Aihole Meena Basati, Karnataka

Address

Aihole Meena Basati, Karnataka

Aihole, Bagalkot District,

Karnataka 587124

Moolavar

Mahavira, 24th Tirthankara.

Introduction   

The Meena Basati is a significant Jain cave temple dedicated to Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism, located in Aihole, a historical town in the Bagalkot District of Karnataka, India.

1. Location: The Meena Basati is situated on the banks of the Malaprabha River, in the heart of Aihole, which is historically renowned for its numerous ancient temples and monuments. Aihole is located on the Pattadakal to Amingad route in Karnataka.
2. Historical Significance: The cave temple is believed to have been excavated towards the end of the 6th century CE or early in the 7th century CE, making it an ancient and historically significant site. It is an important example of Jain architecture in the region.
3. Protected Monument: The Meena Basati is recognized and protected as a monument of national importance by the Archaeological Survey of India, reflecting its cultural and historical significance.
4. Architecture: The cave temple consists of several sections, including a narrow porch, a central hall leading to the main shrine, and two adjacent chambers. The architectural elements, such as pillars, pilasters, and intricate carvings, showcase the artistic and architectural excellence of the period.
5. Carvings and Sculptures: The temple is adorned with remarkable sculptures and carvings, including depictions of Jain Tirthankaras, protective deities, attendants, and other intricate relief patterns. The porch ceiling features elaborately carved lotus petal designs, while carvings of Gomateshwara, Parsvanatha, and other Jain deities can be found on the temple walls.
6. Main Shrine: The main shrine houses a carving of Lord Mahavira, seated in padmasana (lotus position) and displaying the dyana mudra (meditative posture). He is depicted beneath a triple umbrella canopy and is flanked by two attendants holding whisks.
7. Additional Chambers: The temple features two adjacent chambers, one on each side of the main hall. These chambers contain depictions of Mahavira with female worshippers and an elephant procession. The chamber on the right side was left unfinished.
8. Surrounding Area: A path from the temple leads to the dolmens located at the summit of Meguti Hill, offering visitors additional historical and archaeological attractions to explore.

Century/Period

6th century CE

Managed By

Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)

Nearest Bus Station

Aihole

Nearest Railway Station

Badami Railway Station

Nearest Airport

Belgaum                            

Location on Map

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