Jain Tirth - Bh. Mahavirswami

Shirohi, Rajasthan

Antiquity : 11th-12th Century

Location : Bamanvada is accessible by Rail & Road from Sirohi at a distance of 5 miles.

Bamanvada lies in the heart of Sirohi district, it is famous for its array of sixteen Jain Temples. These temples are renowned for their vibrant and original works of Jaina art & architecture.

The first impression that awaits the visitor to Bamanvadji Teerth is an air of tranquility, followed by spontaneous peace and happiness due to its scenic location in the lap of nature. In rock inscriptions, this place has been called by its ancient name of "Brahmanvatak". This shrine is well known as "Jivitswami," the Living Divine Presence. Raja Samprati, who had taken a vow to go on a pilgrimage four times a year to five shrines, which included Bamanvada, built this temple. This Atishay Kshetra is famous for both its sculpture & iconography. It is also believed that the torture or pain (upasarga) of striking nails in the ears of Lord Mahavir was committed here where there exist today his footprints in the temple. The late king of Sirohi, visited this shrine regularly for worship and gained his throne due to faith and devotion towards this shrine. It is believed that devout followers invariably get all their wishes fulfilled if they visit this temple on the eleventh day of the bright half of every lunar month.

In the Mahavira temple, the main gates, the sculptures of the elephants, and the exterior columns have been carved magnificently in white marble. The walls of the temples carry scriptural and ornamental work of great delicacy, almost like the details carvings on ivory. The workmanship on the arches at the entrance and exit of the circular path around the innermost sanctum is beyond comparison. The temple is dedicated to Lord Mahavir, the 24th Jain Tirthankar. The idol of Lord Mahavir is made of sand particles with pearl plaster which can scarcely found anywhere else, is a rare work of art, which is not only dignified but also impressive. In this temple are painted marble slabs showing the images of the 27 previous incarnations of Lord Mahavir. These pictures showing freedom from worldly attachment are vividly expressively and beautiful.

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Address : Bamanwara, Veervada, Shirohi, Rajasthan - 307043

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Mail to : Ahimsa Foundation
www.jainsamaj.org
R020204