Skip to main content

What Makes Bhojshala Temple an Iconic Center of Learning?

By Dharmishthaba

Bhojshala Temple: A Golden Age of Paramara Dynasty 

Dhar Temple Pillar 
Credit: Wikipedia 

INTRODUCTION 

Raja Bhoja, a prominent ruler of the Paramara dynasty from 1000 to 1055 A.D., was celebrated for his support of education. He established a college in Dhar, known as Bhojshala, where students from various regions gathered to expand their knowledge. The remnants of Bhojshala, now referred to as the temple of Saraswati, can still be observed in the well-known Kamal Maulana Mosque.  Subsequently, the mosque was converted by the Muslim rulers of Dhara.

History of the Paramara Dynasty

The Paramaras governed a vast region in and around Malwa for four centuries, spanning from the 9th to the 13th centuries. The most renowned rulers of this dynasty were Vakpati Munja and Bhojadeva. Munja was celebrated for his military prowess, poetic talent, and patronage of arts and literature. His court attracted renowned poets such as Dhananjaya, Halayudha, Dhanika, Padmagupta, and Amitagati, the author of Navasahasankacharita, Amitagati, etc. He notably oversaw the construction of the Munja Sagar reservoir at Dhar and Mandu, along with the erection of exquisite temples at various locations.

Water Reservoir at Mandu 
Credit: Inditales


Bhojadeva, the most prominent Parmaras king in Indian History, was known for his role as a soldier, builder, scholar, and writer. Credited with authoring numerous books on various subjects like grammar, astronomy, poetics, architecture, and asceticism. Moved his capital to Dhar from Ujjain, establishing a Sanskrit university known as Bhoja Shala with an idol of Goddess Saraswati. Rebuilt temples, notably the grand temple in Bhojapur, and constructed a vast lake nearby.
Bhojshala Sanskrit University 
Credit: Satyaaragh
 
The Bhojshala Temple's history shifted during Al-ud-din Khilji's rule in the Delhi Sultanate. In the 13th century, Khilji seized the temple, transforming it into a mosque. Despite the turmoil, the temple stood as a symbol of resilience.

Bhojshala 

The remains of the Bhojshala, also known as the temple of Saraswati, can still be observed in the renowned Kamal Maulana Mosque, which was converted into a mosque by the Muslim rulers of Dhar in the past.
Credit: OpIndia 

Architecture Features: 

  • Spacious open court and front porch characterize the mosque's layout.
  • Flanked by colonnades on the sides, creating an aesthetically pleasing architectural design.
  • Sizeable prayer hall at the western rear, contributing to the grandeur of the mosque.
  • Ceilings delicately adorned with intricate designs, suggesting a shared architectural heritage with Bhojshala.
  • Engraved stone slabs affixed to the mosque walls bear valuable compositions.
  • Two odes to the Kurmavtara (crocodile, incarnation of Vishnu) written in Prakrit, showcasing religious and cultural significance.
  • Sarpabandha pillar inscriptions containing the Sanskrit alphabet and grammatical terminations of ten tenses, providing linguistic insights.
  • The inscriptions date back to the 11th-12th century A.D., pointing to a connection with the Paramara dynasty.
  • Sanskrit Stanzas in Anustubh Metre: Mention of Udayaditya and Narvarman, Paramara kings who succeeded King Bhoja, establishes a historical link. 
  • Inscriptions on the reverse side of black stone slabs forming the lining of mehrab reveal a dramatic composition. Composed in classical Sanskrit during the reign of Arjunavarma Deva (A.D. 1299-10 to 1215-18).
  • The drama, named Karpuramanjari, authored by Royal Tutor Madana, showcases the literary and cultural richness of the period. References within the play to wars between the Paramaras and the Chalukyas, concluding with a matrimonial alliance, provide a glimpse into the historical context.
  • These inscriptions add layers to the historical narrative, connecting different eras and rulers within the region.
Bhojshala Pillar Inscription 
Credit: wikimedia commons
Sarpabandha pillar inscriptions, Bhojshala
Credit: Rattibha 

Kamal Maulana Mosque
Credit: Rattibha 

Dhar: An Important Center of the 1857 Revolt

In the 19th century, Dhar became a significant focal point during the 1857 revolt against British colonial rule. The town assumed a crucial role in the uprising, with prominent local figures such as Anand Rao Peshwa taking charge. Dhar served as a rallying point for freedom fighters, leveraging its strategic position and historical importance to bolster the rebellion.

