Rise and Glory History of Halari Visa Oshwals

Author(s): Rati Dodhia
Publisher: Rati Dodhia

Page 52

Chapter 6. Origin of Oshwal Community
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Sachiya Mata's temple is located on the hill in the center of the village. The temple has been restored many times as evidenced by the stone inscriptions. The image of Mata is almost a mirror image of Mahishasurmardini. Many stories are engraved on the outer walls of the temple. The temple is magnificent and is famous worldwide among the Oshwals; many Oshwal families come here to adore the communal deity. Of all the Jaina temples of Osiya, Mahavir temple has a special significance. From the images and the scenes of social life inside and out side the temples it appears that it was under the control of Svetambers. Among the ruins an old Government billboard of 1864 A.D. is still to be seen on which there is a warning by a British Colonel that the killing of animals and birds is not allowed near the temple.
Even now the coins are discovered in the rainy season. They are made of silver weighing approximately 0.7 Grams, with a depiction of a donkey (gardabh) on one side. According to a folk story this region was ruled by King Gardabhil 17 years before Vikram Samvat. A Shak chieftain defeated King Gardabhill but his brave son Vikramaditya defeated the Shaks and became Emperor. To commemorate his victory he initiated the Vikaram Samvat era. This proves that City of Osyia was founded before time of Vikramaditya.
In sixth century this was a kingdom of Pratihar Dynasty. Many temples built at that time or possibly restored during the time of Pratihar Kings, are still in existence today, showing the high quality of craftsmanship of that period. The power, which Pratihar kings commanded is seen during the reign of Chauhan King Kumar Singh. In his time the city had grown huge. In V.S. 1252 a Turkey army passed through the region and destroyed the city. There are stories and poems of flight of the Oshwals residing in that area. It is said that due to the curse of Sachiya Devi no person of Oshwal sect can remain there. The Upkesh Gacch