A group of epigraphists and archaeologists has conducted a study on the Rockfort Sri Thayumanaswamy temple with special focus on its links with Jainism.
It has identified four spots at various places on the Rockfort in support of their study.
The most important among them is the image of Tirthankara, follower of Lord Buddha. Measuring about three-and-a-half-feet in height, the idol has been neatly carved on the rock bed called ‘Sarukku Paarai’ of the Rockfort. In a seated posture, the Tirthankara is accompanied by two disciples each on either side.
ADVERTISEMENT
“Our effort is a step towards creating awareness of ancient links between the Rockfort and Jainisim.
A study on ascertaining the exact period in which these images had been incorporated on the Rockfort will throw more light in this regard,” A. Sridharan, one of the epigraphists, and founder of the Ahimsa Walk, an organisation working for the cause of bringing out wonders of ancient temples and historical monuments across the State, told the media on Saturday.
C. Veeraraghavan, an epigraphist, said that the three other vital links found on the Rockfort are the carving of the steps which are in the form of bed and 12 pits, possibly the ‘Marunthu kuzhi,’ used for grinding medicine and an inscription. Six stone-beds where the Jain monks had resided, foot prints carved on the rock bed and the symbol of ‘Samayika Thiriyaavathi,’ a devotional symbol for salvation, are important traces found on the Rockfort.
ADVERTISEMENT
The Jain beds located on the Rockfort have a striking similarly with the noted Jain beds found at Mangulam near Madurai, Ennayiram near Gingee and Thiyagadurgam near Kallakurichi _ both in Villupuram district.
An awareness programme will be organised on the Rockfort on July 3 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. when the members of the Ahimsa Walk will visit all these places.