TRAVEL THE WORLD - BIKANER, INDIA

This Jain temple in Bikaner, Rajasthan was photographed in 2007. Jainism, one of India's major religions, is very old. Its adherents are especially known for the respect they have for all life to the extent that they will not even kill an insect. In most communities, Jains operate shelters for abandoned or ill animals. Though each Jain temple was unique, this temple had the beautiful decoration we had come to expect. We were amazed to be allowed to approach the inner sanctum featured in the second photo. This is the most holy part of the temple, where the image of the god is seen and worshiped.

TRAVEL THE WORLD - AURANGABAD, INDIA

These 2007 photos were taken in front of and inside a Jain temple in Aurangabad in Maharashtra. Jainism is an ancient religion which regards every living thing as potentially divine and therefore to be protected. Jains seek to attain spiritual enlightenment through the practice of non-violence and through cultivating wisdom and self-control. Jainism is thought to have influenced Bhuddism and Hinduism in ancient times. The religion, which has between 10 and 12 million followers, is held in high esteem in India. Jain temples contain beautifully intricate stone carvings, and most towns have a Jain animal shelter. In the second photo above a man is making an offering in the temple.

INDIA VACATION 2007

JAIN TEMPLES IN INDIA

Jainism, an ancient religion, has 10 million followers in India. Compassion for all life is central to their beliefs. They adhere to a vegetarian or vegan diet, and almost every town and village in India has its Jain animal shelter.

Ranakpur temple, located 60 km from Udaipur in Rajasthan, is famously said to contain 1,400 carved marble columns, all different. Dating the temple is controversial, but there is agreement that it was built between the late-14th and mid-15th centuries. Ranakpur temple is pictured in the first photo above.

Another Jain temple, the Bhandashah temple, shown in the second photo, is the oldest structure in Bikaner. It dates from the year 1514.