Short answer: Snatra Pooja is not only for Shantinath Bhagwan.

Why you often see Shantinath Bhagwan in Snatra Pooja:

• The Snatra Pooja commemorates the birth-bath (janma-abhishek) of a Tirthankar. It can be done for any of the 24 Tirthankars.
• Over time, some very popular Snatra Pooja compositions and verses took the name “Shri Shantinath” in their wording. Because these are widely used, many temples keep a Shantinath murti specifically for the daily Snatra room, so people feel it is “only” for Shantinath.
• The name “Shantinath” (Lord of Peace) beautifully matches the prayer for universal shanti that is central to Snatra Pooja, so communities adopted this form commonly.

Sect-wise note:

• Shwetambar: Snatra Pooja is a janma-kalyanak abhishek of any Tirthankar; using a Shantinath idol is customary, not compulsory.
• Digambar: Daily abhishek/puja likewise honors the Tirthankar; it is not restricted to Shantinath. Using Shantinath is a tradition in many places, not a rule.

Essence to remember:

• The dravya (pure intent and conduct), bhava (devotion), and punya (merit) of Snatra Pooja do not depend on the specific Tirthankar’s name. Performing it for any Tirthankar is fully proper as per Jain Dharma.

For a simple Snatra Pooja guide and commonly recited verses, see: