Jainism in Andhra Pradesh

by

Jainism in Andhra Pradesh

Dharmamrita, a classic of 12th century A. D., mentionsthat even during the times of 12th TirthankaraVasupujya, Jainism was prevalent in the Andhra country.Tradition also says an Anga king come with his threesons to Vengi who later became Jainas and built a cityknown as Pratipalapura which is some where near modernBhattiprolu.

The Jaina tradition also mentions that Asoka’s grandsonSamprati became a Jaina and spread the religion inKalinga. The Andhra and the Kalinga countries mighthave been strongholds of non-vedic religions for long,for Bodhayana says that whoever goes to Kinga mustperform Prayschitta .

During the regime of Kharavela (2nd century B. C.),Jainism spread into many regions of Northern Andhra andOrissa. The rock caves at Khandagiri and Udayagiri beartestimony to the same6 . The Satavahana rulers of Pre-Christian era who ruled a vast territory which nowcomprises of Andhra, Maharashtra and Karnataka stateswere also influenced by Jainism. “Kalakasuri prabandha”writes that one of the Satavahana rulers ofPratistanapura used to attend a Jaina monk’s discourse.

Even before the reign of Chalukya king Pulakesi the(17th Century A. D.) Jainism was a dominant religionin the Karnataka. All the later kings like Vinayaditya,Vijayaditya helped Jaina saints in spreading theirreligion. During Vatapi Chalukyas and Rashtrakutas inwhose kingdoms much of Andhra (mainly Rayalasemsa andTelangana regions) was a territory influenced byJainism as these kings were great patrons of thisreligion.

During the Rashtrakuta king Nitya Varsha Indra Vallabha(915-927 A. D.) Bodhan was his capital and even now itis considered by the jainas as one of their AdimaThirthas. The famous Jaina Acharya Somadevasuri of thattime wrote many books and spread the faith theTelangana region.  From 2nd century B. C. upto 800-900 A. D., there wereno inscriptions bearing the dates of that period. Itmight be the period of Jaina decline in Kalinga and itwas only during that period of Jaina decline inKalinga and it was only during that period the Vedicand the Buddhistic religions began to flourish in Kalinga.

Tradition says that in a village known as Gangaperuluin Rayalasema, a Jaina monk known as Simhanandi Acharyalived. The princes who fled from a town known asVijayapura in northern India, sought his protection andlater founded the famous Ganga dynasty with isblessings. Excavations conducted at Danavulapadu inCuddapah district revealed the extent of spread ofJainism in that area.

The founder of Eastern Chalukya dynastyKubjavishnuvardhana (624-641 A. D.) was brother ofPulakesi II. During his period Vijayawada was a greatJaina centre. His Danasasana (762 A. D.) indicates thathe was a great portion of Jaina religion.  Ramatirtham in Visakhapatnam district was both aBuddhist and Jaina Kshetra and now it is a famous HinduKshetra. Excavations at Penugonda in East Godavaridistrict revealed that it was once a Jaina religiouscentre. At the time of Kullotunga Chola son of RajaRajanarendra, Munugodu in Sattenapalli taluq was aJaina kshetra. Another inscription of 1178 A.D.,reveals that Bhogapuram in Visakhapatnam Dt. was havingJaina temples. In Nellore district upto 13th Centurythere were Jaina temple

During the 12th and 13th centuries Saivism began tospread in Andhra and there used to be religious debatesover these religious faiths. There were many clashesbetween the followers of these faiths and of the JainaBastis (centres) were destroyed by the Saivites.Panditaradhyacarita and Palkuriki Somanatha andSivaratrimahatmya of Srinatha gives evidence to thisfact.  It is a wonder that though Jainism was prevalent formore than 1500 years in Andhra only one book written aby a saint of this area is available now. It isJinendra Kalyanabhyudaya by Appayacharya (1241 Sakaera).

While Saivism became popular during Kaltiya kings,Vaishnavism became popular during Vijayanagara kings.Spread of these religions led to the decline of theJaina faith. Bur Jainas have their piligrim even now.Kollipaka in Nalgonda district is Jaina kshetra andPenugonda in Anantapur district is one of the JainaChaturdasa Mahavidya Sthnams.

