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Introduction to the Book
This book is the first in the series of works planned in the field of Indian Temple Architecture by the Project for the Studies in Indian Temple Architecture at the L. D. Institute of Indology. This work on the Mahavir Temple at Osia is undertaken as the beginning of such works in order to document and describe one of the oldest surviving Jain Temples in western India and also one of the most important from the viewpoint of Indian Temple Architecture. The temple is illustrated through measured drawings and photographs to describe the history of the building and also the changes it has seen during its several phases of restorations and additions. It also attempts to describe the buildings in terms of the spaces and built elements to inform the reader about the aspects of temple building arts employed during its various phases. It also discusses the attitudes to restoration adopted by the succeeding generations of traditional temple builders and their work of jeernoddhār to support the practice followed by Jaina patrons. The book is an attempt to record the historicity of the temple and the art it represents through important phases for the general readers and those interested to appreciate the history of western Indian temple architecture. It is hoped that it is received in this context and makes a meaningful contribution to the existing body of knowledge in this field.
Rabindra Vasavada
Architect Ahmedabad March 2001
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