Holy Abu

SR No.: 023259
Original Sutra Author: N/A
Author: Jayantvijay
Publisher: Yashovijay Jain Granthmala
Publication Year: 1954
Total Pages: 380
Language: English
Classification: Book_English
File Size: 14 MB

Page 118

Vimala-Vasahi]
35
Number of Idols and other details about Vimala-Vasahi :— In the main sanctum (mulagabhāro in Gujarāti, mulagarbhagṛha, Sk.) is worshipped as mula-nayaka (chief
cles
Whatever the cause of the destruction of the earlier pinnamay be, and whatever their original size, the later repairers could not spend enough, obviously because Muslim invasions and loot had rendered these parts poorer; the cultural and artistic activities had also degenerated due to uncertain social and political conditions created by successive invasions and internal warfare (between different petty states). Moreover, successive demolitions of these shrines might have led the people to build small temple-tops in order that the shrines may not be easily marked out from a distance. It is noteworthy that the Chaumukha shrine in the group of Delvāḍā temples, erected in c. 15th century A. D., is pretty high, though of an inferior workmanship. But in that age conditions had stabilised a little and people could erect temples like this or magnificent unique architectural specimens like the Chaumukha shrine at Rāņakapur at huge costs-Translator.
1 In Jaina temples:
(1) Mula-garbhagṛha or Mulagabhāro Main sanctum of a
shrine.
a
=
(2) Gudhamanḍapa - The hall immediately in front of (I) and leading into the latter. (3) (a) Chha-choki - A maṇḍapa or
pavilion in front of (2) and leading into (2). Its ceiling is divided into six different compartments by means of pillars supporting its roof.
(b) Navachoki = Sometimes (3) is made up of nine bays or compartments when it is called a Navachoki. (4) Rangamanḍapa or Sabhamandapa:-This is a bigger hall, a general assembly-hall or pavilion (often open on three sides or on all the four sides) in front of (3), with a number of pillars supporting its roof or ceiling. The general assembly-hall is used also for musical concerts and other festivities celebrated in the temples.