Some Jaina Inscriptions of Andhra
By N. Mukunda Rao
Summary
This article presents three key Jain inscriptions from Andhra Pradesh, offering insights into Jain patronage, religious architecture, and socio-political structures of the 11th century: Sirur Inscription of Bhuvanaikamalla (1073 AD): 1) Located in Medak district; composed in Telugu-Kannada. 2) Mentions Aggala, a royal physician (Naravaidya) and influential Jain donor, who built multiple basadis (temples) and donated land for their upkeep. 3) Aggala was a Jain devotee, expert in Śāstra-chikitsa (surgical medicine), and a respected scholar and administrator. 4) Saidupur Inscription of Jagadekamalla I (1034 AD): 5) From Nalgonda district; also highlights the role of Aggalayya, a physician and village head. 6) Records his donations of land and wealth to Jain basadis in Mucchanapalli and Ikkuriki. 7) Demonstrates the integration of medical professionals in administrative roles and their recognition by the Chalukya kings. 8) Ramachandrapur Inscription of Trailokyamalladeva (1064 AD): 9) Found in Medak district. Documents King Trailokyamalla’s endowments to the Nadikuligeya Basadi after honoring the Jain teacher Chandra Siddhantadeva. 10) Important politically—it evidences Western Chalukyan presence in Vengi Nadu, a region contested by the Cholas. 11) Reflects both religious patronage and military strategy during a period of inter-dynastic conflict.
Conclusion
These inscriptions reflect the flourishing Jain presence in medieval Andhra Pradesh, supported by both elite donors like physicians and monarchs. The Jain religious infrastructure—including temples, monastic orders, and charitable grants—was not only a spiritual endeavor but also a site of political assertion and cultural prestige. Figures like Aggala and kings like Trailokyamalla played crucial roles in intertwining Jain religious patronage with statecraft and intellectual life.