Story of Kumkumroal Parshwanath Bhagwan

Story of Kumkumroal Parshwanath Bhagwan

In the heart of Jalore, Rajasthan, the Suvarn Jain Pedhi stands as a spiritual sanctuary, housing a Mulnayak in the form of a nearly 38 cm high, white-colored idol of Bhagwan Kumkumrole Parshwanath seated in the Padmasana posture. Nestled on the Swarnagiri hill, with Jalore city at its base, this sacred abode holds a rich history that echoes through the ages.

In ancient times, Swarnagiri was renowned as Kanakachal, hosting numerous affluent Jain families. During the 2nd century of the Vikram era, under the rule of King Nahad, Acharya Pradyotansuriji consecrated an idol in a Jain temple named "Yakshavasati." Maharaja Kumarpal further enriched the spiritual landscape in V.S. 1221 by constructing the "Kumar Vihar" temple, where Acharya Shri Vadidevsuriji installed the idol of Bhagwan Parshwanath, later revered as Kumkumrole Parshwanath. Surrounded by 52 small temples, including a temple dedicated to Adinath Bhagwan and another to Mahaveer Bhagwan known as "Chandan Vihar," the hill witnessed significant renovations by Minister Jaymalji in V.S. 1681, culminating in the last refurbishment under the guidance of Vijayrajendrasuriji.

The hill fort, standing proudly at an elevation of nearly 1200 ft. above sea level, is embraced by a rich history encapsulated in its 2.5 km length and 1.5 km width. Despite the ravages of time, the fort still holds ancient remnants and beautiful idols, a testament to its past glory. The temples, once devastated during the Muslim rule, have left their mark on both temples and mosques, where echoes of artistic creations and relics resonate.

Jalore, with its railway station situated 3 km away, serves as the gateway to the fort, which lies 2.5 km from the hill's base. To facilitate the ascent, swinging cots (dolis) are available for the elderly and infirm. Transportation is easily accessible through bus services and private vehicles. Dharamshala and Bhojanshala facilities grace both the hill and the village, accompanied by Upashraya and Ayambilshala.

Scriptures such as the Granth "Kuvlayamala" by Shri Udyotansuriji provide insights, while works like "Ashtak Sangraha" and "Buddhisagar Vyakaran Granth" were composed in V.S.1080. Noteworthy mentions of Kumkumrole Parshwanath appear in various scriptures, including "365 Shri Parshva Jin Naammala," "Shri Sankheswar Parshvanath Chand," and "Tirthmala." The ancient name "Kanakachal" (Swarnagiri) is immortalized in the concluding verse of "Sakalarhat Stotra."

For those seeking solace, the Shri Kumkumrole Parshwanath Jain Shwetambar Tirth, Shri Swarnagiri Jain Shwetambar Tirth Pedhi, Post: Jalore: 343001, District: Jalore, State: Rajasthan, India, extends its hospitality and can be contacted at 02973-222369.