Answer

In Jain Dharma, the Lanchhan — the identifying symbol of each Tirthankar Bhagwan — is understood to be part of the traditional Jain account of each Tirthankar’s life and identity.

It was not “decided” by an ordinary person or committee. The Lanchhan is traditionally associated with each Tirthankar and is preserved through Jain scriptures, tradition, and temple iconography.

Explanation

In Jain temples, many Tirthankar idols look similar because Tirthankars are shown in meditative posture, free from worldly decoration. Therefore, the Lanchhan helps devotees identify which Tirthankar the idol represents.

For example:

• Rishabhdev Bhagwan — Bull
• Ajitnath Bhagwan — Elephant
• Sambhavnath Bhagwan — Horse
• Parshvanath Bhagwan — Snake
• Mahavir Swami — Lion

These symbols became part of accepted Jain tradition and are used consistently in Jain worship, scriptures, paintings, and temple images.

Spiritual Understanding

The Lanchhan is not meant for worship as a separate deity. It is a respectful identifying mark that helps devotees remember and worship the correct Tirthankar Bhagwan with devotion and clarity.

Takeaway

The Lanchhan of each Tirthankar was not chosen by humans casually; it is part of the established Jain tradition connected with each Tirthankar’s sacred identity.