Kharvela [2nd century BCE] | Study Material for UPSC

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Introduction: Kharvela

Kharavela was a significant historical figure in ancient India, renowned for his leadership and military achievements as the ruler of the Kalinga Empire. He ascended to power around the 2nd century BCE and is best known for his reign’s revitalization of Kalinga after a period of decline.

His inscriptions, notably the Hathigumpha inscription in Udayagiri cave, provide invaluable insights into his accomplishments, including successful military campaigns, construction works, and patronage of the arts and religion.

He is particularly celebrated for his efforts in promoting Jainism, as evident from his patronage of Jain monasteries and propagation of Jain teachings.

Important Points

Sources

The only source on the history of this dynasty is the Hathigumpha inscription (near Bhubaneswar) of the 3rd ruler of this dynasty, Kharvela.

Ascension and Early Reign

After the death of Ashoka, the history of Kalinga is shrouded in darkness.
In the 1st century BC, a new dynasty named Meghavahana Dynasty in ancient Kalinga was established.
Kharvela ascended the throne at the age of 24. He was crowned with grandeur and high hopes, intending to fulfill the ideals of Jainism and uplift his people.
He sought to live by Jain principles, emphasizing non-violence, non-possession, and compassion toward all living beings.

Military Successes

He took the title of Chakrabarti (universal monarch).
He expanded his kingdom through conquests across India, from the northwest to the deep south.
His notable achievement was reclaiming the sacred image of Kalinga Jina, taken by the Magadhan king, which symbolized the honor of Kalinga’s Jain heritage.

Infrastructure and Public Welfare

In his first regnal year, Kharavela focused on repairing and enhancing the capital city, Kalinga Nagari.
He repaired gates (Gopur), ramparts (Prakara), and the palace (Nivesana) damaged by a cyclonic storm (Batyahata), making the city fortified and secure.
He constructed several water tanks, embankments, and parks to beautified the city.
He prioritized the defense and infrastructure of Kalinga Nagari in the early years of his rule, By his fifth regnal year, he had completed substantial defense improvements, including the extension of a 300-year-old aqueduct built by Mahapadmananda to bring a consistent water supply to the city. This extension provided a continuous water supply to the capital city and the moat that surrounded the fortification enhancing both the city’s defenses and water availability.
Spent a considerable amount (about 35 lakh coins) on public works and generously distributed 60,000 coins (Karshapanas) among his subjects, showcasing his commitment to their well-being.

Patronage of Jainism

Kharavela was a dedicated follower of Jainism, practicing its principles in his daily life and governance. The Hathigumpha inscription records Kharavela’s deep devotion to Jainism.
He built caves on Udayagiri and Khandagiri hills as residences for Jain monks.
In his 12th year as king, he went on an expedition to Magadha. He defeated the Magadhan army and reclaimed the sacred image of Kalinga Jina, which had been taken in an earlier invasion. This victory restored honor to Kalinga and his royal family.
By his 13th year, he focused fully on religious duties. He supported Jain monks on Kumari hill by providing them with food, clothing, and 117 caves for resting.
At his queen Sindhula’s request, he built a special dwelling near these caves for Jain saints from all over India. This project cost 105,000 coins, showing his commitment to Jainism and to supporting the monks.

Final Years and Lasting Impact

Toward the end of his reign, Kharavela dedicated himself entirely to religious practice on Kumari hill.
Engaged in large-scale construction of 117 caves for Jain monks, allowing them a peaceful place for rest and contemplation.
At the request of his queen Sindhula, he built a grand abode for the Jain monks on Kumari hill, at great personal expense.

Mahameghavahana Dynasty

The Mahameghavahana dynasty was an ancient dynasty that ruled over the Kalinga region, (present-day Odisha), during the 1st and 2nd centuries BCE.
This dynasty is primarily known from inscriptions found in the caves of Udaygiri and Khandagiri.
One of the most prominent rulers of the Mahameghavahana dynasty was King Kharavela, who is believed to have reigned in the 1st century BCE.
The Hathigumpha inscription provides valuable information about King Kharavela’s military victories, political alliances, and contributions to the welfare of his subjects.

Hathigumpha Inscription

The Hathigumpha inscription is a famous ancient inscription found in the Udaygiri caves near Bhubaneswar.
It was written in the 13th year of Kharvela’s reign.
No date is mentioned in the Hathigumpha inscription.
This inscription does not mention the names of the previous rulers of Kharvela.
It is considered one of the most important inscriptions from ancient India and provides valuable historical information about King Kharavela who ruled during the 1st century BCE.
The inscription is carved on the Hathigumpha (Elephant Cave), which is one of the caves on the Udaygiri hill.
It is written in the ancient Brahmi script and the Prakrit language.
The inscription is notable for its detailed account of King Kharavela’s military campaigns, achievements, and contributions to the welfare of his kingdom.

Udaygiri & Khandagiri Caves

The Udaygiri and Khandagiri Caves are ancient rock-cut caves located near Bhubaneswar in Odisha.
These caves were first discovered by Andrew Sterling (a British Officer) in the 19th century AD.
The caves were for the Jain monks.
The major caves are –
- Hathigumpha, The Ganesh Gumpha, The Rani Gumpha, The Vyaghra Gumpha, Barabhuji Gumpha, Trushula Gumpha etc.