Sundardas Raja Vikramajin Kon Hato - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Sundardas Raja Vikramajin Kon Hato" by Parshwa:

Book Title: Sundardas Raja Vikramajin Kon Hato (Who was Sundardas Raja Vikramajit?) Author: Parshwa Publisher: Aryarakshit Prachya Vidya Sanshodhan Mandir Key Theme: This book investigates the historical identity of the figures Kuaradas and Sundardas, prominent in Mughal history, and seeks to establish whether they were the same individuals as Kuarapal and Sonpal, revered figures in Jain literature.

Overview: The book, through extensive research and comparative analysis of historical and Jain literary sources, attempts to bridge the gap between the political chronicles of the Mughal era and the religious narratives within Jain texts. The author, Parshwa, presents a compelling argument for the potential identity of these historical and religious figures, while acknowledging the need for further definitive proof.

Key Sections and Arguments:

Section 1: Kuaradas and Sundardas in Political History (Page 17 onwards)
- This section focuses on the documented careers of Kuaradas and Sundardas within the Mughal Empire.
- Sundardas's Rise: Sundardas is portrayed as rising from a common courtier to become a powerful figure, eventually holding a significant position under Prince Khurram (Shah Jahan). He served as a trusted confidant, advisor, and general.
- Titles and Recognition: The text highlights that Sundardas was granted the honorific titles of "Rai Rayan" and "Raja Vikramjit" by Jahangir. The latter title, "Raja Vikramjit," was particularly significant among Hindus, suggesting his respect and influence.
- Military Prowess: Sundardas is noted for his military achievements, including his participation in the conquest of Mewar and the Kangra fort. He is described as a key strategist and commander.
- Shah Jahan's Rebellion: Sundardas played a crucial role in Shah Jahan's rebellion against his father, Jahangir. He is identified as a principal organizer of the rebel forces.
- Sundardas's Death: The text details the circumstances of Sundardas's death in the Battle of Bilochpur during Shah Jahan's rebellion. His demise significantly impacted the rebel forces.
- Confusion of Titles: The author points out the historical confusion caused by multiple individuals holding the "Raja Vikramjit" title simultaneously, making precise identification challenging.
- Gujarat Administration: Sundardas is also mentioned as having administered Gujarat during a specific period, showcasing his administrative capabilities.
Section 2: Kuarapal and Sonpal in Jain Literature (Page 37 onwards)
- This section delves into the portrayal of Kuarapal and Sonpal within Jain texts.
- Jain Figures: Kuarapal and Sonpal are identified as brothers of the 'Eshwal' caste and belonging to the 'Lodhaa' clan. They were prominent Jain patrons and merchants.
- Religious and Social Contributions: They are celebrated for their extensive religious contributions, including building temples, organizing large-scale pilgrimages (like to Shikharji and Shatrunjay), and supporting Jain acharyas.
- Titles in Jain Texts: Jain literature refers to them with titles like "Sanghapati" (leader of religious congregations), "Bhupalmanyau" (respected by kings), and even "Hindu Surtaan" (Sultan of Hindus) and "Rai's Crown Jewel."
- Jahangir's Interaction: Jain texts describe interactions between Kuarapal/Sonpal and Emperor Jahangir, where they are referred to as "Tehsildars" (revenue collectors) and are praised for their piety and influence. The texts mention Jahangir bestowing upon them the title of "Nagar Shiromani" (chief of the city).
- Inscriptions and Mentions: The author cites various Jain literary works, inscriptions, and eulogies that mention Kuarapal and Sonpal, highlighting their influence and status during the Mughal period.
Section 3: Were Kuarapal and Sonpal the same as Kuaradas and Sundardas? (Page 52 onwards)
- This is the core argumentative section of the book.
- Comparative Analysis: The author meticulously compares the timelines, titles, achievements, and societal roles of both sets of individuals.
- Similarities:
  - Brotherhood: Both pairs are described as brothers.
  - Influence and Power: Both sets of figures held significant political and administrative influence during the reign of Jahangir and into Shah Jahan's early period.
  - Titles: The titles like "Raja," "Rai," and the influence attributed to them in both historical and Jain contexts show striking similarities to the titles and roles of Kuaradas and Sundardas.
  - Gujarat Connection: Both sets are linked to the administration or significant presence in Gujarat.
  - Military Prowess: While Jain texts emphasize their patronage, they also hint at their valor, which aligns with the warrior aspect of Sundardas.
  - Jahangir's Court: Their interactions with Jahangir and the titles bestowed by him are consistent with the historical accounts of Sundardas.
- Discrepancies and Challenges:
  - Name Variations: The primary challenge is the difference in names. The author addresses the possibility of name variations, transliterations, or the use of different names in different contexts (political vs. religious).
  - Caste: Jain texts clearly identify Sonpal as an 'Oswal' (a merchant community with historical Kshatriya links), while Mughal chronicles sometimes refer to Sundardas as a "Brahman." This is a significant point of contention.
  - Lack of Direct Mughal Mention: The absence of Kuarapal and Sonpal's names in Mughal historical records, despite their prominence in Jain texts, is a major hurdle. Conversely, the absence of Kuaradas and Sundardas's specific Jain affiliations in Mughal texts is also noted.
- Arguments for Identity:
  - Raja Vikramjit and Hindu Sultan: The titles of "Raja Vikramjit" and "Hindu Sultan" given to Kuarapal/Sonpal in Jain texts are strongly linked to the "Raja Vikramjit" title bestowed upon Sundardas by Jahangir.
  - "Amaatyas" (Ministers): The inscription referring to Kuarapal and Sonpal as "Jahangir's ministers" ("Amaatyas") aligns with Sundardas's high ministerial positions.
  - "Bandi Chhodavar" (Releaser of Captives): Jahangir's description of Sonpal as "Bandi Chhodavar" resonates with the idea of influence and power, potentially in freeing captives, which could indirectly link to political actions.
  - The "Brahman" Reference: The author acknowledges the "Brahman" reference for Sundardas but suggests it might be an error or a misunderstanding by Jahangir, especially given the other similarities. The possibility of conversions or different names used in different circles is also implicitly suggested.
- Scholarly Debate: The book references the earlier research of historian Ratnamani Rao Bhimrao, who also explored this connection and presented arguments and counter-arguments. The author analyzes and builds upon these earlier investigations.
- Conclusion on Identity: While the author presents strong circumstantial evidence, he stops short of definitively stating that they are the same individuals. He concludes that the similarities are too significant to ignore and warrant further investigation, leaving the question open for future researchers to find more concrete proof.

Author's Approach:

Methodical Research: Parshwa demonstrates a rigorous research methodology, cross-referencing various sources from Mughal histories (like Tuzuk-i-Jahangiri, Maathir-ul-Umara) and Jain literature (Pattavalis, Rasas, inscriptions).
Critical Evaluation: The author critically evaluates the sources, acknowledging potential biases, exaggerations, and discrepancies in Jain literature. He also points out errors in translations and interpretations of Mughal texts.
Balanced Perspective: While leaning towards the potential identity, the author maintains a balanced and academic approach, presenting both supporting evidence and counter-arguments.
Call for Further Research: The book ends with an appeal to scholars to conduct further research to definitively resolve the historical puzzle.

Significance of the Book: This book contributes significantly to understanding the intersection of Jain socio-religious history and the political landscape of the Mughal Empire. It highlights the often-overlooked influence of Jain patrons in broader historical events and seeks to integrate their stories into the mainstream historical narrative. The author's dedication to uncovering and presenting these connections is a valuable endeavor for historical research.