In one place 5 kalyanak
In Jainism, "Panch Kalyanak" refers to the five auspicious events in the life of a Tirthankara. These are:
- Chyavan Kalyanak (Conception): The moment when the soul of a Tirthankara descends into the mother's womb.
- Janma Kalyanak (Birth): The birth of the Tirthankara.
- Diksha Kalyanak (Renunciation): The event when the Tirthankara renounces worldly life and becomes an ascetic.
- Kevalgyan Kalyanak (Omniscience): The attainment of Kevalgyan, or infinite knowledge.
- Nirvan Kalyanak (Liberation): The liberation of the Tirthankara from the cycle of birth and death (moksha).
These five kalyanaks are often commemorated with grand celebrations, especially in connection with the main Tirthankaras such as Lord Rishabhanatha, Lord Mahavira, etc.
Some places are considered especially holy in Jain tradition because all five kalyanaks of a particular Tirthankara are believed to have occurred there. Examples include:
- Shikharji (Sammed Shikharji), Jharkhand: It is believed that 20 out of 24 Tirthankaras attained nirvana here.
- Ashtapad (Mount Kailash): Associated with the nirvana of Lord Rishabhanatha.
- Ayodhya: Associated with the five kalyanaks of Lord Rishabhanatha.
- Sammed Shatrunjay (Palitana), Gujarat: Associated with Lord Rishabhanatha’s nirvana.
When a single location is associated with all five kalyanaks of a Tirthankara, it is considered extremely sacred, and elaborate rituals and celebrations take place there. For example, Shri Sammed Shikharji is an important pilgrimage site for Jains for this reason.
If you want to know about the five kalyanaks of a specific Tirthankara and the place associated with them, please specify the Tirthankara's name.