Lodhurva Jain Temple- Rajasthan

Address

Lodhurva Jain Temple- Ramgarh Road, Ram Kund, Jaisalmer, Rajasthan- 345001

Deity

Parshvanatha.

Introduction

• Location: The Lodhurva Jain Temple is located in Lodhruva village, 16 km from Jaisalmer city in Rajasthan. Lodhruva was once the capital of the Bhatti Rajputs, and while the city lost its prominence when the Bhattis shifted their capital to Jaisalmer, the ancient Jain temples, including the Lodhurva Jain Temple, remain a significant attraction. The temple is set amidst ruins and is well-known for the mesmerizing sight of peacocks dancing against the backdrop of the ancient structures.

Puranic Significance

• Historical Importance: Lodhruva was established as the capital of the Bhatti clan by Rawal Deoraj in the 8th or 9th century CE. The Lodhurva Jain Temple was constructed during this period and is considered a significant monument in Jain history. However, the city and temple faced devastation after attacks by Mahmud of Ghazni and Muhammad of Ghor, leading to the destruction of the temple in 1152 CE. Afterward, the temple was renovated in 1615 CE, and today it stands as the only surviving structure in the once-flourishing city of Lodhruva.
• Architectural Splendor: The temple is built with yellow limestone and sandstone, renowned for its intricate craftsmanship. Some of its key architectural highlights include the beautifully designed torana (arched gateway), detailed carvings of the mythical Kalpavriksha (wish-fulfilling tree), and Kalputra (a sacred tree in Jain cosmology). The temple exemplifies the grandeur of Jain architecture in Rajasthan, making it one of the most prominent Jain temples in the region.
• Main Deity: The mulnayak (main deity) of the temple is Lord Parshvanatha, the 23rd Tirthankara in Jainism. The idol is crafted from black marble, adding to the temple’s sanctity. In the Shvetambara tradition, Lodhurva Parshvanath is considered one of the 108 prominent idols of Parshvanath, and the temple holds a unique spiritual significance in Jain culture.
• Sacred Snake Legend: A unique belief associated with the temple is that a snake emerges from a hole every evening to drink the milk offerings left by the devotees. According to popular lore, catching a glimpse of this snake is considered highly auspicious and brings blessings to those who witness it.

Festivals

• Mahavir Jayanti: The most important festival celebrated at the Lodhurva Jain Temple is Mahavir Jayanti, which marks the birth of Lord Mahavira, the 24th and last Tirthankara of Jainism. The festival attracts devotees from across the region, who come to offer prayers and participate in the grand celebrations.

Century/Period/Age

8th−9th century CE

Managed By

Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)

Nearest Bus Station

Lodhurva

Nearest Railway Station

Jaisalmer Station

Nearest Airport

Jodhpur

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