Kangda Jain Tirth

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Kangda Jain Tirth" by Shantilal Jain, published by Shwetambar Jain Kangda Tirth Yatra Sangh:

Overall Purpose:

This book is a historical and devotional account of the ancient Jain pilgrimage site of Kangda (present-day Kangra) in Punjab, India. It aims to revive interest in this historically significant but neglected Jain heritage, detailing its past glory, its current state, and the ongoing efforts for its restoration and preservation. The book is a call to action for the Jain community to connect with and contribute to the revival of this sacred place.

Key Themes and Content:

1. The Ancient Glory of Kangda Tirth:

   • The text emphasizes Kangda's deep historical roots, tracing its connection to Jainism back to the time of the 22nd Tirthankar, Bhagwan Neminath, during the Mahabharata era.
   • It highlights the founding of the city and the primary temple by Maharaja Susharmachandra of the Chandravanshi Katouch dynasty.
   • The presence of a grand temple dedicated to the first Tirthankar, Bhagwan Adinath (Rishabhdev), is described, adorned with golden kalashas and flags.
   • The book mentions that the region was known as Trigarta-desh and later associated with the "Sapada-laksha" mountains.
   • Historical evidence, including inscriptions and the "Vijnapti Triveni" manuscript, confirms the significant Jain presence, royal patronage, and prosperous Jain community in Kangda throughout various periods.
   • The presence of numerous Jain temples and a large Jain population in and around Kangda is noted, indicating its importance as a Jain center.

2. The "Vijnapti Triveni" and Historical Rediscovery:

   • A crucial element is the rediscovery of the "Vijnapti Triveni," an ancient manuscript dating back to Vikram Samvat 1484 (1427 CE). This document details a grand Jain pilgrimage to Kangda led by Upadhyay Shri Jayasagarji.
   • The book extensively discusses the contents of this manuscript, providing a vivid account of the pilgrimage, the religious practices, the social conditions, and the royal reception by Maharaja Narendra Chandra.
   • The manuscript also details the miraculous properties of the Adinath idol and the temple, as recounted by elderly locals.
   • The rediscovery and publication of this manuscript by Muni Shri Jinavijayji are credited with bringing the forgotten glory of Kangda Tirth back to light.

3. The Current State of Kangda Tirth:

   • The book paints a stark contrast between Kangda's past grandeur and its present dilapidated condition.
   • The ancient fort, which housed the main Jain temple, is described as a "wounded soldier," severely damaged by invasions (Ghaznavi, Feroz Tughlaq) and natural calamities, most notably a devastating earthquake in 1905.
   • The once magnificent temple is reduced to ruins, with only a small portion and remnants of structures remaining.
   • The original idols are largely lost or damaged, with the current prominent idol of Bhagwan Adinath (mistakenly known as Parshvanath by locals and previously by the Archaeological Survey) being a later addition, possibly brought from elsewhere for protection.
   • Other Jain historical sites and artifacts in Kangda town and surrounding areas (like Vajreshwari Devi temple walls, Indreshwar temple, Baijnath Paprola temple) are also mentioned as bearing traces of Jain presence, though often in ruins or altered forms.
   • The book notes the near absence of Jain residents in Kangda today, making the upkeep and protection of the site challenging.

4. Revival Efforts and the Jain Community:

   • The book highlights the pivotal role of the revered Acharya Shrimad Vijayavallabh Surishwarji Maharaj in reintroducing Kangda Tirth to the Jain community. He undertook pilgrimages and inspired the formation of the "Shri Shwetambar Jain Kangda Tirth Yatra Sangh, Hoshiarpur."
   • Since 1947 (Vikram Samvat 1946), organized annual Yatra Sanghs (pilgrimage groups) have been conducted, primarily during Holi, originating from Hoshiarpur and attracting participants from across Punjab and beyond.
   • The book details the growth of these Yatra Sanghs, the organization, and the spiritual and recreational aspects of the journeys.
   • The establishment of the "Shri Kangda Jain Tirthoddhar Committee" and its subsequent revival is described, with key figures like Lala Daulatram Jain and Lala Amarnath Jain leading the efforts.
   • The committee's endeavors include securing the recognition of the primary idol as Jain, resolving issues with the Archaeological Department, and obtaining permission for undisturbed worship.
   • Significant support from prominent Jain leaders, businessmen, and devotees from across India is acknowledged, including financial contributions and spiritual guidance.
   • A crucial development is the donation of land near the fort by Lala Makhanlal Pyarelal Jain of Gujranwala, intended for the construction of a Dharamshala, school, or hospital to facilitate the site's upkeep and potentially re-establish a Jain presence.

5. Spiritual and Devotional Content:

   • The book includes "Mangalacharan" (auspicious invocations) and "Tirth Stavanavali" (hymns and praises) dedicated to the Tirthankaras and the Kangda Tirth itself.
   • Messages and well-wishes from esteemed Jain spiritual leaders, including Acharya Vijayavallabh Surishwarji Maharaj and his successors, are featured, underscoring the importance of the Tirth's revival.
   • The author, Shantilal Jain, expresses his deep devotion and dedication to the cause.

6. Practical Information:

   • The book provides travel information, detailing the routes from Hoshiarpur and Pathankot to Kangda, including transport options (bus, train) and railway station specifics.
   • It offers advice on accommodation and sight-seeing in the Kangda region, including historical and scenic spots like Vajreshwari Devi, Jawalamukhi, Chintpurni, Dharmashala, and the Joginder Nagar power station.

Author's Intent and Message:

Shantilal Jain's primary intention is to inform the Jain community about their lost heritage in Kangda, inspire them to take pride in it, and motivate them to actively participate in its restoration. He emphasizes that the responsibility lies not just with one society or city but with the entire Jain community. The book is a testament to the author's dedication and a call for collective action to ensure the continuity of Jain traditions and history. He expresses a vision for Kangda Tirth to become as significant a pilgrimage destination as Shri Shatrunjaya in Gujarat.

In essence, "Kangda Jain Tirth" is a valuable work that:

• Rescues a forgotten Jain heritage from obscurity.
• Documents historical evidence of Jainism in Punjab.
• Inspires devotion and a sense of responsibility for preserving sacred sites.
• Serves as a guide for pilgrims and advocates for the revival of Kangda Tirth.