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222
simhasūri.
Dharmalakshmi
had received liberal education. The dignity of Mabattara was conferred on her in A. D. 1444-5, when she was in her teens. She was a successful preacher. When she went to Mandavagadha, she was much honoured by Mandana, Bhima, Maneka and others. She had many disciples, chief among whom was Vivekashri. 114
We shall now deal with Jain contribution to architecture in this period.
Pittalahara or Bhima Shah's temple on Mt. Abu was built by Bhima Shah. It is known as 'Pittalahara' because the principal image in the temple is made of brass and other metals.
It is a mistake to suppose that this temple was built in V. S. 1525 (or A. D. 1468-9). In an inscription of V. S. 1494 (A. D. 1437-8) in the Digambara Jain temple and in another inscription of V. S. 1497 (A. D. 1440-1) in Srimata temple, there are references to this temple. Secondly, there is an inscription of V. S. 1497 (A. D. 1440-1) in the inner hall of the temple. Thirdly, this temple which was repaired by mantri Sundara and mantri Gada in A. D. 1468-9
113-114 Jain Aitihasika Gurjara Kavya Sanchaya— P. p. 215-21
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