________________
COS
LORD MAHAVIR : The Presiding Deity of Osian pilgrimage
Due to specialised architectural splendour, Osian pilgrimage has always been talked about amongst artistic temples. The architecture engraved on the hardest stones is really famous, the temple's own hugeness and its extraordinary beauty is also remarkable. The sanctum sanctorum of Lord Mahaveer, the principal deity of the temple, is a unique presentation of Rajasthan architecture. The main temple and the idols of its principal deities symbolize the early Jain architecture.
On perusing the historical facts related to this pilgrimage it is learnt that its ancient name was Upkeshpattan, Urkesh, Navneri et al. It is also known from Gacch Pattawali of the 14th century that Acharya Ratnaprabh Suri had arrived here in the fourth century before the Vikram Era began and its king Upaldev and minister Uhad, on being preached by him, had adopted Jainism. References reveal that the area of the city was widespread when king Upaldev had got this temple constructed, and it was considered to be one of the prosperous cities of the country.
From another mention, it is learnt that the idol of the presiding deity, established in the temple, was obtained from inside the earth and was consecrated in Samvat 1017 Magh Krishna Ashtami. According to archaeologists, the sculptural art of this place dates back to nearly 8th century.
On studying various references, it appears that this city had been established 70 years after the nirvana (passing away) of Lord Mahavir, and the temple was also built almost during this period. Its ruins were salvaged and renovated in the eighth century.
Oswal caste too, which is a prominent part of the Jain society, had originated from Osian itself.
According to archaeologists, Osian is a famous centre of the early medieval art and architecture. Some of the temples here had been constructed in the 8th century while some others were built in the 11th century. The principal deity of this pilgrimage is Tirthankar Shree Mahavir. His golden-coloured 80 cm, high idol seated in the 'padmasan' (lotus posture) is auspiciously present here. The construction of the main temple is supposed to have taken place in the 8th century, and it faces towards the north.
Near the gateway is an elevated place for congregation with an artistic arch which was constructed
R33
The splendid spire of the temple
40
Iain
E
lan intamational
For Private
Personal use only
www.jan
om
