Bhadrakali Temple Inscription
Context:
A significant 45-line inscription, written in Sanskrit and dating back to 1169 CE (Vikram Samvat 1225), is embedded in the wall of the ancient Bhadrakali Temple in Prabhas Patan.
Historical Significance:
The inscription chronicles the history of the Somnath Temple, detailing its construction across the four Yugas:
Built of gold by Chandra (Soma) in Satya Yuga
Silver by Ravana in Treta Yuga,
Wood by Shri Krishna in Dvapara Yuga
Stone by King Bhimdev Solanki in Kali Yuga.
It specifically records the fifth reconstruction of the temple by the Solanki ruler Kumarapala in 1169 CE.
The period under Solanki rule is described as Gujarat's Golden Age, where Prabhas Patan flourished as a center of religion, architecture, and literature under the justice of Siddharaj Jaysinh and the devotion of Kumarapala.
Key Figures:
Bhavabrihaspati:
He is a revered Pashupata Acharya mentioned in the inscription.
He requested King Kumarapala to restore the dilapidated temple.
Kumarapala:
The Solanki king is credited with the reconstruction of the temple.