Udisa Me Jain Dharm

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Udisa me Jain Dharm" (Jainism in Orissa) by Lalchand Jain, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Udisa me Jain Dharm Author: Prof. Dr. Lalchand Jain Publisher: Joravarmal Sampatlal Bakliwal Publication Date: June 1, 2006

Overall Theme:

This book, written in Hindi, aims to bring to light the glorious and extensive history of Jainism in the Indian state of Orissa (historically known as Kalinga). The author, Prof. Dr. Lalchand Jain, a former Head of the Jain Studies Centre at Utkal University of Culture, Bhubaneswar, meticulously details the presence, influence, and eventual decline of Jainism in Orissa, with a particular focus on the significant contributions of Emperor Kharavel.

Key Arguments and Content:

The book is structured to provide a chronological and thematic overview of Jainism in Orissa. Here's a breakdown of the main sections and their content:

1. Ancient Kalinga and Jainism:

• Pre-Kharavel Era: Jainism had a significant presence in Kalinga even before Emperor Kharavel. Evidence suggests its existence from at least the 5th century BCE, possibly earlier. The author argues that Jainism was considered a prominent and respectable religion in ancient Kalinga, which was a fertile ground for various religions.

• Tirthankaras and Kalinga:

  • Rishabhdev (Adinath): The first Tirthankara, Rishabhdev, is believed to have a strong connection with Kalinga. The "Kalinga Jina" mentioned in the Hathigumpha inscription is likely related to Rishabhdev, whose idols are found in abundance across Orissa. Jain scriptures mention Rishabhdev's samavasarana (preaching assembly) in Kalinga.
  • Shreyanshanath: The 11th Tirthankara, Shreyanshanath, is said to have been born in Simhapura, the capital of Kalinga at the time.
  • Arhanath: The 18th Tirthankara, Arhanath, received his first ahar dana (alms) in Rajapura, the capital of Kalinga.
  • Parshvanath: The 23rd Tirthankara, Parshvanath, also extensively traveled and preached in Kalinga. Numerous idols of Parshvanath found in the caves of Khandagiri and Udayagiri, as well as in places like Baleshwar and Charampa, attest to his popularity. The book highlights that Kalinga was a prominent Jain center in the 8th century BCE, with Parshvanath's teachings of Chaturyama (non-violence, truth, non-stealing, non-possession) spreading widely. King Karakandu of Kalinga was a royal disciple of Parshvanath and a significant patron of Jainism.
  • Mahavira: The 24th Tirthankara, Mahavira, also visited Kalinga and delivered sermons. Jain scriptures, like the Harivamsa Purana and Avasyaka Niryukti, record his travels to Kalinga, specifically Tosali (Dhavalgiri). The book mentions Mahavira's preaching at the Kumari Parvat (Udayagiri), where King Kharavel later built a Jain temple.

• Nanda Dynasty and Kalinga Jina: The Hathigumpha inscription indicates that the Nanda king (likely Mahapadmananda) invaded Kalinga in the 5th century BCE and carried away the revered "Kalinga Jina" idol. This event signifies the strong presence and popularity of Jainism in Kalinga, making it a major, possibly state religion, at that time. The author suggests that Mahapadmananda, being a follower of Jainism, likely did not intend to destroy Jainism in Kalinga, and it remained a principal religion during his rule.

• Emperor Ashoka's Invasion of Kalinga: The book discusses Emperor Ashoka's invasion of Kalinga in 261 BCE. While some scholars believe Ashoka was initially a Jain, he later embraced Buddhism. The invasion, motivated by sectarian biases and influenced by Buddhist monks, aimed to suppress Jainism in Kalinga. However, despite Ashoka's efforts, Jainism persisted as a prominent religion in Kalinga, demonstrating its deep roots. The author posits that the Kalingans, though perhaps outwardly adopting Buddhism due to forced circumstances, retained their Jain faith in their hearts.

