The significance
The Jain Temple in Sulthan Bathery is a protected monument of the Archaeological Survey of India. It is built in the thirteenth century and has a lot of historical importance. The sanctity of this temple attracts visitors to spend their time here. Beautiful carvings and pillars are the attraction of this precious Temple.
Poojas are not performed in this Jain temple as the main seat of the sanctum is empty.
A look back
The prevalent architectural style of the Vijayanagar dynasty has been seen in the structure of the temple. It is one of the best heritage sites to visit in Wayanad. This is the place that first served as a shrine and later became a prominent center of commercial activity.
Through the years
Over one fifty years, this Jain Temple was deserted after Tipu Sulthan’s vandalism. The Archeological Survey of India took over this temple later for maintenance and declared it an important monument of India. The courtyard of Sulthan Bathery Jain Temple is really attractive with its well-laid lawns and ornament plants.
Architecture
Extensively carved large granite pillars are the major attraction of this Temple. Namaskara mandapa is an open roof detached pillared mandapa in front of the temple. It makes the temple attractive. Mukundamandapa is the main structure of the mandapa which is followed by the sanctum and maha mandapa.
Worship
There are few small statues of Jain Trikanthankaras present in this Temple. Ananthanath is the main deity of this Temple, now this idol is at a Temple in Kalpetta. During Mahavir Jayanthi idol of Ananthanath is brought here. The temple is open to the Jain worshippers on festive days.
Final words
It would be a wonderful feel to visit the Jain Temple of Sulthan Bathery during the festive time. You can see the architecture style of the Vijayanagara Dynasty here. Spending your valuable time to know about relics of an ancient Jain culture will be a memorable experience.
