Story of Shamla Parshwanath Bhagwan

An approximately 35-centimeter-tall idol of Lord Shri Shyamala Parshvanath Bhagwan, depicted in the Padmasana posture, is a striking figure. The idol features a seven-hooded snake umbrella over its head. This revered icon resides within the premises of Shyamalaji ni Pole in the city of Ahmedabad.

Historically, this temple holds an ancient legacy dating back to the 17th century. It was constructed in V.S. 1656 by Sanghvi Somji and his brother Shiva, who were descendants of Minister Vastupal, known for their substantial contributions to Jainism. The temple stands out for its remarkable wood carvings, particularly those illustrating the Kalyanak Mahotsavs (auspicious life events) of Thirthankaras. These intricate wood carvings are unparalleled in their artistry and craftsmanship, making the temple famous for its extraordinary wooden decorations. Additionally, the temple houses a beautiful marble idol of Lord Parshvanath in a meditative Kausagga mudra, further enhancing its visual appeal. The idol of Shyamala Parshvanath itself is both ancient and captivating.

While the Shyamala Parshvanath Temple is a prominent Jain place of worship in Ahmedabad, the city boasts over 400 temples, many of which hold historical significance.

Ahmedabad, a renowned city in Gujarat, enjoys excellent connectivity to other Indian cities via rail, road, and air. Visitors will find more than 100 Upashrayas (meditation halls), numerous Dharamshalas (rest houses), and Bhojanshalas (food facilities) in Ahmedabad to cater to their needs. The city also houses several Gyan bhandaars (knowledge centers) housing ancient books and handwritten manuscripts, such as those located in the Upashraya of Dela in Doshiwada ki Pole and various other places across Ahmedabad.

References to Shyamala Parshvanath can be found in various scriptures, including "365 Shri Parshvanath Naammala," "Shri Sankheswar Parshvanath Chaand," "Shri Bhateva Parshvanath Stavan," "108 Naam Garbhit Shri Parshvanath Stavan," "Patan Chaitya Paripati," and "Tirthmala," among others. Additionally, Shyamala Parshvanath temples can be found in various locations throughout India, each holding its unique significance.

1. The primary Shyamala Parshvanath Temple stands in Shyamalaji ni Pole in Ahmedabad. Additional temples dedicated to Shyamala Parshvanath are present in Devsano pado and Lambesar ni Pole within Ahmedabad.

2. In the city of Patan, there is a temple of Shyamala Parshvanath in Dandervada, housing an idol found beneath the ground near Teen Darwaza. The idol is believed to date back to the reign of King Samprati.

3. There is also a temple dedicated to Shyamala Parshvanath in Jogiwada in Patan, famously known as Dhingadmal Parshvanath. This temple is renowned for the remarkable and miraculous occurrences associated with the influential idol.

4. Other Shyamala Parshvanath temples can be found in Shahvada, Khetarvasi, Nishal ni Sheri in Patan, SammetShikar Parshvanath in Madhubani, Amalner, Rambagh in Azimganj, Brahmanvada in Borsad, Shamalaji na khacha in Kamboi, Girnar Tirth, Shamlaji ni Sheri in Radhanpur, Kothari vada in Idar, Lakhu Pole in Vadvaan, Tera Tirth in Kutch, Motu derasar in Prabhas Patan, Una, Dantarai and Sayala in Rajasthan, Ranasan near Vijapur, Lanva, Bansvaada, Sangamner in Maharashtra, Teen Batti in Mumbai, Mahimapur in Bihar, and many more.

These temples collectively serve as significant centers of worship, reflection, and reverence for Lord Shyamala Parshvanath Bhagwan.