Samvasarana

Samavasarana (also spelled Samvasaran) is derived from two words - ‘sama’ meaning general and

‘avasara’ meaning opportunity. It is a concept in Jainism referring to the divine assembly or congregation where a Tirthankara (a fully enlightened being) delivers their first sermon after attaining Kevala Gyana (absolute knowledge).

Samvasaran has a circular multi-tiered structure of silver, gold and precious stones.

The first tier (made up of silver) serves as the resting place for all the ‘vimans’ - the celestial vehicles of various deities, divine beings, kings, and dignitaries. The second tier (made up of gold) is reserved for birds, animals, and all other living creatures. The third and uppermost tier (made from precious stones)forms the central assembly, where saints, kings, queens, and other human devotees gather to listen to the Tirthankara’s sermon.

While giving the first sermon, a Tirthankara is seated on the chair below the Ashokvruksh, with three chatras one above the other, adorned with pearls. Unlike conventional worship that centers around a physical idol, the Samavasarana symbolizes a sacred space for collective enlightenment, where stories and moral teachings are shared through presence and experience.

This harmonious arrangement symbolizes inclusivity, allowing beings from all realms to partake in the discourse of absolute knowledge. Our work translates this symbolic moment into a contemporary sculptural artwork - an intimate installation composed meticulously to create a layered, three-dimensional form that can be experienced not just by viewing but by gathering around it.

The piece essentially comprises layers of veneer sheets carefully composed to achieve a rich, sculptural depth using colourful hand-stitched threads, beads, and painting.