|
|
Hill
Station In Rajasthan
Mount Abu
:
The Raj period approached it as a relaxation place to
rewind along with the royalties and semi royalties. The place
sways in an interesting contrast of British style bungalows,
the holiday lodges of the royals (Thikhana) along with the
presence of the various communities of the tribals located
amidst the thick lush of the forest on the hills surrounding
the region.
The
flora and fauna enjoys the adulation of the tourist to the
fullest. Among the flourishing ranges is the highest point of
the Aravalli is the 'Gurushikhar' with a vast sanctuary that
shelters a number of species like langur, wild boars, Sambar,
leopards and many more along with a number of flowering trees
thus enhancing the whole scenario. This glorious ambience
suited mainly to the likes of sages and tribals and both made
a great impact in the history of the region
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.
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.
Next
courtesy - rtdc
|
|