Bhojshala Temple stands as a living testament to India's cultural and historical tapestry. From the glory days of the Paramara dynasty to the tumultuous times of Al-ud-din Khilji and the cultural renaissance under Raja Bhoj, the temple complex weaves together a narrative of resilience, creativity, and spiritual significance.

How to Reach

By Air:

  • The nearest airport is Devi Ahilyabai Holkar Airport (IDR) in Indore, approximately 90 km from Dhar. 

By Train:

  • There is no railway station in Dhar. The nearest railway station of Dhar is Indore, which is 60 km from Dhar. Ratlam which is
    93 km by road from Dhar.

By Road:

  • Dhar is well-connected by road to major cities in Madhya Pradesh and neighbouring states.
  • You can take a bus or hire a taxi from cities like Indore, Bhopal,  and Ujjain.




Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

From Ancient Texts to Modern Understanding: Bhaskara II's Mathematical Odyssey

By Dharmishthaba
  Bhaskara II Credit: ishot Introduction Bhaskara II, also known as Bhaskaracharya, was a renowned Indian mathematician and astronomer who flourished in the 12th century. He revolutionized various branches of mathematics, such as algebra, geometry, and trigonometry, through his groundbreaking contributions. Bhaskara II was inspired by his father, Mahesvara, a well-known mathematician and astronomer, to pursue a passion for the subject. He initially received his education from his father and later studied at the prestigious Ujjain University , known for its excellence in mathematical education.  Bhaskara II is the only ancient mathematician honoured with a dedicated monument. In 1817, Colebrooke became the first European to translate Bhaskara II's mathematical classics into English. Bhaskara II oversaw a cosmic observatory in Ujjain, the primary mathematical hub in ancient India. His works significantly advanced the mathematical and astronomical knowledge of the 12th century...
Post a Comment
Read more

Jamnagar Chronicles: Tales of Valor and Culture

By Dharmishthaba
Jamnagar: Gateway to Gujarat's Rich Cultural Tapestry Pratap Vilas Palace Credit: Gujaratexpert  INTRODUCTION  In 1540, Jam Raval founded Jamnagar as the capital of the Princely State of Nawanagar around Ranmal Lake. Maharaja Ranjitsinhji renovated the city in the 1920s, leading to the city being commonly referred to as Jamnagar or “the city of Jams".  'Jam' means 'king', reflecting the Jadeja Rajput rulers' lineage believed to be from Krishna’s Yadava clan. Legend says Krishna resettled the Yadavas from Mathura to Dwarka, now in Jamnagar district. HISTORY Jamnagar has a rich history that dates back over 444 years. It was established by Shri Jam Raval , a descendant of Jam Halla and one of the heirs of Lord Krishna. The city has faced various challenges over the centuries, from the Mughals to the modern era. Shri Jam Ranjitsinhji played a crucial role in revitalizing Jamnagar from 1909 to 1932, overseeing the development of wide roads, markets, gardens, ...
Post a Comment
Read more

Courtesan Chronicles: Inside Heeramandi

By Dharmishthaba
The upcoming web series   “Heeramandi”   by celebrated   director Sanjay Leela Bhansali  explores the historical context of   Lahore’s renowned red-light district.   Though plot details are kept under wraps, viewers can anticipate a narrative that draws from the rich tapestry of history, culture, and societal complexities of the period. Beyond the Red Lights: Life in Heeramandi The history of Heeramandi can be traced back to the  Mughal era,  a time when Lahore was the capital of the empire. During this period, the city thrived as a centre of trade, culture, and intellectual exchange.  Heeramandi also known as Shahi Mohalla  emerged as a prominent district where  courtesans, known as  tawaifs   or nautch girls, flourished. The courtesans of Heeramandi were highly skilled in various  performing arts, including dance, music, poetry, and conversation.  They entertained the nobility, merchants, and intellectuals with...
Post a Comment
Read more