Last Updated on February 3, 2026 11:06 pm by BIZNAMA NEWS
A AKHTER / New Delhi
Rajya Sabha MP Neeraj Dangi on Tuesday raised a demand in the Upper House for declaring the Dilwara Jain Temples of Mount Abu as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, citing their unmatched architectural and cultural significance. He raised the issue during Zero Hour in the Rajya Sabha.
Highlighting the importance of the temples, Dangi said the Dilwara Jain Temples, located atop the Aravalli range in Rajasthan’s Sirohi district, represent the pinnacle of ancient Indian architecture, exquisite marble craftsmanship, and cultural excellence. Built between the 11th and 13th centuries, the complex comprises five Shwetambar Jain temples, of which Vimal Vasahi and Luna Vasahi are particularly renowned for their artistic brilliance. The other temples include those dedicated to Mahavir Swami, Pitalkhar, and Parshvanath.
According to inscriptions found in the temple complex, around 1,500 artisans and 1,200 workers laboured continuously for 14 years to construct the temples, beginning in 1031 AD. Carved entirely in white marble at an estimated cost of ₹18.53 crore, the temples are famed for their intricately carved domes, ceilings, pillars, and arches, attracting millions of devotees and tourists annually.
Dangi noted that idols of Jain Tirthankaras are installed in 57 shrines, along with sculptures depicting Saraswati, Lakshmi, Ambaji, Narasimha’s slaying of Hiranyakashipu, and scenes from Krishna’s life, reflecting the rich cultural milieu of the era. He emphasised that the delicacy, refinement, and ornamental richness of the carvings are unparalleled anywhere in the world.
Notably, the Department of Posts issued a commemorative multicolour postage stamp on the Dilwara Temples in 2009. Jain community leaders welcomed Dangi’s initiative and expressed gratitude for his efforts.
