Jain Sanctuaries of the Fortress of Gwalior

Author(s): T V G Shastri
Publisher: Kundkund Gyanpith Indore

Page 76

GROUP-4
These are eight continuous caves. This group is divdided into two compartments. The former compartment contains 4 caves from 10-13 while the others of this group are from 14-17. Architecturally, they are slightly different from those of Groups 3. The former compartment of this group is mainly punctuated by ornate- pillared columnade over the balcony, while in the later compartment, the caves are open in the upper chamber. However, the entrances are not given prominence, especially in Caves 12, 14, 17. These are mere rectangular openings enough for visitors to enter. But Cave 13 is completely open, giving a complete view of the image in sanctum. Coming in the same line, yet initially cut, is the Cave 11 which is also open. Some caves have enough vestibular space between the entrance and the images. They have rectangular opening measuring 2x1.2 m. In Caves 14. and 15, the vestibular space is cut uniformly, so as to leave only a width of 50 cm. space infront of the mulanayaka. It leaves no vestibular space in front of the images of the Tirthankaras, as found in other caves.
Again 16 and 17 are caves, with a common entrance. However, a stepway from inside the eastern wall in Cave 16, is provided to go to the cave 17. The opening is hardly enough for a person to enter. The prominent entrance of the cave is alligned with the common. columnade balcony as found in the Caves 12 and 14. However, the wall face below the columnade of this group, is free from any ornamentation.
Cave 10 The entrance opening is rectangular and measures 1.5 X 1 m. It is ornamental over pillars with intricate scroll work over the lintel. It is spacious enough for people to enter and visit the image. However, its grandeur could be appreciated from outside. The top portion of the image in the sanctum, especially, from the navel onwards is cearly visible from the common verandah outside. This is made possible through a wide rectangular opening 2.5x2 m. that admits light, on to the head and arms, stomach and navel of the mulanayaka.
Outside the shrine, there is a squarish platform which could be identified as sarvatobhadrika (Plate 8) where devotees keep the oblations of worship.
The Image: The figure is seated and carved on a high pedestal of 2 m. above the ground level. The pedestal does not show the usual ornamentation as seen in those of the caves described earlier. However, there appears a svastika in the centre. The complete view of the image, can be had by going along a stepway provided on the north-east to the eastern side of the balcony.
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