Management of Temples at Nāḍol during the Caūhān Period
Summary
R.V. Somani's article examines the management of Jain and Hindu temples in Nāḍol, a capital of local Caūhān-rulers in Rajasthan, during the Caūhān period. The main argument is that the temple administration was a complex system involving royal patronage, land grants, a dedicated staff, and specific religious festivals like the Rath Yatra, which required the participation of courtesans and other associated personnel. The author supports this by analyzing various inscriptions and historical texts. The article begins by establishing the historical context of Nāḍol and its rulers, such as Maharaja Laxmaii, who constructed the Laxman Svami temple. It details the construction and patronage of multiple temples, including the Candalesvara temple built by Queen Maharam Chandata, the Gaurl shrine built by Queen Sankaradevi, and several temples built by queens and daughters of Caūhān rulers. The article also mentions the patronage of temples by external rulers like Chalukya Kumarpal of Gujarat and the Sunda ruler Alhan, who constructed a Siva temple. The evidence for temple management comes from inscriptions, such as those dated VE 1024, 1125, 1147, 1171, 1192, and 1219, as well as the Puratan PrabantUi-Sangraha and Annals and Antiquities of Rajasthan by Col. Tod. These sources reveal the appointment of staff, including the Bhattaraka as the chief priest and subordinate officers like the Avotl and Vdrikd. The article discusses the Rath Yatra festival, where courtesans attached to other temples had to attend, pulling their ornaments and playing music. It also addresses the taxes levied on temple inmates, with some exemptions for dancing girls. The article concludes by highlighting the role of dancing girls and other staff, referred to as Vilasint Ganika, in the religious functions of the temples.
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Conclusion
The study of temple management at Nāḍol during the Caūhān period reveals a highly structured and state-supported religious system. The key findings demonstrate that temple maintenance was sustained through substantial land grants, such as the villages allotted to the Candalesvara and Tripurusadeva temples, alongside regular revenue from villages and monetary donations. The administration involved a clear hierarchy of religious personnel, including chief priests (Bhattaraka), subordinate officers (Avotl, Varika), and specialized attendants. The Rath Yātrā festivals were central to temple life, involving elaborate processions, decorated temples, and the participation of courtesans and musicians, who were often formally attached to the temples. Furthermore, the state provided tax exemptions for temple staff, highlighting the integral role of these institutions in the socio-political fabric of Nāḍol. This evidence underscores the temples' significance as centers of economic, cultural, and religious activity, deeply intertwined with the authority and piety of the Caūhān rulers.