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Mulnayak of Kankan Parshwanath
The main idol, or Mulnayak, of Kankan Parshwanath is a striking 70 cm high brown-colored statue of Bhagwan Kankan Parshwanath in a Padmasana posture. The idol is revered for its miraculous powers and is believed to belong to the era of King Samprati.
Location of Shree Kankan Parshvanath Jain Tirth
Shree Kankan Parshvanath Jain Tirth is situated in Dhandherwada, Patan, Gujarat. This ancient temple, constructed by Jain Sangh around V.S. 1700, is now commonly known as Kalikund Parshvanath. It is believed that worshipping this idol with a garland of flowers protects devotees from scorpion stings, a belief symbolized by the painting of a scorpion on the temple wall. Every year, a flag is hoisted on the 2nd day of the bright half of the month of Margshish to honor the deity.
Historical Significance and Alternate Names
Kankan Parshwanath, also known as Kalikund Parshvanath and Vinchhia Parshvanath, is a significant figure in Jainism. The temple’s historicity dates back to ancient times, and it has been a place of worship for centuries. The miraculous powers associated with the idol make it a revered site for pilgrims and devotees.
Other Temples at the Site
In addition to the main temple of Kankan Parshwanath, there are two other temples in the vicinity. One is dedicated to Shri Dhandher Parshvanath, popularly known as Shyamala Parshvanath. Historical accounts suggest that Maharaja Kumarpal performed Snatra Pooja daily in front of this idol. The second temple is dedicated to Bhagwan Mahaveer, further enhancing the spiritual significance of the location.
Art and Sculpture of the Temple
The Kankan Parshwanath temple is renowned for its exquisite art and sculptures. The intricate carvings and beautiful paintings at the temple entrance are a testament to ancient Jain craftsmanship. The idol of Parshvanath is considered both alluring and miraculous, with many devotees believing that worshipping the idol or applying Naman (bath water of the idol) can cure serpent and scorpion stings. The Parrikar (decorative backrest) behind the idol is artistically carved, adding to the temple’s aesthetic appeal.
Travel Guidelines for Pilgrims
The temple is conveniently located about 1.5 kilometers from the Patan railway station in Dhandherwada. Visitors can reach the temple using buses or private vehicles.
Mention in Scriptures
Kankan Parshwanath is mentioned in several ancient Jain scriptures, including “365 Shri Parshvajin Naammala,” “Shri Sankheswar Parshvanath Chand,” “Patan Chaitya Paripati,” “Subhadra Sati ka Raas,” “Shri 108 Parshvanath Bhagwan ka Chand,” and “Pattan Jinalaya Stuti.” Besides the temple in Patan, idols of Kankan Parshwanath can also be found in Radhanpur, in the Shri Ajitnath Bhagwan temple in Bhoyara Sheri, and in the Shri Kalikund Parshvanath temple in Santacruz, Mumbai.
Temple Trust Information
The temple is managed by the Shri Kankan Parshvanath Shwetambar Jain Temple, Shri Dhandherwada Mohalla Property Trust. For inquiries, you can contact them at:
- Address: Post: Patan, District: Mehsana, State: Gujarat – 384 295, India
- Phone: 02766-222969
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