Jagdish Temple, Udaipur

This is what is written on the webpage of the temple:“Jagdish Temple is one of the famous temples of Udaipur. Located in the City Palace complex of Udaipur, this temple is made in the Indo-Aryan style of architecture. In 1651, Jagdish temple was built by Maharana Jagat Singh, who ruled Udaipur during 1628-53. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu (Laxmi Narayan), the preserver of the Universe. It is celebrated for being the largest temple in the city of Udaipur.
This three-storied temple is a wonder of architecture that comprises beautifully carved pillars, decorated ceilings, painted walls and lush halls. In those times, 1.5 million rupees were spent to raise this structure. The spire of the main temple is around 79 feet high that undoubtedly dominates the skyline of Udaipur. This shikhar (spire) is festooned with sculptures of dancers, elephants, horsemen and musicians making it truly a sight to behold.

When you approach the temple, you will be welcomed by two huge stone elephants at the entrance. To reach the main shrine, you have to take a marble flight of 32 steps. Here, you will find a brass image of Garuda, a figure of half-man and half-eagle. ”

So let’s have a look then, shall we?

32 Marble steps…check…

Two huge stone elephants…check…

79 feet high sphere…check… (No, I did not measure it;-))

Festooned with sculptures…check…

The sculptures are very beautiful. The number of figurines is immense, as is the variation and detailing.

At man-height, the figurines are sometimes very weathered and worn.

A tiger having his teeth sunk in the trunk of an elephant?

Watertap or gargoyle?

Garuda…check….

Ofcourse there is a lot of worshipping going on.

There are priests…

…begging holy men…

Women selling items for worship, like flowers.

I conclude today’s post with this picture of children at the temple, that had a lot of fun with their picture being taken. “One more! And another one!”…;-)

 

Tomorrow we look around in the centre of Udaipur. Are you coming?