Dilwara Temples
Mount Abu was an important Vaishnava and Shaivite pilgrim center up to the 11th
century. Today, it is recognized the world over for it's magnificent Jain temples.
No visit to Abu can be complete without a trip to the famed Dilwara temples.
These temples are the greatest draw of Abu, apart from its salubrious clime.
Half hidden by mango groves their sober exterior belies the wealth of their
interior ornamentation. Wondrously carved in marble, the Dilwara temples enshrine
various Jain tirthankaras, saints. Built between the 11th and 13th century,
are famous for their superb carvings in marble.
Built between the 11th and 13th century, are famous for their superb carvings
in marble. Vimal Vasahi is the oldest temple, was built by Vimal Shah, Minister
of Solanki ruler of Gujarat in 1031 A.D. It is dedicated to Adinath, the first
of the Jain tirthankaras. Constructed out of white marble from Arasoori Hill,
near Ambaji, 23 km from Abu Road, It is an outstanding example of Jain temple
architecture. The central shrine has an image of Rishabhdev and large courtyard
with 52 small shrines, each housing a beautiful statue of thirthankaras with
48 elegantly carved pillars from the entrance to the courtyard.
The Vasahi Temple, dedicated to me 22nd tirthankara. - Neminath was built in
1231 A .D by two brothers - Vastupal and Tejpal, Minister of Raja Virdhavala,
a ruler of Gujrat belonging to the Porwal Jain community. The door casings,
friezes, architraves, pillars, the sculptures of porticos, are astonishing in
their workmanship. Rewards in the from of silver and gold equivalent to the
weight of marble covered, were offered to the laborer.
A great deal of inspiration, devotion, love and encouragement was involved in
the construction of this temple. The most striking feature of this Jain temple
built in the Solanki style of architecture is the marble pendant in the dome
of the porch. It drops from the ceiling like an enchanting cluster of half-open
lotuses with cups so finely carved that they appear to be transparent.
