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In the serene vicinity outside Bhadreshwar village, a spectacular temple stands, home to a nearly 61 cms. high white-colored idol of Mahavir Swami in the Padmasana posture. Previously, the Mulnayak was Parshvanath Bhagwan, but now, the 25th Deri of the temple houses the remarkable and miraculous idol of Shyamala Parshwanath. This black-colored idol of Parshwanath, approximately 68 cms. high in the Padmasana posture, adds to the sanctity of this sacred space.
The Tirth, located on the picturesque sea-shore, carries the ancient name of Bhadravati, now known as Bhadreshwar or Vasai. Steeped in historical significance, the city's roots date back to the times of the Mahabharata, and it was the Karmabhoomi of Vijay Sheth and Vijaya Shetani, prominent figures in Jain history. Devchandra Shresthi, driven by religious fervor, laid the foundation stone for a magnificent temple, resembling a Dev Viman, 23 years after the Nirvana of Bhagwan Mahaveer.
The ceremonial installation of the idol of Bhagwan Parshvanath took place 45 years after Bhagwan Mahaveer's Nirvana, conducted by the revered Kevali Shri Kapil Muni. The significance lies in the rarity of idols installed by Shri Kapil Kevli, making this temple a revered landmark. Over the centuries, Maharaja Samprati, Kanak Chavda, Maharaja Kumarpal, and Vastupal-Tejpal have contributed to the temple's renovation, reflecting the enduring devotion of successive generations.
The city faced considerable damage during a severe famine in Vikram Samvat 1313. To protect the idol of Shri Parshvanath, a Muni concealed it in a basement. In Vikram Samvat 1622, the Jain sangh, during the renovation, ceremonially installed the idol of Shri Mahavir Bhagwan as the new Mulnayak. Eventually, the idol of Parshvanath returned to the temple and found its abode in the 25th deri.
Renovations and repairs continued over the years, with Sheth Vardhaman Shah, Sheth Shri Padamsingh, and later, Shrimati Mithabai contributing to the preservation and enhancement of this sacred space. Presently, the temple management rests with Shri Vardhaman Kalyanji Pedi, overseeing ongoing renovation work after the earthquake-induced damage.
Adorned with 51 small temples surrounding the main temple and Gurumandirs of various gachchhas, the temple presents a divine spectacle on its two and a half lakh square feet maidan. Notable for its 38 feet height, 80 feet breadth, and 150 feet length, the temple boasts superior sculptures, including 218 pillars and 146 idols. The canvas paintings depicting the life events of Bhagawan Mahaveer and Bhagwan Parshvanath, along with sacred pilgrimages, add to the temple's charm. The peaceful and beautiful atmosphere, coupled with the awe-inspiring idols, makes this temple a truly divine architectural marvel.
The sacred legacy of this temple is nurtured by the Shri Bhabha Parshwanath Shwetambar Jain Tirth, managed by Shri Vardhaman Kalyanji Pedi, situated at Bhadreshwar village, District: Gujarat-360 570, India. For inquiries, contact [phone number].
