Jain Temple at Gori
The ancient Jain temple of Gori (also named Gorhi or Gauri) is situated near Kasbo village, between Islamkot and Nangarparkar in Tharparkar district (Sindh). The history of the temple site is shrouded in mystery. Even its original name is lost in antiquity, having changed many times in the course of the centuries.
- With no written history of the temple having survived, the only story as to its origin is a legend that it was built by Goricho, a Jain worshiper, in 300 CE. This legend is supported by historian Raichand Rathore, who, in his book Old Tharparkar, writes that this temple was built by Goricho, a saint of the Jain religion and follower of Mahavira.
- Built with intricately carved stones, the building has 52 steeples and several small rooms, some of which can accommodate only one solitary worshipper. Entirely constructed from marble, probably brought from Gujarat, it is said to date back to 1376 CE, being built at the zenith of Jain empire in the region, but a more likely date is the middle of the 16th century. The beautiful wallpaintings inside the temple are of special art historical interest.
- While the purpose of the temple was undoubtedly religious, politics may have played part in its downfall. “The British military destroyed some parts of this temple because they found out that conspiracies against British rule were being hatched here,” writes Rathore.
Gori Gori jo Mandar Jain God Prasanth Shvetambar 1376 CE or 16th century
Treasures of Gori's Temple
