Thursday, 15 December 2011

Palitana Temple in Bhavnagar..


Palitana is the greatest and biggest pilgrimage center and sacred place of Jains. The Shwetambar Jain community believes that the hill of Palitana (Siddhachal) is eternal. Rshabhadev (Adinath), the first Jain Tirthankara, came here several times and preached. Billions of monks and nuns have attained Nirvana (Salvation) from this hill from times immemorial.
It is also believed that hundred millions monks leaded by Dravida andVarikhilla attained here Nirvana on the auspicious day of Kartika Purnima (Full moon day in the month of Kartika according to Indian lunar calendar) and fifty millions leaded by Nami and Vinami on Chaitri Purnima (Full moon day in the month of Chaitra according to Indian lunar calendar).
Palitana is a city in Bhavnagar district, Gujarat, India. It is located 50 km southwest of Bhavnagar city .
The Palitana temples are considered the most sacred pilgrimage place (tirtha) by the Jain community, and is the world's largest Temple Complex. There are more than 3000 temples located on the Shatrunjaya hills, exquisitely carved in marble. The main temple on top of the hill, is dedicated to 1st tirthankar lord Adinath (Rishabdeva).
On the top the Shatrunjai Hill is a cluster of Jain temples, built by generations of Jains over a period of 900 years, from the 11th century onwards. The temples are managed by the Anandji Kalyanji Trust of the Kasturbai Lalbhai group.
From the foot of the hill to the top there are 3,800 and odd stone steps cut to facilitate climbing.The steps were hewn out of the rock in the 13th century CE during the time of Jain minister Vastupal.
The temples are exquisitely carved in marble, veritable prayers in stone. To an observer, these appear to be ivory miniatures when seen from a distance. Created by master craftsmen, the most important temple is that of the first teerthankara, Shri Adishwar. It has ornate architectural motifs, though in its overall plan it is simpler than the Choumukh.
Other notable temples are those of Kumarpal, Vimalshah and Sampriti Raja. Kumarpal Solanki, a great Jain patron, probably built the earliest temple. The temple has a fabulous collection of jewels, and these can be seen with special permission.
The temples date from 11th to the 20th century
On one special day (Fagun Sud 13), which usually falls in February/March of every year (According to Hindu Calender, it is 13th Day of Sud Cycle in the month of Falgun) there is a huge crowd of thousands of people visiting its place as it is said that on this particular day, millions of Jain followers attained salvation from this Hill. Also the pilgrim on that day is almost 3 times as compared to any other day which is also called as "6 Gaon" which is approximately 15-18 Kilometers of walk and climbing of Hilly terrain.
Every devout Jain aspires to climb to the top of the mountain at least once in his lifetime, because of its sanctity. The journey is arduous. The walk up the stone stairway hewn into the mountain face takes about an hour and a half. For those unable or unaccustomed to the strain, sling-chairs are available at a bargain.The code for the climbers is stringent, in keeping with the rigours of the Jain faith. Food must neither be eaten nor carried on the way.They can, however, drink water and water posts are provided all along the route
Moti Shah Toonk (Temple) at the top of Siddhachal hills
The descent must begin before it is evening, for no soul can remain atop the sacred mountain during the night. Such is the mystique of Palitana, the summit of Shatrunjaya. While atop one can also visit a Muslim shrine of Angar Pir. The childless women seek the Pir's blessings to be blessed with children. They offer miniature cradles to the Pir and the shrine is strewn with such cradles.
Facts about Palitana :
Shetrunjay Temples: Steps: 3364
Height: 2000 ft; 7.5 miles
Pratima (Idols): 27007 Jinmandir: 3507
A recently concluded count reveals that there are a total of more than 27,000 idols of jain god on this mountain alone
No one is allowed to sleep overnight including the priest, because the temple city has been built as an abode for the Gods
There are 900 temples big and small on the two summits. The sculptures that adorn the marble temples present a feast to the eyes. You need not be a Jain to admire the spectacle. Generations of Jain all over the country have contributed their mite to make Shatrunjay Hill what it is today.
Samavasharana temple in Palitana valley
It is said all the Jain Tirthankars, excepting Neminath, had attained nirvan on Shatrunjay Hill. This fact adds to the veneration the devout have for the place. The place is therefore called Siddhakshetra where one attains moksh.The mountain is associated with Rishabhdev, the first Tirthankar who is also known as Adinath.
Carving in lime in Neminath Temple, Shatrunjay Hills, Palitana
The main temple at the top contains his idol in padmasan. He belonged to the Ikshvaku Dynasty of Ayodhya. So Rama was his ancestor. Adinath visited the Shatrunjay Hill 93 times.
Every shrine has idols of Tirthankars adorned with jeweled eyes.
Jain sacred symbol Hrimkara with 24 Tirthankaras
Jain sacred symbol Omkara with Pancha Parameshthi
Tirthankar Sumatinath, Mulanayaka, Sancha Sumatinath Temple, Talheti, Palitana.
Sri Adinath Rshabh Deva, Mulanayak, Agam mandir, Palitana Talheti
May Lord Rishabhadeva in Palitana make our lives as blissful as this temple. My humble pranams to all the sacred Gods and Goddesses at this holy abode of the first Tirthankar who is also known as Adinath.



