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Key Points

Australia is importing 3000 tonnes of Rajasthani marble to construct the country's first Jain temples in Melbourne and Sydney. The same iconic stone was used in building the Taj Mahal, making this a significant cultural project. Australian High Commissioner Philip Green announced this initiative that will serve Australia's growing Jain community of 6000 people. The Melbourne temple is already under construction and expected to be completed by next year.

Key Points: Rajasthani Marble for Australia Jain Temples Like Taj Mahal

  • 3000 tonnes of marble shipped from Rajasthan to Australia
  • Same stone used in construction of iconic Taj Mahal
  • Temples to serve Australia's 6000-strong Jain community
  • Melbourne temple expected to be completed by next year
  • Project strengthens cultural ties between India and Australia
  • Jainism based on principles of non-violence and spirituality
2 min read

3,000 tonnes of Rajasthani marble to shape Jain temples in Australia

3000 tonnes of iconic Rajasthani marble, the same stone used for the Taj Mahal, shipped to build first Jain temples in Melbourne and Sydney for Australia's growing community.

"Rajasthan's timeless marbles - the same stone that built the Taj Mahal are heading to Australia - Australian High Commissioner Philip Green"

New Delhi September 18

The Australian High Commission in India on Thursday announced that marble from Rajasthan, the same stone used in building the Taj Mahal, will be sent to Australia for the construction of new Jain temples in Melbourne and Sydney.

Nearly 3,000 tonnes of Rajasthani marble will be shipped to fulfil the long-awaited dream of Australia's 6,000-strong Jain community.

Australian High Commissioner to India Philip Green highlighted the development in a post on X.

"Rajasthan's timeless marbles - the same stone that built the Taj Mahal are heading to Australia. Nearly 3,000 tonnes will soon shape new Jain temples in Melbourne & Sydney, as Australia's 6,000-strong Jain community builds a legacy of faith & heritage," he wrote.

Earlier in June, the High Commission shared about Victoria's first Jain temple under construction in Melbourne.

"The Jain community in #Melbourne is building Victoria's first Jain temple, crafted from 1,500 tonnes of marble from #Rajasthan. A symbol of dedication, heritage and the strength of Australia's diverse, multicultural fabric, the high commission posted on Facebook.

The temple is expected to be completed by next year, marking the first-ever Jain temple in Australia, with construction in Melbourne already underway.

Jainism, an ancient Indian religion, is based on principles of non-violence and personal spiritual development.

The Melbourne Shwetambar Jain Sangh (MSJS), founded in 2007, is at the centre of these efforts. MSJS is a not-for-profit organisation based in Melbourne. The group has worked for years to promote the philosophy and teachings of Jainism among the growing Jain population in Victoria.

As per its website, MSJS engages families and individuals in various religious and cultural activities, ensuring that Melbourne's Jain community remains connected to its spiritual roots.

The announcement comes at a time when the Australian High Commission in India is also promoting cultural ties between the two nations.

On Sunday, it extended greetings on the occasion of Hindi Diwas and shared a video of staff members reciting Hindi tongue-twisters.

"Hindi is not just a language; it is a bridge of friendship, culture, and ideas. Heartfelt wishes to all on #Hindi_Diwas!" the Australian High Commissioner posted on X in Hindi.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Amazing to see Indian culture spreading across the world! 3000 tonnes of marble is massive - this will be a magnificent temple complex. Hope they maintain the traditional architectural styles.
M
Michael C
As an Australian living in India, this makes me so happy! Our multicultural society is our strength. The Jain community has contributed so much to Australia - they deserve beautiful temples that connect them to their heritage.
A
Ananya R
While I appreciate the cultural exchange, I hope the environmental impact of shipping 3000 tonnes of marble has been considered. There are sustainable alternatives that could have been explored for temple construction.
V
Vikram M
Rajasthan's Makrana marble is legendary! The same stone used in Taj Mahal now going to Australian temples. This is soft diplomacy at its best 🇮🇳🤝🇦🇺
S
Sarah B
Wonderful to see Australia embracing religious diversity. The Jain principles of non-violence and compassion are much needed in today's world. Looking forward to visiting these temples when they're complete!
K
Karthik V
Great to see Indian artisans getting international projects. Hope they're sending skilled craftsmen along with the marble to ensure authentic construction techniques are used. Our traditional temple architecture is an art form!

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