Jain idol dating back to Cholas discovered
Historical evidences were found that indicate presence of jain traditions in Villupuram district. Sculptures, inscriptions were found at many places.
S Vishnu Sharmaa, INN/Chennai, @Svs037
Aruthangudi village in Villupuram district of Tamilnadu was the centre of attraction recently as it turned into a spot for discovery of idol said to be from the days of Cholas.
The idol, said to be that of a Jain monk is located close to Ayyanar temple situated on the route connecting Manalurpettai with Thiyagaduruvam. Sources point out thediscovery was made by R Ranganathan, who works as assistant professor in the History department of Villupuram Arts College and his team. Ramesh, Sridhar and Kamalakkannan are members of the team.
Speaking to Infodea Ranganathan said lot of historical evidences were found that indicate presence of jain traditions in Villupuram district. Sculptures, inscriptions were found at many places. Efforts to know more led to discovery of the idol. It is about five-and-half feet in height and has a width of two-and-half feet, saint is found sitting on a peetham (high raised platform), says Ranganathan.
One palm of the monk appears to be relaxed positioned on the other only to show the saint in a meditative posture. The monk also appears to be sitting under an umbrella, portion above it is found decorated with beautifully with flowers. Delving deeper into the artistic trends in the sculpture has indicated that the idol belongs to the times of Cholas, says Ranganathan.
This statue could have been a part of a larger temple built out of blackstone or brick during that time. As the time moved ahead, the shrine could have perished and this idol alone appears to have survived. Speaking further, history expert Ranganathan opines this village would have been known as ‘Arugan Gudi,’ indicating its connectivity to a deity from Jain pantheon. Arugan Gudi seems to have become Aruthangudi as the time moved ahead.
The sculpture shows Jainism has have flourished in the village during the time of Cholas, jains would have resided here who would have worshipped this sculpture. Though Jainism seems to be not active currently, it was active in the past. Further research could throw more light on presence of Jainism in this village and areas nearby, says Ranganathan.