What is Sherisa Parshwanath Jain Temple?
The Sherisa Parshwanath Jain Temple is a holy place for Jains. It is in a small village called Sherisa, near Kalol in Gujarat, India. People from many places come here to pray, see the old idol, and feel peace.
This temple is very old, from the 12th century. It is famous because the idol of Bhagwan Parshwanath here is very special. It was made from one big black stone in just one night—by a blind sculptor!
The Main Idol – Sherisa Parshwanath
Inside the temple, the main idol is of Bhagwan Parshwanath, who is the 23rd Tirthankara in Jainism. The idol is:
- 165 cm tall
- Black in color
- Sitting in the Padmasana (lotus) position
- Made from one single stone
People say the idol has miraculous powers, and many have seen miracles happen after praying here.
How Was This Idol Made?
Long ago, Acharya Devendrasurishvarji came to Sherisa and saw it was a calm, beautiful place. He felt it was right for spiritual work.
He prayed to Goddess Padmavati for three days without eating (this is called Attham Tap). Then, the goddess appeared and guided him.
He asked a blind sculptor from a village called Soparak to come. The sculptor carved the idol of Parshwanath in one night, without seeing anything!
That’s why this idol is so special. People call it Sherisa Parshwanath or Lodhan Parshwanath.
Stories and Miracles at Sherisa
This temple is known for many miracles. Here are two popular stories:
1. The Gold Chain Miracle
A poor merchant and his wife had lost everything. The wife invited her community for lunch, but they had no money. They prayed to Sherisa Parshwanath. That night, the woman put her hand in a snake hole, thinking the snake would bite her.
Instead, she pulled out a gold chain. She sold the chain and served food to everyone the next day.
2. The Blue Snake Guide
Once, Acharya Nemisurishvarji and his followers lost their way while coming to Sherisa. A loud voice guided them. Soon, they saw a huge blue snake (Dharnendra Dev) who showed them the right path. They reached the temple safely.
Temple History Over Time
- In the 13th century, Mahamatya Tejpal built two smaller temples (called Dev Kulikas) inside.
- One had an idol of Neminath Bhagwan and the other had Ambika Devi.
- In Vikram Samvat 1420, an idol of Padmavati Devi was also placed here (now in Naroda Parshwanath temple in Ahmedabad).
- The temple was damaged during Muslim invasions in the 18th century, but Jain people saved the idols.
In Vikram Samvat 2002 (2002 CE), the temple was rebuilt and the idols were reinstalled by Acharya Vijaynemisurishvarji.
Today, the temple is managed by Seth Shri Anandji Kalyanji Pedhi.
How to Reach Sherisa Parshwanath Temple
- Nearest railway station: Kalol (8 km away)
- By road: 37 km from Ahmedabad (via Kalol–Rancharda road)
- Transport: Buses and private vehicles are available
- Facilities: Dharamshala (for staying) and Bhojanshala (for food) are available
Nearby villages you can also visit: Wamaj, Bhoyani, and Pansar
Why Should You Visit This Temple?
- To see the unique idol carved by a blind man in one night
- To feel the peaceful energy of a very old temple
- To pray and ask for help during hard times
- To learn amazing stories and connect with Jain history
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is special about Sherisa Parshwanath temple?
It has a rare black stone idol of Bhagwan Parshwanath, made in one night by a blind sculptor. It is known for its miracles and ancient history.
Who made the main idol?
A blind sculptor from Soparak carved the idol after prayers by Acharya Devendrasurishvarji.
Can I visit the temple today?
Yes, the temple is open to visitors. It has resting and food facilities, and you can reach it easily from Kalol or Ahmedabad.
What miracles happened at this temple?
Many miracles are said to have happened here, like the gold chain found by a poor woman, and a blue snake guiding lost monks.
Who manages the temple now?
The temple is managed by Seth Shri Anandji Kalyanji Pedhi, a well-known Jain trust.
Final Thoughts
Sherisa Parshwanath Jain Temple is not just a place to pray—it’s a place to believe, to feel peace, and to be inspired by stories of faith and miracles.
Whether you are Jain or just someone seeking peace, this temple is worth visiting.
You’ll return home with a calm heart and a story to tell.
For an extensive list of Parshwanath temples and their significance, visit the 108 Parshwanath Names List.
