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In the village of Lodrava near Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, a captivating temple stands as the home to a black-colored idol of Sahastrafana Parshwanath. Measuring approximately 75 cm in height, this idol, seated in the Padmasana posture, boasts an umbrella of one thousand hoods, giving rise to its name, Sahastrafana Parshwanath.
Lodrava, once a flourishing capital of Lodra Rajputs, held worldwide fame for its ancient university. Legends speak of King Sagar ruling this city, with his Jain-convert sons, Sridhar and Rajdhar, constructing a magnificent temple of Shri Chintamani Parshwanath. Unfortunately, the temple fell victim to destruction by Muslims. The restoration initiative was spearheaded by Shreshti Khimsi, continued by his son Punshi, and later, Rawal Bhojdev faced off against Jaisalji, leading to Jaisalji's victory and the establishment of a new capital, Jaisalmer.
During the renovation of the Lodrava temple, the quest for a new idol commenced. Skilled craftsmen from Patan, carrying two extraordinary idols intended for Multan, stopped in Lodrava for the night. Guided by divine dreams, they handed over the idols to Shri Dhirushah, who had received the same vision. This idol became known as "Amoolya Parshwanath." Acharya Jinrajsuruji oversaw the installation of these idols in 1675 of the Vikram era, and they remain a revered presence.
Lodrava Parshwanath, an ancient tirth and one of Jaisalmer's five Panchtirthis, holds a reputation for its ever-present miraculous presiding deity. Darshan of Dharnendradev is a special blessing for many pilgrims, with four small temples in the main temple's corners housing idols of Adinath, Ajitnath, Sambhavnath, and Chintamani Parshwanath. The temple, also known as "Chintamani Parshwanath," underwent renovation in V.S.2034, displaying alluring, magnificent, and miraculous artistry. Numerous miracles, including sightings of a 6-foot Dharnendradev during the Indo-Pak war, have been reported.
Apart from a dadawadi, the temple stands as a unique testimony to skilled craftsmanship. The main arched gate's beauty, intricate carvings in pillars, ceilings, and summits, as well as the ancient wooden chariot, showcase the competition among sculpturists for vivid beauty.
Travelers can reach Lodrava from Jaisalmer's railway station, 15 km away, with bus services and private vehicles available. Dharamshala and Bhojanshala facilities are provided, along with an Upashraya.
Scriptures like "Shatdal Padmayantra" and Lodravpuri Chintamani Parshwanath Stavan highlight the temple's significance. Similar idols of Lodrava Parshwanath can be found in Jiravala Tirth, Bhiladiyaji Tirth, and a temple in Vepery, Chennai.
For inquiries, the Shri Jaisalmer Lodravpur Parshwanath Jain Shwetamber Trust, located at Post: Lodravpur, via - Jaisalmer, District: Jaisalmer - 345 001, Rajasthan State, India, can be reached at 02992-50165.
