Ashtapadji Mahatirth Temple

Author(s): Jain Center of America Inc. New York
Publisher: USA Jain Center America NY

Page 5

Special consideration : (a) Structural & engineering-weight of the whole unit (10 to 12 Tons) (b) Laser effect for sun-rays (c) Light effect (d) Security and protection (e) Religious worship procedure (annually on Akhatrij) (f) Snow covered mountain (g) Art work for related stories (h) Collection of the material (i) Sky effect on back-wall.
Model Making A series of progressive prototypes were developed to experiment with various materials, layouts, designs and dimensions. These prototypes also helped in visualizing the ultimate design of the model of Shri Ashtapad. What you are looking at is prototype # 5. The first two original prototypes were flat, made out of serpentine stone. In the initial models, idols were installed in the individual niches, carved in the mountain itself. Later on individual miniature temple units called "Gokhalas" were created to house the idols. This enhanced the appearance of the whole unit.
Initially, story carvings were created as two-dimensional objects and carved at the base in front of the mountain in the first two prototypes. As the concept matured, eight of these carvings depicting various stories related to Shri Ashtapad were developed into separate three-dimensional carved units, which you now see in front of the mountain.
Mountain The mountain is the main body and is made of crystal quartz. Various pieces were assembled to provide a sloping pattern on front & sides in order to replicate the effect of a real mountain. Eight steps are constructed in the center leading to the first row of the Gokhala. Just above the topmost step, 24 Gokhalas are sculpted out of the mountain itself wherein the idols will be housed. This model is built to 1/5th scale compared to the proposed final unit. Under the current plans, it is intended to create an effect of snow-capped mountain by appropriate measures. The final model will also be adorned with a Kalash and a flag on the mountain-top. The wall at the back will be suitably decorated to depict the open sky.
Tapas Kheer - Parna
Sh. Gautam
Swami
Gokhalas There are 24 Gokhalas of varying sizes made out of crystal quartz, rose quartz, smoky quartz, agate, and aventurine stones etc. 2 are extra large, 4 are large 8 are medium and 10 are small. A Gokhala has four pillars and a dome. Two front pillars of each gokhala have carved images of devotees (chamardharis or whisk carriers) praying to the God. Dome is also carved with decorative art work.
Idols (Figurines)
24 Figurines have been carved to represent the 24 Tirthankars. Each figurine has its own symbol carved at the base that identifies the idol to a viewer. In addition, the name of the idol will appear at the base alongwith the name of the gemstone. Final model will consists of 24 idols made from different color stones. Due to limitations of the available gemstones, the color will not conform to original color associated with each Tirthankar. Idols are arranged according to the religious rules. Dimensions and positions vary according to the space available within the arrangement. (See Chart on the last page)