Introduction
Nageshwar Parshwanath Tirth, located near Unhel village in Rajasthan, is one of the most ancient and miraculous Jain pilgrimage sites. The temple is home to a stunning 420 cm tall green-colored standing idol of Bhagwan Parshwanath in Kausagga posture, with an umbrella of seven serpent hoods.
The Unique Idol of Nageshwar Parshwanath
- The Mulnayak idol stands 13.5 feet tall, with the total height including hoods reaching 14 feet.
- The idol is made of emerald, a one-of-a-kind feature in Jain temples.
- Skilled sculptors and historians believe that the gemstone is over 2,000 years old, and the idol itself is around 2,800 years old.
- The idol is believed to be divinely crafted by Dharanendradev, making it an extraordinary piece of Jain history.
The Ancient History of Nageshwar Parshwanath Tirth
The temple’s origins date back to Ahichhatra, where the idol was first installed. However, due to its precious value and divine aura, many people attempted to steal or destroy it.
To protect the idol, a Jain Acharya invoked Dharanendradev, who transformed the idol into stone, preventing it from being broken. Later, the idol was relocated to Parasnagar and installed in a magnificent temple built by King Ajitsen, who was blessed with a child after worshiping the idol.
- In Vikram Samvat 1624, Acharya Shri Abhaydevsuri led a major renovation of the temple.
- Over time, the temple fell into non-Jain hands, where it was worshiped as “Nagbaba”.
- Upadhyay Shri Dharmasagarji Maharaj discovered that this was actually the ancient Nageshwar Parshwanath idol.
- After a legal battle, the idol was returned to the Jain community.
- Shri Abhaysagarji Maharaj Saheb played a crucial role in reclaiming and reinstalling the idol in Vikram Samvat 2037, following 18 Abhishek Poojas.
The Miraculous Powers of Nageshwar Parshwanath
- Devotees believe that worshiping Nageshwar Parshwanath removes the effects of snake venom instantly.
- The idol’s eyes are crafted in such a way that no matter where a devotee stands, it feels like Bhagwan Parshwanath is looking directly at them.
- A divine snake has been seen residing in a stone niche behind the idol, occasionally appearing to lucky devotees.
Architectural Beauty and Unique Features
- The temple is one of the largest Jain temples in India, with the idol standing naturally and balanced on its feet, an engineering mystery for sculptors.
- The waistband, loincloth, and hallow behind the idol are carved in a spectacular artistic style.
- On either side of the Mulnayak idol, there are 37-inch high idols of deities with chamars.
- The temple is home to two additional standing idols of Bhagwan Shantinath and Mahavir Swami, made of gray stone.
Annual Celebrations and Rituals
A grand annual fair is held on Vaishakh Sudi 6, attracting thousands of devotees who come to experience the divine blessings of Bhagwan Nageshwar Parshwanath.
Other Jain Temples Near Nageshwar Parshwanath Tirth
- Dadawadi of Khusalsuriji is located nearby.
- A magnificent Dadawadi of Rajendra Surishvarji is under construction.
Mentions in Jain Scriptures
This temple is referenced in ancient Jain texts, including:
- Tirthmala
- Chaityaparipati
- Parshvanath Naammala
An emerald idol of Lord Parshwanath made by Dharanendradev is also mentioned in Mathura inscriptions, believed to be the idol of Nageshwar Parshwanath.
Idols of Nageshwar Parshwanath are also found in:
- Kareda Parshwanath Temple
- Amroli Village Jain Temple near Surat
- Kandivali Jain Temple, Mumbai
- Porur Jain Temple, Chennai
How to Reach Nageshwar Parshwanath Tirth
- Nearest Railway Station: Chomahala (15 km away)
- Distance from Vikramgarh Alot: 8 km
- Transport: Dehradun Express, Ferozepur Express, Janta Express, and Mathura-Vadodara Local halt nearby.
- Vehicles Available: The Tirth Pedhi provides mini-buses and jeeps upon request at Alot.
- Facilities: Dharamshala and Bhojanshala available for pilgrims.
Trust Information and Contact Details
Shri Jain Swetambar Nageshwar Parshwanath Tirth Pedhi
Fax: 07410-40716
Location: Unhel – 326515, Chowmahala, District: Zalawad, Rajasthan, India
FAQs About Nageshwar Parshwanath Tirth
1. Why is Nageshwar Parshwanath considered miraculous?
Devotees believe that worshiping this idol removes snake venom instantly. The idol’s emerald composition is also considered divine and rare.
2. How was the idol reclaimed by Jains?
The idol was previously known as “Nagbaba” and worshiped by non-Jains. Upadhyay Shri Dharmasagarji Maharaj fought a legal battle and successfully returned it to the Jain community.
3. What is unique about the idol’s posture?
The idol stands naturally balanced on its feet, which remains a mystery for skilled sculptors.
4. When was the idol last reinstalled?
The idol was reinstalled for worship in Vikram Samvat 2037 after 18 Abhishek Poojas.
5. What are some nearby Jain pilgrimage sites?
Nearby Dadawadis and temples include:
- Dadawadi of Khusalsuriji
- Rajendra Surishvarji Dadawadi (under construction)
For an extensive list of Parshwanath temples and their significance, visit the 108 Parshwanath Names List.
