Cultural Heritage of Bengal in Relation to Jainism

S.C. Mukherji’s essay surveys the long history of Jainism in Bengal and its cultural contributions. He begins by noting archaeological finds indicating that Jainism was present in the region during the early historic period. Inscriptions such as the Hathigumpha inscription of Kharavela (1st century BCE), the Paharpur copper‑plate grant (479 CE) and Mathura inscriptions reveal that Jain monks and lay followers travelled through Bengal and received patronage from local rulers. Terracotta plaques and sculptures from sites like Chandraketugarh and Mahasthangarh depict Jain iconography, confirming the presence of Jain communities. The essay then documents the spread of Jainism during the Gupta and Pala periods, when merchants and bankers financed temples and images. Textual sources, including Jain commentaries and the travelogue of the Chinese pilgrim Xuanzang, attest that Digambara ascetics (nirgrantha) were numerous in Bengal in the 7th century, even when Buddhism predominated. Mukherji describes how Jainism left its mark on Bengali art: the temples at Deulghata, Deulbhira and other western Bengal villages feature distinctive shikhara towers, carved panels with Tirthaṅkaras and Yakshis, and inscriptions in proto‑Bengali script. The essay also discusses Jain influence on Bengali literature, citing poems and moral tales that convey Jain values of non‑violence and truth. In the medieval period, interactions with Vaishnavism and Islam led many Jains to migrate westward, but pockets of Jain heritage persisted, as seen in the temples of Purulia and Bankura districts. Mukherji concludes by arguing that Jainism played a vital role in shaping Bengal’s pluralistic culture and that preserving Jain monuments will enrich the region’s historical narrative. He calls for systematic documentation of sites, conservation of sculptures, and increased public awareness so that the contributions of Jainism to Bengal’s heritage are not forgotten.

Summary reviewed by a volunteer editor.