Mahavira Jain Temple in Osian, a prime tourist attraction & a Jain pilgrimage site, was built during reign of Pratihar king Vatsaraj. It is dedicated to twenty fourth Tirthankar and holds great religious eminence among the Jain devotees. There are two sects in Jainism – Digambara & Shvetambara. Mahavira Temple belongs to Shvetambara sect of Jainism. The most complete example of the Osian group as it consists of a sanctum, a closed hall and an open porch immediately in front of which is an ornate ‘torana’ or gateway. It appears to have been first built at the end of the eighth century AD (783 AD), and then repaired, and added to in the tenth and eleventh centuries AD respectively. In this way, it is a record of development over two periods. This is shown by the changes in the style of building throughout, but particularly in the character of the pillars. The ‘nalamandapa’, which was erected subsequently over the staircase, was added afterwards. The ‘torana’ or entrance archway appears to be even a still later addition probably made in the eleventh century AD. The sanctum sanctorum of the Mahavira Temple is placed on the high platform which is composed of sandstone. The statue of Mahavir is said to be built of cow’s milk and mud, with a coat of gold. There are seven shrines flanking the sanctum sanctorum, four on the eastern and three of the western side, and are joined by ‘pradaksinapatha’. Many tourists visit this temple to appreciate its great piece of architecture that represents beautiful carved pillars. The intricate carvings and engravings on the pillars are representative of local Maha Maru tradition. The tastefully carved statues of nymphs on the entrance of the temple are beautiful pieces of sculptures.