Table of Contents
Introduction
Shree Sukhsagar Parshwanath Shwetamber Jain Tirth, located in the bustling city of Ahmedabad, is a revered spiritual destination for Jain devotees. This article delves into the rich history, architecture, and significance of this sacred temple, highlighting the awe-inspiring idol of Shri Simandar Swami and the serene ambiance that envelops this holy place.
The Mulnayak Idol
Shri Simandar Swami and Shri Sukh Sagar Parshvanath
The Mulnayak (main deity) of this temple is Shri Simandar Swami. Accompanying this primary idol is the beautiful, metal idol of Shri Sukh Sagar Parshvanath, standing at nearly 48 cms high in the Padmasana posture. Adorned with a parrikar and an umbrella of nine hoods over its head, this 15th-century idol radiates peace and joy, living up to its name “Sukh Sagar” which means “Ocean of Happiness.”
Location and Accessibility
Doshiwada Ki Pole, Ahmedabad
Situated in Doshiwada Ki Pole in Ahmedabad, Shree Sukhsagar Parshwanath Shwetamber Jain Tirth is easily accessible. Ahmedabad, being a major city of Gujarat, is well-connected by air, rail, and road to all major cities in India. Frequent bus services within Gujarat ensure that devotees can visit this sacred site without hassle.
Historical Significance
From Ashavala to Karnavati
Before the 10th century, Ahmedabad was known as Ashavala or Ashapalli. This city, with a significant Jain population, was home to many intricately carved marble Jain temples. In the 11th century, under the rule of Karndev, the city was renamed Karnavati, and eventually became known as “Jainpuri Rajnagari.” Many ancient temples, including the one housing Shri Sukh Sagar Parshvanath, have now become important tirths (pilgrimage sites).
The Ancient Temples of Ahmedabad
Ahmedabad boasts over 400 Jain temples, many of which are ancient and famous. The city also features numerous Upashrayas, Gyan Bhandars, Ayambilshalas, Dharamshalas, Bhojanshalas, Panjrapoles, and Pathshalas, making it a hub for Jain culture and spirituality.
Other Temples and Statues
SukkSagar Parshvanath in Kharvada and Sthamban Parshvanath Tirth
Apart from the temple in Ahmedabad, the ancient temple of SukkSagar Parshvanath in Kharvada, Khambhat, and the white-colored idol of SukhSagar Parshvanath in Sthamban Parshvanath Tirth are significant pilgrimage sites. The latter was installed by Acharya Shri Vijaysensurishvarji in the 17th century.
Mumbai’s Kalikund Parshvanath Temple
An idol of Shri Sukh Sagar Parshvanath is also housed in the Kalikund Parshvanath Temple in Santacruz, Mumbai, making it a point of interest for devotees visiting the city.
Scriptural Mentions
Reverence in Jain Scriptures
Shri Sukh Sagar Parshvanath is revered in several Jain scriptures such as “Bhateva Parshvanath Stavan,” “108 Naam Garbhit Shri Parshvanath Stavan,” “135 Naam Garbhit Shri Parshvanath Stavan,” and “108 Parshvanath Ke Chaand.” These texts underscore the spiritual importance and the divine aura of this idol.
Contact and Trust Information
Shri SukhSagar Parshvanath Shwetambar Jain Temple
For those wishing to visit or learn more about Shree Sukhsagar Parshwanath Shwetamber Jain Tirth, here are the contact details:
Address:
Shri SukhSagar Parshvanath Shwetambar Jain Temple,
Shri Simandar Swami ni Khadki,
Doshiwada ki Pole,
Indrakot, Ahmedabad – 380 001, Gujarat, India.
Phone: 079-25383832
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