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Jaina Rock-Cut Caves in Western India
ience of those interested in visiting these sites, local names of the caves and bearings of exact locations are given in as much details as possible.
The experiences during innumerable field visits to these sites have been varied. While most caves lay neglected and in ruins, it has been interesting to see how more and more such old sites are being taken over by Jainas and how their attempts to 'develop' these caves, which include tiling the floors, painting the icons, whitewashing the walls and of course, building temples and dharmashalas at the base of the hill, have changed entire face of not only these caves, but also the surrounding village. With such drastic changes made to an ancient site and recognising the right of a community over its religious place, it is hoped that at least a proper study would be allowed before our rich heritage and past is lost forever.
