Bhandasar Jain Temple
The Bhandasar Jain Temple, dedicated to Sumatinath, the fifth Jain Tirthankara, is located at the southwest end of Bikaner city. The temple is near to the popular Laxminath Temple of Bikaner, which is one of the oldest temples of Bikaner.
Before you enter the premises of the holy shrine, you should read the notice board placed outside the temple to know more about the prominence of the temple. Also, make sure that you do not carry any leather item inside the temple.
While most of the temple is built in red sandstone, one of the shikaras of the temple shines in white. The top has been carved in white marble with 'sringas' and 'upasringas', which are common design motifs.
The main entrance in red sandstone welcomes its visitors to the three-storeyed temple. The temple is one of the most beautifully designed Jain temples in India, with construction stones brought from Jaisalmer.
The entry gate of the temple displays the architectural splendour of the temple. The main temple has an altar plated in gold, housing the white-marble statue of Lord Sumatinath on a throne made of silver.
The temple comprises an antarala, an ardhamandapa, a mahamandapa, as well as a garbhagriha. Each part stands out in terms of architectural excellence, and is sure to delight the devout and the wanderer alike.
The main hall of the temple has many pillars designed in the Usta art. The colourful and charming designs on the walls and the pillars complement each other and enhance the beauty of the main hall.
The pillars of the temple have sculptures of dancing folk in vibrant colours. The ground floor of the temple has three sandstone pillars having sculptures and decorative patterns in breathtaking detail and elegance.
Once you enter the temple, your attention will be grabbed by the colourful intricate designs on the walls of the temple. No inch seems to be left out by the artisans, who worked tirelessly to produce this masterpiece.
The ceilings of the temple are heavily adorned with gold leaf work, having lovely floral patterns. The paintings depict scenes from the lives of 24 Tirthankars of the Jain religion.
Here is the picture of the idol of the Jain deity placed in the main altar. Besides this, there are three more idols positioned below the main idol. The Lord's chamber has been designed with beautiful patterns and designs.
