Karkala: Moodabidri Basadies determine as architectural marvels in Fodor’s book

Karkala: Moodabidri Basadies determine as architectural marvels in Fodor’s book

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, August 23, 2020: Saavira Kambada Basadi in Moodabidri and Chaturmukha Basadi in Karkala figure among the top 13 Jain Temples with incredible architecture in the latest edition of Fodor’s, a publisher of travel and tourism information.

The first two spots are taken by Ranakpur Jain Temple, Rajasthan and Dilwara Temples of Mount Abu, Rajasthan. One more temple – Peacock Jain Temple at Mandaragiri Hill, Madagondanahalli, Tumakuru, figures at number 12 in the list, making three of Karnataka’s Jain Basadis figure in the list of 13 Jain temples having great architecture.

Swasti Sri Charukeerthi Panditachayavarya Maha Swamiji of Jain Kashi Mutt, Moodbidri, was elated saying that it was a matter of pride that the Thousand Pillar Basadi among the 13 architectural marvels in the country. “There was no doubt about its architectural splendor,’’ he told TOI. “The Basadi is in dire need of restoration which has been long pending. Though 80% of the restoration is over, the last bit, which is some strengthening works and installing copper plates on top of the Basadi are still pending. The Government has reportedly sanctioned Rs 2 crore for this work, but we have not got it yet,” said the Seer. The structure started crumbling in 2011-12 due to alleged mining activities in quarries located nearby the Basadi, but was stopped due to intervention of the authorities. The lack of drainage to properly drain the water, due to encroachment, during monsoons from the precincts of the Temple had loosened the soil causing structural damage from below. This major issue has been addressed to some extent by the Mutt spending lakhs of Rupees, said the Seer.

The other Basadi in Karnataka’s Coast to figure is the Chaturmukha Basadi, which is a symmetrical Jain temple. Built in the late 16th century, the Basadi is completely made of carved granite rocks. It faces the famous Karkala Bahubali statue installed in the year 1432.

Courtesy: Times of India