Jaina Archaeological Heritage of Tamilnadu

Author(s): A Ekambarnathan
Publisher: Bharat Varshiya Digambar Jain Mahasabha

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JAINA ARCHAEOLOGICAL HERITAGE OF TAMILNADU
life-size image of Mahavira, seated majestically in meditative pose and surmounted by a triple umbrella set within a conically cut niche. Its massive body with a melting contour, snail-curls of hair, smiling countenance, half-closed contemplative eyes etc., are illustrative of the immaculate work-manship of a 9th century master craftsman.
The Andimalai hillock at Cholapandipuram has two huge boulders converging at the top, and thereby appears like a cavern. The inner side of the boulders contains bold reliefs of a seated Tirthankara, Parsvanatha and Bahubali facing each other. The rear side of the cavern has a loose sculpture of Ambika yakshi, now worshipped as Kaliamman by the local Hindus. These 10th century sculptures were commissioned by one Velikongariya - Puttadigal and the local Chedi Chieftain Siddhavadavan donated the village Panaipadi for conducting worship to these deities.
On the northern slope of the Tirumalai hillock near Polur is a group of four excellent depictions of Ambika, Bahubali, Adinatha and Parsvanatha exhibiting the 10th century style. Among them, the icons of Ambika and Bahubali are superb. The Yakshi stands majestically by the side of an areca tree with her sons and a lady attendant carrying a vessel on either side. Above the children is the carving of her husband Somasarman wondering the charming figure of the golden yakshi.
Bahubali pursues severe austerities standing in a rigid position and attended by his sisters on either side. His massive body, broad shoulders and stout legs portraying masculine vigour are in contrast to the
feminine charm exhibited by the slender form,