-Mahavir Sanglikar
Matang is a Dalit caste spread all over Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka states of India. We can trace the origin of Matangs in Indus valley civilization. Matangs have ancient history and we can find referances about them in ancient Jain literture.
According to Jain literature, Vinami, was the great grandson of Rishabh the first Teerthankar of Jainism. Vinami's son Matang was the founder of Matang race.
Suparshvanath, the 7th Teerthankar of Jainism himself was a Matang. His Yaksha (attendant god) was also a Matang. The Yaksha of Mahavir the 24th Teerthankar was also a Matang.
Matang Yaksha is Jain God of Prosperity.
Acharya Harikeshi, Maiterya, Chitta and Sambhuti were some of famous Jain Ascetics from Matang Community. Their bio-graphies and work is given in Uttaradhyayan Sutra, the famous Prakrit text of Jains.
We laso find mention of layman Matangs of ancient India, who were disciples of Jain Acharyas.
Matangs had enjoyed higher position and statues in Jain community of ancient India.
Matangs are known as Madigas in Andhra Pradesh.
Matangs are known as Madigas in Andhra Pradesh.
Referances:
1. Matangs in Jain Literature by Prof. Pradeep Phaltane
2. Uttaradhyan Sutra
3. Matang Samajacha Itihas by Prof. Pradeep Phaltane
