Pakbirra's Shrines of the Emancipated
Summary
P.C. Das Gupta’s illustrated article transports readers to the Jaina ruins at Pakbirra, situated on a mound in the foothills of the Patkum Range near the confluence of the Silavati and Kangsabati rivers in Purulia, West Bengal. The site, once a flourishing centre of Jainism during the ninth‑tenth centuries, now contains three small stone temples of the **rekha deul** type and numerous sculptural fragments. Das Gupta describes the architectural features of these temples: tall curvilinear shikharas with fluted finials, corbelled entrances, and sancta without porches. Although the structures are partially ruined, their austere lines and carved panels convey a sense of calm grandeur. The article highlights several exquisite sculptures, including a 7½‑foot high statue of the Tirthankara Padmaprabha in **kāyotsarga** (standing meditation) and a torso of a Tirthankara with the characteristic Jaina symbols. Das Gupta emphasises the refined modelling of the figures—the gentle smile, elongated earlobes and stylised hair—attributes reminiscent of the post‑Gupta idiom yet marked by local innovations. He notes that the temples show evidence of artistic influences from Bengal, Orissa and Bihar, suggesting that Pakbirra was a meeting point of regional styles. The sculptures depict not only Tirthankaras but also Yakshis such as Ambika, represented with mango tree and child. The article situates Pakbirra within broader Jain history: according to inscriptions, the area was once under the patronage of the Pala dynasty and served as a pilgrimage site for Jain monks and laity. Over time, invasions and natural decay led to its abandonment; local villagers reused stone blocks in dwellings, and idols were neglected. Yet the remaining sculptures, now preserved by the Archaeological Survey of India, testify to a sophisticated tradition of Jaina art and devotion. Das Gupta urges readers to appreciate the aesthetic and historical value of Pakbirra’s relics and calls for their conservation. He concludes that these “shrines of the emancipated” embody the Jain ideal of spiritual liberation while enriching India’s architectural heritage.
Summary reviewed by a volunteer editor.
Conclusion
The article on Pakbirra’s shrines combines art history and archaeology to evoke a once‑vibrant Jain centre now lying in ruins. By analysing temple architecture and sculpture, Das Gupta shows how local craftsmen adapted classical forms to create serene images of Tirthankaras and their guardian deities. He argues that preserving these works is vital not only for understanding regional variations in medieval Indian art but also for honouring the Jain philosophy of liberation that inspired them.