Mulnayak: The main idol (Mulnayak) of Shri Koka Parshwanath at this revered temple is a nearly 88 cms high, white-colored idol of Bhagwan Koka Parshwanath in the padmasana posture. This idol is adorned with a beautiful parrikar and features an umbrella of seven hoods over the head, each hood depicting two eyes of a cobra, symbolizing protection and divinity.
Tirth Location: The temple is situated in Koka ka Pada, near Golsheri in Patan, an ancient city known as Anhillpur Patan in medieval times. This sacred place is a hub of spiritual activities and holds a special place in the hearts of devotees.
Historicity: The significance of Shri Koka Parshwanath Jain Dersar dates back to the times of King Sidhraj Jaisingh of Patan. The king, deeply moved by the presence of Acharyadev Shri Abhaydevsuriji, honored him, which led to an interesting turn of events involving the presiding deities of Sankheswar Parshwanath. These deities promised to worship Koka Parshwanath for four ghadis (96 minutes) at dawn. Worship during this period is believed to bring the same blessings as praying to Sankheswar Parshwanath Bhagwan.
Temple Construction: The renowned Acharya Shri Hemchandrasuriji, a disciple in the Mulldhari Acharya’s Paat Parampara, faced an incident where he was not allowed to lecture at Gimta (Dhrut basti) by the pujari, which was seen as a slight against the Jain community. In response, Koka Seth generously donated land for a new temple, leading to the installation of Bhagwan Parshwanath’s idol, which became famously known as Koka Parshwanath.
Renovation and Re-establishment: The temple faced challenges during the invasion by the King of Malwa, who defeated King Bhimdev of Gujarat and desecrated the idol of Lord Parshwanath. Devotees like Shri Ramdev and Shri Ashadhar, determined to restore the temple’s glory, discovered the perfect marble after a divine vision and carved a new idol. The revered Acharya Shri Devanandsurishvarji consecrated this newly made idol, reinstating the sanctity of the temple.
Art and Architecture: Shri Koka Parshwanath Jain Dersar is renowned for its magnificent art and sculpture. The temple, dating back to the 13th-14th century, showcases intricate carvings, colorful spires, beautifully adorned pillars, and arches. The ancient and majestic idol of Koka Parshwanath is considered miraculous, drawing countless devotees to its serene and holy ambiance.
Other Temples: The site also houses a temple dedicated to Abhinandanswami, adding to the spiritual richness of the location.
Guidelines for Pilgrims: Patan, a city rich in history and spirituality, is well connected by road and rail to major cities in Gujarat. It is 30 km from Mehsana and 19 km from Siddhpur, making it accessible for pilgrims and tourists. The city also features other significant Jain Tirths and an ancient Gyan Bhandar.
Scriptural References: The glory of Koka Parshwanath is mentioned in various Jain scriptures such as “Vividh Tirth Kalp,” “Patan Chaitya Paripati,” “Shri Sankheswar Parshvanath Chhand,” and “Shri Godi Parshvanath Stavan.” Devotees can also find the idol of Koka Parshwanath in Shri Kalikund Parshvanath temple in Santacruz, Mumbai.
Trust Information:
Shri Koka Parshvanath Shwetambar Jain Temple
Koka no Pado, Golsheri, Post: Patan,
District: Patan, North Gujarat-384 265, India.
Phone: 02766-221747.
Explore the divine beauty and historical grandeur of Shri Koka Parshwanath Jain Dersar in Patan, a timeless jewel in the Jain pilgrimage circuit.
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