The Jaina-Srivaishnava Accord

India has a long tradition of religious tolerance practised by rulers big and small. From the times of emperor Ashoka (273-232 BC) they have patronised all creeds alike, irrespective of their own personal faith. In this respect one inscription of Vijayanagar king, Bukka I (1356-77 CE) narrates a poignant incident, wherein the king himself interfered to bring harmony between two powerful dissenting sects, Jains and Srivaishnavas or followers of Ramanujacharya. It is known as the Jaina-Srivaishnava Accord and as Edict of Bukka I in Indian history.

There was once a conflict between Jains(referred to as the bhavyas) and Shrivaishnavas (referred to as the bhaktas). The Jains complained to the king about the injustice done to them. The king personally examined the issue, visited the spot and proclaimed that there was no distinction between the two creeds and that they will not be treated differently.

The king took the hand of the Jains and placing it in the hands of Srivaishnavas, with representatives of both the communities watching, declared:

"There is no difference between Vaishnava darsana (Srivaishnava faith) and Jaina darsana (Jaina faith).... If loss is caused to Jaina darsana through the bhaktas, the Vaishavas will kindly deem it as loss to their own darsana. The Srivaishnavas to this effect, may kindly set up a proclamation (Sasana) in all the basadis of the kingdom. As long as the Sun and the Moon endure, the Vaishnava creed will continue to protect Jaina darsana. The Jainas and Vaishnavas are one body".

The inscription further lays down a condition that the Srivaishnavas were to appoint twenty servants and a bodyguard and arrange maintenance of the holy place of Belagola, from the specified levy-money. "He who transgresses this rule is a traitor to the king, to the Sangha (united body) and Samudaya (Community at large)," the inscription warned.

Both the communities or creeds uniting bestowed the title of "Sangha Nayaka" (Community Leader) on Basuvi Setti, who made petition to the king. He was perhaps a mediator who guarded interests of both the communities.