Jain Journal 1978 04

Author(s): Jain Bhawan Publication
Publisher: Jain Bhawan Publication

Page 16

Lord Neminatha Temples in Tamil Nadu
S. THANYA KUMAR
Lord Neminatha, the 22nd Thirthankara, has many temples dedicated by Tamil Jainas. Of these, temples at Thirumalai (North Arcot District) and at Mylapore (Madras) are ancient. In both the places Lord Neminatha is known by different names. At Thirumalai he is referred to as Sigamaninathara and in Mylapore as Mylainathara (Lord of Mylapore).
Thirumalai Temple:
Thirumalai is about 20 miles from Arni on the Arni-Polur Road in the North Arcot District. It is a small village and 2 or 3 Jaina families are living here. The temple and the caves are under the Archae Survey of India. Kundavai, a sister of Raja Raja Chola (A. D. 900) had granted many 'pallicandam' (endowments) to this temple. The temple also is referred to as Kundaval Jinalaya in the Chola inscriptions. Later Vijayanagara kings also gave grants to this temple. A king called Takada has renovated this temple. Thirumalai is also known by the names Srisailam, Vaigai Thirumalai, Sripuram, Palakundra Kottam, and Enguna Eraivan Kundram. The temple complex is located at the foot of the hills which adds to their grandeur. There are two temples at the foot of the hills at different elevation. (Plates 1-2) The temple at ground level is in highly dilapidated condition. This temple is called Varthamana Temple. There are paintings on the Western wall. (Plate 3) The idol at sanctum sanctorum made of moitar is broken and only the supporting rods and bamboo sticks are now seen. At a little higher elevation there is another temple. On the side of the steps leading to this temple, there is an inscription cut on the surface of a big boulder. It is being protected by the brickwork. In this temple daily pūjā is performed. It is completely built of rock. There are two big granite idols of Thirthankara with Sasanadevis in the open mandapam of this temple.
On the side of the temple, there are rockcut panels (Plate 4) and way leading to Caves with their ceiling painted. The free end of the rock in front of the rockcut panels is supported by the brickwork. This temple