SOAS Research Online

Abstract

The article presents new evidence on the archaeological site of Rakhetrā (M.P.), with particular attention to the rock-carved Hindu and Jaina sculptures and inscriptions. Photos of the three 10th, 15th and 17th century inscriptions on site are published for the first time, as well as a tentative transliteration of the important Jaina inscription next to a foot-image of Upādhyāya Viśālarāja, listing the names of his yet unidentified 15th century Jaina monastic lineage. The functions of rock-cut Jaina sculptures at remote places, object for worship, ornamentation or propagation, are discussed, and it is argued that the colossal sculpture of Ādinātha, that dominates the multi-functional site, was probably primarily a marker of the religious sphere of influence of the Digambara tīrtha Thūbonjī.