Gyan Bhandar

This project is a library building for ancient Jain literature, developed by Sanmarg Pariwar Trust. The structure is conceived as a load-bearing stone masonry system, designed on compression-based structural principles using arches, vaults, and domes.

The foundation is constructed in black basalt (Deccan Trap) using hammer-dressed stone masonry. The superstructure is executed in Jodhpur stone, forming a stepped pyramidal geometry integrated with vaulted and domical systems.

As high-quality hydraulic lime is not readily available in India, lime production is carried out on-site using controlled kiln processes to ensure material consistency and performance.

The masonry is built using high-quality hydraulic lime mortar, achieving compressive strength exceeding 10 MPa at 28 days without the use of chemical or biological additives.

The project demonstrates integration of traditional masonry knowledge with modern structural analysis methods.


Concept and Structural System

Wani-Gyanbhandar


Construction Process

Excavation and foundation preparation in hard rock

Basalt stone masonry foundation using hydraulic lime mortar

On-site lime kiln for hydraulic lime production

Precision stone cutting and dressing


Arches, Vaults and Domes

Large-span stone arch under construction

Centering arrangement for circular vault construction

Dome construction showing radial masonry pattern

Completed dome interior demonstrating compression behaviour


Superstructure Development

Plan geometry and spatial organisation

Progression of stepped stone superstructure

Near-completion view of Jodhpur stone superstructure


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