Solankis (Chaulkya Dynasty): In the Early Medieval Period, many new dynasties emerged. The Chalukya Dynasty of Gujarat and the Maitrakas of Vallabhi were essential dynasties. They appeared in the Western part of India. Chalukyas of Gujarat ruled over Gujarat and Kathiawar for three and a half centuries. Mularaja established an independent kingdom with Anahilapataka as its capital. From 475 to 776 CE, the Maitraka dynasty controlled Gujarat from its capital Vallabhi. They were Shaivites, except for Dharapaa, who adhered to different beliefs. They were most likely Chandravanshi Kshatriyas.

Chalukyas of Gujarat

The word “Chaulukya” is thought to be a variation of “Chalukya,” and historical dynasties like the Chalukyas of Vatapi, Vemulavada, Kalyani, Vengi, and Lata Chalukyas share this name. While some assume these dynasties are branches of the same family, this connection remains to be proven. Interestingly, the Chaulukyas of Gujarat stand out, as they never claimed a shared ancestry with the oldest Chalukya dynasty, unlike the Chalukyas of Kalyani and Vengi, who proudly traced their descent to the Chalukyas of Vatapi. Notably, the Chaulukyas of Gujarat also refrained from referring to themselves as “Chalukya” in any way.

Let us explore more about the rulers of the Chalukyas of Gujarat.

Mularaja

Mularaja, the resilient founder of the Chalukyas of Gujarat, faced challenges early on. Humiliated by the Paramara Munja, he sought refuge in Marwar. Despite regaining his kingdom, Mularaja later faced defeat at the hands of Kalachuri Lakshmana. His reign stretched from Jodhpur to Narmada, and he was a devout Saiva, constructing two temples in Anahilapataka. The period following Mularaja’s death until Bhima I’s accession was marked by disgrace.

Bhima I

Sultan Mahmud of Ghazni’s invasion shook Bhima I’s kingdom. Fleeing to Kutch as Mahmud approached, Bhima I left a significant mark on Indian architecture. The renowned Dilwara temple in Abu was built during his reign. He eventually passed the throne to his son, Karna.

Karna

Despite a lengthy reign, Karna sought assistance in achieving his goals. Known for constructing numerous temples, Karna also established the city of Ahmedabad. His rule saw the flourishing of cultural and architectural developments in Gujarat.

Siddharaja Jayasimha

Siddharaja Jayasimha, Karna’s successor, ruled for fifty years, expanding his kingdom through conquests. Victorious over the Paramaras and Chahamanas, he even reached Kalinjara and Mahoba in the Chandella kingdom. A devoted patron of literature, Jayasimha transformed Gujarat into a center of learning. Poets and scholars, including Hemachandra, flourished under his rule. The impressive Rudra Mahakala temple in Siddhapura stands as a testament to his devotion. Kumarapala took the throne after his demise.

Kumarapala

Influenced by Hemachandra, Kumarapala embraced Jainism and prohibited animal sacrifice in his kingdom. He worshipped his family deity, Siva, and constructed temples for both Jainas and Brahmins, fostering religious harmony.

Mularaja II

Facing challenges from Ghori and Qutubuddin, Mularaja II stood resilient. Defeating Ghori in 1178, he faced Qutubuddin’s invasion in 1197, resulting in the plunder of Anahilapataka.

Bhima II

Lavanaprasada and his son Viradhavala played vital roles in defending Gujarat against Yadava Singhana’s invasions during Bhima II’s reign.

Later Rulers

Tribhunapala, followed by Virama and Sarangadeva, continued the lineage. Karna, the last Hindu king of Gujarat and Sarangadeva’s nephew, marked the end of an era.

Art And Architecture

The Chalukya kings were great art patrons. The magnificent architectural activity during their reign was due to their active support.

• Vastupala and Tejapala (ministers of Bhima II) competed to encourage arts.
• The entire province was strewn with monuments with unique designs and lavish execution.
• The earliest structures are the four temples at Sunak, Kanoda, Delmal, and Kesara.
• All of these are within a fifteen-mile radius of Anahilapataka (Patan).
• One of the more prominent temples is the Surya temple in Modhera, near Baroda.
• One of the best examples of Solanki art is the Jaina temple of Vimala in Mount Abu, Rajputana.

Conclusion

Kumarapala, a ruler hailing from the Chaulukya (Solanki) dynasty in Gujarat, was born as the son of Bhima I within the Chalukya lineage. Most of what we know about him comes from inscriptions in Sanskrit and Apabhramsa-Prakrit languages, along with Jain literature. His reign extended over present-day Gujarat and nearby regions, with Anahilapataka serving as his capital.

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