Kothara Shantinath Jain temple, Gujarat

Address

Abdasa Taluka, Kothara,

Gujarat 370645

Moolavar

Shantinath

Introduction

The Shantinath Jain Temple, located in Kothara, Kutch district, Gujarat, is a significant pilgrimage destination for followers of Jainism. Dedicated to Lord Shantinatha, the 16th Tirthankara, this temple is a remarkable blend of spirituality and intricate craftsmanship.

Puranic Significance:

The temple’s history is rooted in devotion and dedication:

Constructed on the 13th day of Magha (V.S. 1918 / c. 1861 CE), it was commissioned by prominent patrons like Shah Velji Malu, Shah Keshavji Nayak, Shivji Nensi, and Osval Vanias of Kothara at a cost of £40,000.
The architectural inspiration for this temple was derived from the Jain Temple in Ahmedabad and built under the guidance of the renowned Mistris of Kutch, supervised by Salat Nathu of Sabhrai.
The Shantinath statue was consecrated by Acharya Ratnasagarsuri of Achal Gaccha.
The temple is often compared to the Meruprabha Temple of the Palitana Temples, earning the name ‘Kalyan Tunk’ in the famous poem ‘Keshavji Nayak’.

Special Features:

The Shantinath Jain Temple is a masterful creation, showcasing detailed architecture and rich artistry:

Fortifications and Entry:
- Surrounded by a high fort with five cells and a 12×6 feet gate.
- A two-storied entrance gate leads to an outer yard surrounded by buildings for priests, which opens into a walled quadrangle.
Temple Layout and Dimensions:
- The main temple sits on a 6 feet 9 inches plinth, accessible by 15 steps.
- It measures 78 feet long, 69 feet wide, and 73½ feet high, supported by three two-storied domed porches.
Mandap and Shrine Architecture:
- The domed hall (mandap) rises in two stories, featuring richly carved niches and moldings on its spire.
- Inside, the mandap is adorned with 22 pilasters, 16 intricately carved pillars, and a dome supported by 8 pillars with foiled arches and struts.
Interior Ornamentation:
- The marble pavement is richly designed with various colors.
- The shrine’s wall features 20 richly carved pillars depicting flowers, leaves, and creepers.
- The central idol is a 90 cm tall white marble statue of Lord Shantinath in Padmasana posture, adorned with a golden crown and seated on a marble throne, flanked by seven smaller figures.
Upper and Underground Shrines:
- The upper story houses a corridor with ornate shrines and large marble idols.
- The underground shrine contains about 25 large white marble figures, intricately adorned with precious stones in the eyes, chests, and arms.