Jainism in Odisha (Orissa)

by Ashis Ranjan Sahoo | 2015 | 106,639 words

This essay studies the presence of Jainism in Odisha or Orissa by documenting the Art, Architecture and Iconography of Jaina images, relics, structures and establishments from different districts. In Odisha, archaeological evidences show how Jainism flourished during the 1st century BCE during the reign of emperor Kharavela, stating that Jainism wa...

A mutilated figure of Jaina Tirthankara image (70x40x12cm) was found during digging works undertaken in the village pond with machines in the month of April 2010. The Tirthankara carved out of sandstone is kept at the house of one Bhagaban Moharana in Kuanrda village of Taharpur gramapanchayat. The portion below the lotus pedestal is completely chopped off. The Tirthankara is seated in dhyanamudra and flanked by bejeweled chauri bearer on either side. A highly decorated oval prabhavali is marked behind his head and surmounted by branches of kevala trees and chhatravali. The chhatravali is flanked by drums and cymbals played by invisible hands and further at the end by flying garland bearer.

Like what you read? Consider supporting this website: