11th century Jain sculptures discovered in Mysuru district

Source– This post is based on the article “11th century Jain sculptures discovered in Varuna” published in “The Hindu” on 29th December 2023.

Why in the News?

Three 11th-century Jain sculptures were recently discovered in Varuna village of Mysuru district, during drainage work. While

What are the Key Findings?

1) Of the three sculptures, one has suffered severe damage and is beyond recognition,. However, the other two were in relatively good condition.

2) One of the sculptures portrays a Jain Tirthankara, but it is difficult to ascertain exact identity in the absence of any symbols.

3) These sculptures have been shifted to the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) museum at the Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalay in Madhya Pradesh.

Who is a Jain Tirthankara?

1) In Jainism, a Tirthankara is a spiritual teacher and savior of the righteous path (dharma).

2) According to Jains, Tirthankaras are supreme preachers of dharma. Having conquered the cycle of death and rebirth (samsara) themselves, they pave the way for others to follow.

3) Upon realizing the true nature of the self or soul, the Tirthankara achieves kevala jnana (omniscience).

4) The Jain tradition recognizes 24 Tirthankaras who contributed towards the development of the Jain religion.

5) The first Tirthankara is Rishabhanatha and the 24th and last tirthankara is Lord Mahavira.

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