Table of Contents
Overview of Manoranjan Parshwanath Temple in Mehsana
Located in Mehsana, the Manoranjan Parshwanath Jain Tirth is a prominent pilgrimage site. The temple houses a remarkable 69 cm tall white marble idol of Bhagwan Manoranjan Parshwanath, depicted in the traditional Padmasana posture.
Historical Background of Manoranjan Parshwanath
The Origins of Mehsana and Its Temple
Mehsana, founded in the 12th-13th century by King Mehsaji Chavda, initially had a temple dedicated to Kalyan Parshvanath. To protect the idol from the 14th-15th century Muslim invasions, it was hidden and later relocated to a temple in Visnagar.
The Legend Behind Manoranjan Parshwanath
The name “Manoranjan Parshwanath” is tied to a fascinating legend. King Mehsaji, who had no children, prayed to Lord Parshwanath for an heir. His prayers were answered, and in gratitude, he named the idol “Manoranjan Parshwanath,” meaning “one who brings joy to the heart.” This idol dates back to the time of King Samprati.
Features of the Manoranjan Parshwanath Temple
Architectural Details and Design
The Manoranjan Parshwanath temple is a grand two-story structure, known for its intricate and artistic architecture. Originally, the city had two separate temples for Manoranjan Parshwanath and Sumathinath Bhagwan, which were later combined into this impressive new temple in V.S. 1920.
Nearby Attractions and Pilgrimage Sites
Mehsana is a notable Jain pilgrimage center, also home to the Shri Simandar Swami temple, which features a 3.68-meter-tall idol. Additionally, the city hosts 15 other temples, each with its unique spiritual significance.
Visiting the Manoranjan Parshwanath Temple
Travel and Accommodation
Mehsana is accessible by rail and road, with various transportation options available. The city offers dharamshala (rest house) and bhojanshala (eating place) facilities for pilgrims. The Shri Yashovijayji Sanskrit Pathshala is a renowned institution contributing to Jain education.
Scriptures and Historical References
The temple is mentioned in several important Jain texts, including “Tirthmala,” “Shri Sankheswar Parshvanath Chand,” “Parshvanath Chaityaparipati,” and “Shri 108 Naamgarbhit Parshvanath Stavan.” Additionally, an idol of Manoranjan Parshwanath is also present in Kareda Parshvanath Tirth.
Contact Information for the Temple
For more details, you can reach out to: Shri Manoranjan Parshwanath Jain Derasar
Station Road, Mehsana- 384 001,
District: Mehsana, North Gujarat, India.
Phone: 02762-221253
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