Shri Digambar Jain Teerth Kshetra Hastinapur

Overview of Hastinapur Teerth Kshetra

Shri Digambar Jain Teerth Kshetra Hastinapur is an ancient pilgrimage site located in the Meerut District of Western Uttar Pradesh, India. This historically significant location was once a vibrant center for political, cultural, and spiritual events, making it the second most important Teerth after Ayodhya.

Historical Significance

The Hastinapur Teerth is rooted in the rich history of the 52 Mahajanapadas established by Bhagwan Adinath (Rishabhdev), with Kurujangal Pradesh being one of them. Its capital, Gajapur, was likely named for the abundance of elephants in the nearby forests along the River Ganga. The name “Hastinapur” emerged from King Hastin of the Kuru Dynasty, and while this site has been referred to by various names in ancient literature, Hastinapur remains the most prominent.

Teerthankaras and Kalyankas

Hastinapur is renowned for its association with several Teerthankaras. It is the site of the 12 Kalyankas of three significant Teerthankaras: Shri Shantinath, Kunthunath, and Arahnath. These three were also Chakrawartis, embodying the ideals of righteousness and virtue. A key event that marked the significance of this Teerth is the first meal offered to Bhagwan Rishabhdev by King Shreyans, which initiated the tradition of Daan (donation) on the auspicious day of Akshaya Tritiya.

Legends and Events

The region is steeped in legends, including the tale of Rishabhdev’s prolonged fast and the miraculous recollection of the meal offering by King Shreyans through Jatismaran Gyan. The notable historical figures associated with Hastinapur include:

1. King Gurudatta: Once a ruler, he became an ascetic and attained Keval Gyan despite facing severe trials.
2. Raksha Bandhan Festival: This famous festival originated from Hastinapur, commemorating the protection of 700 ascetic Munies.
3. Mahabharata War: The epic conflict between the Kauravas and Pandavas took place in nearby Kurukshetra, with Hastinapur serving as their home.

Destruction and Rebuilding of Hastinapur

Hastinapur has faced multiple cycles of destruction and reconstruction throughout history:

1. First Destruction: Under King Nichakshu, a locust swarm and flooding led to the city’s decline.
2. Second Establishment: The city saw renewed life under the Naga Dynasty, with visits from revered figures like Bhagwan Parshvanath and Bhagwan Mahaveer.
3. Subsequent Revivals: King Samprati of the Magadha Empire and later King Hardutta Rai revitalized Hastinapur, constructing Jain temples that reflected its spiritual significance.

The Construction of Jain Temples

By the 18th and 19th centuries, devotees recognized the need for a dedicated temple at this sacred site. In 1801, Raja Harsukha Rai, a treasurer under Mughal Emperor Shah Alam, initiated the temple’s construction, overcoming local opposition with the support of influential figures like Lala Jai Kumar Mal. The temple, built on a 40-foot hillock, was completed in five years.

In V.S. 1863 (1806), the installation of the principal deity, an idol of Bhagwan Parshvanath, was celebrated, further establishing Hastinapur as a vital Jain pilgrimage destination. Over the years, the temple has undergone various enhancements, including the construction of a large Dharmashala by Raja Sugan Chand, the son of Raja Harsukh Rai.

Today, the Hastinapur Teerth stands as a testament to Jain heritage, attracting devotees from across India. The temple continues to be a center for spiritual learning and community engagement, making it a must-visit destination for those exploring Jainism and its rich traditions.

Main Temple & Idol

Teerth Kshetra Hastinapur is home to a magnificent temple built on a 40-foot high hillock. This stunning structure features an artistic and large spire, which includes a room at its top, a rarity worldwide. The temple is situated on a four-foot high platform and consists of a single sanctum with three gates, housing a large altar.

• Principal Deity: The temple contains a 1½-foot tall white idol of Bhagwan Shantinath in Padmasana posture, revered in V.S. 1548 by Bhattaraka Jin Chandra for Jeevraj Papariwal. Flanking this idol are attractive idols of Bhagwan Kunthunath and Bhagwan Arahnath.
• Antique Art: An exquisite flat stone features carvings of the ‘Panch Bal Yati’ (Celibate Bhagwans): Bhagwan Vasupoojya, Mallinath, Neminath, Parshvanath, and Mahaveer, believed to have been created in the 10th to 11th century.

Temple Timings

• Digambar Temple: Open from 5:30 AM to 8:30 PM.

Other Temples and Notable Places

Apart from the main temple, several significant sites can be explored in Hastinapur:

1. Maan Stambha (Column of Dignity): A 31-foot high column outside the temple entrance, constructed in 1955.
2. Trimurti Mandir: Located behind the main temple, featuring a 5 feet 11-inch idol of Bhagwan Shantinath and a 7-foot high idol of Bhagwan Mahaveer.
3. Nandishwar Dweep: A Jinalaya established in 1985, showcasing idols of Bhagwan Shantinath and Arahnath, unearthed in 1979.
4. Other Temples: Includes Shri Neminath Temple, Bhagwan Arahnath Temple, Shri Adinath Temple, Shri Kunthunath Temple, and more.
5. Kailash Parvat (Under Construction): A 131-foot model of the sacred mountain, featuring an 11.25-foot idol of Bhagwan Rishabha Dev in Padmasana posture.
6. Jamboo Dweep Model: A unique construction depicting the Jain cosmology as described in texts.

Natural Scenario

The site boasts a beautiful garden adorned with trees, flowering plants, and fountains, creating a serene atmosphere for visitors.

Annual Gatherings

Hastinapur hosts several significant annual events, including:

• Shri Adinath Nirvanotsava: Magha Krishna 14
• Falgun Mela: Falgun Shukla 15
• Shri Shantinath Nirvanotsava: Jyeshtha Krishna 14
• Kshetra’s Annual Festival: Kartika Shukla 15

Facilities

Accommodations are available for pilgrims, including:

• Deluxe Flats: 110 semi-deluxe and 50 deluxe rooms with amenities such as utensils and bedding.
• Delhi Wali Dharmashala: 50 semi-deluxe rooms available.
• Shikarpur Deluxe Flats: 45 deluxe flats.
• Other Rooms: 50 available rooms and an ashram with 37 rooms.
• Dining: Mess facilities are provided at the Digambar Jain Mandil Bhojanshala.

Conclusion

Teerth Kshetra Hastinapur is not just a place of worship but a remarkable pilgrimage site that combines history, art, and spirituality, attracting devotees and tourists alike.