Shri Kalyan Parshwanath Temple: A Sacred Jain Tirth in Visnagar

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Introduction

Welcome to the revered Shri Kalyan Parshwanath Temple, a prominent Jain tirth located near Kada Darwaza in Visnagar. This ancient temple is renowned for its divine Kalyan Parshwanath idol, which stands 48 cms tall in the Padmasana posture, adorned with an umbrella of seven hoods. This white-colored idol is a central figure of worship and devotion in the region.

Historical Significance Shri Kalyan Parshwanath

Visnagar, founded by King Vishaldev Chauhan of Ajmer after defeating King Bhimdev of Gujarat around Vikram Samvat (V.S.) 1080, is a city with rich historical and spiritual heritage. A Kalyan Parshwanath temple existed in Mehsana in the 12th century.

During the Muslim invasions of the 14th-15th centuries, the idol of Kalyan Parshwanath was safely submerged in a well to protect it. This revered idol was later rediscovered in the Kodi Kuwa well in Mehsana and transported to Visnagar, where it was installed in a magnificent three-story temple. The current temple, built by Srimant Shravak Seth Galachandji, features Kalyan Parshwanath on the ground floor, with Sahastrafana Parshwanath and Godi Parshwanath on the second and third floors respectively.

The temple also showcases idols of all 24 Tirthankaras. The ceremonial installation of these idols took place on the 3rd day of the bright half of the month of Phalgun in V.S. 1863, with an annual flag-hoisting ceremony commemorating this event.

Nearby Attractions

The Vadnagar area, the next station from Visnagar, was historically known as Anandpur. It is significant in Jain history as the place where the Kalpasutra, a key Jain scripture, was first read in the presence of the Jain Sangh. In ancient times, during the reign of Bharat Maharaja, the famous Shatrunjay Tirth extended up to Anandpur.

Additional Temples

Visnagar is home to several other Jain temples, including those dedicated to Shri Sumatinath Bhagwan, Shri Shantinath Bhagwan, Shri Anantnath Bhagwan, Shri Adinath Bhagwan. Each temple features unique Mulnayak deities and adds to the spiritual significance of the area.

Art and Sculpture

The Shri Kalyan Parshwanath Temple is known for its stunning architecture and artistic carvings. The Parrikar of the temple is intricately designed, reflecting the craftsmanship of the era. Notable Jain saints, including Panyas Padmavijayji and Roopvijayji Maharaj Saheb, have spent years in spiritual practice at this temple.

Visitor Information

Visnagar is well-connected by rail and road, making it accessible from nearby cities. The temple area provides various amenities, including Dharamshala, Bhojanshala, Upashraya, Gyan Bhandar, Ayambilshala, and Pathshala facilities for visitors and pilgrims.

Scriptural References

Kalyan Parshwanath is mentioned in various Jain scriptures, including “Tirthmala,” “108 Naam Garbhit Shri Sankheswar Parshvanath ka Chaand,” and “108 Naam Garbhit Shri Parshvanath Stavan.” The idol of Kalyan Parshwanath can also be found in several other temples, including those in Limbadi Sheri, Baroda, Bharuch, Surat, Palanpur, Radhanpur, Vijapur taluk, Saurashtra, Porbunder, Bhavnagar, Mulund, and Chowpati in Mumbai.