Vijnaptipatra of Udaipur

Summary

Vijnaptipatra of Udaipur Summary: B.L. Nahata’s article presents and interprets a vijnaptipatra, an illustrated invitation scroll produced by the Jain sangha of Udaipur in 1856. Vijnaptipatras were large scrolls sent to distant communities inviting them to support festivals or temple constructions; they combined colourful paintings with textual appeals. Nahata explains that the Udaipur scroll is a long horizontal painting depicting scenes of the city, temples, processions, courtly audiences and mythological episodes; the upper portion bears elegantly written text inviting patrons to a religious event. The scroll begins with depictions of Udaipur’s palaces and lakes, then portrays a procession of monks and laymen leaving the city gates; subsequent panels show the delegation meeting King Bharamalji and visiting holy sites such as Mount Abu and Shatrunjaya. Later scenes illustrate episodes from Jain legends, including the story of King Udayana and the miraculous erection of an image, demonstrating the scroll’s didactic purpose. Nahata emphasises the artistry of the miniatures—the fine architectural detail, vibrant costumes and expressive figures—and notes that Persian and Rajasthani influences blend with Jain iconography. In his analysis, he situates the vijnaptipatra within a broader tradition of Jain scroll paintings, comparing it to similar pieces from Ahmedabad and Jaipur and highlighting how such scrolls provided financial support for religious activities and fostered community bonds.