Jain Kashthapat Chitra

This book, "Jain Kashthapat Chitra: Survey and Documentation of Mural Paintings in the Jain Temples of South Gujarat" by Vasudev Smart, is a comprehensive study of the mural paintings found in Jain temples across South Gujarat. The late Vasudev Smart, a distinguished artist and art historian, dedicated his expertise to documenting these valuable artistic heritage.

Key aspects of the book:

• Vasudev Smart's Legacy: The book highlights Vasudev Smart's lifelong passion for Indian art, particularly Jain art. He was a diploma holder from the J.J. School of Arts, Mumbai, and his extensive work documented wall paintings in various historical sites across India. His dedication to preserving Jain art led him to meticulously copy and document the fresco and Jain Kashthapat Chitra from Surat, Bharuch, and Ankleshwar in the later years of his life.
• Preservation of Heritage: The book underscores the concern for the preservation of these ancient artworks, many of which are found in a damaged condition. The initiative to publish this work was driven by a desire to bring these treasures to light and ensure their survival for future generations.
• Jain Art and Tradition: The book emphasizes Jainism's significant contribution to Indian art, architecture, and sculpture. It notes how Jain art traditions are deeply intertwined with their religious practices, with temples serving as magnificent showcases of artistic expression. The text also touches upon the historical context of Jainism in Gujarat, its patronage, and the development of its unique artistic styles.
• Types of Jain Paintings: The book categorizes Jain paintings into several types, including:
  • Mural Paintings: Paintings on temple walls.
  • Wooden Pat Paintings: Paintings executed on wooden panels, often adorning pillars, ceilings, and walls.
  • Pat Paintings on Cloth: Traditional scroll paintings made on cloth.
  • Fresco Paintings: Mentioned specifically are the "Nandishwar dwip" fresco in Rander and "Dhai dwip" in Ankleshwar, both noted for their damaged condition.
• Survey of Temples: The book provides a detailed survey of Jain temples in various locations across South Gujarat, including:
  • Rander and Surat: The book discusses the historical significance of these cities and details the art found in temples like Shri Adishwar Bhagwan Temple and Shri Chintamani Parshwanath Temple, highlighting wood carvings, paintings, and their thematic elements.
  • Bharuch: The historical importance of Bharuch as a center of Jainism is explored, with references to the Muni Suvrat Swami Temple and the art within.
  • Ankleshwar: The book details the Jain temples in Ankleshwar, including the Chintamani Parshwanath Digambar Jain Temple and Shri Mahavir Swami Digambar Jain Temple, and the artistic elements found in them, such as wall frescoes and pat paintings.
  • Other locations: Temples in places like Amod are also featured.
• Artistic Styles and Techniques: The book analyzes the artistic styles and techniques employed in these paintings, noting influences from Rajput, Mughal, and Maratha art. It describes the use of vibrant colors, intricate detailing, symbolic representations, and narrative elements depicting Jain religious stories, cosmology, and daily life.
• Specific Artworks and Their Documentation: The book extensively details significant artworks, such as:
  • Panchtirth Pats: Paintings depicting the five major Jain pilgrimage sites (Shatrunjay, Girnar, Ashtapad, Sametshikhar, and Abu).
  • Nandishwar Dwip and Adhai Dwip: Detailed descriptions and documentation of these complex cosmological maps and their artistic representations.
  • Wood Carvings: Emphasis is placed on the exceptional wood carvings found in temples like Shri Chintamani Parshwanath Temple, Surat.
  • Artist's Process: The book illustrates Vasudev Smart's meticulous process of documenting these artworks, including making sketches, tracings, and detailed copies.
• Preservation Concerns: The book highlights the unfortunate state of many ancient artworks due to neglect, damage, and renovation. It calls for greater efforts to conserve this invaluable cultural heritage.

In essence, "Jain Kashthapat Chitra" is a vital document for art historians, art enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the rich artistic and religious heritage of Jainism in South Gujarat. It serves as a tribute to Vasudev Smart's dedication and a crucial resource for understanding and preserving these significant artworks.