Jainism in Gujarat
Summary
The article on Gujarat is not reproduced in the accessible text, but cross‑references indicate that the medieval Solanki (Cālukya) rulers played a crucial role in promoting Jainism. In the mid‑12th century, King Jayasimha Siddharaja hosted debates between Digambara monk Kumudacandra and Śvetāmbara monk Devasūri, and he invited the great scholar Hemacandra to his court. Jayasimha’s successor Kumarapala, deeply influenced by Hemacandra, embraced Jainism. He banned animal slaughter, established libraries (bhāṇḍāras) and built numerous temples across his domain, including at Jālor. Although royal support waned after Kumarapala, ministers such as Vastupāla and Tejapāla continued to sponsor temple construction; Tejapāla built the celebrated temple on Mt Abu in 1230 A.D. These initiatives reflect how Gujarat’s prosperity and merchant culture provided fertile ground for Jainism, enabling the construction of elaborate temple complexes at Śatruñjaya, Girnar and elsewhere.
Summary reviewed by a volunteer editor.
Conclusion
Gujarat emerged as a stronghold of Jainism during the Solanki era. Kings like Kumarapala, guided by Hemacandra, enforced non‑violence and funded temples and libraries, while ministers continued the patronage by erecting masterpieces like the Mt Abu temple.