Here is the simple, traditional story of Godiji (Godi/Gaudi) Parshvanath, as preserved in Jain paramparā, especially in the Śvetāmbara tradition.

Who is “Godiji” Parshvanath

• “Godiji” is a loving name given to certain ancient and very influential pratimas (idols) of Bhagwan Parshvanath. The name is linked with the old tirth-kshetra of Godipur/Gori in the Nagarparkar (Sindh) region. Over time, revered copies and later installations of “Godiji Parshvanath” became famous in different places.

Traditional account of origin

• In periods of political turmoil, an ancient Parshvanath pratima preserved at Patan (Gujarat) was concealed for safety.
• A devout Jain merchant from the Parkar–Nagarparkar area (often named Meghashah/Megha Sa in oral histories) received divine guidance in a dream to recover the hidden pratima.
• He obtained the pratima, placed it on an ox-cart, and was told not to look back. When the cart halted near a desolate spot, it was taken as a divine sign. A temple was established there, and that place flourished as the Godipur/Gori tirth of Shri Godiji Parshvanath.
• From then on, “Godiji Parshvanath” became a beloved name associated with Parshvanath Bhagwan’s pratima, with devotees experiencing krupā (grace) through steadfast bhakti, prarthanā, and nishkāmpunya.

Later journeys and famous sthāpanās

• With changing times, the pratima’s prabhāv (influence) inspired installations in many regions. Among the best known today is Shri Godiji Parshvanath in Pydhonie (Mumbai). Its local history recounts the community bringing the revered idol to safety after a fire and rebuilding the temple, where it remains a major center of Parshvanath bhakti.
• Other places also have respected Godiji/Padmavati-Parshvanath pratimas and are known for devotees’ vows and darshan on auspicious days.

Darshan-lakshan and bhakti

• Godiji Parshvanath is generally depicted as a serene, white-colored idol in padmāsana, with the characteristic nāga-śikhā (multi-hooded serpent canopy) of Bhagwan Parshvanath. Devotees remember Dharanendra and Devi Padmavati while offering prarthanā, emphasizing ahimsa, satya, tapas, and kshamā—Parshvanath Bhagwan’s eternal teachings.

Sect note

• “Godiji Parshvanath” as a title and these specific historical narratives are primarily from the Śvetāmbara Jain tradition. Digambar Jains equally revere Bhagwan Parshvanath, though the “Godiji” name is not a common Digambar usage.

For simple write-ups of these stories, you can read:

• Story of Godiji Parshwanath Bhagwan (jainknowledge.com)
• Story of Padmavati Parshwanath Bhagwan (jainknowledge.com)

May Bhagwan Parshvanath’s śāsan guide us in right faith, right knowledge, and right conduct.