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Discover the Ancient Idol of Stambhan Parshwanath
Stambhan Parshwanath is a revered Jain idol located in the Kharvada Mohalla of Khambhat. This blue-coloured idol is 23 cm high and shows Bhagwan Stambhan Parshwanath in the Padmasana posture, with an umbrella of five hoods over its head. This ancient idol has a rich history and is known for its miraculous powers, making it an important pilgrimage site for Jains.
The History of Stambhan Parshwanath
Khambhat, once called Trambavatinagar, has a long and significant history. According to Jain scriptures, the idol of Stambhan Parshwanath dates back to Tirthankara Shri Neminath Bhagwan. Created by a devotee named Ashadi Shravak, the idol was worshipped for many years before being taken to the heavenly Devaloka, which was revered for thousands of years.
Miraculous Events and the Stambhan Parshwanath Story
During the 20th Tirthankara, Shri Munisuvratswami, the idol, played an essential role in the Ramayana. When Rama and Lakshmana were searching for Sita, they found this idol. After praying to it, the ocean’s waters froze, allowing them to cross to Lanka. This miracle earned the idol the name Stambhan Parshwanath. Krishna also visited this Jain temple and was so impressed by the idol that he took it to Dwaraka for his temple.
Preservation and Rediscovery of the Idol
The idol has been preserved through various miraculous events, including being sunk into the ocean to protect it during the burning of Dwaraka. It was later discovered and worshipped by different devotees for thousands of years. A businessman named Dhan from Kantipur found the idol during a sea voyage and installed it in a grand temple in Kantipur. Over time, the idol was hidden and rediscovered multiple times, adding to its rich history.
The Present Temple and Stambhan Parshwanath Contact Number
Today, the idol, brought there in Vikram Samvat 1368, is housed in a temple in Khambhat. The temple has undergone several renovations, the latest in 1984 under the guidance of Acharyashri Nemisurisvarji. The temple complex includes 16 other temples and the Hemachandracharya Smrutimandir.
For inquiries and visits, you can contact the temple at:
- Phone: 02698 – 21816, 02698 – 20221, 02698 – 25616
Art and Sculpture of Stambhan Parshwanath Temple
The temple has beautiful artwork and sculptures that reflect its glorious past. Kalikal Sarvagya Shri Hemchandracharya started his Jain journey here, adding to its religious importance. Many ancient Jain texts were written here, and the wealthy Jain community in Khambhat built numerous temples.
Also Read Kesariya Parshwanath: Ancient Jain Temple of Miracles
Annual Celebrations and Artistic Relics
The annual installation ceremony of the idol is celebrated on the third day of the bright half of the month of Falgun. The temple also houses rare and artistic idols in the ground, adding to its historical and artistic value.
Visiting Stambhan Parshwanath Temple
The Khambhat railway station is about 1 km from the temple, and a good road leads to it. Khambhat is around 80 kilometres from Vadodara, with buses and taxis readily available. For accommodations, visitors can stay at:
- Shri Jain Dharamshala and Bhojanshala, Dantarvada, Khambhat: Phone: 02698-20477
- Shri Bansilal Ambalal Jain Yatrik Bhavan, Manek Chowk, Khambhat: Phone: 02698-20117
Mention in Scriptures
Stambhan Parshwanath Temple is mentioned in several Jain scriptures, including “Shri Parshvanath Charitra,” “Prabhavak Charitra,” “Praband Chintamani,” “Vividh Tirth Kalp,” “Nagarjun Kalp,” “Updesh Prasad,” and “Navaangvriti” by Shri Abhaydevsuri. The idol is also present in various locations such as Kotavala in Patan, Chandanbala Apartment in Mumbai, Shri Adinath Temple in Walkeshwar, Shri Kalikund Parshvanath Temple in Santacruz, and Shri Shantinath Temple in Nadiad.
Conclusion
The Stambhan Parshwanath Temple, with its rich history, miraculous events, and beautiful artworks, is a significant pilgrimage site and devotion for Jains worldwide. Its preservation and continued reverence highlight the enduring faith and dedication of the Jain community.
For more on the 108 Parshwanath names, visit our Website. Discover the meanings and importance of each name and how to use them in your daily prayers.
