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CHAPTER V
Art and Architecture
Our inscriptions use the words, Griha, Vihar, Chaitya, Bhawan, Devakula, Vasati, Tirth, Mandir etc. for Jain temples. References to secular architecture are few. The following information may be gathered from these inscriptions regarding construction of temples and other matters of architectural interest.
(i) Installation of the icons of Tirthankars, Shashanade vatas Acharyas etc. and also footprints of Acharyas inscribed on stone.
(ii) Installation of Pattas inscribed with representations of celebrated religious shrines like Shatrunjaya, Giranar etc. and other religious motifs like Siddh Chakra, Samavasharan, Ashtapad etc.
(iii) Construction of temples, Devakulikas, Kirtistambhas etc., renovation as well as additions and alterations in their structures.
(iv) Construction of Hastishala (elephant-stables) Stepwells, Nishedhikas etc.
A careful study of inscriptions alongwith literary sources shows that the plan of Jain temples was originally quite simple in conception. But, later on, the Shvetambar Jain temples became more and more elaborate with the annexation of additional structures such as the Trika-Mandap, Ranaga-Mandap, Devakulikas etc. In time, finely carved Mandaps and ceilings with Padma Shila,
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