 

 

Amaravati  JainTeerth

This temple of Shri Padmaprabhu Bhagwan is located at a distance of 8 kilometers from Alirajpur village in a jungle. It is 80 kilometers away from Dahod railway station. This temple is about 2000 years old.

Shree Kulpakji Jain Temple 

Here the black-colored idol of lord Bhagawan Adishvar in the ardh-Padmasana posture has been placed within an ancient temple. There are number of other idols of other tirthankars too. The grandeur of the idol of Manikyaswami and the sapphire-colored idol of lord Mahavir Swami is very attractive and has its own special place of importance. The temple is also a matchless specimen of art and architects. The idols of God here are of attractive and very high level sculpture.

Penukonda 

The Bhagwan Prahwanatha Jain temple is very ancient and the idol of Parshwanatha is said to be (11 and 12C AD) is a  very attractive and unique of its kind.  Jain devotees from different parts of the country  visit this place. There are number of other Jain  Tirthankar’s idols along with the idol of lord Bhagwan Parshwanatha.

Jain Mandir, Warangal 

The 2,000-year-old Jain temple of  Lord Mahaveer is a famous place of worship for Jains in the country. The temple is embellished with beautiful images of Thirthankaras. The 5ft high image of  lord Mahavira is entirely carved of Jade.  Warangal is located on northern Andhra Pradesh State lies along the Chennai-Kazipet-Delhi rail route.

Warangal was the ancient capital of the Kakatiyas, an Andhra dynasty that flourished in the 12th century AD. Warangal fort is about 8 kilometers  from Railway station. In the fort there are four Jain temples and some artistic articles. The city stands out for its beautiful lakes, temples and wildlife. It is very rich in antiques and relics. It is about 150KM away from Hydrabad.

 ,

Jainism is one of the oldest religions in the world, and it has a long and rich history in Andhra Pradesh. The first Jains are believed to have arrived in Andhra Pradesh in the 6th century BCE, and the religion has flourished in the state ever since.

There are many Jain temples in Andhra Pradesh, including the famous Lepakshi Temple, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temple is dedicated to the Jain saint Rishabhadeva, and it is one of the most important Jain pilgrimage sites in the world.

Jain Festivals are also an important part of the Jain community in Andhra Pradesh. The most important Jain festival is Mahavir Jayanti, which celebrates the birth of the founder of Jainism, Mahavira. The festival is celebrated with great pomp and show, and it is a time for Jains to come together and celebrate their religion.

Jain cuisine is also unique and delicious. Jains do not eat meat or eggs, and their cuisine is based on fruits, vegetables, and grains. Some of the most popular Jain dishes include tikki, pakora, and kachori.

Jain art and architecture is also very beautiful. Jain temples are often decorated with intricate carvings and sculptures, and Jain paintings are known for their vibrant colors and intricate designs.

Jain Literature is also very rich. Jain texts include the Agamas, which are the scriptures of Jainism, and the Upanishads, which are philosophical texts. Jain literature is also known for its poetry and stories.

Jain philosophy is based on the principle of non-violence. Jains believe that all living beings are equal, and they should be treated with respect. Jains also believe in the cycle of rebirth, and they strive to achieve moksha, or liberation from the cycle of rebirth.

Jain Education is very important in Andhra Pradesh. There are many Jain schools and colleges in the state, and Jains place a high value on education. Jains believe that education is the key to success in life, and they encourage their children to get a good education.

Jain social life is also very vibrant. Jains are active in many social and charitable organizations, and they are always willing to help others. Jains also have a strong sense of community, and they are always there to support each other.

Jain culture is also very unique. Jains have their own unique customs and traditions, and they are proud of their heritage. Jains are also very tolerant of other religions, and they believe in living in harmony with others.

Jains have made many contributions to Andhra Pradesh. Jains have been instrumental in the development of the state’s economy, and they have also made significant contributions to the state’s education and healthcare systems. Jains are also known for their philanthropy, and they have donated generously to many charitable causes.

