HISTORY OF OSIAN

Osian (Osiyan) is an ancient town located in the Jodhpur District of Rajasthan state in western India. It is an oasis in the Thar Desert, and is also called as the "Khajuraho of Rajasthan" for its temples. Osian is a historic town which has been called with differeent names Uvasisala, Ukesa and Upkesapur-pattana during its earlier years it was a major stoping point for silk rout Carvanas during the Gupta Dynansty the 6 century Basiacally populated by Hindus But saw shift toward Jain Religion during the 9th century and became a center for the religion it is conjectured from several evidences that the people of Osian were converted to Jainism by Jain Acharya Ratnaprabhasuriji, who had impressed the populace of the region by his supernatural powers sian is an important Jain pilgrimage center for the Maheshwari's and Oswal Jain community.

The (Mahavira, महावीर) Temple, built here in A.D. 783, is an important tirtha for Jains built by Gurjara Pratihara King Vatsaraja. The Sachiya Mata Temple also equally old and important situated on a hill north-east of Mahavira Temple, enable us some clues to understand the social history of that period. This Temple was built by Upaldev who is the brother of Raja Punj the son of King 'Bheemsain'(king of Bhinmal). Osian is a paradise for History buff, people looking to find their roots. Katan Baori (step well) Built in the 10th century, not long after the more famous Chand Baori in Abhaneri was constructed is ASI protected monument and many more such temples are a must visit during your stay in osian.