Dilwara Temple, Mount Abu
The
Jain temples at Dilwara, near Mount Abu are considered to be masterpieces of temple
architecture.
The Vimalvashi temple was built by the commander Vimalshah
on the order of King Bhimdev in 1031 A.D. It took around 1,500 workers, several
years to build. There are forty eight pillars, sixteen pillars have the images
of females figures in dancing poses. The rang mandap is a beautiful piece of architecture.
The images that can be seen are Saraswati, Lakshmi as well as scenes from
the princely courts of Ayodhya and Takshashila. Navchauki is a platform divided
into nine parts. The artistic roots are decorated with elephants and goddesses.
Lunvasahi temple has the image of the Jain tirthankara Neminath. Sculptures
in stone, elaborate carvings, beautiful pillars, dome shaped roofs give a majestic
and surreal look to the temple. There are sixteen images of the goddess of knowdege
and also carved are glimpses from Lord Krishnas life. The footsteps of Dada Sahab
and the kirti Stambha are also worth a mention.
Apart from these, the
temples dedicated to Rishabhdev, Parshvanath and Lord Mahavir are also classical
examples of art.
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Dilwara Temple - Mount Abu, Rajasthan Pilgrim Places Reservation Form "
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