Jain Icons and Idols in Pakistan: Examples from Sri Pārśvanāth Jain Svetambar Mandir Multan

Abstract

This research paper encapsulates the Pictorial representation of Jain Gods, literary known as Tirthankaras, comprises major part of artistic features of religious edifices of Jainism. Most often more than single depiction of Jain idols is to be seen in a single Jain temple. Some of the popular tirthankaras are always depicted along with the main deity to whom the temple is associated. The present research paper is also about one of such Jain shrines where a significant number of Jain gods are depicted on façade of the main chamber. The temple itself is associated with Lord Pārśvanāth, the 23^rd or the second last tirthankaras of Jain religion. The present research aims at highlighting various aspects related to figural representation of these divine beings including the way they are depicted in narrative art of Jainism in Pakistan. Furthermore, the research would help us to understand basic principles of Jain iconography followed by the community of Pakistan.