A Note on the Identification of a Tirthankara Image at Bharat Kala Bhavan, Varanasi
By Unexhibited
Summary
M.N. Prasad Tiwari examines a sculptural relief from the Bharat Kala Bhavan museum in Varanasi and proposes an identification of the central Tirthankara. The panel depicts a seated Jina on a lotus throne in meditation, framed by lions and guardian deities. Above him are Yaksha and Yakshi attendants; below are a crouching lion and human figures. The author observes that the Jina’s chest bears a faint emblem and notes an architrave carved with the dharma‑chakra flanked by lions; two flying figures hold garlands on either side. Under the pedestal are small reliefs, including a caitya‑tree with a devotee and another figure with a lion motif. On the left side stands a female deity with a lotus, presumably the Yakshi Ambika; on the right is an unidentified male Yaksha. The article discusses whether the Jina represents Parshvanatha, Neminatha or Rishabhanatha and, based on the absence of a serpent canopy and the presence of Ambika, concludes that the image likely depicts Neminatha. It encourages further study of similar sculptures to refine understanding of Jain iconography.
Conclusion
Tiwari demonstrates how careful iconographic analysis—looking at posture, emblems, attendant deities and pedestals—can clarify the identity of Jain sculptures. By identifying the image as Neminatha rather than Parshvanatha, he underscores the importance of contextual clues and challenges earlier assumptions. The note encourages curators and scholars to re‑examine museum collections with nuanced attention to Jain symbology.