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Sithannavasal

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December 02, 2025

Prelims: Current events of national and international importance | Art & Culture

Why in news?

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has taken continuous steps to conserve, research, and promote the Sittanavasal monuments.

  • Location – Sittanavasal, Viralimalai, Pudukkottai district of Tamil Nadu.
  • It is famous for its 2nd-century Jain cave complex that flourished as a Jain center from the 7th to 9th centuries.
  • "Sithannavasal" means "the abode of great saints," referring to the Jain ascetics who lived there.
  • Status – Declared as a monument of national importance under the care of the ASI.

Features of the site

  • Rock shelter – With Jain ascetic stone beds. The Jain Beds are collectively known as Ezhadi pattam.
  • Inscriptions – Tamil-Brahmi inscriptions dating back to early centuries – a rare Brahmi Tamil script inscriptions are found near the beds.
  • Arivar Temple (Meditation Hall)
    • 7th – 9th century CE rock-cut cave temple with with Mahavir statues
    • The ceiling of the temple is full of Fresco herbal painting dates back to Mahendravarma pallava.
  • Paintings – Rare early mural paintings, reflecting Jain traditions and ancient art styles.
    • The murals are among the few surviving early examples of Indian painting traditions, comparable to Ajanta.
    • Famous paintings - royal couple, lotus tank with marine creatures.
  • Burial Practices – Excavations revealed Muthumakkal Thazhi (burial pots), the Jain monks placed in pots and buried after death.
  • Conservation Efforts by ASI – Special repair works and annual maintenance, continuous research and promotion of the site.
    • The mural paintings are reported to be in a good state of preservation.
  • Cultural Significance – It represents the spread of Jainism in South India and showcases early religious art.
  • Archaeological Importance – The inscriptions and stone beds provide insights into ascetic practices and early Tamil culture.

References

  1. PIB | Historical Importance of Sithannavasal
  2. Government of Tamil Nadu | Pudukkottai District
2 comments
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singh henry 8 days

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William Hollinger 15 days

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