Structural Temples of Gujarat

SR No.: 006728
Original Sutra Author: N/A
Author: Kantilal F Sompura
Publisher: Gujarat University Ahmedabad
Publication Year: 1968
Total Pages: 868
Language: English
Classification: Book_English
File Size: 31 MB

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The Structural Temples of Gujarat The temple of A jitanātha at Taranga Hill (Dist. Mehsana) is said to have been built by Kumārapāla, and is dedicated to Ajitanatha, the 2nd Tirthankara. 166/1
The temple measures about 45.7 x 30.5 ms. inclusive of porches of the mandapa.
In the arrangement of the plan it will be noticed that the mandapaa is entered from 3 sides, with porches on the North and South supported by two advanced columns but on the front the porch is greatly enlarged having ten columns. 167
At the main entrance, there are 8 pillars of the biggest size with carving at the bottom as well as at the top. On the North and the South, the entrance is supported by similar two pillars. The temple has a big Gūdhamaņdapa with niches.
The central dome is supported on 8 pillars beautifully carved. Eight statues with various musical instruments are represented as standing on the pillars.
The shrine consists of a sanctum with its ambulatory and three balconied windows, and a gūdhamaņdāpa flanked by porches on either side with the frontal porch. The height of the temple is about 38-6 meters. It has a storied arrangement externally as indicated by repetition of Jangha and other mouldings in the maņdovara. 166/1. The temple was repaired in 16th Cent. A. D. On the wall of the temple there is an inscription recording a restoration in the time of Akabar (E. I. Vol. II. p. 33 f. n. 29)
The renovations then carried out to this temple are not of such a nature as to alter the fundamental structure and appearance of the temple. So, as suggested by S. K. Saraswati (SE. f. 597), it retains its original form and design to a very great extent.
Recently an attempt has been made to retouch the sculptures on mandovara etc. This restoration work, on a large scale, is carried out under the auspices of Sheth Anandji Kalayanji's Pedḥi. (Ahmedabad) 167. AANG. p. 114 Plt. CIX; Here figs. 105, 105/a & 228.