Jain Tirthankars Parshvanatha, Shantinatha and Adinatha Temple, Halebidu - Hassan, Karnataka

Experienced: May 2023

Unique Aspects

• The Jain Basadi complex comprises a trio of Jain Basadis.
• Devoted to the Jain Tirthankars Parshvanatha, Shantinatha, and Adinatha, respectively.
• Along with the Hoysaleswara Temple in Halebidu, the Jain templel complex is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This acknowledgment highlights its cultural and historical significance.

In Halebidu, Hassan district, the Jain Basadi complex encompasses three Jain Basadis (Basti or temples) dedicated to the revered Jain Tirthankars Parshvanatha, Shantinatha, and Adinatha. Located in proximity to the Kedareshwara temple and Dwarasamudra lake, this complex also features a notable step well named Hulikere Kalyani. Erected during the 12th century under the rule of the Hoysala Empire, these temples, along with the Kedareshwara temple and Hoysaleswara Temple, have attained UNESCO World Heritage Site status. Recognized by the Archaeological Survey of India, all three basadis within the complex are highlighted in the "Must See" Indian Heritage list and hold the distinction of being designated as "Adarsh Smarak Monuments". Within this complex, three basadis stand as testament to the rich cultural and religious heritage.

Sri Vijayi Parshvanaatha Basadi

Constructed in 1133 A.D. under the patronage of Boppadeva during the reign of King Vishnuvardhana, the Parshvanatha Basadi holds a significant place in history. Boppadeva, the son of the distinguished minister Gangaraja in the court of Hoysala King Vishnuvardhana, undertook the temple's construction. This noteworthy event coincided with the triumph of Narasimha I as the rightful heir to the throne. Consequently, the deity enshrined within is known as Vijaya Parsvanatha, signifying the victorious Parsvanatha.

Renowned for its architectural splendor, the Parshvanatha Basadi stands out, particularly for its captivating features. The temple gained fame for its splendid navaranga halls and the intricate carvings adorning the lathe-turned pillars. These pillars, positioned massively and in close proximity, symbolize, according to Kurt Bruhn, "the many layers of karma that weigh us down, with their black color representing timelessness akin to that of Tirthankars.

The mandapa and mahamandapa boast an ornate ceiling adorned with a sculpture of the yaksha Dharanendra at the center. Klaus Fisher, an Indologist, goes so far as to describe the detailed artwork embellishing the temple's ceiling as the most elaborate among all of Halebidu.

The temple boasts an Ardhamandapa, a "half hall," and a Mahamandapa, a "great hall," housing a remarkable monolithic 18-foot idol of Parshvanatha in the Kayotsarga posture. Within the Mahamandapa, one can marvel at the sculptures of the yaksha Dharanendra and yakshi Padmavati. Notably, this temple holds the distinction of being the largest and is widely acknowledged as the most architecturally significant within the basadi complex.

Beyond its sheer size, the temple is adorned with an abundance of sculptures, including captivating life-scenes of Tirthankaras intricately carved into the ceiling panel of the mukhamandapa. One notable feature is a famous image of Padmavati, adorned with a three-hooded cobra over her head, holding fruits in three hands and a weapon in the fourth. Moreover, the temple incorporates niches designed to house idols of the 24 tirthankaras, adding to its reverence and spiritual significance.

Vijaya Adinatha Jain Basadi

The Adinatha Basadi presents itself as a modest and unadorned temple, characterized by simplicity and spiritual grace. Comprising a garbhagriha and a mandapa, or "hall," the temple houses an image of Adinatha and features a beautifully carved depiction of the Hindu goddess Saraswati.

Within the sacred space, the original idol of Adinatha, initially a stout figure in a lotus position, is now housed in the navaranga hall after its unfortunate break. Notably, a statue of Jina, standing, graces the temple. Unlike some grander structures, the sanctum of Adinatha Basadi lacks a superstructure, emphasizing a more understated architectural style. This simplicity allows visitors to focus on the spiritual essence of the temple, creating an atmosphere conducive to reflection and reverence.

Bhagawan Shantinatha Digambara Jaina Basadi

Shantinatha Basadi, also known as Santisvara Basadi, is a comprehensive structure comprising a garbhagriha ("sanctum"), ardhamandapa, and mahamandapa. Noteworthy for its architectural elements, the temple features large granite pillars, with the inner sanctum housing an impressive 18-foot image of Shantinatha, the sixteenth Tirthankar.

The structure is distinguished by its merloned design, supported by a square-pillared porch adorned with granite pillars. The adhisthana moldings bear similarity to those found in the Parsvanatha Basti. A series of lathe-turned pillars within the temple provide additional structural support and contribute to the overall aesthetic appeal.

Shantinatha Basadi has been a site of significance, hosting the previous Mahamastakabhisheka ceremony in January 2010, a testament to its spiritual and cultural importance. Additionally, the temple complex includes a Brahmadeva pillar situated outside the temple, adding to the overall architectural and religious ambiance.

Halebidu, a historic city, served as the thriving capital of the Hoysala Empire from the 11th to the 14th century CE, witnessing a flourishing era of Jain influence. Referred to as Dorasamudra or Dwarasamundra during the Hoysala rule, the city thrived under the leadership of Bittiga, later known as Vishnuvardhana, acclaimed as the empire's greatest ruler.

Vishnuvardhana, initially a follower of Jainism, underwent a transformative shift around 1115 when he embraced Vaishnavism, influenced by the Hindu saint Ramanujacharya. Despite this conversion, he continued to uphold Jainism in equal regard with Hinduism, fostering an environment of religious inclusivity. Throughout their reign, Hinduism and Jainism coexisted harmoniously, symbolizing a remarkable era of religious tolerance.

Notably, Vishnuvardhana's wife, Shantala Devi, remained a steadfast follower of Jainism, showcasing the diversity of beliefs within the royal family. Subsequently, the temples built during this period, including those in Halebidu, were later entrusted to the maintenance of the Maharaja of Mysore, preserving their cultural and historical significance.

Location

The Jain Temple complex, is located in the town of Halebidu in the Hassan district of Karnataka, India. Positioned approximately 30 kilometers northwest of Hassan, the temple is also about 16 kilometers from the renowned Belur temples. While Halebidu doesn't have its own airport, it is conveniently accessible, situated about 210 kilometers west of Bengaluru. The journey takes approximately 4 hours by car, with easy access through a four-lane NH75 highway passing through Hassan. For those preferring train travel, Halebidu is connected to the railway network at Hassan, providing transportation to major cities in Karnataka.

Address

Jain Temple Complex,
Halebidu,
Hassan Region,
Karnataka,
India, Pincode: 573121.