Jinaprabhasuri's account on Mathura
Summary
Renuka J. Porwal's article examines Jinaprabhasuri's account of Mathura, a subject detailed within the Vividha tirtha kalpa. The main argument is that this text, composed by the second Jinaprabhasuri between 1352 and 1389 Vikrama Samvat during the rule of Sultan Mohammad Tagalakh, serves as a crucial historical and geographical document for understanding the Jaina pilgrimage centre. The author argues that Jinaprabhasuri's work provides vital evidence regarding the condition of temples, sites, and social customs of the period. The evidence discussed includes the legendary construction of the golden Deva Nirmita Stupa by the deity Kubera, its subsequent concealment under bricks and sand, and the establishment of a Sarvatobhadra image to protect the site. The text also highlights the author's references to contemporary Jaina figures and events, such as the visit of Acarya Bappabhattasuri, the protection of the shrine by deities like Naravahana Kubera and Simhavahana Ambika, and the 1018 looting of the stupa by Mahammad Gazani. Furthermore, the article notes the archaeological discoveries at Kankali Tila, unearthed by the Archaeological Survey of India in 1888, which revealed numerous sculptures and Brahmi inscriptions. The sources discussed by the author include the Prabandha-Upadesha-Saptatit, Giranar Prabhava, and various other Jaina texts that corroborate the historical presence of Jainism in Mathura.
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Conclusion
Jinaprabhasuri’s account in the Vividha Tirtha Kalpa offers a crucial historical and geographical record of Mathura, providing valuable evidence for the study of Jainism, Indian history, and social customs. The text highlights the legendary Deva Nirmita Stupa, its controversies with other faiths, and the city’s significant role as the birthplace of future Tirthankaras and a site of major religious gatherings. The author details numerous temples, sacred groves, and local legends, many of which correspond with modern archaeological findings at Kankali Tila, such as excavated sculptures and Brahmi inscriptions. By cross-referencing the V. T. Kalpa with other contemporary texts and archaeological data, the article underscores the enduring prosperity and cultural development of the Jain community in Mathura from the Kushana period through the early medieval era, thereby affirming the text’s profound significance for Indological research.