Bhadreshwar (Vasai) Jain Temple – Gujarat

Address

Bhadreshwar (Vasai) Jain Temple – Bhadreshwar, Mundra Taluk, Kutch, Gujarat 370410

Deity

Ajitnath

Introduction

• The Bhadreshwar Jain Temple, also known as the Vasai Jain Temple, is located in Bhadreshwar village of Mundra Taluka, Kutch, Gujarat.
• It is one of the oldest Jain temples in India and holds significant historical and religious importance for the Jain community.
• The temple is part of the Panchtirth of Kutch, a group of five sacred Jain pilgrimage sites in the region.

Puranic and Historical Significance:

• The Vasai Jain Temple has references in the Mahabharata, signifying its ancient history and importance.
• It was originally constructed in 555 AD and is believed to be one of the oldest Jain temples in India, although it has undergone multiple renovations.
• The first renovation is attributed to King Sidhsen of Bhadrawati, while the foundation stone of the temple was laid by a Jain layman named Devchandra.
• The temple has faced destruction from natural calamities such as earthquakes throughout history. Notably, it was rebuilt after earthquakes in 1819, 1844-45, and 1875 by the Mistris of Kutch, the local artisans.
• The temple was severely damaged in the 2001 earthquake, but it has since been completely rebuilt, preserving its sacred structure and heritage.

Special Features:

• The temple architecture follows a design similar to the famous Dilwara Temples in Mount Abu, Rajasthan.
• The temple complex is spacious, covering an area of approximately 48 feet by 85 feet, with a row of 44 shrines and a corridor in front of them.
• The main temple faces east and is accessed by a flight of steps leading to the covered area in front of the sanctuary.
• The temple features three pillared domes over the courtyard, and the entrance hall (mandap) is separated by a low screen wall from the temple’s main sanctum.
• In the shrine, there are three white marble images of Tirthankaras:
  • Ajitnath, the second Tirthankara, is at the center (dated to 622 or AD 1565).
  • On the right side, there is an image of Parshwanath, marked 1175 (Samvat 1232), with a snake hood.
  • On the left side, there is an image of Santinath, the 16th Tirthankara, also marked 1175 (Samvat 1232).
• Additionally, there is a black Parshwanath statue, known as Shamla Parshwanath, on the extreme right.

Cultural and Spiritual Importance:

• The Bhadreshwar Jain Temple continues to be a major pilgrimage site for Jain devotees, known for its rich history, architectural beauty, and spiritual significance.
• It is also a prominent part of the Jain cultural heritage in the Kutch region, attracting both pilgrims and tourists for its historical and religious value.

Century/Period/Age

555 AD

Managed By

Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)

Nearest Bus Station

kutch

Nearest Railway Station

Bhuj Station

Nearest Airport

Bhuj

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