Swarnagiri Jalor

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Book Title: Swarnagiri Jalor Author: Bhanvarlal Nahta Publisher: Prakrit Bharati Academy, Jaipur & B.J. Nahata Foundation, Calcutta

Core Subject: The book is a historical and detailed account of the ancient Jain pilgrimage site of Swarnagiri Jalor, located in Rajasthan, India. It delves into its rich history, religious significance, architectural heritage, and the prominent figures associated with it.

Key Themes and Content:

• Historical Significance of Swarnagiri Jalor:

  • Jalor, also known as Swarnagiri, Kanakachal, and other names, has a history spanning approximately two thousand years.
  • It served as a prominent center for Jainism and was once a capital city, even being referred to as the capital of "half of India" during the reign of Pratithar emperor Vatsaraj.
  • The region was known for its wealth, with the "Sonigira" Gotra originating from Swarnagiri and settling in Mandavgarh. The area was populated by wealthy individuals (Kotiadheeshas - crorepatis).
  • The text traces the political history, mentioning various rulers like the Pratiharas, Paramaras, and Chauhans who ruled the region. It details conquests and periods of prosperity.

• Religious Importance and Jain Architecture:

  • Swarnagiri was a significant Jain pilgrimage site with numerous temples and monastic establishments (viharas).
  • The text mentions several key temples:
    • Mahavir Swami Temple: Described as the main temple, a grand and beautiful structure with a main deity (mool nayak) statue. It was restored and consecrated multiple times.
    • Adinathji (Choukhji) Temple: Located on the higher peak of Swarnagiri, this was a two-storied structure also known as Ashtapadavatar. It was damaged by invaders but later restored.
    • Parshwanath Temple (Kumar Vihar): Originally a large temple built by Maharaja Kumarpal of Gujarat, it was later damaged. The current structure is smaller but retains some ancient architectural style.
    • Shantinath and Neminath Temples: These were built later as part of the "Panchateerthi" (five pilgrimage sites) concept.
  • The book highlights the construction, renovation, and consecration of these temples, often mentioning the patrons, architects, and the specific dates (Vikram Samvat).
  • The "Topkhana" area in Jalor town is identified as containing the remains and inscriptions from several destroyed Jain temples.

• Invasions and Destruction:

  • The text explicitly mentions the destructive impact of invasions, particularly by Muslim rulers like Alauddin Khilji.
  • These invasions led to the destruction and desecration of many temples. The "Yavana" (Muslim) rulers are blamed for widespread destruction, as noted by Mahakavi Dhanpal.
  • The book details the fall of Swarnagiri to Alauddin Khilji in VS 1368 (1314 AD) after a prolonged struggle, leading to the devastation of temples and mansions.

• Periods of Restoration and Revival:

  • Despite destruction, there were periods of revival. For instance, Maharaja Gajsingh of Jodhpur, through his minister Muhaṇot Jaimalji, initiated renovation work and consecrations in VS 1681.
  • A significant revival occurred in VS 1933 under the guidance of Acharya Shrimad Vijay Rajendra Suriji Maharaj. He led the efforts to reclaim the temples from governmental use (as armories) and restore them to the Jain community, culminating in the re-consecration of three temples.

• Prominent Jain Scholars and Monks:

  • The book extensively features the contributions of various Jain acharyas and monks who lived, preached, and composed works in Jalor.
  • Notable figures include:
    • Udyotan Suri: Author of the renowned "Kuvalayamala," composed in Jalor in VS 835.
    • Jineshwar Suri, Jinprabodh Suri, Jinachandra Suri, Jinakushal Suri, Jinahars Suri, Jinsagar Suri, Jinratna Suri, Jinbhakti Suri, Jinmahendra Suri, and Jinavijaya Suri: These figures from the Kharatar Gachha played significant roles in religious activities, consecrations, and intellectual pursuits in Jalor. Their movements, disciples, and compositions are detailed.
    • Acharya Vijay Rajendra Suri: Instrumental in the 19th-century revival of the pilgrimage site.
  • The text also mentions the patronage and support provided by Jain ministers and wealthy patrons like Muhaṇot Jaimalji, Muhaṇot Jaimal, and various Seths and Shrāvaks.

• Literary and Scholarly Contributions:

  • Jalor was a significant center for Jain literature. The book highlights the composition of important works there.
  • Kuvalayamala: A foundational text of Prakrit literature, composed by Udyotan Suri, praised for its linguistic richness and storytelling.
  • Shravak Dharm Prakaran Vritti: A commentary written by Laxmitilakopadhyaya.
  • Various Chastukālis, Rases, and Stotras: Composed by numerous monks and poets, contributing to the rich literary heritage associated with the site.
  • The book mentions the "Yugpradhanacharya Guravali" as a primary source for much of this historical information.

• Inscriptions and Historical Evidence:

  • The book extensively quotes and analyzes numerous inscriptions found on temple pillars, walls, and stone tablets. These inscriptions provide crucial dating, details about patrons, consecrations, and historical events.
  • The "Topkhana" area is mentioned as a repository of inscriptions from destroyed temples.

• Specific Details:

  • The text includes details about the fortifications of Swarnagiri fort, its dimensions, and the various gates.
  • It mentions the practice of appointing religious officials (e.g., appointing acharyas and gachhadhipatis) in Jalor.
  • The importance of various Gachhas (sects) like Kharatar Gachha, Nankiya Gachha, Sadhu Purnima Gachha, Surana Gachha, Upkesh Gachha, Vad Gachha, and Tapagachha is discussed in relation to their activities in Jalor.
  • The book details the lineage of some prominent families and their contributions to Jainism in Jalor.

Overall Purpose: "Swarnagiri Jalor" aims to meticulously document the historical and religious journey of this important Jain pilgrimage. It serves as a valuable resource for historians, researchers, and Jain devotees interested in the rich legacy of Swarnagiri Jalor. The book emphasizes the enduring spirit of Jainism, its resilience in the face of adversity, and the continuous efforts of its followers to preserve and revive its sacred sites and traditions.