Holy Abu

This document is the English translation of Muni Shri Jayantavijayaji's influential Gujarati work, "Holy Abu," serving as a comprehensive tourist and pilgrim guide to Mount Abu and its significant Jain shrines. The book, translated by Dr. Umākānt Premanand Shah and with a foreword by Dr. V. S. Agrawala, was first published in 1954 by Shri Yashovijaya Jaina Granthamala.

The work is highly valued for its detailed exploration of Mount Abu's natural beauty, its rich history, and particularly its exquisite Jain temples, known for their intricate marble carvings. The book is structured to guide visitors through various aspects of Mount Abu, blending mythological and historical accounts with practical information.

Key Aspects of the Book:

• Authoritative Scholarship: Muni Shri Jayantavijayaji was a renowned Jain scholar and historian, dedicated to documenting Jain pilgrimage sites. His extensive research, spanning multiple volumes on Abu, provides a deep and reliable account of the region's heritage.
• Focus on Jain Shrines: The book delves into the prominent Jain temples at Delwada, primarily the Vimala Vasahi and the Luna Vasahi. It meticulously describes their architectural features, historical construction, the families and patrons involved (like Vimala Shah, Vastupala, and Tejapala), and the iconographic details of the numerous sculptures and reliefs within.
• Art Historical Significance: The text highlights the exceptional artistry and craftsmanship of the medieval period evident in the temples. It discusses the delicate marble carving, the complex domes, the intricate carvings on pillars, ceilings, and niches, comparing them favorably with other renowned Indian art traditions.
• Historical Context: The book traces the lineage of key figures involved in the temples' construction, the political and social context of their patronage, and the historical events that influenced the region, including periods of destruction and subsequent repairs.
• Detailed Iconography: A significant portion of the book is dedicated to explaining the iconography of the sculptures, detailing the stories from Jain mythology, the lives of Tirthankaras, the depiction of various gods and goddesses (like Vidyadevis, Ambika), and the representations of donors and historical figures. The author also provides insight into the significance of various reliefs (Bhāvas) found within the temples.
• Practical Guidance: The book offers practical advice for both tourists and Jain pilgrims, including suggested itineraries for visiting the sites, information on accommodation, transport, and local customs. It also outlines programs tailored for different types of visitors.
• Broader Cultural Context: Beyond the Jain temples, "Holy Abu" also provides descriptions of significant Hindu sites, natural attractions, and historical landmarks on and around Mount Abu, such as the Achaleshvara Mahadeva temple, Mandakini Kund, Gurushikhara, Nakhi Lake, and various historical caves and points of interest. This broad coverage situates the Jain heritage within the wider cultural landscape of the region.
• Inscriptional Evidence: The author's extensive collection and analysis of inscriptions found at Abu and its surroundings are a crucial part of the book, providing datable evidence for the construction and renovation of the temples, and shedding light on the social and economic history of the period.
• Preservation and Renovation: The book implicitly underscores the importance of preserving these ancient monuments and highlights ongoing efforts, such as those by the Anandji Kalyanji Pedhi, in their conservation.

In essence, "Holy Abu" is a seminal work that serves as an indispensable resource for anyone interested in the art, architecture, history, and religious significance of Mount Abu, with a particular emphasis on its world-renowned Jain temples. It is a testament to the author's deep scholarship and dedication to illuminating the rich cultural heritage of India.