Rajasthan

Of all the Indian States and Union Territories, Rajasthan has the highest percentage of Jainas to its total population, namely 1.82 per cent, followed by Maharashtra with 1.50 per cent (see appendix). In Jaipur, the biggest city in Rajasthan, there are, one is told, about three hundred Jaina temples, both Digambara and Shvetambara.

Most of them are located in the eastern half of the old city; which was designed and founded by Maharaja Jai Singh in 1727. The Jaipur Jaina temples are, like the ones in Old Delhi, not readily spotted from the outside. It is their embellished interiors which makes the visit of some of them an enjoyable experience. Jaipur is famous for its highly-skilled craftsmen.

A large section of the western part of the city is the place where one may watch stonemasons at work; they are Hindu by faith, even those who specialize in producing sculptures for Jaina temples. As there is little demand for individual art at present, the standard of what one sees offered for sale is rather low.

Sign to a Jaina temple in which free medical con- sultation is available (walk downhill from the ‘Palace of the Winds’ then turn right at the first street).

Names And Locations Of Some Jaina Temles (Mandirs) Within Jaipur City:

(1) Chobice Maharaj Mandir at Moti Singh Bhomika Rasta (rasta-lane or street). Jhoari Bazar. Noteworthy for its twenty- four seated Jinas arranged in a row.

(2) Tholian Adinath Mandir at Chiwa Lonka Rasta, Jhoari Bazar. Has a three dimensional model of a samavasarana and a large coloured dome done in inlaid technique. (3) Mahavira Mandir at Gopalji ka Rasta. A sculptured elephant points the way to the entrance.

(4) Shri Moriyan Mandir at Achary Lonka Rasta, High cupola: pillars adorned with wooden carvings representing musicians and dancers; many Jina images.

(5) Parshvanath Mandir at Kawasji ka Rasta (ill.205).

(6) Bhodichand Mandir at Chiwa Lonka Rasta.

For Shvetambara temples inquire at the Shvetam- bara Mandir situated near the railway station, on the left of the road leading to the city.

 Minor gods in their celestial vehicles and god Shakra, riding his elephant Airawata, are on their way to greet the arrival of a Jina. Here they point to the entrance of the temple.

Historic City of Jaipur.

Most Jaina temples are located in the area comprising the sectors.

marked 1, 2, 3 and 4 5-Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Winds.