online support
In the heart of Bharuch, nestled along the banks of the sacred Narmada River, lies a revered Tirth with Mulnayak Shri Munisuvrat Swami Bhagwan as its primary deity. The sanctum also houses an exquisite 88 cm high, white-colored idol of Bhagwan Kalhara Parshwanath in the Padmasana posture, gracefully positioned beside the idol of Shri Munisuvrat Swami Bhagwan.
Historically, Bharuch, once known as "Bhrugupur" or "Bhrugukutch," boasts ancient roots as a prosperous city and pilgrimage center. Around eleven and a half lakhs of years ago, Shri Munisuvrat Swami walked 240 miles to Bharuch, delivering sermons to a horse prepared for the Ashvamegha Yagna. The horse, upon hearing the teachings, peacefully embraced death, transcending enmity and seeking forgiveness from all living beings. In honor of this event, the Ashvavabodh Tirth was established, later known as Shakunika Vihar.
Princess Sudarshana, the daughter of King Sihal of Sihaldvip, contributed to the legacy by renovating the Ashvavabodh Tirth, which eventually became known as "Shakunika Vihar." Over time, the temple underwent various renovations, with notable contributions from Shantu Mehta and Minister Ambad. Despite the challenges faced during the Muslim rule, Bharuch proudly houses nine ancient temples, including the one dedicated to Kalhara Parshwanath.
The three-storied marvel of a temple, reconstructed in recent years, stands tall as a testament to resilience. The reinstallation of the idol occurred under the guidance of Acharya Shri Rajyashsurishvarji. The ancient and captivating idol of Kalhara Parshwanath is affectionately known as "Kalyan Parshwanath," while Shri Nyayvijayji bestowed the name "Shri Yashodhara Parshwanath" upon this divine figure.
Adding to the spiritual grandeur is the Bhaktamar Bhavya Mandir, home to the first exceptionally beautiful Bhaktamar temple in India. The sanctuary showcases an idol of Acharya Shri Mantungasurishvarji, the Bhaktamar Stotra's creator, ensnared in iron chains. The temple also features depictions of the 44 glorious gathas of the Bhaktamar Stotra, symbolizing its profound verses.
As an ancient city, Bharuch displays magnificent sculptural art throughout, with a splendid gate welcoming visitors. The temple's first floor houses the idols of Mulnayak Munisuvrat Swami and Kalhara Parshwanath, while the second floor boasts the presence of Sahastrafana Parshwanath Bhagwan. Notably, a 127 cm high, black-colored idol of Munisuvrat Swami Bhagwan, standing in the Kausagg posture, graces the second floor.
Travelers can easily access this sacred Tirth, conveniently situated on the main Bombay-Ahmedabad railway line, a mere 2 km from the railway station. Bharuch is well-connected by rail and road to various cities in Gujarat, offering bus services and private vehicles for transportation. The Tirth provides Dharamshala, Bhojanshala, and Ayambilshala facilities for pilgrims, ensuring a serene and accommodating pilgrimage experience. Nearby pilgrim centers include Kavi, Gandhar, Dahej, Jambusar, Vejalpur, and Kabirpura, each contributing to the spiritual tapestry of the region.
