Gujarat govt orders restoration of Jain idols at Pavagadh

Gujarat govt orders restoration of Jain idols at Pavagadh

Sub: History

Sec: Ancient India

Context: Jain idols, centuries-old and revered by the community, were allegedly removed from their original places near the stairs leading to Kalika Mata temple on Pavagadh hill in Gujarat’s Panchmahal district.

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• Jain idols, centuries-old and revered by the community, were allegedly removed from their original places near the stairs leading to Kalika Mata temple on Pavagadh hill in Gujarat’s Panchmahal district.
• Community members protested, alleging the removal was part of a temple renovation project.

About Pavagadh Jain temples

• Overview of Pavagadh Jain Temples:
  • Situated on Pavagadh Hill in Gujarat, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park.
  • Known as a significant Jain pilgrimage site due to its spiritual importance in Jainism, it is considered one of the four sacred regions where moksha (liberation) can be attained.
• Historical Significance:
  • The site’s Jain history dates back to the 3rd century BC, with continuous contributions and constructions over centuries.
  • It has been a center for Jain religious activities, marked by the consecration of important idols and temples by revered Jain monks and historical figures.
• Key Events and Constructions:
• King Samprati (3rd century BC):
  • Constructed and installed the idol of Sambhavnatha, a significant Jain Tirthankara, consecrated by Acharya Suhastisuri.
• 1055 AD:
  • Śvetāmbara monk Acharya Gunsagarsuri reconstructed the temple of Jirawala Parshvanath and restored an ancient 52-shrine temple dedicated to
• 10th Century AD:
  • Acharya Aryakashitsuri founded the Achalgacch sect of Jainism at Pavagadh after ascending the hill to perform Sallekhana (a Jain practice of fasting unto death). 
  • He was inspired by a vision of demi-goddess Mahakali, who instructed him to reform Jain practices and start a new order. 
  • This marked the installation of Mahakali as the protecting deity (adhishthayika) and the establishment of a new Jain sect.
• 12th Century AD:
  • Minister Tejpal built the “Sarvatobhadra” temple, contributing to the architectural and religious landscape of Pavagadh.
• 1581 AD:
  • Acharya Vijaysensuri consecrated a temple built by Jayawant Seth, further enriching the religious structures on Pavagadh Hill.
• 16th Century AD:
  • Under the guidance of Acharya Kalyansagarsuri, significant reconstruction efforts were undertaken, including the restoration of the shrine of Mahakali, supported by devotees Sheth Vardhaman and Sheth Padamshin.
• 1689 AD:
  • Gani Shilvijay Maharaj noted the existence of a temple dedicated to Neminatha, another revered Jain Tirthankara.
• Late 18th Century AD:
  • Jain monk Dipvijay Kaviraaj composed a detailed poem praising the temples of Jirawala Parshvanatha and describing the architectural and spiritual significance of the existing Jain temples at Pavagadh.
• Cultural and Religious Contributions:
  • Over the centuries, Pavagadh has been a hub of religious and cultural activities for Jainism, attracting pilgrims and monks who consecrated numerous temples and idols.
  • The shrines on Pavagadh Hill were historically considered of equal rank and importance to those at Palitana, according to Śvetāmbara scriptures, emphasizing their cultural and religious significance in Jainism.
• Preservation Efforts:
  • Court interventions have protected Pavagadh’s Jain heritage from destruction, ensuring the preservation of historical facts and structures associated with Jainism. This legal protection has safeguarded the religious and cultural identity of Pavagadh as a significant Jain pilgrimage site.