Discover the spiritual heritage of Moodabidri, often referred to as the Jaina Kashi of South India, located in Karnataka. This ancient town is home to 18 historic Jain temples, known as Basadis, and is a center of Jain culture, art, and literature.
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About Moodabidri Digambar Jain Atishaya Kshetra
Moodabidri, a small town about 37 km northeast of Mangalore, has been a significant hub for Jainism since the 14th century. The region witnessed an unprecedented growth of Jain temples and literature during the 14th to 16th centuries. The Moodabidri Jain Math, headed by Sri Charukeerthy Bhattaraka Swami, continues to preserve and promote the legacy of Jainism.
Key Highlights:
- 18 Jain Basadis: These temples, built between the 14th and 16th centuries, are dedicated to various Jain Tirthankaras.
- Rare Manuscripts: The Moodabidri Math houses ancient Jain texts, including the renowned Dhavala, Jayadhavala, and Mahadhavala manuscripts.
Major Jain Temples in Moodabidri
1. Tribhuvana Tilaka Chudamani Basadi (1000-Pillar Temple)
- Constructed in 1430 AD, this temple features:
- A 2.5-meter bronze idol of Bhagwan Chandranatha in Kayotsarga posture.
- 1008 intricately carved stone pillars, each uniquely designed.
- A 15-meter freestanding Manastambha (pillar) in front of the temple.
- Renowned for its ornate Vijayanagara-style carvings.
2. Guru Basadi
- The oldest Jain temple in Moodabidri, built in 714 AD.
- Houses a 3.5-meter black stone idol of Bhagwan Parshwanatha.
- Known as the Siddhantha Basadi, where rare palm-leaf manuscripts were discovered.
3. Kotishetty Basadi
- Built in the 15th century.
- Features a black stone idol of Bhagwan Neminatha in Kayotsarga posture.
4. Vikramshetty Basadi
- Constructed in the 14th century.
- Houses the idol of Bhagwan Adinatha in Padmasana posture.
5. Leppada Basadi
- Built in the 14th century, dedicated to Bhagwan Chandranatha.
- Features an idol of Goddess Jwalamalini.
6. Kallu Basadi
- Constructed in the 15th century.
- Features a white idol of Bhagwan Sheetalanatha in Kayotsarga posture.
7. Jolashetty Basadi
- Built during the 16th century.
- Dedicated to Bhagwan Padmaprabhu.
Historical and Literary Significance
Moodabidri has been a center for Jain literature, producing renowned texts and preserving ancient manuscripts:
- Dhavala Texts: Rare Jain palm-leaf manuscripts discovered in Guru Basadi.
- Bharatesha Vaibhava: A medieval Kannada literary masterpiece by Ratnakara Varni, a Moodabidri native.
The manuscripts were relocated to Moodabidri from Shravanabelagola during the Mughal invasions for safekeeping. These are now revered as the oldest written materials of the Digambar Jain tradition.
Challenges in Preservation
Despite its historical importance, some temples, especially the 1000-Pillar Temple, face deterioration due to lack of funds and environmental factors like nearby highway traffic and mining. Efforts are being made by the Dhavala Thraya Trust and the Jain Math to restore and maintain these heritage sites.
How to Reach Moodabidri
By Road:
- Moodabidri is located on National Highway 13, connecting Mangalore and Karkala.
- Regular bus and taxi services are available from Mangalore and nearby towns.
By Train:
- The nearest railway station is Mangalore Junction, 35 km away.
By Air:
- The nearest airport is Mangalore (Bajpe) Airport, 30 km from Moodabidri.
Nearby Attractions
- Karkala Jain Temples: Known for their colossal Bahubali statue.
- Shravanabelagola: A historic Jain pilgrimage site.
- Mangalore: A cultural hub with scenic beaches and temples.
Facilities for Pilgrims
- Dharmshalas: Accommodations for up to 100 pilgrims.
- Guest Houses: Offer modern amenities for visitors.
- Dining: Jain meals are available for pilgrims at the temple complex.
Why Visit Moodabidri Jain Temples?
- Spiritual Significance: A major pilgrimage center, known as the Jaina Kashi of South India.
- Architectural Marvels: Intricately carved temples like the 1000-Pillar Temple showcase the artistic brilliance of the Vijayanagara era.
- Literary Heritage: Home to rare Jain manuscripts and the literary works of medieval Jain scholars.