Jains face some challenges in Andhra Pradesh. One of the biggest challenges is the lack of awareness about Jainism. Many people in Andhra Pradesh are not aware of Jainism, and this can lead to misunderstandings and discrimination. Another challenge is the lack of Jain temples in Andhra Pradesh. There are only a few Jain temples in the state, and this can make it difficult for Jains to practice their religion.

Despite the challenges, the future of Jainism in Andhra Pradesh is bright. The Jain community in Andhra Pradesh is strong and vibrant, and they are committed to preserving their religion and culture. Jains are also working to promote understanding and Tolerance between different religions, and they are making a positive contribution to the state of Andhra Pradesh.

What is Jainism?
Jainism is an ancient Indian religion that teaches a path of non-violence, non-attachment, and renunciation. Jains believe that the universe is eternal and that the soul is reborn into different bodies until it achieves liberation (moksha).

What are the basic Tenets of Jainism?
The basic tenets of Jainism are ahimsa (non-violence), anekāntavāda (non-absolutism), and aparigraha (non-attachment). Jains believe that all living beings are interconnected and that violence against any living being is wrong. They also believe that the universe is full of diversity and that there is no one right way to live. Finally, Jains believe that attachment to material things and worldly desires leads to suffering.

What are the practices of Jainism?
The practices of Jainism are designed to help followers achieve liberation. These practices include:

  • Ahimsa: Non-violence, which includes avoiding harm to all living beings, even insects.
  • Anekāntavāda: Non-absolutism, which means accepting that there are many different perspectives on reality.
  • Aparigraha: Non-attachment, which means letting go of material possessions and worldly desires.
  • Tapas: Self-discipline, which includes fasting, meditation, and other forms of asceticism.
  • Dana: Charity, which is seen as a way to help others and to accumulate merit.

What is the history of Jainism?
Jainism is one of the oldest religions in the world, with a history that dates back over 2,500 years. The founder of Jainism was Mahavira, who was born in the 6th century BCE. Mahavira was a wandering ascetic who taught a path of non-violence and non-attachment. He is considered the 24th tirthankara, or savior, of Jainism.

What is the role of Women in Jainism?
Women have always played an important role in Jainism. The first tirthankara, Ahimsaka, was a woman. And many of the most important Jain texts were written by women. In Jainism, women are considered to be equal to men in all respects. They can participate in all religious activities, and they can hold positions of authority in the Jain community.

What is the future of Jainism?
Jainism is a small religion, with only about 4.5 million followers worldwide. However, it is a vibrant and dynamic religion with a long history. Jains are committed to preserving their traditions and to sharing their teachings with the world.

  1. Which of the following is not a principle of Jainism?
    (A) Ahimsa (non-violence)
    (B) Satya (truthfulness)
    (C) Asteya (non-stealing)
    (D) Brahmacharya (celibacy)

  2. The Tirthankaras are:
    (A) The founders of Jainism
    (B) The first Jains to achieve enlightenment
    (C) The 24 most important Jain teachers
    (D) The Jain gods

  3. The most important Jain text is the:
    (A) Agamas
    (B) Sutras
    (C) Upanishads
    (D) Mahabharata

  4. The Jain symbol is the:
    (A) Swastika
    (B) Om
    (C) Dharmachakra
    (D) Trishula

  5. The Jain Flag is:
    (A) White
    (B) Blue
    (C) Red
    (D) Orange

  6. The Jain pilgrimage site at Mount Abu is known as:
    (A) Dilwara Temples
    (B) Ranakpur Jain Temple
    (C) Palitana Jain Temples
    (D) Girnar Jain Temple

  7. The Jain community is divided into two main sects:
    (A) Digambara and Svetambara
    (B) Theravada and Mahayana
    (C) Vaishnava and Shaiva
    (D) Sunni and Shia

  8. The Jain Population is concentrated in:
    (A) India
    (B) Pakistan
    (C) Bangladesh
    (D) Sri Lanka

  9. The Jain religion is:
    (A) An ancient Indian religion
    (B) A new religion that originated in the 20th century
    (C) A branch of Hinduism-2/”>Hinduism
    (D) A branch of Buddhism-2/”>Buddhism

  10. The Jain way of life is based on the principle of:
    (A) Non-violence
    (B) Truthfulness
    (C) Non-stealing
    (D) All of the above

Exit mobile version