Mulnayak Idol – Divine Idol of Navlakha Parshwanath
The temple houses a 33-inch tall white-colored idol of Bhagwan Navlakha Parshwanath in Padmasana posture. This idol is renowned for its artistic excellence and spiritual significance.
Navlakha Jain Tirth – Location & Sacred Surroundings
The temple is located on Navlakha Road in Pali, Rajasthan, a historically significant place known as Pallika or Palli in ancient times. This temple is one of the most revered Jain sites in the region.
Historical Significance – The Unique Legacy of Navlakha Parshwanath
- The temple is called Navlakha Parshwanath due to two historical reasons:
- During the temple’s renovation, a massive installation festival was held, and ghee was ordered through the tantric powers of Acharya Yashobhadrasurisvarji.
- The wealthy merchants of the town, upon knowing this, offered a payment of nine lakh rupees for the ghee used in the ritual. However, seeing their wealth used for a sacred purpose, they refused to accept the money, thus giving the temple its name “Navlakha”.
- Another belief states that nine sacred mantras are written on the nine pooja spots of the idol, reinforcing the temple’s spiritual and mystical significance.
- Originally, the main idol in this temple was Bhagwan Mahaveer, but during renovations in Vikram Samvat 1144 (1087 AD) and again in Vikram Samvat 1686 (1629 AD), the idol of Bhagwan Parshwanath was installed.
- In ancient times, Pali was a highly prosperous town known for its deep religious roots and contributions to Jainism. Many Shravakas (Jain followers) from this region were known for their devotional and religious works, which continue to be honored today.
- Every year, a grand flag hoisting ceremony takes place on the third day of the bright half of Vaishakh month.
Annual Jain Festivals & Celebrations at Navlakha Tirth
A grand Jain fair and religious ceremony is held every year on:
- Vaishakh Sud Tritya (third day of the bright half of Vaishakh month), attracting thousands of devotees.
Other Jain Temples in Pali – A Hub of Jain Heritage
Apart from Navlakha Parshwanath Jain Temple, Pali is home to:
- Ten additional Jain temples
- Four Dadawadis (sacred sites dedicated to revered Jain saints)
- On Punagiri Hill, outside the town, there is a special temple of Bhagwan Parshwanath, known as “Bhabari Mandir”, adding to the town’s religious significance.
Architectural Grandeur – The Artistic Excellence of Navlakha Temple
- The Navlakha Jain Temple is widely admired for its stunning architecture and intricate carvings.
- The idol of Bhagwan Navlakha Parshwanath is a marvel of Jain artistry, radiating divinity and serenity.
- Several ancient idols in the temple complex showcase intricate craftsmanship, creating a visual and spiritual delight.
How to Reach Navlakha Parshwanath Jain Temple
- Nearest railway station:
- Pali – 3 km
- By road:
- Well-connected by bus and taxi services from nearby cities.
Accommodation & Facilities at Navlakha Jain Tirth
- Dharamshala (lodging) and Bhojanshala (food) facilities are available for Jain pilgrims.
- The temple complex also includes:
- Ayambilshala (a place for Jain fasting rituals)
- Upashraya (a residence for Jain monks and nuns)
- Pathshala (a school for Jain education)
- Gyanshala (a center for scriptural learning and study)
Scriptural Mentions of Navlakha Parshwanath Temple
The temple’s historical and spiritual importance is recorded in various Jain scriptures, including:
- “The Parshvanath Chaityaparipati”
- “Tirthmala”
- A temple of the same name was built by Maharaja Kumarpal in Diu, showcasing the spread of Jainism across regions.
- An idol of Navlakha Parshwanath is also found in:
- Shri Bahuswami Jain Temple, Limbri
- Jirawala Tirth
- Kalikund Parshwanath Temple, Santacruz, Mumbai
Temple Trust Information – Shri Navlakha Parshwanath Jain Tirth Pedhi
Phone: 02932-21747, 02932-21929
Managed by: Shri Navalchand Suvratchand Jain Pedhi
Location: Gujarati Katla, Pali – 306401, District: Pali, Rajasthan, India
Explore More: 108 Parshwanath Names List
For a comprehensive list of Parshwanath temples and their significance, visit the 108 Parshwanath Names List.
