Story of Ranakpura Parshwanath Story

In the serene valley embraced by the Aravalli hills, near the meandering Maghai rivulet, lies the Ranakpur temple, a splendid masterpiece of devotion and artistry. The Mulnayak, a meticulously crafted idol of Bhagwan Parshvanath in Padmasana, adorned with a 7-hooded umbrella, stands at a height of approximately 48 cms.

The historical roots trace back to the 15th century of the Vikram Era, where the charismatic Acharya Somsundarsuriji left an indelible mark. The visionary Shresthi Dharnashah, inspired by a dream of the celestial abode "Nalini Gulm Viman," envisioned a temple that would rival its celestial beauty. He acquired land from Rana Kumbha, founded the village of Ranpur (later known as Ranakpur), and summoned artisans to construct the extraordinary Chaturmukha temple. This three-story marvel, supported by 1444 unique pillars, became a beacon of divine artistry. The temple, known as "Dharan Vihar" or "Trailokya Deepak Prasad," houses 84 idols, symbolizing liberation from the worldly cycle.

Adjacent to the main temple, facing North, stands the enchanting temple of Bhagwan Parshvanath, built during the same era. This Parshvanath came to be revered as "Ranakpur Parshvanath," and an annual fair celebrates its glory on Karthik Purnima, Phalgun Purnima, and Chaitri Purnima.

The complex also features other temples dedicated to Bhagwan Adinath, Bhagwan Neminath, and Bhagwan Parshvanath, along with the sun temple and the temple of Chakreshvaridevi. The artistic grandeur of the Chaturmukha Jain Temple is unparalleled, reflecting a harmonious blend of human creativity and the generosity of nature.

Guidelines for visitors include the accessibility of Falna railway station (35 kms) and Sadadi town (10 kms). Bus services and private vehicles facilitate travel, and Udaipur airport (90 kms) and Jodhpur airport (170 kms) are the nearest air travel options. Ample accommodations, including dharmashalas, bhojanashalas, and guesthouses, cater to the needs of pilgrims and tourists.

The scripture, inscribed in the main temple in V.S. 1496, attests to the antiquity of this sacred site. Various Jain scriptures, such as "Ranigpur Chaturmukh Prasad Stavan" and "Som Sowbhagya Kavya," beautifully narrate the history and splendor of Ranakpur temple.

The Shri Ranakpur Parshwanath Shwetambar Jain Tirth, under the patronage of Sheth Shri Anandji Kalyanji Pedhi, stands as a testament to faith, art, and spiritual devotion in Ranakpur – a timeless sanctuary nestled in the lap of Rajasthan, India.