Story of Vahi Parshwanath Bhagwan

Story of Vahi Parshwanath Bhagwan


In the serene village of Vahi, an enchanting tale unfolds around a divine shrine that houses an extraordinary idol—standing at nearly 84 cm in height, the black-colored Bhagwan Vahi Parshwanath, seated gracefully in the Padmasana posture, captures hearts. Adorned with an umbrella featuring seven hoods over its head, the idol's uniqueness lies in the tails of two tigers positioned beneath it. These tails, defying conventional norms, ascend from behind the idol to gracefully encircle the hood above, creating a mesmerizing spectacle not witnessed in any other idol.

Sacred Grounds of Vahi: The sacred precincts of this shrine are nestled in the village of Vahi, a site that echoes with historical resonance. Once a thriving city, Vahi's grandeur is immortalized in a temple erected over 1,100 years ago by the illustrious King Samprati. The distinctiveness of the idol is further accentuated by the tails of the tigers, and owing to the temple's location in Vahinagar, the idol is aptly named Vahi Parshwanath. A testament to its enduring sanctity, the temple underwent renovations, preserving the Mulnayak Bhagwan undisturbed. In V.S.2019, two relocated idols found their rightful place under the revered guidance of Upadhyay Shri Dharmasagarji Maharaj. The sacred land bears witness to the footsteps of revered Acharyas, sadhus, and sadhvis, creating a spiritual haven that beckons pilgrims. An annual fair, celebrated on the 10th day of the dark half of the month of Paush, adds a festive charm to this sacred dwelling.

Artistry and Spiritual Essence: Amidst the solitude of Vahi, the temple stands as a magnificent testament to artistic brilliance. The idol, sculpted with precision, undergoes a divine transformation throughout the day—mirroring the three phases of human life. At dawn, it radiates the innocence of a child; at noon, the vigor of youth; and by evening, the wisdom of an elderly figure. The temple's pinnacled structure adds to the allure, while ancient tales narrate the fascinating history of this venerable tirth.

Guidance for Pilgrims: Pilgrims seeking the divine embrace of Vahi Parshwanath can embark on a journey, with the Pipaliya Mandi station just 5 km away and Mandsaur a mere 16 km distant. The convenience of bus services and private vehicles ensures accessibility, while the proximity of two Dharamshalas, a Bhojanshala, and an Upashraya adds to the comfort of devotees. Nearby tirths, such as Kareda Tirth, Nageshwar Tirth, and Kukadeshwar Tirth, provide additional spiritual sanctuaries.

Mention in Sacred Scriptures: Vahi Parshwanath is not merely a physical presence but resonates in the sacred verses of "365 Shri Parshvajin Naammala" and "108 Naamgarbhit Shri Parshvanath Stavan."

Guardians of Spiritual Heritage: The custodianship of this sacred abode rests with the Shri Vahi Parshwanath Shwetambar Jain Tirth, Post: Vahi – 458 664, Station: Pipaliya Mandi, District: Mandsaur, State: Madhya Pradesh, India. Pilgrims can reach out at 07424-241430 to connect with the spiritual legacy of Vahi Parshwanath. In the timeless embrace of Vahi, the divine saga of Parshwanath unfolds, weaving together history, artistry, and spirituality in a harmonious tapestry of devotion.