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Ranakpur temple..

Ranakpur Temples are acclaimed world-wide for their intricate and superb architectural style. These temples form one of the five major pilgrimages of the Jains. Located in village of Ranakpur near Sadri town in the Pali district of Rajasthan, Ranakpur temple lies at a distance of 95 kms in the north of Udaipur city. The temple is easily accessible from the city of Udaipur as regular buses are easily available. Built in the 15th century, Ranakpur temples are known for being the largest and most important temples of the Jain cult.
The temple is said to have been built by Seth Dharna Sah (a Jain businessman) with the aid of Rana Kumbha, who ruled Mewar in the 15th century. Ranakpur got its name after the name of the Rajput Monarch and likewise the temples. The temple complex is positioned in an isolated valley on the western side of the Aravalli Range. The Jain Temples of Ranakpur are certainly creditable for their splendid architecture. This temple is wholly constructed in light colored marble and comprises a basement covering an area of 48000 sq feet. There are more than 1400 exquisitely carved pillars that support the temple.
The temple is a masterpiece of architecture and boasts of not less than four additional shrines. It has 24 pillared halls with 80 domes that are supported by 400 columns. The upper and lower parts of the domes are linked by brackets that have deities' sculptures. Above all, you would be amazed to see at a height of 45 feet engraved nymphs playing the flute in various dance postures. Each column is intricately carved and it is surprising to know that no two columns have the similar design.
Apart from this, another stunning act about these columns is that they change their color from golden to pale blue after every hour during the day. In the mandap (prayer hall), the two big bells of 108 kg each produce a harmonious sound on the movement. Chaumukha temple is formed like a Nalinigulm Vimana (heavenly aircraft) and provides this whole structure a celestial appearance. Conceivably, it is due to the intricacy of the structure that the temple took approximately 65 years to complete.
In the complex, there are several temples including Chaumukha temple, Parsavanath temple, Amba Mata Temple and Surya Temple. Amongst all of them, Chaumukha Temple is the most important and as the term Chaumukha suggests, this temple is four-faced. Chaumukha temple is dedicated to Lord Adinath, who is the first 'Tirthankara' of the Jains. The Temple structure is highly compound having four different doorways to get into the chambers. These chambers ultimately take you to the main hall where the image of Adinath is positioned.
The four faced image also symbolizes the Tirthankara's quest for the four directions and ultimately the cosmos. The image is surrounded by many small shrines and domes. One more range of cells with separate roofs encircles these shrines and domes all over again. The five spires elevate above the walls and around 20 cupolas rise from roof of the pillared hall. Each spire houses a shrine and the largest shrine is the important one that addresses the central altar. The temple ceilings are festooned with foliate scrollwork and geometric patterns.
The Temple of Parsavanath is another attraction that is worth visiting. Built in the mid 15th century, the temple is renowned for its engraved windows embellished with Jain figures. Parsavanath Temple is also known as Patriyon Ka Mandir. In close proximity to this temple, you can trace two other temples dedicated to Neminath (22nd saint) and Surya Narayan (Sun God) respectively. Here, Surya Narayan Temple has innumerable wall projections with circular structure. The sight of Lord Surya driven in his chariot of seven horses is truly pleasing.
The dating of this temple is controversial but it is largely considered to be anywhere between the late 14th to mid-15th centuries. Inspired by a dream of a celestial vehicle, Dhanna Shah, a Porwad, is said to have commissioned it, under the patronage of Rana kumbha, then ruler of Mewar. The architect who oversaw the project is said to have been named Deepaka. There is an inscription on a pillar near the main shrine stating that in 1439 Deepaka, an architect, constructed the temple at the direction of Dharanka, a devoted Jain
