Where Can I get the photos of adhishtayaka dev and devi of each tirthankar
In Jainism, each Tirthankar is traditionally associated with an Adhishtayak Dev (guardian deity) and Adhishtayak Devi (guardian goddess), but depictions and photographs of these deities are relatively rare compared to the images of Tirthankaras themselves. Here is how you may find such images within the Jain tradition:
- Jain Temples and Derasars:
Some ancient and large Jain temples, especially in regions like Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Karnataka, have sculptures or paintings of Yaksha (Adhishtayak Dev) and Yakshi (Adhishtayak Devi) associated with each Tirthankar. Visiting these temples and seeking permission may allow you to photograph or view these images.
- Jain Literature and Books:
Certain Jain texts and illustrated books, such as "Jain Tirthankar Parichay" or "Jain Yaksha-Yakshi Parichay," contain traditional paintings and descriptions of these guardian deities. These books are available at Jain bookshops or Jain libraries (Jnan Bhandars).
- Jain Calendars and Posters:
Some Jain trusts and organizations publish calendars and posters that include images of Tirthankaras along with their associated Yaksha and Yakshi. These are available at Jain stores or during Jain festivals.
- Online Resources:
Websites dedicated to Jainism, such as Jainpedia, Jainlibrary.org, or the websites of major Jain temples (e.g., Girnar, Shatrunjaya, Ranakpur, Shravanabelagola), may have image galleries. You can search for "Jain Yaksha Yakshi images" or the name of a specific Yaksha/Yakshi (e.g., "Gomukha Yaksha" for Adinath) for digital resources.
- Jain Art Museums:
Institutions like the Lalbhai Dalpatbhai Museum (Ahmedabad) and various Jain museums in India display statues and paintings of these deities.
Note: It is important to approach this respectfully and recognize that in Jainism, the main focus is on the Tirthankaras themselves, and the Adhishtayak Dev and Devi are considered attendant deities, not objects of primary worship. Always seek permission before photographing sacred images.
If you are looking for a comprehensive collection, contacting a Jain scholar or an institution like the Jainology department at a university may be helpful.