Kesariyaji Tirth or Rishabhdeo Jain temple is a Jain temple located in Rishabhdeo town of Udaipur District of Indian state of Rajasthan. The temple is considered an important pilgrimage center by both Digambara and Śvētāmbara sect of Jainism.
History
The temple was constructed in 874 CE (VS 931) during the reign of Rawal Khuyan, the ruler of Mewar. The temple received patronage from rich merchants since its situated on an important trade route from the coast to the state of Mewar. An inscription dated back to 1422 CE, indicates repairs and renovations were made to the temple during the 14th to 15th centuries. Since 14th century, there has been a history of conflict over control of this temple between members of Digambara, Śvētāmbara and Hindus community based on relation with rulers of Mewar.
Acharya Shantisagar was initiated as a kshullak at Kesariyaji in front of the image of Rishabhanatha in 1922 CE.
Discovery of idol
The main idol of the temple, popularly known as Kesariyaji, is a 1.05 metres black stone idol of Adinatha or Rishabhanatha in lotus position.
The iconic idol of Lord Rishabhanatha, the principal deity of the pilgrimage temple, was found during an excavation. A Bhil dairy farmer noticed that one of his cows was always dry of milk. When cow belonging used to pour out its milk every day upon a mound near Chandanpur village. It was surprising for the owner of that cow and the villagers. They excavated the mound. The villagers dedicated themselves to building a small hut over the idol where the idol was found. The place is now known as paglia-ji or chharan chatri.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet