Table of Contents
The Story of Jotingada Parshwanath
Who is Jotingada Parshwanath?
Jotingada Parshwanath Bhagwan is a revered Jain deity whose idol is enshrined in the village of Munjpur, located in the Mehsana district of Gujarat. The primary idol, known as Mulnayak, is of Shri Shantinath Bhagwan, and beside it sits the white-colored idol of Jotingada Parshwanath in the Padmasana posture, measuring approximately 70 centimeters in height.
The Historicity of Munjpur
Munjpur, an ancient village established in the 11th century by King Munj of the Parmar dynasty, holds significant historical importance. Historical texts such as “Som Soubhagya” document that in the 15th century, Shresthi Munt of Mujing Nagar commissioned the creation of numerous metal idols (paanch dhatu) of Thirthankaras. These idols were installed by the revered Acharya Shri Somasundarsuriji. Today’s Munjpur was known as Mujing Nagar during this period. The temple in Munjpur dates back to the 15th century.
The Temple’s Evolution and Renovations
At one time, Munjpur housed three temples. Until V.S. 1667, a separate temple was dedicated to Jotingada Parshwanath. However, this temple was destroyed during Muslim invasions, leading to the idol’s relocation to the Shantinath Bhagwan temple, which is more than 400 years old. The idol of Jotingada Parshwanath, believed to be from the period of King Samprati, is also known as “Munjpura Parshvanath” and “Jotinga Parshvanath.”
A significant event in the temple calendar is the annual flag hoisting on the 11th day of the bright half of the month of Migsar. The most recent renovation of the temple was completed in V.S. 2001.
Other Temples and Facilities in Munjpur
In addition to the main temple, there is a two-story temple dedicated to Shri Godiji Parshvanath in Munjpur. For the convenience of visitors, Munjpur offers two Dharamshalas (rest houses) and two Upashrayas (meditation halls). There is also a Panjrapole, a facility dedicated to the care of animals.
Also Read Manmohan Parshwanath Jain Mandir: Divine and Historic
How to Reach Munjpur
Munjpur is accessible from various locations. The village is approximately 13 kilometers from Harij railway station. Nearby places include Sankheswar, Sami, and Kamboi. Visitors can find accommodation in the two Dharamshalas and two Upashrayas in Munjpur.
References in Scriptures
Jotingada Parshwanath is mentioned in several Jain scriptures, including “Shri Parshvanath Naammala,” “135 Naam Garbhit Parshvanath Stavan,” “Shri Parshvanath ke 108 Naam ke Chaand,” and “Tirthmala.” Additionally, idols of Jotingada Parshwanath can be found in Jiravala Tirth and Kalikund Parshvanath temple in Santacruz, Mumbai.
Trust and Contact Information
For those interested in visiting or learning more, the trust managing the temple is Shri Jotingada Parshvanath Shwetambar Jain Tirth. The contact details are:
Address: Post: Munjpur, Taluk: Sami, District: Patan, State: Gujarat-384 240, India
Phone: 02733-281343
Jotingada Parshwanath Bhagwan’s temple in Munjpur is a testament to the enduring spiritual heritage and historical significance of Jainism in Gujarat. The temple continues to be a place of worship and pilgrimage, preserving the legacy of ancient Jain traditions.
The widespread presence of these Jain temples highlights the deep reverence and devotion towards Manmohan Parshwanath Bhagwan across the country.
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.
