Jain Journal 2000 01

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

Page 19

KUMARI : JAINISM DURING THE WODEYARS OF MYSORE
131 upholders of the cultural and religious interest of the Jaina community and they could do this due to their amicable relationship with the rulers.
Developmental programme of Sri Ksetra and the Wodeyars
Sri Ksetra that was functioning in full swing during the time of Raja Wodeyar (1578-1617) suffered a sudden setback within a short period. Sparing references found in the sources provide an idea with regard to the developmental work undertaken to improve the conditions of the holy center and the personal involvement of the Wodeyar's in it. Inscription on the Indragiri hill at Sravanabelagola dated 1632 A.D. throws light on the dilapidated financial position of the Jaina Matta and the subsequent grants of villages made by Chamaraja Wodeyar IV (1617-1637) to improve the economic condition of Sri Matta. 110
Dodda Devaraja Wodeyar (1659-1672) renewed all kinds of grants made by his predecessors. The benevolent king also made grant of money and donated the village called Madane for the upkeep of the holy center. 111
Jainism made a deep impression on Chikkadevaraja Wodeyar particularly during the early part of his reign. Before ascending the throne, during the reign of his predecessor, he paid a visit to Sravanabelagola, and made gifts to provide for the daily distribution of food to the acharyas. 112 Under his rule, Annaiah, son of Javanasettya, was the officer in charge of the mint and treasury. 113 It is stated that he performed his duties conscientiously and was favoured by his master. He constructed a pond at Sravanabelagola in between the two hills- Indragiri and Chandragiri. This Kalyani was also further beautified by him with additional towers and Prākāra around it. It was dedicated to the ruler and was named after Chikkadevaraja Wodeyar. 114
Dodda Krishnaraja Wodeyar (1713-1731) took steps to provide the necessary support to meet the requirements of the holy center. He granted many villages like --Aranahalli, Hosahalli, Uttanahalli, Jinnanahalli, Rachanahalli, Vastigrama, Kabbalu etc., as
110. EC. Vol. II, No. 352. (Sb). 111. Stala Purana published in Indian Antiquary 1873, p. 132. 112. EC. Vol. V., No. 275. (Cn); It is doubtful whether this grant was made
by him. or by his predecessor Doddadevaraja. 113. Rajavali, p. 286. 114. EC. Vol. II, Nos. 351, 501. (Sb).