The origins of Jainism can be traced back to the Indus River valley civilization of 3000 B.C. Jains believe that there were 24 great teachers the last of whom was Lord Mahavira who lived during 6th century B.C. These twenty-four teachers are called Tirthankaras-people who had attained all knowledge while living (Moksha) and preached it to the people. Thus, there is not one all-powerful supreme being that controls all. Jains believe in reincarnation. Their souls, which are believed to be a unique substance in the universe, take different living forms in the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth. This cycle has been going on forever, the universe has no beginning or end, it has always been and always will be. The ultimate goal is to get rid of one's karma on their soul so that they may end this cycle. Once this goal is reached their soul has attained all knowledge and it rests in the heavens forever (Nirvana). Karma theory is about actions and the results they bring to the soul's path. It is the simply the law of cause and effect with respect to the soul.
E.G. One's actions for today will effect what will happen to them in this or their future lives. The way to get rid of one's karma is to follow certain rules of doing good somewhat similar to the ten commandments. These include the principles of:
Ahimsa - To protect all life (non-violence) Satya - To speak truth Asteya - To not steal Brahmacharya - To not commit adultery Aparigraha - To limit one's possessions Jains uphold these principles by practicing vegetarianism, non-violence in thought, deed, and action. Jains perform their sacred rituals at the temple or Derasar. Some of these rituals are: Puja - Concentrating on one's soul through intense prayer sometimes in the presence of sculptures of the teachers to serve as an example of how to attain Moksha. Samayik - Forty-eight minute ritual that asks for forgiveness for one's sins Namokar Mantra - A short prayer that can be said at any time that shows obeisance to the perfect souls that have achieved Nirvana. The biggest event in the Jain calendar is the holy week (8-10 days) of Paryushan where Jains reflect upon their actions throughout the past year. The week takes place in August or September and is concluded by a three hour prayer called Pratikraman.
Namokar Mantra: Elixir Itself
Namo Arihantanam I bow in reverence to Arihants Namo Siddhanam I bow in reverence to Siddhas Namo Ayariyanam I bow in reverence to Acharyas Namo Uvajjhayanam I bow in reverence to Upadhyayas Namo Loye Savva Sahunam I bow in reverence to all Sadhus
Eso Panch Namoyaro
This five-fold salutation
Savva Pavappanasano Destroys all sins Mangalanam Cha Savvesim And amongst all auspicious things Padhamam Havai Mangalam Is the most auspicious one
The ultimate power of a Mantra uttered in words and meter depends on the one who recites it, his feelings at the time and the place where it is recites. However, the Namokar Mantra while it controls our behaviour pattern and destroys our sins (Karmanashak), upon being recited increases our inner spiritual strength. It releases us from crisis, and it generates our well-being. Jain scriptures tell of its endless magical manifestation: A dog who was about to die, heard the Mantra recited by Jeevandhar and became a handsome Yaksha. A pair of serpents heard the Mantra recited by Parshva Kumar and metamorphosed into Darnendra and Padmavati. A bull while in physical agony, heard the Mantra recited by Seth Padmaruchi and in his next life became Prince Vrishabhdhvaj - the same prince was known as Sugriva later on. The nobleman Dhananjai's son dying from snakebite heard the Mantra and regained life. Anjan the thief running from sure death learnt this Mantra and became a learned man. Aj while dying patiently heard the Mantra recited by Charudutt and reached heaven. There are endless legends about the power of this Mantra. The one who recites this sure Mantra with real faith, scales the heights of the everlasting pits of hell. In this context it would be well to recall Suhom Chakravarti's fate.
May we all learn from the teachings and beliefs of Jainism and make our souls pure and sacred so that it is ready to become one with God.


