Brahma Jinalaya is a Jain Basadi / temple built in the 11th century by Attimabbe mother of Ahniga Masavadi the ruler of Lakkundi.
Queen Attimabbe was generous and a benefactor of Kannada literature and Jainism due to which she earned the title “Daanachintamani”. Poet Ranna and Ponna’s literary works were cherished and encouraged by Atiimabbe.
This temple is one of the largest and displays the exemplary temple architecture of the state of Karnataka. The temple is dedicated to Bhagavan / Lord Mahavira.
Pillars of the open hall
The Basadi is built with schist (schists form a group of medium-grade metamorphic rocks with prevalence of minerals such as micas, chlorite, talc, hornblende, graphite, and others) and hence the sculpting became easier than working with sandstone. The designs thus carved are delicate with finesse.
Brahma Jinalaya roof
Basadi has a secure Mukha Mantapa / facing hall and a huge open hall propped by polished pillars each designed and cut differently forming geometrical patterns. In the Garbagruha / sanctum sanctorum is the idol of Bhagavan Vardhamana Mahavira Tirthankara, which is 4 feet tall.
Bhagwan Mahaveera
The door panel of the Garbagruha is grand and carved to perfection.
Bhagwan Mahaveera
The statues of Chaturmukha / four faced Brahma and Goddess Saraswathi in the temple are very attractive and the visitors cannot stop praising the workmanship of the sculptors.
Chaturmukha – 3 faces
Fourth face
Temples to visit:
Nanneshwara Temple
Sooryanarayana Temple
Place statistics:
Type of place: Historical site
Situated: Gadag district
Distance: 12 kms South-East of Gadag
Transport: Well connected by road. Nearest railway station is at Gadag.
Facilities: Nil
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