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Impressions of India
~ Adinatha Temple - Jain Temple at Ranakpur
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Adinatha-Temple, Jain Temple |
Jain Symbol |
 Ranakpur
is located about 56 miles north of Udaipur and in any case a must, if you
are in this region.
This Jain Temple was built under the reign
of monarch Rana Kumbha in the 15th century. The Jains are among other things
known for their asceticism and absolute nonviolence. With a 4,500 square
yards basement (approximately 60 x 62 meters) it is the largest Jain temple
in India. Entering this marvel of architecture we were overwhelmed by the
lavish abundance of marvellous stonemason works on white marble. There
are four subsidiary shrines, 24 pillared halls and  all
in all 1444 marble pillars each from one piece and all richly decorated
with most elaborately carved sculptures and filigrees, including the domes.
The creativity and beauty of these elaborate works is unimaginable and
the variety is such, that no two of the 1444 pillars are alike! A
special effect is the amazing play of shadow, light and colours. As the
light shifts through the temple over the day the pillar's colours change
from white over bluish to gold ...
When the mogul emperor Akbar visited this
temple he was full of admiration that he had made an inscription on one
of the pillars which says, that no one ever will be allowed to destroy
this jewel of architecture. |
Jain Temple - capital
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Jain Temple - play of light and colour
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Jain Temple - detail
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