The sacred Shri Bhuvan Parshwanath Jain Temple located in Bhoyara Pada, Khambhat (Cambay), Gujarat, is one of the most ancient and revered Jain tirths in the region. Known as Navkhanda Parshwanath, this temple is renowned for its beautiful idol, rich literary heritage, and spiritual legacy.
About the Mulnayak Idol
The Mulnayak is a stunning 68 cm tall black-coloured idol of Shri Bhuvan Parshwanath, seated in Padmasana posture and adorned with an artistic parikar (decorative arch). The idol is topped with a 7-hooded serpent umbrella, representing protection and spiritual awakening. The idol is mesmerizing in its craftsmanship and radiates a deep sense of peace.
Temple Location
The temple is located in Bhoyara Pada, a part of Khambhat town in the Anand district of Gujarat, which was historically known as Trambavati. Today, Khambhat (or Cambay) is a celebrated center for ancient Jain temples and manuscripts.
Historical and Cultural Significance
Shri Bhuvan Parshwanath is also known as Navkhanda Parshwanath, as referenced in ancient Jain literature such as the “Jaitihuana Stotra” written by Shri Girdharlal Hirabhai.
The temple houses a historical inscription dating back to Vikram Samvat 1636, marking the installation of the idol of Shri Ajitnath Bhagwan by Acharya Hirvijaysurishvarji, confirming the site’s antiquity. The main temple was later renovated in V.S. 2027, while preserving the original idols.
A flag-hoisting celebration is held annually on the 5th day of the bright half of Vaishakh (Vaishakh Sud 5), attracting devotees from across the region. The temple also has a Gyan Bhandar (library) with rare scriptures written on Tamrapatra (copper plates).
Other Temples in Bhoyara Pada and Khambhat
- Shri Shantinath – Neminath Temple
- Shri Shantinath Temple with an ancient idol of Parshwanath dated V.S. 1383
- Shri Mallinath Swami Temple
- Shri Chandraprabhu Swami Temple
Khambhat is home to over 60 Jain temples, making it a spiritual and cultural jewel of Gujarat.
Manuscripts and Jain Literature from Khambhat
Khambhat has been a literary hub for centuries. Several Jain Acharyas and scholars composed significant works here:
- Shri Vinayprabhji – Gautam Swami Raas (V.S. 1422)
- Shri Nannsuriji – Vichaar Sogathi, Gajsukumar Rajarshi Sajjhaya
- Shri Lavanya Samay – Surpriya Kevali Raas (V.S. 1567)
- Shri Vacchrajji – Samyaktva Komudi Raas, Shri Shantinath Charitra (V.S. 1642)
- Shri Sakalchandra Upadhyay – Shri Vasupujya Jin Punya Prakash Raas (V.S. 1643)
- Shri Kushallabhji – Shri Sthamban Parshvanath Stavan (V.S. 1653)
- Shri Rishabdasji – multiple Gujarati texts in the 17th century
- Shri Laabhvijayji – Shripal Mayanasundari Raas during Chaturmaas (V.S. 1727)
- Shri Bhanuvijayji – Maun Ekadashi Stavan, Shasvata Ashasvata Jin Tirthmala (V.S. 1773)
- Shri Yashovijayji – Sadhu Vandana, Maun Ekadashi 150 Kalyanak Stavan, Jambi Raas
- Shri Matisagarji – Khambhat ki Tirthmala, Dhanna Rishi Chaupai
- Shri Atmaramji Maharaj – Agyan Timir Bhaskar (V.S. 1942)
Khambhat’s literary contributions to Jainism are unmatched, with Gyan Bhandars holding rare, handwritten scriptures.
Guidelines for Pilgrims
- Distance from Major Cities:
- Vadodara – 80 km
- Ahmedabad – 90 km
- Facilities: Multiple Dharamshalas and Bhojanshalas are available for visitors. The city also has several Upashrayas, Pathshalas, and Gyan Bhandars with ancient manuscripts and sculptures.
Temple Trust Information
Shri Bhuvan Parshwanath Shwetambar Jain Tirth
Bhoyara Pada, Post: Khambhat, District: Anand, Gujarat – 388620, India
Phone: 02698 – 223780
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Where is Shri Bhuvan Parshwanath Temple located?
The temple is in Bhoyara Pada, Khambhat (Cambay), in the Anand district of Gujarat, India.
What is the other name of Bhuvan Parshwanath?
Shri Bhuvan Parshwanath is also known as Navkhanda Parshwanath, as referenced in ancient Jain texts.
How old is this temple?
The temple is centuries old. Historical inscriptions confirm idol installations as early as V.S. 1636, and the temple was last renovated in V.S. 2027.
What is unique about the Mulnayak idol?
The idol is black-coloured, 68 cm tall, adorned with a decorative parikar, and crowned with 7 serpent hoods, reflecting Jain symbolism of protection and spiritual power.
How many Jain temples are there in Khambhat?
There are more than 60 Jain temples in Khambhat, making it one of Gujarat’s most important Jain pilgrimage destinations.
Is there an annual celebration at the temple?
Yes, a flag-hoisting ceremony is held every year on Vaishakh Sud 5, celebrated with devotion by the local Jain sangh.
What kind of manuscripts are found in Khambhat?
Khambhat’s Gyan Bhandars preserve rare Jain scriptures on palm leaves and copper plates, authored by renowned Jain Acharyas over many centuries.
For an extensive list of Parshwanath temples and their significance, visit the 108 Parshwanath Names List.
