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those which are internationally discussed as examples of art and sculpture. Some pilgrimages do not excel in art and sculpture, but are centres of devotion, such as Shankheshwar and Nakoda. Some are unqiue examples of art and sculpture and tourists come to India specially to see them, such as Delwara-Abu, Ranakpur and Jaisalmer. Delwara has no parallel in sculptural art throughout the world. It is the crowning glory of Indian sculpture.
Palitana is a pilgrimage that is called the city of temples. For Jains, Palitana has the same stature of piety that Haridwar has for Hindus. In Jaisalmer and Osian, one can behold arts of remote antiquity. At Shravanbelgola, stands one of the wonders of the world - the monolithic and beautiful standing statue of Bhagavan Bahubali.
In this book we have presented a total of sixteen pilgrimages. Our main purpose was to magnify the sculptural aspect of these centres. We have tried to capture and display with the help of photographs the intricate and fine carvings made by stone artisans. Our intimate disciple, Shri Mahendra Bhansali has employed all his skill as a photographer. His commendable talent as a photographer is evident in the results.
When this work was published in Hindi, it created an increasing demand of an English version. The publication was commended throughout the world. Jit-yasha Foundation and Prakrit Bharti Academy, a publishing organization of national repute appreciated the usefulness of an English edition and took up the venture jointly.
We are indebted to Late Acharya Shri Jina Kantisagar Surishwar Ji Maharaj whose cherished blessings have been an inspiring force with us always. We express our reverence to respected Ganivar Shri Mahimaprabh Sagar Maharaj under whose guidance this work was written and compiled. We express our sincere appreciation to Shri D.R. Mehta, Mahopadhyaya Vinay Sagar, Shri Prakash Kumar Daftary and all others who have activitively contributed to the publication of this work.
Shri Shyam Shresth offered his praiseworthy services in the English version. The dedicated co-operation of following persons is highly praiseworthy in bringing this book in its beautiful shape : Composing - Shri Ganpat Lodha, Get-up - Shri Navin Kuthari, Printing - Shri Pramod K. Jain, Shri Alok Jain and Shri Akhilesh Jain.
Go through the book and visit the pilgrimage centres once. These pilgrimages and their art are vivid manifestations of Indian and Jain cultures. To visiting them, offering devotion and protecting them is religion.
The humble intent of writing and publishing this book is that the inherent devotion and art of our country reaches the people of this country and abroad.
Praise to all those who have contributed.
- Mahopadhyaya Lalitprabh Sagar
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