The land donated to Jain institutions is described as ______ in Chola inscriptions.
- ((a))
Devdan
- ((b))
Pallichandam
- ((c))
Velnavagai
- ((d))
Brahmadeya
Show Answer
Pallichandam
The correct answer is Pallichandam.

Key Points
- Pallichandam refers to land donated to Jain institutions during the reign of the Chola dynasty. The term is explicitly mentioned in Chola inscriptions.
- The Cholas were known for their patronage of various religions, including Jainism, and they granted lands to Jain establishments for religious and educational purposes.
- The land donated under Pallichandam was primarily used for establishing Jain monasteries or "palli," which were centers of learning and worship for Jain monks and followers. Hence, this term signifies donations to Jain institutions.
- Devdan refers to land or gifts donated to Hindu temples or Brahmanical institutions. It is not associated with Jain establishments. Hence, this option is incorrect.
- Velnavagai is a term used for land grants made by the Chola rulers to non-religious institutions or for administrative purposes. It does not specifically relate to Jain institutions. Hence, this option is incorrect.
- Brahmadeya refers to land donated to Brahmins for religious and social purposes, often for conducting Vedic rituals. It is unrelated to Jain institutions. Hence, this option is incorrect.
- Hence, the correct answer is Pallichandam.

Additional Information
- Chola Dynasty:
- The Chola dynasty ruled southern India from the 9th century CE to the 13th century CE. They were known for their administrative efficiency, temple architecture, and patronage of art and religion.
- The Cholas supported multiple religions, including Hinduism, Jainism, and Buddhism, by donating lands and resources to religious institutions.
- Religious Land Grants:
- Land grants were a common practice under the Chola dynasty. They often donated land to temples, monasteries, and educational centers to promote religious and social activities.
- Pallichandam land grants were specifically given to Jain institutions, ensuring their religious practices and educational activities thrived.
- Example: Many Jain monasteries in Tamil Nadu, such as those in Sittannavasal, were established through Pallichandam grants.
- Other Land Grants:
- Devdan: Land donated to Hindu religious institutions, often temples.
- Velnavagai: Land grants made for administrative purposes or non-religious use.
- Brahmadeya: Land donated to Brahmins, typically for conducting Vedic rituals and other religious purposes.

Important Points
- Significance of Land Donations:
- Land donations under the Chola dynasty played a vital role in promoting religious practices, education, and art. These grants often became centers of community development.
- Specific terms such as Pallichandam, Devdan, Velnavagai, and Brahmadeya highlight the diverse purposes for which land was granted.
- Jainism under the Cholas:
- Jainism enjoyed royal patronage during the Chola period, with grants like Pallichandam ensuring the establishment and functioning of Jain institutions.
- The Chola inscriptions serve as a valuable source of historical information about the socio-religious practices of the era.
















































































