Permanent Pictorial Cancellation inaugural day covers

Description: The Temple Jain Basadi in Lakkundi, Karnataka, is about 1000 years old. This temple is located in Lakkundi, a town with a rich history in Gadag District. During medieval times, the town was called Lokkigundi and was important under the Western Chalukyas in the 11th and 12th centuries. As their power declined in 1191 A.D., the Hoysala king Veera Ballala II made Lakkundi a key military base. The Lakkundi Jain Temple is an architectural gem, often linked to the famous Danchithamani Attimabe. Under her support, it connected with Kannada literature, impacting the history of Karnataka. Inscriptions reveal that Lakkundi was also known as Lokakigundi and showcase the beautiful Brahma Jinalaya built by Attimabe, the wife of a chieftain named Nagadeva. 

Attimabe played a vital role during King Ahavamalla's reign and was the mother of Ahaniga Masavadi, a ruler who supported the poet Kaviaranna. Visitors to the Brahmajinalay are impressed by the stunning Mukha Mandapam and Durbar Hall. The intricately carved pillars depict graceful dancers, captivating all who see them. The Garbhagudi, the holiest part of the temple, contains the idol of Vardhamana Mahavira, an important figure in Jainism. Other notable temples dedicated to Chaturmukha Brahma and Goddess Saraswati attract many pilgrims and art lovers. Originally, this grand Jain temple was a Shaivite temple called Nagaradeva. The Shivalinga here replaced the idol of Parshvanatha and features a snake hood with its historical tale. Like other temples in Lakkundi, this site is rich in heritage, with 50 shrines and 29 inscriptions. Inscriptions from the Chalukya king Irivey Bedanga describe the dedication behind the building of the Brahmajinalay by Attimabe. 

They also mention a gold donation by Gunanidha Keshava in inscriptions from the Kalachurya king Sovideva in 1173 A.D. Further donations from Kalyana Chalukya Somasekhara V in 1185 A.D. and other 12th-century inscriptions tell stories about gifts to Ashtavidharma and land given to Tribhuvana Tilaka Shantinatha, which enhance the temple's history. One interesting inscription refers to the Moolasangh Devanga sect of Jain saints, sharing stories of devotion that have inspired many over time. The Lakkundi Jain Temple is not just a place to visit; it brings history to life! The Archaeological Survey of India protects the temple as a site of national importance. In 2025, the Karnataka government will showcase the beautiful and artistic Lakkundi temple in its tableau at the 76th Republic Day parade.