Reply to Mr. Dikshitar's Note
Summary
The reply addresses Mr. Dikshitar's critique regarding the interpretation of the *Divyavadana*'s account of Kunala's blinding and the role of the Paura-Janapada in Taksasila. The author maintains that the Paura-Janapada, as an organized administrative body, executed royal orders, as seen in the case of Kunala, where the prince resisted but ultimately complied, leading to Tisyaraksita's execution. While acknowledging the *Divyavadana* as a late work with potential legendary elements, the author argues that its administrative details likely reflect actual practices of the period, including the Paura-Janapada's role in local governance and the limited interference of imperial representatives. The text clarifies that "Paura-Janapada" refers to the citizens and provincial regions of Taksasila rather than a corporate body, citing linguistic and contextual evidence. The discussion underscores the importance of historical research, emphasizing the need to explore state archives for undocumented materials. The Viceroy's speech highlights the value of historical study for national development and honors India's historical figures.
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Conclusion
This analysis underscores the Paura-Janapada's critical role in executing imperial orders, as evidenced by the Divyavadana's account of Kunala's blinding and Tisyaraksita's subsequent punishment. While the narrative's legendary elements and late composition limit its historical certainty, the administrative framework it depicts—where the Paura-Janapada operated as an organized provincial body, distinct from imperial representatives like the Kwumira—offers invaluable insights into the period's governance. The text confirms the Paura-Janapada's autonomy in local administration and its direct accountability to the crown, highlighting its significance as a structured, regionally empowered entity. This case study reinforces the broader historical value of the Divyavadana, even as its mythological aspects invite scholarly caution.