Palnadu, a region often associated with stories of power struggles and revenge, holds a lesser-known history rooted in peace and Jainism. While stories of fierce battles and the legacy of leaders like Veeranari Nagamma against Brahma Naidu capture the imagination, recent historical findings in Macherla town reveal an ancient heritage of Jainism that adds new depth to Palnadu’s past.
A Glimpse into Jain Influence in Macherla
The town of Macherla is home to various artifacts and landmarks suggesting a rich history of Jain worship. According to historian Pavuluri Satish, many of these relics are misunderstood by locals who, over the years, have come to worship Jain Tirthankaras under different names. The statues of Tirthankaras have become symbols of local deities, known as Pothuru and Nagulamma, yet their origins lie in Jain beliefs and practices.
One of the most remarkable discoveries is the statue of Parswanatha, the 23rd Tirthankara, standing in serene meditation under a seven-headed cobra. Found among the tombs of Kambhalamatha, this statue represents the craftsmanship of the era, with Yaksha and Yakshinis at his feet and 23 other Tirthankaras depicted in meditation around him. Historians believe this statue dates back to an earlier period but has been mistakenly associated with Shaivism.
The Mystery of Pothuraja and Poleramma Temple
Another fascinating site in Macherla is the Poleramma Temple in Nagireddy Bazaar, where four Digambara Jain idols can be found on each side of the sanctum. These idols, likely representing Tirthankaras, are worshipped by locals as Poturaju. The temple also holds a donation inscription from the 1313 AD Kakatiya period, providing a valuable historical reference.
The nearby Nagabudduni Shiva Temple, located en route to the Government College on the Nagarjuna Sagar road, is thought to house an idol of Suparswanadha, another Tirthankara. The statue, in meditation under a five-headed cobra, further suggests a Jain heritage that may have been reinterpreted by later traditions.
Has the Chennakesava Temple Once Been a Jainalaya?
Some historians speculate that the Chennakesava Temple, an iconic structure worshipped by locals, may have originally been a Jain temple. Though locals express skepticism, historians argue that further research could reveal hidden Jain connections. The resemblance of several idols found in Macherla to Jain Tirthankaras strengthens the case for a Jain heritage.
Preserving Palnadu’s Hidden History
The recent findings suggest that much of Palnadu’s heritage lies beneath the surface, awaiting discovery and preservation. With each relic and ancient statue unearthed, the rich spiritual and historical significance of Palnadu is revealed, highlighting Jainism’s impact in the region. Pavuluri Satish and other historians urge the local government and residents to actively protect and preserve these historical treasures.
Local communities are calling for government action to preserve these monuments and recognize Palnadu’s Jain heritage. By safeguarding this legacy, future generations can appreciate Palnadu not only as a land of power struggles but as a region that once stood for peace and spiritual depth.
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