Introduction
Bhiladiya Parshwanath, also known as Shri 1008 Bhiladiya Parshvanath Jain Derasar, is a revered Jain pilgrimage site located in Bhildi village on the Palanpur-Radhanpur highway. This temple is dedicated to Bhagwan Bhiladiya Parshvanath, an important figure in Jainism. The site is rich in history and attracts numerous devotees each year.
The Idol and Its Significance
The main deity at Bhiladiya Parshwanath Temple is a striking black-colored idol of Bhagwan Bhiladiya Parshvanath. The idol is 28 cm high and is adorned with a colorful Parrikar (a decorative umbrella) featuring seven hoods. The deity is depicted in a meditative Padmasana posture, symbolizing peace and enlightenment.
Historical Background
The history of Bhiladiya is both fascinating and ancient. The site was once a prosperous city known as “Trambavati” and later “Bhimpalli,” as mentioned in Jain scriptures. This city was renowned for its 125 Jain temples, stone wells, lakes, and various other religious structures. Unfortunately, the exact history of Bhimpalli is unclear, but it is believed to have been a significant center for Jain culture.
In the 13th-14th centuries, the city was well-documented through stone inscriptions. Acharya Shri Jinpatisuri was given Diksha here in V.S. 1218, and Acharya Shri Somprabhsuriji visited in V.S. 1273. The temple saw various renovations, including the installation of an idol of Gautam Gandhar in V.S. 1334.
By V.S. 1352, twelve Jain acharyas were performing Chaturmas (a four-month period of monastic retreat) at this site. However, in V.S. 1353, the city was destroyed, possibly during an attack by Alauddin Khalji, and remained forgotten for many years.
In V.S. 1872, a Bhiladiya Brahmin named Anada, inspired by Mehta Dharamchand of Deesa, resettled the village, which then became known as Bhildi. A new temple was built, and an idol of Bhagwan Neminath was installed in V.S. 1892. The temple was renovated again in V.S. 2027 under the guidance of several revered acharyas.
A grand temple surrounded by 52 smaller temples was constructed in V.S. 2037. During the Anjanshalaka-Prathishta Mahotsav, an interesting incident occurred where the idol of Bhagwan Parshvanath grew in size due to divine intervention, preventing its removal to another village.
Art and Sculpture
The idol of Bhiladiya Parshwanath is ancient and renowned for its miraculous qualities. The site has yielded many artistic relics, indicating its historical and cultural significance. Further excavation could potentially uncover more historical materials and artifacts.
Visiting Bhiladiya Parshwanath
The temple is easily accessible from Bhiladi village, which is 1 km away from the nearest railway station. Historically, bull-carts were used to transport pilgrims, but now autos are available. The road to the temple is well-maintained, and taxis and buses are available from nearby Deesa. There are facilities for accommodation and meals at the Dharamshala and Bhojanshala.
A fair is held annually on the tenth day of the dark half of the month of Paush, drawing many devotees. In addition to the main temple, another temple in the village offers more opportunities for worship and exploration.
Scriptural References
The temple is mentioned in various Jain scriptures and historical texts, including “Shravan Dharm Prakaran,” “Mahaveer Raas,” and “Gurvavali.” The inscriptions from the 13th-14th centuries further highlight the temple’s historical importance.
Contact Information
For more details or to plan your visit, you can contact: Shri Bhiladiya Parshvanath Shwetambar Jain Tirth
Post: Bhildi, Taluk: Deesa
Via-Palanpur, District: Banaskantha
Gujarat-385 530, India
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