Art of Enlightenment

Author(s): Kalpana Desai
Publisher: Kalpana Desai

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Art of Enlightenment
Jainism claims a legacy of a series of 24 Tirthankaras. Present Jainism owes much to the preachings of the 24h Tirthankara Mahavira, which are compiled after His final Liberation.
Jainism is concerned mainly with unfolding of pure consciousness within you which is an exclusive prerogative of the human race. It is called emancipation - a state of existence beyond sorrow and death. Jainism is a way towards this attainment. It is particularly known for: firstly the practice of non-violence in day-to-day life, for instance Jains have been vegetarians for centuries. Western travelers in India right from the 13-14th centuries were astonished to see animal hospitals run by the Jains. Secondly according to Jainism every view-point contains a relative truth in it and therefore, all religious beliefs have a place in society.
Artistic imagery and religious inspiration: Like other religions Jainism has also used art to help seekers in their spiritual endeavours. Jaina art is replete with rich religious content. Jaina art, with its intricately carved marble temples, profuse number of sculptures and varied types of paintings, occupies a special place in the history of Indian art. Monks took keen interest in production of art works and often explained Jaina precepts with the help of illustrations.
The exhibition is also designed for more or less the same purpose - to make it more easy for the visitors to understand Jainism.
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