Meaning of the term Devagrahara or Devadana used during Gupta Period
Devagrahara, also known as Devadana, was a term used during the Gupta period of ancient India to refer to a type of land donation made to a deity or a religious institution. In Sanskrit, “deva” means “god” or “deity,” while “grahara” or “dana” means “gift” or “donation.” Therefore, Devagrahara or Devadana can be understood as a gift of land made to a deity or a religious institution.
The Devagrahara system was a form of religious endowment that was commonly used by the ruling elites of ancient India to demonstrate their piety and religious devotion. The lands that were donated were often associated with temples or other religious institutions, and were used to support the maintenance of the temple and its associated rituals and practices.
The Devagrahara lands were typically exempt from taxes and other forms of revenue, and were often endowed with additional privileges and exemptions. The lands were managed by a group of trustees or administrators, who were responsible for ensuring that the income generated by the lands was used to support the religious activities of the associated institution.
Over time, the Devagrahara system became more institutionalized, and the lands came to be controlled by religious institutions such as temples and monasteries. The lands were often endowed with additional privileges and exemptions, and the administrators who managed them enjoyed a high degree of social and political influence.
Despite their privileged status, the Devagrahara lands were not immune to criticism and controversy. Some scholars have argued that the system perpetuated social inequality and reinforced the power of the ruling elites, while others have pointed out that the religious institutions that controlled the lands were often subject to political pressure and manipulation.
Overall, the Devagrahara system was an important feature of the social and religious landscape of the Gupta period, and it played a significant role in shaping the religious and cultural practices of ancient India.