subject: Nagda Town, a unique historical site [print this page] Nagda Town, a unique historical site Nagda Town, a unique historical site
Nagda, a small town in the vicinity of Udaipur in the state of Rajasthan in India inherits a rich historical legacy. Situated on the shores of Bagela Lake 23 km to the north-west of Udaipur, the town has acquired the status of a tourist attraction. The founder of the town was Nagaditya, a ruler of the Mewar dynasty; the settlement functioned as the Mewar capital and was originally called Nagahrida. Eventually the town fell under the control of the Sisodias who made the town their stronghold.
There are many buildings of historical interest in Nagda, principally various temples, but pride of place goes to the Sas-Bahu' Temple. This acclaimed specimen of ancient architectural splendour has its origins as far back as the 10th century. The name Sas-Bahu' is an unusual one, meaning Mother-in-law and daughter-in-law'. According to tradition, the temple structure was created by a mother-in-law and a daughter-in-law. Devoted to Lord Vishnu the temple is acclaimed for its architecture and decorations.
The mother-in-law (Sas) section of the shrine is the larger of the two structures and features an archway a torana' near its entrance. It is thought that on ceremonial occasions a figure of Lord Vishnu was suspended from the torana while the faithful sang hymns of worship. Both temples face the east and are structured on a common platform. The intricate carvings found at the site are among its most appealing features, depicting scenes from the Indian epic Ramayana'.
Another renowned place of worship at this historic town is the Jain Temple, which often draws attention. Devoted to Shanti Nath, a Jain saint, the famed temple according to tradition had been constructed during the reign of Rana Kumbha. This temple has gained renown for the unusual idol that it contains, which is nine feet tall with a strange appearance. Many of the temples of Nagda have fallen victim to the destruction brought by a multitude of invaders, but those which remain are a reminder of the proud traditions of the grandeur of the region.
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