Nāgda's Ancient Jaina Temple
By M. A. Dhaky
Summary
This piece surveys the solitary Digambara Jain temple at Nāgda, once a capital of the Guhila dynasty and later a Jain centre. The temple consists of an early eleventh‑century prasāda with later additions. Its plan exhibits bhadra, subhadra and upa‑bhadra offsets and base mouldings such as jadyakumbha and karṇaṭaka. The recessed walls house niches containing images of Pārśvanātha, and the śikhara is composed of thirty‑seven miniature spires arrayed in rows; the caitya‑mesh pattern and lotus‑bud profile reflect Maru‑Gurjara craftsmanship. Inscriptions from 1300 and 1335 mention renovations, but stylistic analysis assigns the temple to the early eleventh century. The article situates the shrine within the broader context of Nagda’s history, noting its transformation from a royal capital to a pilgrim destination, and contrasts its Digambara form with Śvetāmbara temples. Through architectural description and epigraphic evidence, the author underscores the temple’s role as an early manifestation of the regional style that would flourish in western India.
Summary reviewed by a volunteer editor.
Conclusion
Nagda’s Digambara shrine demonstrates the early maturity of Maru‑Gurjara architecture. Its carefully proportioned plan, richly carved spire and early eleventh‑century date position it as a crucial link between the earliest Jain temples and the grander monuments of later centuries.