Jain History and Heritage of Vidarbha: Ancient Roots and Living Traditions

thenewsdirt
Jun 18
5 min read

A Mahaveer statue showing the Jain History and Heritage of Vidarbha — Jain History and Heritage of Vidarbha

Vidarbha is home to a remarkable and continuous Jain tradition that has shaped the religious landscape for over two thousand years.

The area reveals a variety of inscriptions, temples, and community activities that highlight the depth and reach of Jainism.

This story is not just about faith, but about the people, their practices, and how they have maintained their identity through changing times.

The name Vidarbha is closely tied to this heritage, and its significance for Jain followers cannot be overstated.

Early Jain Presence in Vidarbha

The roots of Jainism in Vidarbha run deep, with archaeological evidence pointing to a presence as early as the 2nd century BCE.

The oldest known Jain inscription in Maharashtra, found in a cave near Pale village, is written in Jain Prakrit and features the Namokar Mantra.

This discovery, along with others in the region, provides tangible proof of early Jain settlement and worship.

During the Satavahana period (1st to 2nd century CE), Vidarbha experienced significant urban growth. Sites such as Mansar and Nagardhan, now in Nagpur district, have yielded artefacts and structures linked to Jain practices.

These findings suggest that Jain communities were not only present but also active in trade and civic life, integrating their beliefs into the region’s emerging urban centres.

The Vakataka dynasty, which ruled from the 2nd to the 5th century CE, further established Jainism in Vidarbha.

Their capital, Pravarapura (modern Pavnar near Wardha), became a hub for religious activity. Jain monks and scholars found support from the ruling elite, leading to the construction of temples and monastic centres.

The Vakatakas’ patronage helped solidify Jainism as a vital part of Vidarbha’s spiritual and social fabric.

Medieval Expansion and Community Growth

Vidarbha’s Jain community flourished during the medieval period, despite political changes and the rise of new dynasties.

The region’s strategic location made it a crossroads for trade and cultural exchange, which aided the spread and consolidation of Jain practices.

Among the notable sites is the Muktagiri complex, located near Paratwada in Amravati district. This pilgrimage centre features 52 Jain temples, with the oldest dating back to the 13th or 14th century. The cave temple at Muktagiri, with its arched entrance and intricate carvings, houses numerous images of Tirthankaras.

The 26th temple is especially significant for its seven-hooded idol of Parshvanath, a masterpiece of medieval craftsmanship.

Another important site is the ancient temple in Bhatkuli, Amravati district. This temple is home to a black stone idol of Bhagwan Adinath, believed by some to be over 3,000 years old. While the exact age is debated, the temple’s history is rich, with legends linking it to the Mahabharata era.

The idol was hidden underground during the Mughal period and rediscovered in the 18th century, after which the temple was restored and continues to attract devotees.

The architectural style of Vidarbha’s Jain temples is distinctive. Most follow the mandapa-line construction, typical of image-worshipping sects. These temples, built by both Digambara and Svetambara communities, are arranged with porches, halls, and shrines in a linear fashion, leading from the entrance to the main image chamber.

Community Life and Scholarly Contributions

Jain communities in Vidarbha have always been closely knit, with a strong emphasis on education, charity, and ethical living.

The Dhakad community, primarily found in Akola, Yavatmal, Washim, and Amravati districts, is one of the most prominent native Maharashtrian Jain groups.

Their traditions and customs reflect a blend of local practices and Jain religious values.

Nagpur, the largest city in Vidarbha, is home to a vibrant Jain community. With around 35,000 members and approximately 25 temples, the city’s Jain population traces its roots to migrations that occurred about 400 years ago.

These families have integrated into local society while maintaining their religious identity. Nagpur’s Jain temples serve as centres for worship, education, and social service, reflecting the community’s commitment to both spiritual and civic life.

Vidarbha has also been a centre for Jain scholarship. The region has been associated with influential Jain saints and scholars, including Virasena and Jinasena, who contributed to the development of Jain literature and philosophy.

Their works, composed in Maharashtra, have had a lasting impact on the community and continue to be studied and revered.

Today, Vidarbha’s Jain heritage is preserved through a combination of community efforts and archaeological conservation.

The Archaeological Survey of India has protected several sites, such as Padampur in Gondia district, where extensive collections of Jain sculptures and temple remains from the 12th and 13th centuries have been found.

While there is no living Jain community in Padampur today, the site stands as a testament to the region’s historical significance.

In Akola, the 110-year-old Jain Derasar in Tajnapeth is a focal point for the local community. The temple is known for its traditional architecture and intricate carvings. It hosts regular religious services, educational activities, and charitable initiatives that benefit both Jain and non-Jain residents.

The Jain community in Vidarbha remains active in business, education, and social service. Their contributions to local development are widely recognised, and their commitment to ethical living and community welfare sets a positive example for others.

Vidarbha’s Jain history is a story of continuity and adaptation. From ancient inscriptions to modern temples, the region has been a cradle for Jain thought and practice. The community’s ability to maintain its traditions while engaging with broader society is a hallmark of its resilience and relevance.

As Vidarbha continues to evolve, its Jain heritage stands as a reminder of the region’s rich spiritual and cultural legacy. The temples, the texts, and the people all bear witness to a tradition that has endured for centuries and continues to inspire new generations.