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Introduction to Choubeesee Bara Mandir
Shri Digamber Jain Atishaya Kshetra Choubeesee Bara Mandir, Chanderi is a remarkable Jain temple, renowned as an “Atishaya Kshetra,” or place of miracles. This temple is a sacred spot for Jain pilgrims and is celebrated for its unique and historical architecture.
About Chanderi
Chanderi is a historically rich town, popular among tourists and pilgrims. Known for its exquisite handicrafts, beautiful natural surroundings, and historic monuments, Chanderi was once part of the Gwalior State. The Choubeesee Bara Mandir, located here, is an impressive example of ancient architectural artistry.
Temple Structure and Architecture
The temple has two main sections:
- Bara Mandir: This is the older part of the temple, dating back to 1350 V.S. It features 12 shrines adorned with Jain idols from the 13th to 18th centuries. The circular spire of the Bara Mandir showcases intricate design and beauty.
- Choubeesee Mandir: Located behind the Bara Mandir, this section consists of 24 small temples, each dedicated to one of the 24 Jain Tirthankaras. Each Tirthankar idol is made from stone of specific colors, representing the color of the Tirthankar it symbolizes. This distinctive feature makes it the only Choubeesee Mandir in India. Notable idols include:
- White idols of Lord Chandraprabhu and Pushpdant
- Reddish idols of Padmaprabhu and Vasupoojya
- Green idols of Suparsvanath and Parsvanath
- Black idols of Lord Munisuvrit and Neminath
- Golden-yellow idols for the remaining Tirthankaras
These idols, installed in 1893 V.S. under the guidance of Bhattaraka Shri Harichand of Sonagiri, are of identical dimensions, demonstrating an extraordinary level of craftsmanship.
Other Temples and Attractions in Chanderi
Chanderi is home to several other temples worth visiting. About 1 km from the town, Khandargiri stands out for its serene, hilly landscape and ancient rock-carved idols found within the caves—a natural, charming sight for visitors.
Nearby significant Jain sites include:
- Thuvonji – 22 km
- Saironji – 27 km
- Golakota Pachrai – 50 km
- Devgarh – 64 km
Facilities for Visitors
Attached to the Bara Mandir, there is a well-equipped Dharmshala offering modern facilities for visitors, making it a comfortable stay for pilgrims and tourists.
Access and Transportation
- By Road: Buses are available from Guna and Lalitpur, running from 6 AM to 10 PM.
- By Train: The nearest railway stations are Guna (160 km) and Lalitpur (40 km).
- Airport: Currently, there are no nearby airports.
