Kesariyaji Rushabhdev Tirth Ka Itihas

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Kesariyaji Rushabhdev Tirth Ka Itihas" (The History of Kesariyaji Rishabhdev Tirth) by Motilal Marttand:

The book "Kesariyaji Rushabhdev Tirth Ka Itihas" by Motilal Marttand provides a detailed historical account of the significant Jain pilgrimage site of Shri Rishabhdev, also known as Kesariyaji. The author emphasizes the authenticity of the history and expresses gratitude to scholars and individuals who contributed to its compilation and revision.

Key Aspects of the Tirth and its History:

• Introduction to Kesariyaji: The tirth is renowned for its miraculous (atishay) idol of Bhagwan Rishabhdev (Adinath), the first Tirthankara. The land of Dhulev village gained fame due to the presence of this idol.
• The Idol and its Discovery: The idol of Bhagwan Rishabhdev is described as ancient and captivating, possessing a tranquil and detached (veetrag) appearance. According to Dr. Kamta Prasadji Jain, the idol was unearthed from the ground based on a dream of a Bhil named Dhulia, after whom the village of Dhulev is named. The idol is believed to have been found near a spot where Bhagwan Rishabhdev's footprints are located.
• Temple Construction and Renovation:
  • The magnificent temple is a testament to ancient craftsmanship. Inscriptions suggest the original temple, built in the 2nd century, was made of mud bricks.
  • In the 8th century, it was rebuilt with "parewa" stones.
  • A significant renovation took place in Vikram Samvat (V.S.) 1431 (1374 AD), transforming it into a solid stone structure. An inscription in the main assembly hall (khela mandap) on the northern wall details this renovation, carried out under the guidance of Bhattaraka Shri Dharmakirti of the Kashthasangha by Shah Hardas and his sons. This inscription confirms the existence of an older temple before 1431.
  • The lower levels and the main assembly hall (sabha mandap) were constructed in V.S. 1572 (1515 AD) by Hira, son of Kohiya of the Kandiya clan, for approximately 800 Taka.
  • The temple's fortress-like outer wall and main gate were built in V.S. 1863 (1806 AD) by Shri Vijaychand Gandhi.
  • The construction and renovations continued until V.S. 1886 (1829 AD). Considering a potential 600 years before the V.S. 1431 renovation, the tirth is estimated to be at least 1200 years old.
• The Name "Kesariyaji": The idol is known as "Kesariyaji" or "Kesariyanathji" because a large quantity of saffron (kesar) is offered to it. Consequently, the village of Dhulev also became known as Kesariyaji. The idol is also affectionately called "Karaji" or "Kesariya Baba" by the local Bhil community due to its black stone.
• Uniqueness and Inclusivity: A remarkable aspect of this tirth is its acceptance by people of all faiths. Ojha mentions that it's the only temple in India where Digambara Jains, Shvetambara Jains, Vaishnavites, Shaivites, Bhols, and even Sudras can bathe and worship the idol equally.
• Historical Administration: Initially, the village was part of the Jawas region and administered by the Bhattaraks of the Digambara Kashthasangha after being gifted to Shri Kesariyaji. Later, Brahmins took over the administration, followed by the Maharana of Udaipur around V.S. 1634 (1577 AD) due to special circumstances. Currently, the Rajasthan Government's Devasthan Department manages the tirth as a trustee, responsible to the Jain community.
• Geographical Location and Amenities: The tirth is situated in the southern part of Rajasthan, about 65 km from Udaipur, on a hill surrounded by the "Kumaria" or "Koel" rivers. The village has developed around the temple. It is well-equipped with three dharamshalas (guesthouses), transportation, lighting, water, electricity, telephone, a primary health center, a high school, a student hostel, a Jain mission center, a police station, and a development panchayat, making it a developed town.
• Worship and Festivals: The tirth is famous for its miracles, and pilgrims believe their wishes are fulfilled by taking vows (maanta) to the deity. A fair is held annually on the birth anniversary of Bhagwan Rishabhnath during Chaitra Krishna Ashtami and Navami, attracting thousands.
• The Idol's Characteristics: The idol of Bhagwan Rishabhdev is a Digambara (nude) idol, seated in the Padmasana posture. It's approximately 1 foot high, with a base depicting two bulls, and adorned with depictions of deities, elephants, lions, and 16 dreams, including the Navadev (Nine Deities). The entire sanctuary (garbhagriha) and its entrance, except for the throne, are adorned with silver. The idol is around three feet tall.
• "Fifty-Two Jinalayas": The main temple is surrounded by 52 smaller temples (jinalayas) housing pristine Digambara Jain idols. Among these is the Sahasrakuta Chaityalaya (Temple of a Thousand Idols), featuring a pillar with 1000 Jin images.
• The 1984 Incident (Hatya-kand): The book details a tragic incident in V.S. 1984 (1927 AD) during an attempt to hoist a flag. This event escalated into violence, resulting in the death of five Digambara Jains and injuries to many others. The incident is attributed to a conflict between the Digambara and Shvetambara communities over temple administration and flag hoisting rights. A subsequent inquiry by the Udaipur government led to the establishment of a trustee system managed by the Devasthan Department. This incident underscored the tirth's predominantly Digambara Jain origins.
• Temple Management and Current Status: Following the 1984 incident, the Devasthan Department established a set daily schedule for rituals, adhering to a specific water clock. The tirth continues to operate under the Rajasthan Government's Devasthan Department as a self-sustaining entity. The Digambara Jain community has filed a writ petition under the Public Trust Act to protect their rights to the tirth.
• Key Miracles (Atishays): The tirth is renowned for its miracles, which have drawn people from all walks of life. The book recounts instances of wishes being fulfilled, devotees being rescued from crises, and even a story of a king's army being repelled by a swarm of bees when attempting to loot the temple.
• Significant Locations within the Tirth: Besides the main temple, other notable spots include:
  • Pagalyaji: A place believed to have the footprints of Bhagwan Rishabhdev, near where the idol was discovered.
  • Chandragiri: A hill with a memorial to Bhattarak Chandrakirti.
  • Suraj Kund: A water reservoir used for the deity's ablutions.
  • Koyal and Kunwarika Rivers: Rivers that flow around the village.
  • Bhim Paglya: A memorial to Bhattarak Bhimasen.
  • Bhagwan Yashkirti Bhavan: A building dedicated to Bhattarak Yashkirti Maharaj, housing a temple and a library.

The book concludes by reiterating the tirth's historical significance as a Digambara Jain site, its miraculous powers, its inclusive nature, and its continuous development in independent India. The author hopes for a positive outcome for the Digambara Jain community's legal efforts to safeguard the tirth.