Famous Temples in India

Architecture

Ornamented with stunning stone carvings, Hutheesing Jain Temple is an architectural masterpiece built in white marble. With an outstanding layout this revered site has a courtyard enclosed with cloisters. A highly ornate and enduring architectural structure that accommodates 238 stone images and 21 yantras is the brainchild of architect Premchand Salat. Pilgrims take a flight of steps to reach the pillared hall which leads to the sanctum sanctorum. Idol of the 15th Tirthankara, Dharmanatha set in the moolyanak is quite appealing. It also houses the idol of Osia Mata, the prime deity of Oswals.

This sacred complex is topped off with a huge twelve rings semi-circular dome that stands with the support of eight pillars. The dome is 80 feet in diameter and stands at a height of 350 meters. There are five deities in three-bay structures and six deities in the two sub-shrines in the basement. An impressive idol of different Tirthankaras is set in 52 shrines called devikulas located along the circulatory passage. It has an outstanding octagonal-shaped Guda Mandapam that is twice the size of the shrines. Stunningly beautiful three spires over the garbhagriha add charm to the beauty of the temple. The elaborate porches, chaturbas and jalis give it a look of a haveli. It is believed that the temple has been inspired by the famous Dilwara Jain Temple in Rajasthan. The temple apart for its rich architectural is also known for rainwater harvesting structure. 

A significant addition to the revered site is the 78 feet high Manasthamba noted for its architectural magnificence similar to the Jain Manasthamba and the Kirtistamba situated in Chittor district of Rajasthan. Manasthambas often referred to as the column of honor found in Jain temples are believed to shed the pride of the pilgrims as they enter the preaching hall called Samavasarana. Manasthamba in front of the Hutheesing Jain temple was built in 2003 to celebrate the 2500th birth anniversary of Lord Mahavira.