Arang Jain temples, Jain temple complex in Arang, Chhattisgarh, India
Arang Jain temples comprise three separate structures, each featuring black stone carvings and architectural elements in the Bhumija style. The complex displays intricate decorations, towering structures, and multiple chambers that represent a religious site from earlier centuries.
These structures were built between the 9th and 11th centuries under the rule of the Haihayas Rajput dynasty that governed the Arang region. They mark a peak in the development of Jain temples during this period of medieval architecture.
The Bhand Dewal temple shows a star-shaped layout that rises through five floors with six offsets at each level. Visitors can explore different chambers on each floor, each serving distinct religious purposes and showing how the builders organized sacred space.
The complex has been protected and maintained by the archaeological authority since 1920. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes since exploring the multi-story structures and chambers requires some walking and climbing.
Excavations near the complex in 2017 uncovered a statue of Adinath, the first Tirthankara of Jainism, standing about 1.16 meters tall. This discovery showed that the site served as an important pilgrimage destination for followers of this faith.
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