Saturday Nov 23, 2024

Bawangaja Jain Temple- Madhya Pradesh

Address

Bawangaja Jain Temple- Bawangaja, Barwani district Madhya Pradesh 451551

Deity

Rishabhadeva

Introduction

Location:

  • Situated in the Barwani District of Madhya Pradesh, India, near the River Narmada (6 km south).
  • Located in the Satpura Range, approximately 8 km from Barwani town.

Main Attraction:

  • The world’s second-largest megalithic statue of Lord Rishabhadeva, the first Jain Tirthankara.
  • The statue stands at an impressive 84 feet (26 meters) high and is carved from a single rock.

Historical Significance:

  • The statue was created in the early 12th century and is one of the most iconic Jain monuments in India.
  • Unlike the Gommateshwara statue at Shravanabelagola, Lord Rishabhadeva’s statue is supported from the back.

Architectural Features:

  • The statue is in Kayotsarga posture (standing in meditation).
  • The hands of the statue are positioned separately from the legs, giving it a unique structural design.
  • The facial expression of the statue reflects emotions like joy, mercy, and separation.
  • The statue is symmetrical with balanced proportions and is carved from brown stone.

Temple Complex:

  • The Bawangaja complex includes eleven temples surrounding the statue, adding to its significance as a Jain pilgrimage center.
  • On the left side of the statue is a large idol of Lord Rishabhadeva in the form of a four-armed Gomukha.
  • On the right side stands a 16-armed idol of Chakreshvari, another important figure in Jainism.

Mahamastakabhisheka:

  • A grand Mahamastakabhisheka ceremony was planned for 2020, attracting an estimated 1.5 million devotees to the site.
  • The statue has undergone repairs throughout history, including an inscription from 1503 CE and repairs in 1989/90, followed by a consecration ceremony in January 1991.

Cultural and Religious Importance:

  • Bawangaja is a revered Jain pilgrimage center, attracting thousands of devotees annually for its spiritual and historical significance.
  • The statue and temple complex are central to Jain religious practices in the region and represent the rich cultural heritage of Jainism.

Unique Art and Style:

  • The structural art and style of the statue are distinctive, showcasing Jain artistry with deep symbolism and spiritual significance.

Century/Period/Age

12th century.

Managed By

Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) – Madhya Pradesh

Nearest Bus Station

Bawangaja

Nearest Railway Station

Indore

Nearest Airport

Indore

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