Jaina Monuments Of Orissa

Author(s): R P Mohapatra
Publisher: D K Publications

Page 92

Jaina Monuments of Orissa
The back and the left wall of the left cell contain two images of Rşabhanātha and three of Pārsvanātha all in standing posture. Similarly, the right cell has three figures in all, two of Pārsvanātha and one of Rşabhanātha and an empty niche.
On the back wall of the right cell and above the Rşabhanātha image is a damaged inscription in five lines dated in the fifth regnal year of the Somavaṁsi king Udyotakeśarī recording the restoration of a decayed vāpi (step-well) and decayed temples on the Kumāra hill and also setting up of the images of twenty-four Tirthařkara there.
Cave No.12
This cave was originally consisted of two small cells with a partition wall in the middle. The roof, side walls, front wall including door openings as well as the verandah are all damaged and gone. A portion of the partition wall separating the two cells now exists near the back wall. From the available evidences it is found that the ceiling was designed flat and the floor raised at the back as usual.
Cave No.13
The general layout of this cave consists of an inner chamber having two cells and a benched verandah in front. The two cells from their dimension are quite spacious. Their roof, partition wall, front openings including the intervening walls are now lost. Such is the case with the verandah in front. There were altogether four pillars and two side pilasters to support the verandah roof Floor of the cells is raised at the back and ceiling designed flat.
Cave No.14-Ekādasi-Gumphā
It is a long dwelling cell, the front part of which including the pillar is lost except the projecting part of the ceiling. There is no trace of verandah in front. The only pillar supporting the roof is of modern masonry work. From available indications it is found that the ceiling was designed flat and floor raised at the back.
Cave No.15
Circling round the hill for some distance a small cave is available on the west side near the foot of the hill. This cave is open in front. The floor of the cell which faces west has the usual pillow like inclination at the back. The ceiling of this cave is designed flat. This has now become an abode of wild animals.
To the left of Gupta-Ganga are three low natural caverns improved by human hand. The walls of the central one, the best of the three have been made smooth by chiselling. It is open in front and the floor along with the side walls damaged.