Jain Journal 2000 07

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

Page 35

BANTHIA : BHANDASAR TEMPLE OF BIKANER
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1. Samvat 1571 VARSE Aso2. Sudi 2 Ravau Rājādhiraj. 3. Sri LUNKARAN JI Vijay rājye. 4. Shah BHANDA PRASAD nama Traliok 5. Ya Deepak Karitam Sūtra 6. GODA Kāritā.
It is to be noted here that the extension work of this temple has been carried out from time to time. Consequently it has added great dimensions to its original form. In the 15th century, the Bikaner Jain Sangh had got constructed a Jinālaya of Sri Swāmi Simandhar in its precincts, the act of unsettling a flag on this temple finds mention in the panegyric of poet ABHAYA. The repairs of this temple were made by Jain Sangh in due course.
Architectually speaking, there are doors on all the four sides of the sanctum to have a look of the JINAS. 'At present, 3 doors are closed with walls or lattice on each side of the wall there are six JINAS making a total of 24. In accompaniment of them two YAKAHAS, on each side make a total of 16, thus there are 48 figures in all. The total number of pillars in the temple is 42. The Jinas with their attendants, vehicles and attributes further add to the numbers since, each figure is 3' x 8" high, it also adds to the glory and grandeur of the temple.
The 20th century has also witnessed the improvement process going on in the temple, embellishing this temple with fine MURALS is being undertaken. Master MURAD BUX, famous painter of BIKANER, started this work in samvat V.S. 1960 and completed in four years.
GOLD inlay work has added to its majestic beauty and divine grandeur. The photographs given with this article provide a glimpse of its imperial and spiritual beauty.