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 159

Holy Abra
(29) Cell no. 40, second ceiling. The figure in the centre of this slab represents the goddess Lakshmi, surrounded on all sides by other gods and goddesses. 2 On the sides of the beams enclosing it, are carved figures of standing Tirtharkaras. Each. Jina is suțrounded by figures of Vidyādharas (flying demi-gods ) riding on a swan, a peacock or a horse and carrying in their hands, the waterjar, the fruit or the fly-whisk.
( 30 ) Cell 42, second ceiling. On the two side panels are carved beautiful figures of Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, lustrated by elephants on two sides.
(31-32-33) In each of the second ceilings in front of cells 43, 44 and 45, is represented a beautiful big sculpture of a sixteen-armed Jaina goddess. 2
(34) Cell 45, first ceiling. On the beams are carved figures of Tīrthařkaras and Vidyādharas similar to those in Bhāva 29 above.
(35-36 ) Cell no. 46, first ceiling. On beams are figures of standing Jinas and shrāvakas worshipping with garlands in hands.
1 The figures around Lakshmi represent the Eight Dikpālas or Guardians of Quarters common to both Hindu and Jaina Pantheons. Beginning from the east they are, Indra, Agni, Yama, Nissti, Varuņa, Väyu, Kubera and IshānaTranslator.
2 Cell 44, Bhāva 32, shows a goddess riding on a swan, She is Sarasvati, the Goddess of Learning. Cell 43, Bhāva 31 shows a goddess with the horse vehicle, who may be Vajra. shțnkhalā as she carries a chain; cell 45, Bhāva 33 shows a snakegoddess with a cobra as her vehicle, who is Vairoțyā, a Vidyā: devi. See, Journal of Indian Society of Oriental Art, 1947, pp. 166-67- Translator.