2. Jainism During Emperor Kharavel's Reign:

• Kharavel's Personality and Achievements: Kharavel is presented as a remarkable Jain emperor who reigned in the 2nd century BCE. He is celebrated for his chivalry, scholarship, moral conduct, administrative skills, and powerful army. The Hathigumpha inscription is the primary source for understanding his life and achievements.
• Kharavel's Jain Identity: The book strongly argues that Kharavel was a Jain by birth and conviction, not a convert. This is supported by:
  • The inscription beginning with salutations to Arhats and Siddhas, reflecting adherence to the Namo’kar mantra.
  • The fact that his ancestors were also patrons of Jainism, as evidenced by the worship of the Kalinga Jina in the pre-Nanda era.
  • Kharavel's efforts to protect Jainism, such as repelling the Yavana king Demetrius and restoring the Kalinga Jina idol from Magadha.
  • His construction of caves for Jain monks (shramanas).
  • The mention of him as a yati (ascetic) and upasaka (devout lay follower) in the inscription.
• Kharavel's Contributions:
  • Religious Tolerance: Despite being a devout Jain, Kharavel was a secular ruler who respected all religions. He is credited with renovating temples of all faiths and is referred to as Sarva-pasanda-pujaka (worshiper of all sects) and Sarva-devayatan-samskaraka (renovator of all temples).
  • Literary Revival: Kharavel is credited with reviving the twelve Angas of the Jain Agamas, which were lost during a twelve-year famine during the Mauryan period. He invited Jain monks from various regions to participate in this revival.
  • Philanthropy and Construction: Kharavel undertook numerous public welfare projects, including repairing forts, building palaces (like the Mahavijaya Prasad), digging canals, and excavating caves for Jain monks in Udayagiri and Khandagiri.
  • Military Conquests: The inscription details Kharavel's military campaigns, including his victory over King Satakarni, his conquests in Magadha (retrieving the Kalinga Jina idol), his campaigns in Uttarapatha (North India), and his victories over the Tamil confederacy and Pandya kings.
  • Asceticism: The book suggests that in the later part of his life, after consolidating his kingdom and achieving all his objectives, Kharavel might have taken Jain monkhood, as indicated by his depiction as a "Bhikshu Raja" (monk-king) in the inscription and a sculpture in the Barabhuji cave.

3. Jainism in the Post-Kharavel Era:

• Decline and Coexistence: After Kharavel, the history of Jainism in Orissa becomes somewhat obscure. While Jainism continued to be a significant religion for some time, the rise of Buddhism and Shaivism led to its gradual decline in prominence, though it never entirely disappeared. Jainism maintained a peaceful coexistence with Hinduism, influencing its practices and beliefs.
• Dynastic Patronage: The book traces the patronage of Jainism by various dynasties, including the Nagas, Guptas, Matharas, Gangas, and Somavasis. Despite the growing dominance of Shaivism, these rulers often supported Jain monks and temples.
• Influences: The book notes the influence of Jainism on other religious traditions in Orissa, such as the Mahima Dharma and the Jagannath cult, particularly in aspects like the Rath Yatra and the concept of Kayotsarga yoga. The use of the term "Nath" in the names of followers of Nath Sampradaya and the practice of Kayotsarga are cited as examples of Jain influence. The works of Oriya poets like Sarala Das and Jagannath Das also reflect Jain philosophical principles.

4. Important Jain Monuments and Sites:

• Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves: These twin hills are extensively described as primary centers of Jainism in Orissa, particularly during Kharavel's reign. The book details numerous caves, their architectural features, sculptural representations, and inscriptions, highlighting their significance as monastic dwellings and places of worship.

  • Rani Gumpha: The most elaborate cave, believed to be built for Kharavel's queen, features intricate carvings depicting various aspects of life, including religious ceremonies and royal processions.
  • Hathigumpha Cave: Famous for Kharavel's inscription, it is considered a monumental record of Jain history in Orissa.
  • Other caves like Ganesh Gumpha, Ananta Gumpha, and Barabhuji Gumpha are also described with their artistic and historical details.

• Other Jain Sites: The book systematically lists and describes Jain archaeological sites across various districts of Orissa, including Cuttack, Keonjhar, Baleshwar, Mayurbhanj, Koraput, and Puri. These sites contain numerous ancient Jain temples, Tirthankara idols (especially of Rishabhdev, Parshvanath, and Mahavira), Manastambhas (pillar of honor), and sculptural fragments.

5. The Sarak Community:

• Origins and Practices: The book discusses the "Sarak" community, believed to be descendants of ancient Jain followers. It details their customs, traditions, dietary restrictions (vegetarianism, avoidance of certain fruits), and adherence to Jain principles like non-violence. Their craftsmanship and unique social structures are also highlighted.
• Modern Relevance: The author notes that while the Sarak community may have integrated some Hindu practices, their underlying traditions and reverence for Jain Tirthankaras, particularly Parshvanath, remain evident. Efforts are being made to support and revive their cultural heritage.

6. Jain Temples on Khandagiri Hilltop:

• The book describes the five modern Jain temples on the Khandagiri hilltop, including those dedicated to Adinath, Sheetalnath, and Parshvanath. It provides details about their construction, the idols enshrined, and the religious significance of these sites.

7. Conclusion and Legacy:

• The book concludes by emphasizing the profound impact of Jainism on the religious, cultural, and social fabric of Orissa. Despite its eventual decline in prominence, Jainism left an indelible mark on the region. The legacy of Emperor Kharavel is presented as central to the preservation and propagation of Jainism in Kalinga, making him a pivotal figure in the history of Jainism in Orissa.

In essence, "Udisa me Jain Dharm" is a scholarly work that reconstructs the rich and multifaceted history of Jainism in Orissa, highlighting its ancient origins, its golden age under Emperor Kharavel, its interaction with other religions, and the enduring impact of its monuments and traditions.