Her lecture on "Jaina Culture in South India: Dominance, Dependence and Endurance" will be held on June 16, 2023 at the Ashmolean Museum in Oxford. Prof. Dr. Julia Hegewald will discuss the impressive culture and splendid artistic remains of the Jaina religious group in Karnataka, South India.
Jainism, an ancient religion parallel to Buddhism, flourished during the early centuries CE. Under several royal dynasties, Jainism attained the status of a state religion, leading to the establishment of numerous temple sites.
However, in the 12th century CE, internal changes within Jainism and the emergence of new religious groups posed significant challenges, leading to the active persecution of the Jainas. Despite facing adversity, the Jainas not only endured but also continue to thrive as an active force, producing awe-inspiring sculptural and temple art.
