Question map
Which one among the following religions was patronized by Rashtrakutas ?
Explanation
The Rashtrakuta dynasty was renowned for its religious tolerance, supporting Hinduism, Jainism, and Buddhism. However, Jainism received exceptional royal patronage, particularly from later rulers. King Amoghavarsha I, often called the 'Ashoka of the South', was a devout follower of Digambara Jainism under the influence of the monk Jinasena [t8, t10]. He and other rulers like Krishna II and Indra III actively patronized Jainism, leading to the construction of significant Jain basadis (temples) at Manyakheta and Konnur [c1, t8]. While the early Rashtrakutas were staunch supporters of Shaivism—evidenced by Krishna I building the rock-cut Shiva temple at Ellora—Jainism flourished significantly as a state-patronized faith during the 9th and 10th centuries [c1, t4]. Buddhism, by contrast, was in a state of decline during this period, with its influence largely restricted to centers like Kanheri [c1].
Sources
- [1] History , class XI (Tamilnadu state board 2024 ed.) > Chapter 8: Harsha and Rise of Regional Kingdoms > Religion > p. 114