Sunday, July 15, 2007

In A Celestial Atmosphere

Rajasthan, known mainly for Rajput warriors has also remained an important centre for Jains, since last several centuries. All over Rajasthan you will find several Jain temples, which are noted for their exquisite architecture. Most of the Jain temples in Rajasthan were build around 12th century, still they are in good condition and draws Jains from worldover. Last vacation, I visited the hill station of Mount Abu which is home to Dilwara Jain Temples. Really the grandeur of the temple fascinated me a lot, here, I am sharing some facts about the temple.

One of the most sacred pilgrimage place of Jain community, Dilwara Jain Temples are located 2.5 kms away from Mount Abu. At Dilwara there are two Jain temples, namely Vimal Vasahi temple and Tejpal Temple, which are renowned for their beautiful marble carving.

Vimal Vasahi Temple :
Amongst the temples, Vimal Vasahi is the oldest one. Built in 1031 A.D, this temple is consecrated to the first Tirthankar, Adinath. From its exterior the temple appears very impressive and will fascinate you at first sight. As you enter inside the temple and move to the courtyard you will be just spellbound by the sculpture of 48 elegantly carved pillars. At the central shrine, you will find an image of Adinath and around it there a fifty two identical cells all encraved with dexterity.

Tejpal Temple :
Another temple is the Tejpal Temple which was built in 1230 AD by two brothers - Tejpal and Vastupal. Tejpal temple is dedicated to Neminath, the twenty second Tirthankar. Exquisite intricacy of marble carving is one of its main characteristics that is really praiseworthy. The lotus flower, hanging from the centre of the dome is an instance of dexterity. Apart from architecture, the mango trees and wooded hills around the temple, add more charm to the temple complex.

Some Noteworthy Points

As a visitor, you must know that the visiting hours of the temples is between 12 noon to 6 p.m and if you want to have a snap, then you will be charged rupees five only for using the camera. One most important thing to keep in mind is that no leather garments even belt, camera case, wallets are not allowed to bring inside the temple. While you are at a sacred sanctum, then you must follow the guidelines there because your attitude will divulge your acquaintance. And it is expected from you also.

12 comments:

steve said...

Hi Wanne! Dilwara Jain temples of Rajasthan are quite famous. After going through your text, I have already made up my mind to pay a visit to these stunning pieces of history, very soon.

Unknown said...

Hello! I am a research scholar and very much interested in comparative religions. I have studied a lot about the Dilwara Jain temples and ur blog provided me some noteworthy points related to visit the temple.

steve said...

Hi, I have read the article and it's informative.

Kevin, as you are a student of comparative religions and have read a great deal about the Dilwara Jain Temples, I would like you to share with us some more facts about the temples.

Unknown said...

Hi, Steve, yeah I am student of comparative religion, very soon I will come to you with lots of information about Dilwara Jain temples. Thanks

Unknown said...

Hi Wanne,I am very much influenced by the concept of non-violence of Buddhism.So I am curious to know more about Jainism,another religion from India with similar ideals. Are Jains also idol-worshipper like Hindus?

Anonymous said...

Yes I agree with you, these are some of the finest temples in India.

Srikant said...

many articles just portray the beauty of a place and end. It was quite commendable that you gave helpful tourist information as well....nice work

mukuzs said...

Quite a discription. Good from information point but lacks the energy. Add this too to make it better.

maya said...

thanks..... you provided very useful information related to visit the temple. I'll keep in mind all the points.....

Tulip said...

I have been to Dilwara temple before and it was unlike what you have written.

Anonymous said...

The detailing of Vimal Vasahi Temple and Tejpal Temple in your blog is fascinating. This, I believe, will help tourists in actually understanding how Dilwara Jain Temples look like. So, u gave us a glimpse of Dilwara Jain Temples in a very succinct way. Good Job!

Unknown said...

Hi..Thanks for sharing well researched information about Dilwara Jain Temple. Dilwara Temples are a popular tourist attraction in Mount Abu and draws lots of spiritual followers.