Kharavela's renovation of the ramparts and gates of his capital in his first regnal year.
• Fortifications and Architecture:
  • The fort is described as having a vast and symmetrical square layout, with each side approximately three-quarters of a mile long.
  • It possesses eight large gates and numerous smaller entrances.
  • Excavations reveal a multi-phase construction of its walls. Initially, the walls were likely 100 feet wide at the base and 25 feet high. Later, a stone casing of three to four feet thickness might have been added. In a subsequent phase, both sides of the walls were constructed with fired bricks, retaining the earthen core.
  • One large gate, excavated, is 15 feet wide, narrowing to 13 feet at the entrance. It had side passages for additional movement, possibly for latecomers when the main gate was closed at night. This feature aligns with descriptions of defensive city gates in Kautilya's Arthashastra.
  • The gates were flanked by massive towers, 63 feet long and 28 feet wide, with stone staircases leading to their tops.
  • A central part of the fort contained a structure with sixteen pillars, suggesting it was a hall of assembly. Excavation went down fifteen feet below the groundwater level, utilizing pumping machinery.
• Archaeological Findings:
  • Various small artifacts were unearthed, including personal adornments like earrings, necklaces, glass bangles, precious stones, and ivory ornaments.
  • Iron tools and weapons used during times of peace and war were also discovered.
  • Coins made of gold, silver, copper, and lead were found in the upper layers, dating from the second to third centuries CE.
• Dating and Occupation: The fort is estimated to have been constructed around 300 BCE. Evidence suggests habitation continued until the mid-4th century CE, and some writings indicate occupation possibly until the medieval period.
• Historical and Cultural Impact: The discovery of this 2100-year-old fort, with its proportionally designed gates and walls, is a significant contribution to Indian archaeology. Its architecture, free from foreign influence, is a source of pride for India.
• External Connections: The discovery of some painted pottery suggests a potential indirect or direct contact between the Kalinga rulers of eastern India and the Roman Empire, indicating connections with the Mediterranean world.

In essence, the text emphasizes the archaeological evidence that reinforces the historical presence and significance of Jainism, particularly through its association with Emperor Kharavela and the ancient city of Kalinganagara (Shishupal Gadh). It calls for a re-evaluation of other ancient sites with a Jain perspective to uncover their true historical context.