King Kharavela of Jainism

Kharavela of Jainism

Introduction

King Kharavela was a ruler from ancient India who lived around the second century BCE during the reign of Ashoka Maurya's grandson Dasharatha. He is significant within Jain history because he ruled over regions where Jains were prominent, making him one of the few major kings in the tradition to have been identified by name in Jain texts. While there remains some debate over his identity, the king described in the Mahavamsa and the Divyavadana of the Chinese pilgrim Fa Xian can be considered as likely candidates for Kharavela.

Geographical Area

The geographic area covered by Kharavela included present-day Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Chattisgarh, Telangana, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Uttarakhand, Nepal, and even parts of Pakistan and Afghanistan. This extensive territory suggests that Kharavela had a significant influence across much of India.

The Hatigumpha Inscription

One of the primary sources of information about Kharavela comes from the Hatigumpha Cave inscriptions, which were discovered in 1897. These inscriptions include references to a king named Kharavela, providing evidence of his existence and rule. The text mentions that Kharavela, guided by Mahavira's teachings, made offerings to the Jina of Vihara, and this act of devotion was recorded with deep reverence.

Military Campaigns

Details about Kharavela's military campaigns are limited due to the scarcity of historical records. However, it is known that he was a great warrior and ruled over territories that had diverse cultures, languages, religions, and ethnicities. His military prowess allowed him to expand the kingdom beyond its original borders, enhancing the power and prestige of the region.

Kalinga Empire

Kharavela was also the founder of the Kalinga Empire. The empire was initially part of the Mauryan Emperor Chandra Gupta II's Magadhan Empire until it became independent under the rule of King Kharavela. The exact reasons for the separation are unclear, but it is believed that Kharavela may have established himself as the viceroy of the region before eventually declaring independence.

Religious Contributions

In religious terms, Kharavela can be categorized as a liberal king who held Jainism and Buddhism in equal esteem. He did not force any particular religion upon people living in his domain. Instead, Kharavela allowed individuals to follow their own beliefs without hindrance. This inclusive attitude toward different religions set an example for future rulers.

Legacy

Despite the lack of comprehensive historical records, Kharavela's legacy lives on in various forms. His rule and achievements have been immortalized in local folklore and traditional ballads, which continue to be sung across Odisha and other regions. The Hatigumpha Cave inscriptions stand as a testament to his reign and his contributions to the region.

Conclusion

In summary, Kharavela was an influential king who ruled over a vast territory during the second century BCE. His rule saw the establishment of the Kalinga Empire, which expanded beyond its original borders. Kharavela's religious tolerance, evident in his support for both Jainism and Buddhism, set an example for future rulers. While there remain uncertainties about his identity and the details of his rule, Kharavela's impact on the region and its people continues to be felt even today.