Jain Journal 1978 04

Author(s): Jain Bhawan Publication
Publisher: Jain Bhawan Publication

Page 31

APRIL, 1978
in the area during the period to which these relics belong. But no definite evidence of Jaina antiquities can be ascertained on the basis of these huge finds.
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43
Besides Vaisali, Jayamangalagarh (North Monghyr and a part of ancient Mithila) is popularly believed to have been an ancient seat of the Jainas,11 though we have no definite corroborative evidences, literary or archaeological, to support or reject this traditional view. The Mauryan ruler, Samprati, is also held by tradition as a great patron of the Jainas and builder of the numerous Jaina temples42 but unfortunately no remains are extant today." In the case of Bhagalpur, the ancient Anga Desa (some portions of which definitely formed parts of ancient Mithila) we have a few Jaina antiquities. Mandara Hill is supposed to be one of the sacred places of the Jainas. It was here that Vasupujyanatha, the twelfth Tirthankara, attained his nirvāṇa. The top of this hill is a great object of veneration for the Jaina community. The structure is said to have belonged to Sravakas or Jainas and one of the rooms still contain a caraṇa. A few other Jaina relics were also found on the top of the hill.44 Karnagarh hill near Bhagalpur also contains numerous ancient Jaina relics. We have a reference to a Jaina Vihara to the north of the ancient fort.
Thus in the light of the above stated facts we can say beyond doubt that the torch of Jainism which was lit up in Mithila has kept burning in the state of Bihar as well as in other parts of the country.
41 For the antiquities, history etc. of Jayamangalagarh, see G. D. college Bulletin Series. Nos. 1-4.
42 Brhat-kalpa-bhasya, Vol. III, gathas 3285-89ff, 917-21.
43 U. P. Shah, op. cit., p. 6.
44 Beglar, Archaeological Survey of India, Vol. III; Qureshi, Ancient Monuments of Bihar and Orissa, (Section on Bhagalpur).