International Jain Conference 1985 3rd Conference

Author(s): Satish Jain, Kamalchand Sogani
Publisher: Ahimsa International

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The foundation stone was laid on 29th November, 1979 with the holy blessings of Sadhvi Mrigavatiji Maharaj in the presence of thousands of Jains coming from all parts of India.
The whole complex has been named as Shree Atam Vallabh Sanskriti Mandir. Nidhi has by now acquired a total of 20 acres of land for the purpose. The entire memorial building will have a covered area of 15,000 sq. ft. at the ground floor with a similar space at the basement. The complex will be divided mainly into following seven major sections :
I. Main Shrine :
The main shrine with a covered area of about 9,000 sq.ft. is being constructed at a distance of 300 ft. inside the main gate. A 7 ft. thick massive stone bed was erected in red stone slabs to support the props and pillars. White pink stone is being used in the superstructure and it will add to the architectural grandeur of the memorial. The height of the structure will be 84 ft. in consonance with the age of Shree Vijay Vallabh Suriji Maharaj. The dome will have a diameter of 64 ft.-- the only of its type in Northern India. A 45" high idol of the Saint will be installed on a 4 f1 high pedestal (Altar) in the central hall which will be covered with a wellcarved out Samran on the top.
II, Bhagwan Vasupujya Jain Temple :
Within the complex, in between the main shrine and the Guest House, there will be erected a befitting temple with Bhagwan Vasupujya as the presiding deity (Mool-Nayak), having a covered area of about 1575 sq. ft. This will help the inmates, visiting scholars and the tourists to offer their prayers and meditate in peaceful, calm and serene atmosphere.
A separate Trust under the name of "Shree Vasupujya Jain Swetamber Mandir Trust" has been established for the erection and maintenance of the said Temple.
III. Guest House :
This comprises of retiring rooms for visitors and guests besides boarding and lodging for the scholars and the senior staff. This is spread over in an area of about 4500 sq. ft. IV. Basements :
Whereas the basement underneath the main shrine will house the contemporary Art Museum, that under the Guest House provides accommodation for the library and Research centre.
V. Landscaping :
The complex will have two parallel flower bedecked paved foot-paths. The path-ways will be flanked with grassy lawns, choicest flower beds and ornamental
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