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U.P.P.C.S. Pre 2010

Jainism in Western India

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

The great Jain Scholar Hemchandra adorned the court of:

Solution & Analysis

Answer: B

Concept Hemchandra was a polymath who significantly influenced the religious and political landscape of Gujarat during the Chaulukya period.

Explanation Hemchandra (1088–1172) was the spiritual advisor to the Chaulukya king Kumarapala. He is famously credited with converting Kumarapala to Jainism.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Hemchandra was a prolific writer, authoring the *Trishashti-shalaka-purusha-charita* and various works on grammar and poetics.
Logic 2: Under his influence, Kumarapala enforced Jain principles of non-violence (*Ahimsa*) throughout his kingdom, including bans on animal slaughter.

Active Recall

Question

What title was Hemchandra known by due to his vast knowledge?

Answer

He was known as 'Kalikala Sarvajna' (The Omniscient of the Kali Age).

Core Insight

The relationship between Hemchandra and Kumarapala is a prime example of the deep integration of Jain scholars in the administrative and ethical frameworks of medieval Indian states.

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