This is one of a group of multiple carved rock surfaces at Kalugumalai. Unlike the reliefs here which span one large rock surface and present individually enthroned Jinas in horizontal columns, other reliefs at the site show carved depictions of individual Jinas, Bahubali with Jinas or a group of Jinas. The carvings follow the rock formation without significantly altering the natural structure. Almost 50 Jinas are carved here on lotus thrones with triple chhatras (umbrellas) and some individual ones with elaborate attributes such as lion throne, triple umbrellas, and attendants with fly whisks. Almost all images have donative inscriptions and scholars have noted the dominance of female teachers mentioned specifically by name. There are also references to other important sites in the region such as Jina Kanchi, marking this site as an important tirtha among others.
Façade with Bas-reliefs of Jinas, 9th-10th century
- Attribution: Credit: French Institute of Pondicherry