Mulnayak Idol – The Self-Emerged Idol of Swayambhu Parshwanath
The temple enshrines a 53 cm tall chocolate-colored idol of Bhagwan Swayambhu Parshwanath in Padmasana posture, with a unique double-layered seven-hooded serpent canopy. The idol features an intricately carved Parrikar (backrest carving), making it one of the rarest and most divine Jain idols.
Swayambhu Parshwanath Tirth – Location & Sacred Surroundings
The temple is situated in Kaparada village, Jodhpur district, Rajasthan, an ancient place once known as Kapadhaat, named after its famous cloth fairs. Over time, the village came to be called Kaparada.
Historical Significance – The Divine Emergence of Kaparada Parshwanath
- Kaparada dates back to the 14th century and was historically significant due to its trade fairs and royal patronage.
- The Champasar Lake, built by Rao Champa, still exists in the village, adding to its historical charm.
- The temple’s foundation was laid in Vikram Samvat 1660 (1603 AD) by Bhanji Bhandari, an administrative officer of Jetaran Taluk.
- While traveling to Jodhpur after being summoned by King Gajsingh, Bhandari halted in Kaparada, where a Jain Yati allowed him to worship an idol before resuming his journey.
- After being proven innocent in the king’s court, Bhandari returned to Kaparada and vowed to build a temple in gratitude for the divine intervention.
- The search for an idol began, and Shri Jinchandrasuriji Maharaj Saheb had a divine vision revealing the presence of an idol beneath a babool tree.
- On the 10th day of the dark half of Paush month (Parshwanath Janma Kalyanak day) in Vikram Samvat 1674 (1617 AD), the idol miraculously emerged from the ground, giving it the name “Swayambhu Parshwanath” (self-emerged Parshwanath).
- In Vikram Samvat 1678 (1621 AD), the idol was ceremoniously installed in the grand four-storeyed temple under the guidance of Shri Jinchandarsurisvarji.
- Shashan Samrat Acharyadev Shri Nemisurishvarji later led the temple’s renovation, and on Basant Panchami of Vikram Samvat 1975 (1918 AD), the Mulnayak idol was reinstalled, along with 15 additional new idols.
Annual Jain Festivals & Celebrations at Swayambhu Parshwanath Temple
A grand fair is held every year on:
- The 5th day of the bright half of Chaitra month, attracting thousands of Jain devotees.
Architectural Grandeur – The Majestic Four-Storeyed Temple of Kaparada
- The temple stands at a towering height of 98 feet, making it visible from a distance of 8 km.
- Its four-storeyed structure is rare and resembles the Ajitnath Bhagwan Temple of Taranga.
- The main attraction is the Chaturmukhi idols (four-faced idols), a symbol of divine presence in all directions.
- The summit of the temple is a marvel of sculptural excellence, featuring intricately carved domes, arched gates, and ornamental pillars.
- The assembly hall and ceiling designs reflect the ancient artistic skills of Jain craftsmen, with detailed carvings depicting Jain mythology and celestial beings.
- The temple also features a spacious underground basement, adding to its grandeur.
- Every year, Charipali Sanghs (Jain pilgrimage groups) visit this temple for special worship ceremonies.
How to Reach Swayambhu Parshwanath Jain Temple
- Nearest railway stations:
- Sivadi – 8 km
- Pipad City – 16 km
- Bilada – 25 km
- Jodhpur – 50 km
- By road:
- The temple is located on the Jodhpur–Jaipur highway and is well-connected by buses and taxis.
- By air:
- The nearest airport is Jodhpur, 50 km from the temple.
Accommodation & Facilities at Swayambhu Parshwanath Tirth
- Dharamshala (lodging) and Bhojanshala (food) facilities are available for Jain pilgrims.
- The temple provides modern amenities while maintaining its ancient charm.
Scriptural Mentions of Swayambhu Parshwanath Temple
The historical and religious significance of this temple is recorded in various Jain scriptures, including:
- “Shri Kaparadaji Tirth no Raas”
- “Shri Kapadheta Raas”
- “108 Naamgarbhit Shri Parshvanath Stavan”
- “Shri Parshvanath Naammala”
- “Chaityaparipati”
- “Kapadheta Parshvanath Kavitha”
- “Shri Kapadheta Parshvanath Vriddh Stavan”
- “Shri Parshvanath Prabhu na 108 Naam na Chaand”
Other Idols of Kaparada Parshwanath
- An idol of Kaparada Parshwanath is enshrined in the Kalikund Parshwanath temple in Santacruz, Mumbai.
- Another ancient idol of Swayambhu Parshwanath is installed in the Chintamani Parshwanath temple in Parle East, Mumbai.
Temple Trust Information – Shri Swayambhu Parshwanath Jain Tirth Pedhi
- Managed by: Shri Swayambhu Parshwanath Shwetambar Jain Tirth
- Location: Post: Kaparada – 342605, via Bhavi, Tehsil: Bilada, District: Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India
Explore More: 108 Parshwanath Names List
For a comprehensive list of Parshwanath temples and their significance, visit the 108 Parshwanath Names List.
