The sacred city of Sirohi known earlier as Devnagari (Devanagari) is a treasure trove for geologists, archaeologists, architects, historians, theoretical linguistics and philologists. This district has several structures of great antiquity dating back to the Vedic Period of immense spiritual and religious significance.
One such temple is the Vastaneshwar Mahadev Temple located in the midst of stunning natural beauty in the little – known Isra village at the foothills of Mount Abu. As per historical records, this district was once dotted with countless temples within fortified enclosures built at different times.
According to the locals, the legendary serpent Arbuda lived here after he helped Vasishtha Brahmarshi close a deep gorge. In fact, there are several Puranic stories associated with this place making it an important place of worship for devout Hindus.
This natural cave temple has two idols of Lord Nandi installed outside with Devanagari inscriptions. There is an idol of Lord Vishnu with His diadem, shankh and chakra, other deities, tortoise and three Nandis that face two Shiva Lingas.
As you walk into the cave, you will find a beautiful idol of Lord Garuda in black stone facing Dashavatara Vishnu also in black stone. There is a Shiva Linga, Parvati Devi, Lord Ganesh and an other deity consecrated here.
Interestingly, archaeological excavations have uncovered other natural caves along this path with one having an ancient sacrificial altar (yagna mandapa) and a mortar and pestle of the olden times that worked as a grinder.
Another cave has rock art depicting a war scene in lime powder and charcoal of perhaps the 6th – 13th century. The fourth cave has remains of bricks, pottery and others that appear to be a part of a defence structure built by the Paramaras of Chandravati.
Written by Lakshmi Subramanian
sahasa.in 
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