Introduction
Ajahara Parshwanath Tirth, located near Anjar in Gujarat, is a sacred Jain pilgrimage site known for its miraculous idol and historical significance. The temple houses a saffron-colored idol of Bhagwan Parshwanath, which is believed to cure diseases and bring prosperity to its devotees.
The Unique Idol of Ajahara Parshwanath
- The Mulnayak idol is 46 cm high, made of sand, and plastered with saffron.
- The idol features an umbrella of seven serpent hoods, symbolizing divine protection.
- It is believed that the water used in the idol’s abhishek (ceremonial bath) has healing properties, curing various ailments.
- This idol is known as “Ajahara Parshwanath”, as King Ajaypal was cured of his illness after worshiping it.
The Ancient History of Ajahara Parshwanath Tirth
The history of this tirth is deeply connected with Ayodhya and the Suryavanshi dynasty.
- King Ajaypal, a Jain ruler from Saketpur, once embarked on a pilgrimage to Shatrunjay Tirth.
- On his way, he stopped at Div port, where he fell seriously ill.
- At the same time, a merchant named Ratnasar was caught in a storm in the middle of the ocean.
- Ratnasar prayed for divine help, and a celestial voice revealed the presence of an ancient idol of Bhagwan Parshwanath submerged in the ocean.
- This idol had been worshiped by Dharanendradev for 7 lakh years, Kuber Dev for 600 years, and Varun Dev for another 7 lakh years.
- Devi Padmavati instructed Ratnasar to retrieve the idol and present it to King Ajaypal.
- After the idol was retrieved and given to the king, Ajaypal performed an abhishek (ceremonial bath), and within days, he was completely cured.
- Grateful for the divine blessing, he built a new city called “Ajaynagar” and installed the idol in a grand temple.
- Over time, Ajaypal’s prosperity increased, and the idol became widely revered for its miraculous healing powers.
The Miraculous Power of Ajahara Parshwanath
- The water used in abhishek is considered “nectar”, believed to cure various diseases.
- Jains and non-Jains alike visit the temple to seek blessings and healing.
- It is said that a divine serpent (Nagraj/Dharnendra Dev) occasionally appears before the idol, emphasizing its spiritual power.
- Jinprabhsuriji referred to this idol as “Navnidhi Parshwanath”, highlighting its divine importance.
Architectural Significance and Temple Renovations
- The temple has been renovated 14 times over centuries, demonstrating its historical and religious significance.
- A bell with inscriptions dating back to Vikram Samvat 1034 is found in the temple.
- Several stone inscriptions from the 14th century further prove the temple’s antiquity.
- While digging around the temple, several ancient relics and stone carvings have been discovered, indicating that this area was once a prosperous settlement.
- A cellar beneath the temple has yielded many ancient idols, reinforcing its historical and spiritual depth.
Annual Fairs and Celebrations
A grand fair is held every year on the following occasions:
- Chaitri Purnima
- Karthik Purnima
- Paush Krishna Dashami (10th day of the dark half of Paush month)
Thousands of devotees gather for celebrations and worship, seeking the divine blessings of Ajahara Parshwanath.
Other Jain Temples Near Ajahara Parshwanath Tirth
Currently, there are no other Jain temples in the immediate vicinity, but this tirth is regarded as the “Sankheswar Tirth of Saurashtra” due to its spiritual significance.
References in Jain Scriptures
Ajahara Parshwanath Tirth is mentioned in:
- Vividh Tirth Kalpa
- Nabhinandanodhar Praband
- Tirthmala
- Dharmabyudai
- Sanghpati Samarsingh Raas
- 365 Shri Parshva Jin Naammala
- Shri Sankheswar Parshvanath Chandh
- Shri Bhateva Parshvanath Stavan
- 108 Naamgarbhit Shri Godi Parshvanath Stavan
- Shri Parshvanath Sankhya Stavan
In the 17th century, Shri Samaysundarji wrote a “Bhaas” (spiritual text) on Ajahara Parshwanath.
Idols of Ajahara Parshwanath are also found in:
- Jiravala Tirth
- Kalikund Parshwanath Temple, Santacruz, Mumbai
How to Reach Ajahara Parshwanath Tirth
- Nearest Railway Station: Una (5 km away)
- Alternative Railway Station: Delwada (2.5 km away)
- Transport: Well-connected by roads, with buses and private vehicles available.
- Facilities: Dharamshala and Bhojanshala available for visiting pilgrims.
Trust Information and Contact Details
Shri Ajahara Parshwanath Panchtirth Jain Karkhana Pedhi
Main Pedhi: Una-362560
Location: Village: Ajahara, Post: Delwada-362510, Taluk: Una, District: Junagadh, Gujarat, India
FAQs About Ajahara Parshwanath Tirth
1. What makes Ajahara Parshwanath Tirth unique?
This temple is home to a saffron-colored idol made of sand, which is believed to cure diseases through abhishek water.
2. How old is the Ajahara Parshwanath idol?
The idol was worshiped by celestial beings for millions of years and was retrieved from the ocean by merchant Ratnasar.
3. What miracles are associated with Ajahara Parshwanath?
- King Ajaypal was cured of his illness after performing abhishek on the idol.
- Devotees believe the water from the idol’s bath has healing powers.
- A divine serpent (Nagraj) has been seen worshiping the idol on multiple occasions.
4. When is the best time to visit the temple?
The best time to visit is during Chaitri Purnima, Karthik Purnima, or Paush Krishna Dashami, when grand celebrations take place.
5. Are there any other temples near Ajahara Tirth?
Currently, there are no other Jain temples in the vicinity, but this tirth is considered as important as Sankheswar Tirth in Saurashtra.
For an extensive list of Parshwanath temples and their significance, visit the 108 Parshwanath Names List.
