A new Vihara at Valabbi
Summary
Valabhi, a major Buddhist center under the Maitraka rulers of Saurastra, hosted numerous viharas documented through copper plate grants. Key viharas include Dudda Vihara (named after Dudda, sister of Dharasena I’s wife), active for 140 years (216–356 G.E.), and the head of a large Vihara-Mandala. Others include Buddhadasa Vihara, Bhattarka Vihara (linked to the Maitraka founder Senapati Bhattarka), Abhayantarikad Vihara (built by nun Mimma), Gohaka Vihara, Sthiramati Vihara (by monk Sthiramati), and Vimalagupta Vihara (by Acarya Bhiksu Vimalagupta). The Yaksa Sura Vihara and its mandala included Purna Bhatta Vihara, while Vanijakajit Vihara was funded by trader Ajita. Sri Bappapadiya Vihara honored the Maitraka ancestor Bappapida, and Vamsakata Vihara (by Siladitya I) and Skandabhata Vihara were located in specific villages. A newly identified Vihara, constructed by trader Kakka near Dudda Vihara, was revealed from an unread portion of Dharasena I’s copper grant (270 G.E.), highlighting contributions from traders to Buddhist institutions. The findings, derived from multiple grants (217–356 G.E.), underscore Valabhi’s prominence as a Buddhist hub supported by royal patronage, clergy, and merchants.
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Conclusion
This study reveals Valabhi's enduring significance as a Buddhist educational hub under Maitraka patronage, demonstrated through newly uncovered inscriptions from Dharasena I's grant. The discovery of Vanijakajit Vihara adjacent to Dudda Vihara highlights merchant community contributions to monastic infrastructure, expanding our understanding of Valabhi's socio-religious economy. The findings reinforce Valabhi's status as a major center of Buddhist learning, while revealing the diverse patronage base including royal families, spiritual leaders, and commercial classes that sustained its religious institutions for over 140 years.