________________
Studies in Jainology, Prakrit
157
temples (basadis) at Sravanabelgola, Karkala, Mudabidire and Halebidu are known for their excellence for structural architecture. Who can forget the free standing pillars (mānastambhas) standing in front of almost every Jaina temple (basadi) in Karnataka, particularly the one at Mudabidire with its having about seven monolithic Bahubali statues set at various centres of Jaina culture in different periods of its history. The one, the colossus, at Śravanabelgola, set by the great Camundaraya in 981 A.D., being world famous, has brought a distinctive cultural status to Karnataka. It would rather sound like a paradox, at the outset when we say that Jainism has its own contribution to Karnataka in the domain of politics as well, But it is a historical fact that entering as a fugitive faith, maintaining intact its religio-spiriual tenets and meta-physical beliefs, Jainism kept on accommodating itself to the age and environment, and gradually became the dominent religion of the land for nearly twelve centuries (200 A.D. to 1300 A.D.) and guided the fortunes of some of the most powerful royal families ruling over it, besides being a creator of kingdoms the Ganga and the Hoysala. During this whole course of history the role of the Jaina teachers was all benevolence both to the rulers as well as the ruled. It is enough, at this context, if we bring back to our memory the words of advice extended by Acārya Simhanandi to the Ganga Kings, Dadiga and Mädhava :“ That if they failed in what they promised, if they did not approve of the Jina-sasana, if they seized the wives of others, if they ate honey or flesh, if they formed relationship with the low, if they gave not of their wealth to the needy and if they fled from the battle-field, then, their race would go to ruin" (Kallurgudda Stone Inscription, dated 1122 A.D.)
-
Helping towards stability and success of many kingdoms in Karnataka for several centuries, the Jain wisdom also endeavoured, all along, for the social uplift and welfare of the land. Cultivating the Kannada vernacular, the Jaina teachers composed numerous works of varied interests and utility. Carefully preserving such and
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org
