Jain Inscriptions of Rajasthan

Author(s): Ramvallabh Somani
Publisher: Rajasthan Prakrit Bharti Sansthan Jaipur

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The Jain inscriptions of Rajasthan do not list the duties of ministers. But obviously they assisted rulers in conducting the business of state in various ways. The Oswal, a powerful Jain clan, filled the posts of ministers in many erstwhile states of Rajasthan, i.e. Marwar, Mewar, Sirohi, Kota, Bundi and others. In Jaipur, Digambar Jain Khandelwals, also famous as Saravagies, held the post of the Diwan for a considerable time.
Senapati :
The Senapati also called the Mahabaladhikrita or Dandanayak was next in importance to the Mahamatya. Under him were several sub-ordinate officers such Sadhanika, Dussadhya, Baladhipa and others. During pre-medieval times, the cavalry formed an important section of the army. Therefore, proper care was taken for its maintenance. The Sadhanika or Dussadhya was perhaps officer incharge of the cavalry. The Baladhipa was the incharge of the troops posted at out-stations. The Sewadi34 inscription of V. E. 1172 names a Baladhipa Yashovir, who was greatly respected both by the ruler and the Mahajan-Sabha. One more35 inscription dated V. E. 1167 from the above place of the reign of Ashvaraj, mentions Mahasadhanika Pauvi's grandson Uttamraj's son Upalaraj, who made certain donation to Dharmanath temple of the place. The entire department of defence and warfare known as Baladhikarana (Defence department) was head-quartered at the capital. The Senapati was its controlling officer. The Jain inscriptions of Rajasthan do not throw much light on various activities of Senapati and his department. As already stated, the followers of Jainism were mostly from the Vaishya community, whowere not actively partakers in the martial-activities. The KharataragachchhaPattavali, giving a hint to this point mentions that the Vaishyacommunity would be venerated by their business36 activities and not by fighting in the battles.
34. E. I. XI p. 31/Jin Vijay No. /Nahar I No. 843. 35. ibid p. 28-30/Nahar 1 No. 875. 36. The Prithviraj Chauhan and His Times by the Author p. 105.