New Delhi – In a significant move that has brought fresh attention to Rajasthan’s rich heritage, Rajya Sabha MP Neeraj Dangi has strongly demanded that the famous Dilwara Jain Temples in Mount Abu be declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. He raised this issue during Zero Hour in the Rajya Sabha on February 3, 2026.
Mr Dangi highlighted the temples’ unmatched beauty, ancient architecture, and deep cultural value. He said these temples are a shining example of India’s old building skills, especially the wonderful work done in white marble. They stand on the top of the Aravalli hills in Sirohi district and attract lakhs of devotees and tourists every year.
The Historic Demand in Parliament
Speaking in the Upper House, Congress leader and Rajya Sabha member Neeraj Dangi told the House that the Dilwara Jain Temples are not just places of worship but a treasure of world-class art and culture. He explained that these temples were built between the 11th and 13th centuries and show the best of Indian stone carving.
He specially mentioned two temples – Vimal Vasahi and Luna Vasahi – which are known all over the world for their fine designs. The other three are dedicated to Mahavir Swami, Parshvanath, and Pitalkhar (Pittalhar).
Mr Dangi pointed out old stone writings in the temple area that say around 1,500 skilled craftsmen and 1,200 workers worked for 14 long years starting from 1031 AD to build these temples. The total cost at that time was about ₹18.53 crore – a huge amount in those days. Everything was made from pure white marble.
History of Dilwara Jain Temples
The Dilwara (or Delwara) Jain Temples are a group of five beautiful Śvetāmbara Jain temples located about 2.5 km from Mount Abu town in Sirohi district, Rajasthan. They were built between the 11th and 16th centuries during the rule of the Chaulukya (Solanki) and Vaghela dynasties.
The first and most famous one, Vimal Vasahi, was built by Vimal Shah, a Jain minister of King Bhima I, around 1031 AD. Later, brothers Vastupal and Tejpal (ministers of the Vaghela king) built the Luna Vasahi in 1230 AD in memory of their brother Lunig. The other temples came up over the next few centuries.
These temples were damaged once by Allauddin Khilji’s army in 1311 but were repaired many times. Today they are managed by the Seth Shri Kalyanji Anandji Pedhi and remain active places of worship for Jains.
The Five Magnificent Temples
- Vimal Vasahi Temple Dedicated to Lord Adinath (Rishabhdev), the first Jain Tirthankara. It has a big open courtyard, carved pillars, and a rang mandap with a stunning dome. The ceilings show flowers, dancers, and scenes from Jain stories. There are 59 small shrines around the main idol.
- Luna Vasahi Temple Built for Lord Neminath (22nd Tirthankara). Many people say its carvings are even finer than Vimal Vasahi. The central dome has a hanging pendant that looks like it is made of lace. There is a black marble idol of Neminath here – the only one in the complex.
- Pittalhar Temple Dedicated to Lord Adinath again. It gets its name from the big brass (pital) idol of the Tirthankara that weighs more than 108 maunds (about 4 tonnes). The main statue was made in 1468-69.
- Parshvanath Temple This is a three-storey temple built in 1459. It has a four-faced idol of Lord Parshvanath and beautiful grey stone carvings on the outer walls.
- Mahavir Swami Temple The smallest one, built in 1582. It has wall paintings and carvings showing court scenes, dancers, and animals.
Architectural Marvels That Leave Everyone Speechless
What makes Dilwara special is the marble work. Every inch of the ceilings, domes, pillars, arches, and doorways is covered with delicate carvings – flowers, creepers, animals, birds, dancers, musicians, and scenes from Jain stories and Hindu mythology too (like Krishna lifting Govardhan or Narasimha killing Hiranyakashipu).
Experts say the craftsmanship is so fine that it looks like the marble has been turned into lace. Some even compare it to the Taj Mahal, but these temples are much older and purely religious in purpose.
The outer walls look simple, but inside it feels like entering a different world of beauty. No wonder people call it one of the most beautiful Jain pilgrimage places in the world.
Why Dilwara Deserves UNESCO Recognition
Mr Dangi told the House that the temples show a perfect mix of Jain culture and the local art of that time. The carvings include 57 shrines with idols of Tirthankaras and other deities like Saraswati, Lakshmi, and Ambaji.
He stressed that such delicate, soft, and beautiful stone work is not found anywhere else in the world. Giving UNESCO status will help protect these temples better, bring more tourists, and put Rajasthan’s heritage on the global map.
India already has many UNESCO sites like the Taj Mahal, Khajuraho, and Ajanta-Ellora. Adding Dilwara would be a proud moment for the country.
Tourism and Cultural Importance
Every year lakhs of devotees and tourists visit Mount Abu just to see these temples. They bring money to the local economy and create jobs for guides, hotels, shops, and taxi drivers.
The temples also teach us about non-violence, simple living, and high art. They are a living example of India’s rich Jain tradition.
Support from the Jain Community
Leaders of the Jain community have welcomed Mr Dangi’s demand. Mr Jinendra Jain, President of Rajasthan Samagra Jain Yuva Parishad, thanked the MP for raising this important issue.
Many people also remembered that the Government of India issued a special postage stamp on Dilwara Temples on 14 October 2009.
Previous Efforts and Current Status
There have been demands for UNESCO status for Dilwara in the past also. The temples are already protected by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and are a major tourist spot. But UNESCO World Heritage tag would give them international recognition and better conservation support.
Quotes from Leaders
Rajya Sabha MP Neeraj Dangi: “These temples are unique examples of ancient Indian architecture, unparalleled marble craftsmanship, and cultural excellence. Their beauty and skill cannot be found anywhere else in the world.”
Dr Dilip Dhing (literary figure): “The Department of Posts issued a multicolour commemorative stamp on Dilwara Temples on 14 October 2009.”
FAQs
Q1. Where are Dilwara Jain Temples located?
A: They are in Mount Abu, Sirohi district, Rajasthan, about 2.5 km from the town centre, on the Aravalli hills.
Q2. When were these temples built?
A: Between the 11th and 16th centuries. The oldest one (Vimal Vasahi) was completed around 1031 AD.
Q3. How many temples are there?
A: There are five main temples – Vimal Vasahi, Luna Vasahi, Pittalhar, Parshvanath, and Mahavir Swami.
Q4. Why is Neeraj Dangi demanding UNESCO status?
A: Because of their unique marble carvings, historical importance, and unmatched artistic value that needs global protection and recognition.
Q5. Can tourists visit inside the temples?
A: Yes, but photography is not allowed inside. The temples are open from 12 noon to 3 pm. Shoes, leather items, and bags are not permitted.
Q6. Are these temples already protected?
A: Yes, they are protected by the Archaeological Survey of India and managed by a Jain trust. UNESCO status would give them extra international support.