Bhandasar jain temple
What to Know About Bhandasar Jain Temple in Rajasthan Have you ever seen a temple that looks like it’s made of red and gold Well, in Bikaner, Rajasthan, India. There’s a special place called the Bhandasar Jain Temple that’s just like that! It’s a beautiful old temple that tells a fascinating story.
What Makes It Special?
The Bhandasar Jain Temple is famous for its stunning artwork and unique construction. Built in the 15th century, it’s dedicated to the fifth Tirthankara, Lord Sumatinath. What catches your eye are the vibrant red sandstone walls and the intricate gold leaf paintings inside. These paintings show stories from Jainism and scenes from the lives of the Tirthankaras. They are so detailed and colourful; it feels like stepping back in time!
Why “Ghee Temple”?
You might hear some people call it the “Ghee Temple.” That’s because, during its construction, legend says that instead of using regular mortar (a kind of cement), builders used ghee (clarified butter)! It’s a fascinating story that adds to the temple’s unique charm. While it might sound unusual, it highlights the dedication and resources that went into building this sacred place.
Bhandasar Jain temple timings
Generally, the Bhandasar Jain Temple is open for visitors during the following hours:
- Morning: Around 8:00 AM
- Evening: Closes around 6:00 PM
Essential Things to Keep in Mind:
- These timings are general guidelines. It’s always a good idea to double-check the timings before your visit, especially if you’re travelling during off-seasons or festival times. Temple timings can sometimes change for special events or maintenance.
- Pooja (prayer) times also affect when you can enter certain parts of the temple. Be respectful of any ongoing prayer ceremonies.
Bhandasar Jain temple history
Let’s take a simple peek into its history.
Built Centuries Ago:
Imagine a time long before cars and computers. That’s when the foundation of the Bhandasar Jain Temple was laid. It’s believed that the construction started way back in the 15th century. Think about that for a moment – hundreds of years ago!
A Vision Takes Shape:
The temple is dedicated to the 5th Tirthankara, Lord Sumatinath. Tirthankaras are spiritual teachers in Jainism. The idea for this beautiful temple came from a wealthy Jain merchant named Bhanda Shah. He envisioned a grand and peaceful place for devotees.
The Role of the Builders:
The actual construction was overseen by two brothers, Karan Singh and Lakhmichand. Skilled artisans and craftsmen poured their hearts and souls into carving intricate designs on the walls and pillars. You can still see their excellent work today!
Unique Ingredients in the Walls?
Here’s a fascinating tidbit that often surprises visitors: it’s said that ghee (clarified butter) and coconut water were used in the mortar during the temple’s construction. Why? Some believe it made the structure stronger and more durable in the harsh desert climate. Whether entirely true or a legend, it adds a unique flavour to the temple’s story What to Know About Bhandasar Jain Temple in Rajasthan!
A Testament to Time and Faith:
Over the centuries, the Bhandasar Jain Temple has stood firm, witnessing the changing times in Bikaner. It has remained an important pilgrimage site for Jains and a captivating attraction for anyone interested in art, architecture, and history.
What Makes it Special Today?
When you visit the Bhandasar Jain Temple, you’ll be struck by its:
- Colourful Paintings: The walls and ceilings are adorned with vibrant paintings depicting scenes from Jain scriptures and the lives of Tirthankaras.
- Intricate Carvings: Every pillar and every archway tells a story through detailed carvings of deities, animals, and geometric patterns.
- Peaceful Atmosphere: Despite being a historical site, the temple exudes a sense of serenity and calm.
More Than Just Bricks and Mortar:
The Bhandasar Jain Temple is more than just an old building. It’s a symbol of devotion, artistic excellence, and the rich cultural heritage of Bikaner. It’s a place where you can connect with the past and appreciate the beauty that can be created through faith and craftsmanship.
FAQS
1) Which is the oldest temple in Jain?
The Mahavira Jain Temple in Osian, Rajasthan, built in 783 AD, is the oldest surviving Jain temple in Western India. The Shri Digambar Jain Lal Mandir in Delhi, built in 1656, is the oldest in North India.
2) What are the 4 Tirths of Jainism?
The “Four Tirth” in Jainism refer to the four pillars of the Jain community:
- Sadhus (male monks)
- Sadhvis (female nuns)
- Shravaks (male lay followers)
- Shravikas (female lay followers)
Together, these four groups form the Jain Sangha, which is essential for supporting and propagating the Jain faith.
3) What is the symbol of Jainism?
The main symbol of Jainism is a hand with a wheel in the palm. The hand signifies non-violence (Ahimsa), a core Jain principle. 1 The wheel represents the cycle of birth and death, and the 24 spokes symbolize the teachings of the 24 Tirthankaras (spiritual teachers
4) What is the lucky number for Jainism?
While Jainism doesn’t have one specific “lucky number,” 108 holds significant spiritual importance. It represents how karma can affect the soul and the virtues one can be free from.
Read More:
Brahmasutra Sri Shivalaghat Devasthanam
Wargal Saraswati Temple A Guide for First-Time Visitors