Jain History of Karwar in Karnataka

Summary

A) Historical Context and Dynastic Rule Following the decline of the Kadamba dynasty, the northern coastal region of Karnataka, encompassing areas south of Goa and north of Mangalore, came under the rule of Jain monarchs from the eighth century onwards. Notably, King Honnama ruled Honnavara during the eighth century. The region witnessed the emergence of three prominent Jain dynasties: the Saluvas of Nagire, the kings of Haduvalli, and the kings of Swadi. These dynasties played a pivotal role in the political and cultural landscape of the region. B) Saluva Dynasty of Nagire The Saluvas governed Gerusoppe (also known as Haivanadu) from approximately 1350 to 1606 CE, with their domain extending from Gerusoppe to Gangavali (Ankola) along the coastal belt. Their administrative center was located near Gerusoppe. King Saluvamalla's reign is particularly noteworthy, as it saw the composition of the Jain Mahabharata in Kannada by the poet Salva, who also authored works like Rasaratnakara, Vaidyasangatya, and Sharadavilasa. Other eminent Jain poets from this period include Battaleshvara, Timmana, Aditappa, and Payana. C) Haduvalli Kingdom The Haduvalli kingdom, established around 1400 CE by Haivarasa, was an offshoot of the Nagire lineage. Haivarasa was recognized for his valor and administrative prowess, extending support to figures like Mangappa, a general in the Vijayanagara Empire. The Haduvalli rulers, known as Haiva or Paiva, developed a distinct sociocultural identity, with linguistic ties evident in the dialects of the region. D) Prominent Rulers and Cultural Contributions Among the notable rulers of Haduvalli were queens Bhairadevi (Chennadevi) and her sister Chennabhairadevi. Chennabhairadevi ascended the throne in 1546 CE and reigned until 1599 CE. She was renowned for her literary and musical acumen, as well as her unwavering commitment to Jainism. During her reign, she fostered harmonious relations with the Portuguese in Goa and the Naikas of Keladi, capitalizing on the region's agricultural wealth, particularly black pepper, to establish a thriving overseas market. Chennabhairadevi's patronage extended to religious and cultural endeavors. She reconstructed Bhatkal, which had been devastated during her sister's rule, and consecrated Jina idols of Ananta, Chandranatha, and Parshva in the Jain temple known as Hirebasadi at Haduvalli. Additionally, her general Jattapanayaka commissioned a notable manastambha in 1536 CE in front of the Ratnatraya Basadi, dedicated to Jina Chandranatha, Ara, and Malli. This pillar is distinguished by its unique five-pillar structure. Chennabhairadevi also supported the poet Vardhamana, contributing to the enrichment of literature in her kingdom. E) Genealogical Records The article provides detailed genealogies of the Saluva and Haduvalli dynasties, tracing the lineage and succession of rulers. These records offer insights into the dynastic transitions and the continuity of Jain rule in the region.