Jainism Under Vijayanagara: Historical Contributions and Royal Patronage
By T. SURYA PRAKASH, Y. RAMACHANDRA REDDY
Summary
The history of Jainism in southern and western India, particularly under the Vijayanagara Empire, is explored through the lens of Karnataka's historical and cultural context. The religion's migration to Karnataka, led by Bhadrabahu and Chandragupta Maurya around 297 BCE, marked a significant turning point, fostering Jainism's growth and influence in the region. Over centuries, Jainism flourished in Karnataka, becoming integral to the cultural and political landscape, especially during the Vijayanagara period. The Vijayanagara rulers, known for religious tolerance, extended patronage to Jainism despite the empire's Hindu roots. Monarchs like Deva Raya I, Deva Raya II, and Krishna Deva Raya supported Jain temples and institutions through land grants and donations, often influenced by royal figures like Queen Bhima Devi, a Jaina herself. The empire's generals and nobles also contributed to Jainism's prominence, building temples and endowing them with resources. Epigraphic evidence and literary records highlight the mutual respect between Vijayanagara's rulers and Jaina scholars, underscoring Jainism's enduring legacy in the region's history. The religion's influence extended beyond religious spheres, impacting the empire's stability and cultural vibrancy.
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Conclusion
The Vijayanagara Empire's patronage of Jainism, as evidenced by royal endowments, temple constructions, and epigraphic records, underscores the religious pluralism and cultural syncretism of the period. The support from monarchs like Deva Raya I and II, alongside queens such as Bhima Devi, highlights the integration of Jain institutions into the empire's social and political fabric. This patronage, driven by both personal devotion and political pragmatism, fostered the spread of Jainism in Karnataka and beyond, leaving a lasting legacy in art, literature, and architecture. The empire's commitment to *sakalavarnasrama* and interfaith harmony allowed Jainism to thrive alongside Hinduism, contributing to the region's cultural diversity. The outcomes of this historical dynamic include the preservation of Jain traditions in temple complexes like Sravanabelgola and the enduring influence of Jain scholars and artists in shaping the empire's intellectual landscape.