Story of Mahadeva Parshwnath Bhagwan

Story of Mahadeva Parshwnath Bhagwan


In the heart of Khetarvasi in Patan stands a sanctuary of profound spirituality, dedicated to Lord Mahadeva Parshwanath. The main idol, an exquisite white-colored figure standing at a height of approximately 58 cm in the Padmasana posture, graces the sacred space.

Tirth: Located in Khetarvasi in Patan, this pilgrimage site holds historical significance and tranquility.

Historicity: Patan, established in V.S. 802, served as the capital of the Jain Chavda kings who adorned the city with numerous temples. The Chalukya dynasty, with notable rulers like Sidhraj and Maharaja Kumarpal, further enriched Jainism during their reign. Unfortunately, in V.S. 1356, the city faced devastation during a Muslim invasion led by Malik Gaffoor, the senapati of Alauddin. Many temples, crafted by revered kings and ministers, succumbed to destruction. However, the temple of Mahadeva Parshwanath, nestled in Mahadev ki Sheri in Khetarvasi, endured. The ancient, captivating idol of Mahadeva Parshwanath stands as a testament to the city's rich history. The exact antiquity of the temple remains unknown, but the annual hoisting of a flag on the 10th day of the bright half of the month of Vaisakhi adds to its tradition.

The city of Patan is well-connected by road and rail, with buses and private vehicles readily available. Dharamshalas, including the renowned Kotawala ki Dharamshala, Ashtapad ki Dharamshala, and Shri Mohanlal Uttamchand ki Dharamshala, along with Bhojanshalas, cater to the needs of visitors. Patan also houses a well-established Gyan Bhandar.

Scripture: References to Mahadeva Parshwanath are found in "Patan Chaitya Paripati," "365 Shri Parshva Jin Naammala," "108 Naam Garbhit Shri Parshvanath Stavan," "Shri Parshvanath Naammala," and "Pattan Jinalaya Stuti." An idol of Mahadeva Parshwanath is also present in the Kalikund Parshvanath temple in Santacruz, Mumbai.

Trust: Guided by devotion, the administration of this sacred abode is overseen by Shri Kirtibhai Valchand Shah, Shri Chinubhai Nemchand Sha, and Shri Prafulbhai Jayantilal (Zabhlawala). The Shri Mahadeva Parshwanath Shwetambar Jain Tirth, situated in Khetarvasi, Post: Patan, District: Patan, North Gujarat-384 265, India, can be contacted at 02766-225241. A historical reference to this Jinalaya is found in Patan Chaitya Paripati, composed by Ladhashah in V. S. 1777. The Sheri is mentioned as Surji Madhavni Pole in this Paripati. In Jain Tirth Sarvasangrah, the Jinalaya is described as Parshva Jinalaya in Mahadevni Sheri. The first mention of this Jinalaya is in a Stuti (eulogy) composed by Shri Pandit Hiralal. This Jinalaya, with three garbhgruhas, features a 21-inch idol of Shri Mahadeva Parshwanath as the main deity. Alongside, idols of Shri Neminath and Shri Vasupujya adorn the garbhgruhas. The rangmandap, though small, is visually appealing, boasting intricate work inspired by Shatrunjay and Girnar, vibrant color patterns on the walls, and embellishments such as large mirrors and marble designs on the floor. A niche in the temple features padikas (footprints in stone, worshipped as the footprints of a deity or religious guide) of Munishri Kirtivijayji and Manishri Manikyavijayji. The padukas bear the inscription of the year V. S. 1892.