Shwetamber Jain Temple

Jains consider themselves as either Digambar or Shwetambar depending on their belief. Both the sects consider this area as Sidhakshetra, meaning of which was described in previous post.

Jain temple shown above is situated just outside the royal enclosure, very near to Halol Gate. In fact standing at the temple’s main gate one can see minarets of Sahar Ki Masjid in East and the mighty Pavagadh in the West.

This temple is dedicated to Shri Chintamani Parshwanath God, Shri Padmawati Devi Goddess & Shri Manibhadra Veer Dev. The entire complex houses a Dharmshala or Guest house, a Jain restaurant and gardens.

Shri Manibhadra Veer Dev came into being with God Indra’s meditation. It is a common belief that during adverse times Shri Manibhadra Veer acts as savior and many jain pilgrims have experienced miracles in this “Siddhipeeth” of Veer Dev.

The entire temple is decorated with colorful designs and paintings. Domes, walls and pillars are painted with all imaginable artistic designs and colors. The main dome is thoughtfully decorated when seen from inside, compare this with one of the other domes’ interior seen earlier ... remember?

Roofs are also painted with various scenes from Jain beliefs:

One newly constructed jain temple can be seen near the town bus-stand "Shri Digamber Jain Mandir Pavagadh Siddha Kothi” dedicated to Shri 1008 Chintamani Parshwanath God.

A huge, almost 30 ft. high deity of God Bahubali stands tall in the temple’s vicinity.

Due to strict timings and discipline maintained in Jain temple complexes, I missed my lunch, and hence my jain menu. I am not sure if I was allowed in Jain restaurant at all...! And there are hardly any restaurants in Champaner!