Tuesday, 6 December 2011

Jodhpur kingdom of Marwar

Jodhpur pronunciation (Rajasthani: जोधाणा; Hindi: जोधपुर), is the second largest city in the Indian state of Rajasthan. It is located 335 kilometres (208 mi) west from the state capital, Jaipur and 200 kilometres (124 mi) from the city of Ajmer. It was formerly the seat of a princely state of the same name, the capital of the kingdom known as Marwar. Jodhpur is a popular tourist destination, featuring many palaces, forts and temples, set in the stark landscape of the Thar desert.
The city is known as the "Sun City" for the bright, sunny weather it enjoys all year. It is also referred to as the "Blue City" due to the blue-painted houses around the Mehrangarh Fort. The old city circles the fort and is bounded by a wall with several gates. However, the city has expanded greatly outside the wall over the past several decades. Jodhpur lies near the geographic centre of Rajasthan state, which makes it a convenient base for travel in a region much frequented by tourists.

Tourist Attractions Jodhpur

Located on the foothill of a sandstone hillock, the city of Jodhpur seems like an oasis in the vast desert. Jodhpur is one of the favorite tourist destinations in Rajasthan. People from India as well as all over the world visit Jodhpur every year. There are a number of tourist attractions in Jodhpur, enchanting the tourists.

Jodhpur tourist spots stand as a living proof of the splendor, traditions and culture of the Jodhpur. The glorious past of Jodhpur is personified through the various forts, palaces and other monuments of Jodhpur. The main places to see in Jodhpur Rajasthan are:

Mehrangarh Fort:
The most magnificent fort in Jodhpur is the Mehrangarh Fort. It is situated on a 150m high hill. Rao Jodha, the then chief of Rathore clan, constructed it in 1459. There are a number of attractions within the fort like several palaces, galleries, a museum, temples and so on.

Umaid Bhavan Palace:
One of the fascinating palaces of Jodhpur is the Umaid Bhavan palace. Maharaja Umaid Singh constructed it in 20th century. A part of the palace has now been converted into a hotel and a museum.

Jaswant Thada:
Jaswant Thada lies to the left of the Mehrangarh fort complex. It is a royal cenotaph made up of white marble. It was built to commemorate Maharaja Jaswant Singh. Some rare portraits of the former rulers of Jodhpur are also displayed here.

City of Lakes Udaipur

Tourism

Udaipur is a popular tourist destination in India. The lakes, palaces and lively workspaces and culture attract foreign and domestic visitors. It is a favourite marriage destination. Many celebrities, including film stars, business families, politicians chose Udaipur to hold marriage ceremonies and parties.
  
