online support
In the vibrant city of Surat, renowned for its diamond industry and globally acclaimed Surat sarees, stands the sacred Shri Dharmanath temple, also known as the "Hathiwala Mandir." Within the temple's basement resides a divine presence — a nearly 153 cm tall, white-colored idol of Shri Suraj Mandan Parshwanath in the Padmasana Posture. Adorned with an umbrella of nine hoods, this mesmerizing idol radiates magnificence and tranquility.
Historically rich, Surat is home to a significant Jain population, and its landscape is dotted with ancient Jain temples. The idol of Shri Suraj Mandan Parshwanath, installed in V.S.1679 by Shri Ratnachandra Gani under the guidance of Shri Shanthi Chandra Upadhyay's disciple, graces the Hathiwala Mandir. Gopidas Shresthi, the revered devotee, played a pivotal role in the installation, giving rise to the area being known as "Gopipura" in his honor. The temple also houses the idol of Shri Dharmanath Bhagwan, installed by Acharya Shri Hirvijaysurishvarji in V.S.1664.
Also known as "Hathiwala Mandir," this sacred site witnessed the construction of "Hir Vihar," a Guru Mandir by Shri Vastupal Omji. The temple complex resonates with spiritual energy, featuring the footprints of Shri Hirvijaysurishvarji and Shri Sensuriji. The idol of Suraj Mandan Parshvanath, with its enchanting and ever-smiling demeanor, is considered miraculous and influential. Devotees believe that their sincere prayers are answered when offered with unwavering faith and devotion. Shri Shantidas Sheth, recognizing this divine connection, performed Aradhana of the "Shri Chintamani Mantra" in front of the idol.
Surat boasts several other temples, including those dedicated to Shri Vasupujya Swami, Agam Mandir, Ashtapadji temple, and Shri Umarvadi Parshwanath temple in Gopipura.
For pilgrims and devotees, the Surat railway station on the Ahmedabad–Mumbai railway line provides easy access. The city offers various facilities such as Upashrayas, Pathshalas, Gyan Bhandaars, and Ayambilshalas. Accommodation and dining facilities are available at Dharamshala and Bhojanshala.
References to Suraj Mandan Parshwanath echo through scriptures like "Shri Parshvanath Naammala," "Tirthmala," and "Shri Parshwanath Chaitya Paripati." Upadhyay Shri Vinayvijayji refers to Suraj Mandan Parshwanath as "Diggaj Parshwanath" in the "Shri Jin Sahastra Naam Stotra."
Devotees seeking a spiritual haven can visit the Shri Suraj Mandan Parshwanath Jain Temple, Haathi Wali Gali, Gopipura, Surat – 395 001, Gujarat, India. For inquiries, the temple can be contacted at 0 – 98795 – 16442. This sacred abode stands as a beacon of devotion and tranquility in the heart of Surat.
