આબુકલ્પ

Summary

The article titled “Abu Kalp” investigates the religious and cultural significance of Mount Abu in Rajasthan, an important pilgrimage centre for Jains and Hindus. The term “kalp” denotes a ritual manual or an epoch; here it is used metaphorically to suggest a world centred on Mount Abu. The author begins by recounting the geographical features of Mount Abu, the only hill station in arid Rajasthan, whose cool climate and lush forests have made it a retreat for sages and monks for millennia. He recounts legends from Jain scriptures, such as how the first Tirthankara Rishabha performed asceticism on Abu and how Neminatha attained omniscience here. The article highlights the construction of the Dilwara temples by ministers Vastupāla and Tejapāla in the 13th century, noting their exquisite marble carvings and depiction of Jain cosmology. The author also mentions Brahmanical legends associated with Mount Abu, such as the penance of Vashishtha and the origin of the Agnivanshi Rajputs. He analyses the interplay between Jain and Hindu narratives, showing how they coexist and contribute to the mountain’s sacred aura. The article further explores the cultural “kalp” of Mount Abu by discussing its role as a monastic hub: various Jain sects established monasteries here, and the mountain’s serene environment was conducive to meditation and learning. The author describes annual fairs and pilgrimages, such as the Rath Yatra of Adinatha, which draw devotees from Gujarat, Rajasthan and beyond. The ecological aspect is also considered: the mountain’s forests house diverse flora and fauna, and traditional practices emphasise conservation, reflecting Jain principles of non‑violence and environmental stewardship. The article concludes by noting that Mount Abu’s “kalp” represents a microcosm where myth, history, religion and ecology converge, offering insights into how sacred landscapes are constructed and sustained.