City Palace, Udaipur

Standing on the east bank of Lake Pichola is a massive series of palaces built at different times from 1559. The balconies of the palace provide panoramic views of the "Jag Niwas" (the Lake Palace Hotel). They also have views of Jag Mandir on one side and the city of Udaipur on the other. Its main entrance is through the triple-arched gate - the Tripolia, built in 1725. The way now leads to a series of courtyards, overlapping parations, terraces, corridors and gardens. There is a Suraj Gokhda, where the maharanas of Mewar presented themselves in the times of trouble to the people to restore confidence. The Mor-chowk (Peacock courtyard), gets its name from the mosaics in glass decorating its walls. The chini chitrashala is noteworthy while a series of wall paintings of Krishna are on display in Bhim Vilas. There are numerous other palaces such as Dilkhush mahal, Sheesh mahal, Moti mahal and Krishna vilas - in memory of a princess of striking beauty who poisoned herself to avert a bloody battle for her hand by rival princes. Now the palace contains many antique articles, paintings, decorative furniture and utensils and attracts thousands of visitors every day.
The former guesthouse of the city palace, Shiv Niwas Palace and the Fateh Prakash Palace have been converted into heritage hotels.
Lake Palace
Jag Mandir
Monsoon Palace
Jagdish Temple
The Jagdish Temple is a large Hindu temple in the middle of Udaipur. It was built by Maharana Jagat Singh Ist in 1651 A.D. It is an example of Indo - Aryan architecture. This temple is a great example of architecture and art. The area is the main tourist place in the city. You can also find some special kind of things like rajasthani dress, paintings etc.
Fateh Sagar Lake
Lake Pichola
Saheliyon-ki-Bari
Gulab Bagh and Zoo
Doodh Talai
A rock and fountain garden and the sunset point from which one can enjoy the sunset view in Lake Pichhola and a panoramic view of the old city. Also one can enjoy the Aerial tramway (rope way) which connects one of the dudh talai gardens to Karni Mata temple.
Bharatiya Lok Kala Mandal
A museum of folk arts. It also hosts puppet shows in its auditorium.
Maharana Pratap Memorial or Moti Magri
Atop the Moti Magri or Pearl Hill, overlooking the Fatah Sagar Lake is the memorial of the Rajput hero Maharana Pratap with a bronze statue of the Maharana astride his favourite horse "Chetak".
Bohara Ganesh Ji
This temple is situated near old railway station (Thokar) and M L S University. This is old and famous Ganesh Temple with standing statue of Shree Ganesh Ji considered very fruitful (Chamatkarik).Thousands of Bhaktas(devotees) come here every Wednesday.
Nehru Garden
This is a park situated in the middle of Fatah Sager Lake. This park covers about 41 acres (170,000 m2), with flower gardens and a lily pond. It was inaugurated on the birth anniversary of the first Prime Minister of India, Jawaharlal Nehru. The garden overlooks the ancient Moti Mahal of Maharana Pratap and gives a view of the Aravalli hills on three sides.
Bagore-ki-Haveli
This is an old building built right on the waterfront of Lake Pichola at Gangori Ghat. The haveli now stages Rajasthani traditional dance and music.
Ahar Museum
Shilpgram
A crafts village located northwest of Udaipur, Shilpgram hosts an annual crafts fair which is one of the biggest in India; people from different states in the country have stalls showcasing their art and crafts work.
Neemach Mata Temple
This temple is located on a green hill in the Dewali area of Udaipur. It has both stairs and an uphill slope way to climb, which is around 800 meters.Bellow this area is located new bohra colony named as Burhani Nagar,and a new Masjid is named as Burhani Masjid.This area is very peaceful,very near to Saheleion ki badi and Fateh Sager.
Udaipur Solar Observatory
Sukhadia Circle
Sukhadia Circle (Square) is a large roundabout in the city's northern suburb of Panchwati, on the road to Ranakpur and Mt. Abu. The Circle is a popular recreational centre and meeting place.
Status of Shiva (45, eastern). The beautiful and BHAHIM village "Menar" between Udaipur and Chittor. This Status is on bank of Bhram Sagar and giving bless to all villager.

Monday, 5 December 2011

Historical Places in Jaipur


Jaipur Historical Places
Jaipur has inherited history of its powerful rulers in form of magnificent monuments gloriously standing till date all across the city. It narrates to whole world great legends through its stunning forts, majestic palaces, pristine temples and museums. Historical places of Jaipur are really worth visiting. This post will provide you information on Jaipur historical places.

