Bijjala II: Architect of the Kalachuri Ascendancy
Unveiling the reign of a pivotal ruler who challenged empires and navigated religious currents in medieval India.
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Introduction
The Mahamandaleshwara
Bijjala II (also known as BijjalaDeva) reigned approximately from 1130 to 1167 CE. He initially served as a Mahamandaleshwara, a significant regional governor, under the Kalyani Chalukyas. His domain encompassed crucial territories designated as Karhada-4000 and Tardavadi-1000, indicating substantial administrative and military authority within the larger Western Chalukya kingdom.
A Pivotal Figure in the Deccan
Bijjala II stands out as the most prominent ruler of the Southern Kalachuri lineage. His reign marked a period of significant political transition in the Deccan Plateau, characterized by the decline of established empires and the rise of new powers. His actions directly influenced the political landscape for over two decades.
The Rise to Power
Seizing Opportunity
Following the death of the powerful Kalyani Chalukya emperor Vikramaditya VI, the empire experienced a period of weakening. Observing this decline, Bijjala II recognized an opportune moment to assert his independence. This strategic move was part of a broader trend, as other feudatories, such as Prola II of the Kakatiya dynasty, also began to break free from Chalukya suzerainty around the same period.
Assuming Imperial Authority
By 1162 CE, Bijjala II had successfully driven the last Chalukya ruler, Taila III, out of Kalyani, the Chalukyan capital. This decisive victory allowed him to claim imperial titles, including Sriprithvivallabha and Parameshvara, traditionally held by sovereign rulers. He subsequently shifted his capital from Mangalavada to Kalyani, renaming it Basavakalyan, establishing it as the new center of his burgeoning Kalachuri kingdom.
A Title of Greatness
An inscription found at Chikkalagi refers to Bijjala II with the grand title Mahabhujabalachakravarti. This Sanskrit epithet translates to "the great ruler (cakravartin) with strong (bala) arms (bhuja), who is unopposed (maha)". This title underscores his military prowess and his ambition to establish an independent and dominant kingdom in the region.
This section details Bijjala II's declaration of independence and capture of Kalyani. Please note that the original source article indicates a need for additional citations to fully verify these specific claims regarding the timeline and events surrounding his assumption of imperial titles and the shift of the capital.
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Religion and Social Currents
Devotion to Jainism
Bijjala II was a devout follower of Jainism, a religious tradition shared by many of his Kalachuri predecessors. Historical records and inscriptions confirm his patronage of Jain scholars (acharyas) and his issuance of land grants to Jain temples. Jainism held significant influence within his court, and he maintained strong ties with its monastic orders.
The Rise of Virashaivism
His reign coincided with a pivotal moment in religious history: the emergence of the Virashaiva (or Lingayat) movement, spearheaded by the influential reformer Basavanna. Basavanna served as Bijjala II's Mahamāndraka (prime minister), demonstrating the ruler's willingness to engage with diverse societal forces.
Coexistence and Conflict
Despite his personal commitment to Jainism, Bijjala II permitted Basavanna to propagate his reformist teachings and establish the Anubhava Mantapa, a council for spiritual and social discourse. However, this period also saw rising tensions between traditional religious groups and the burgeoning Lingayat followers. These internal conflicts ultimately contributed to the political instability of his later reign.
End of an Era
Assassination and Instability
Bijjala II's rule was ultimately marked by significant turbulence, encompassing both political challenges and social unrest. Historical accounts suggest that he was assassinated in 1167 CE, reportedly by radical factions within the Sharanas movement, followers of Basava. While Basava himself is not implicated in the assassination, the event precipitated a period of political instability in Kalyani.
Succession
Following Bijjala II's demise, the throne was passed to his younger son, Sovideva, who reigned from approximately 1167 to 1176 CE. The succession marked the continuation of the Kalachuri dynasty but occurred amidst the lingering effects of the internal strife that had plagued Bijjala II's final years.
References
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References
References
- Settar, S. (1989). Jaina Art and Architecture, Vol.â¯2. Delhi: Agam Kala Prakashan. p.â¯78.
- Kamath, Suryanath U. (2001). A Concise History of Karnataka: From Pre-historic Times to the Present. Bangalore: Jupiter Books. p.â¯134.
- Sastri, K.A. Nilakanta (1955). A History of South India from Prehistoric Times to the Fall of Vijayanagar. Oxford University Press. p.â¯366.
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