________________
192
exploits and his passion for music and dance. It constitutes one of the most ancient and magnificent specimens of Pali records found in India.
Khandagiri, about 4 metres higher than Udaygiri, also boasts of a number of important caves like Navamuni, Barabhuji and the two Tota gumpha (Parrot cave), the last named taking their name from the figures of parrots carved on the arches of their doorways. The Tota caves, like the Rani gumpha, have excellent relievo carvings on their facades. The hill of Khandgiri is crowned by a pink Jaina temple believed to be of the 18th century although the main image in marble was installed only about 50 years back. The temple of course, has no architectural merit and the terrace near it, with a number of monolithic miniature shrines, is known as 'Deva Sabha' or the assembly of gods.
JAIN JOURNAL
Though tourists throng this little world of bliss all the year round the largest assemblage occurs during a week-long festival beginning on the same day as the celebrated Kumba Mela. An eternal fire is kept burning by (Hindu) sadhus and a dip in a small pool of water known as Gupta-Ganga is considered sacred as it is supposed to have underground link with the holy Ganges.
from The Hindu, October 27, 1991
Jain Education International
The Pink Temple atope Khandagiri
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org