Historical Places in Jaipur

Amber Fort
Its construction was started by Raja Man Singh in the year 1592 however it was accomplished during primacy of his successor Raja Jai Singh. It’s a beautiful fort built out of white marble and red sandstone. It is located on Delhi-Jaipur highway approx 11 km from Jaipur.

Inside of the fort has a warm and peaceful ambience in contrast to its rough exterior presence. It represents the union of Rajput and Mughal ways of decoration. Most captivating part about this artistic excellence is its illustrative mirror work that holds the attention of its visitors. One can also enjoy elephant rides near this fort.

City Palace
It is expanded over a large area and occupies one seventh of city. It was built during reigns of Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh and is among the popular monuments in Jaipur. The plan of fort is an exact replica of city’s plan. A part of palace is still home to former royal families while rest of it has been converted into a museum. Other attractions of this palace are: Chandra Mahal, Maharani’s Palace, Mukut Mahal, Mubarak Mahal and Shri Govind Dev Temple.

Hawa Mahal
It is situated next to City Palace, Jaipur. Hawa Mahal is an image of the Rajputana architecture. The splendid five-storey is a blend of beauty and splendor much close to Rajasthan’s culture. Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh built it in 1779. This ancient monument is a tourist attraction having 953 small windows.

Nahargarh Fort
6km away from north Jaipur, just below Jaigarh Fort, Nahargarh fort is situated. It stands on periphery of the Aravalli Hills dominating entire city offering a scenic view to visitors from the top. Nahargarh means abode of tigers and is believed to be named after Prince Nahar. Major highlights of this fort apart from its Construction and mysterious tales are The Nahargarh Biological Park and beautiful Man Sagar Lake.

Moti Doongri
Is a hilltop fort built like a Scottish castle and is today the residence of Rajmata (Queen Mother) Gayatri Devi. The place was previously a small fortress called Shankargarh (Shiva’s Foot) but was later altered by Sawai Man Singh II on the design of a Scottish castle. Major attraction here is hilltop fort.

Jaigarh Fort
Located 400ft above Amber Fort, Jaigarh Fort was built by Sawai Jai Singh in the year 1726. Out of three famous forts (Amber, Jaigarh and Nahargarh fort) this fort is considered to be most attractive. Its massive cannon – Jaivana which is world’s largest wheeled cannon is admired by most of the visitors. Compartments below its huge water tanks are believed to serve the erstwhile Kings of Amber/Jaipur as a store to safeguard their wealth.

Other attractions of this fort are – Vijay Garh, Diya Burj, Museums, The Lakshmi Vilas Palace and Armory. Preferred time to visit this fort is anytime between October and March.


Jantar Mantar
It serves as an exclusive tourist destination for travelers as it is the world’s Largest Stone Astronomical Observatory. It was built by Maharaja Jai Singh during time period of 1727 -1733 and is one of the five astronomical observatories built by him. This complex shelters 17 instruments each of them having a specific but complex function related to time. Present name is a paraphrase of the Sanskrit word Yantra Mantra (meaning instruments and formulae) that was originally assigned to it. Made entirely out of marble and stone, Jantar Mantar is famous among tourists for its beautiful sundial.

Gaitore
About 15 kms from Jaipur. Gaitore is a cremation site for many majestic and royal rulers of Jaipur. These royal cenotaphs belonging to the Maharajas are popularly known as ‘Chhatris

Vidyadharji-ka Bagh
Located 7 kms. East of Jaipur and very close to Sisodia Garden which was constructed in honor of Jai Singh’s chief architect and town planner. built in the memory of Vidyadhar Bhattacharjee, the Jaipur architect.

Sisodia Rani- Ka Bagh
About half a kilometer from Vidyadharji-ka Bagh is Sisodia Rani-ka Bagh. Built by Sawai Jai Singh in 1722 for his queen from Udaipur.