|
The Dilwara temples of India are situated in the vicinity of Mt. Abu, the only hill station of Rajasthan. These marble temples date back from the 11th to the 13th century A.D. and are world famous for their stunning sculptures, and carvings which embody heights of elegance and aesthetics.
There are all total five Jain temples in the temple complex, each of which has its own unique identity, though together they are named after the small village in which they are located. Most famous of the Dilwara temples are the Vimal Vasahi and Luna Vasahi temples. The former temple, which is carved entirely out of white marbles, was built in 1021 AD by Vimal Shah, a minister of Raja Bhimdeo.
Vimal Vasahi temple, which is dedicated to Adi Nath- the first Jain Tirthankara- stands in an open courtyard surrounded by a corridor. The ceilings of the temple portray exquisite designs, and scenes from Hindu and Jain mythologies. The highlight of the temple is the Rang Mandap, which is a huge hall supported by 12 decorated pillars and nicely carved arches with a breathtaking central dome. On the pillars of the hall are carved female angels playing musical instruments and 16 Vidhyadevis or the goddesses of knowledge, each one holding her own symbol.
The Luna Vashi temple was built in 1230 AD by two brothers - Vastupal and Tejpal- who were ministers of a local ruler. This fabulous temple was built in memory of their brother Luna, and is dedicated to the 22nd Tirthankara.
The main hall in this temple is also called the Rang Mandap. The hall has a central dome from which hangs an ornamental pendent depicting elaborate carving. The Navchowki is an excellent example of the interesting marble carving of this temple. Each of these nine ceilings seems to exceed the others in architectural skill and grace. There is an idol of the 22nd Jain Tirthankara Neminath at the Gudh Mandap. The Kirthi Stambha is a huge stunning black stone pillar that stands on the left side of the temple.
The rest of the three Dilwara temples are smaller than these two, but just as elegant as the other two are. The Parshavanath temple, dedicated to Lord Parshavnath, was built by Mandlik and his family in 1458-59 A.D. It is a 3-storied building, the tallest of all the shrines at Dilwara. On all the four faces of the sanctum in the ground floor are the four big mandaps. Sculptures in gray sandstone are shown in the outer walls of the sanctum. Mahaveer Swami temple is a small structure that was constructed in the year 1582 A.D. It is dedicated to the founder of Jain religion, the 24th Tirthankara or the Lord Mahaveer.
To know more go to:
| 
