Lakshmani Tirth Itihas

This document is an excerpt from the book "Lakshmani Tirth Itihas" (History of Lakshmani Tirth) authored by Muniraj Jayantvijay, published as part of the Z_Yatindrasuri_Diksha_Shatabdi_Smarak_Granth_012036.pdf. It details the historical significance and revival of the Lakshmani Tirth, a Jain pilgrimage site.

Ancient Lakshmani:

• The text establishes Lakshmani as a Tirth (pilgrimage site) with a history of at least 2000 years, citing evidence that will be presented.
• During the period when Mandavgadh became a battleground for the Yavanas (Turks/Muslims), Lakshmani also faced attacks. Temples were destroyed, and idols were damaged.
• A significant white marble idol of Shri Sambhavnathji, 32 inches tall, is mentioned. Although it lacks an inscription, its style suggests it was consecrated during the reign of Emperor Samprati.
• A 15-inch idol of Shri Ajitnath Prabhu, made of sand and resin, appears ancient and noteworthy.
• A 37-inch, perfect white idol of Shri Padmaprabhji, with a faded inscription, can be partially read as "Samvat 1013 Vaisakh Sadi Saptami" (a year in the Vikram era).
• Idols of Shri Mallinathji and Shyam Shri Naminathji, both 26 inches tall, are also believed to be from the same period, making them around 1000 years old.
• Two 13-inch almond-colored idols of Shri Adinathji and Rishabhdevswami are estimated to be at least 700 years old and appear to be from the same period. The inscription on one of the Shri Adinathji idols reads: "Samvat 1310 Varshe Maghasudi 5 Somdina Pragvatagyatiya Mantrigosal Tasy Ch. Mantri (La)ligdev Tasy Putra Gangdev Tasy Patni Gangadevi, Tasya Putra Mantri Padam Tasy Bharya Mangalya Pra."
• Other stone idols, though with very faded inscriptions, are identified as ancient based on their craftsmanship.
• After these idols were unearthed, a small metal idol of Shri Parshvanathswami, four fingers high, was also found. Its back inscription reads: "Samvat 1303 A.Shu. 4 Lalit Sa.," indicating it is also about 700 years old.

Historical Accounts and Revival:

• In the month of Margashirsha of Vikram Samvat 1427, the Jain monk Jayananada, along with his guru, visited the pilgrimage sites of the Nimar region. In commemoration, he composed a Prakrit song titled "Nemad Pravas" (Journey in Nimar). The song highlights the prosperity of the Nimar region and the grandeur of Lakshmani at that time.
• The song describes Mandapanchala having 700 Jain temples and three lakh Jain homes, Tarapur having 5 temples and 500 lay followers, Taranpur having 21 temples and 700 followers, Nanduri having 12 temples and 2100 followers, Hastinipattan having 7 temples and 2000 followers, and Lakshmani having 101 Jinanalayas (temples) and 2000 prosperous Jain households, all devoted to Dharma.
• The text mentions "Lakshmani," "Lakshmanpur," and "Lakshmanipur" as names for this Tirth, inferred from scattered stones found at the site.
• The revival of Lakshmani is attributed to the discovery of 14 idols from a Bhilala's field. The ruler of Alirajpur gifted these idols to the local Shvetambar Jain Sangh.
• Initially, there was a plan to bring the idols to Alirajpur, but the ruler suggested building a temple at the original site to preserve its historical importance.
• Shri Yatindravijayji Maharaj (currently Acharya Shri) was present at that time. His guidance led the ruler to donate 511 feet of land in the east-west direction and 611 feet in the north-south direction for the temple, well, garden, and fields. He also agreed to provide ₹71 annually for the temple's expenses.
• With the ruler's devotion, the Sangh's enthusiasm, and the Maharaj's guidance, a magnificent temple with three shikharas (spires) was constructed. Residents from Alirajpur, Kukshi, Bagh, Tanda, and other nearby villages contributed generously, building a large dharamshala, upashray, office, well, and stepwell. A garden with various trees was also created to enhance the site's beauty.
• This once-unknown pilgrimage site was thus revived and gained popularity. Excavations yielded many historical artifacts, including ancient pottery. The foundations of four to five ancient temples were also found near the garden.

Consecration Ceremony:

• The consecration of the newly built temple took place with great joy and enthusiasm on Margashirsha Shukla 10 of Vikram Samvat 1994, during an eight-day Mahotsav (festival), under auspicious astrological timings, led by the current Acharya Shrimad Vijayyatindrasurishwarji, who was then Upadhyayji.
• Shri Padmaprabhswamiji was enthroned as the Tirthadhipati (lord of the Tirth), and other idols were installed in their rightful places.
• On the day of the consecration, the ruler donated ₹2001 and took responsibility for the temple's protection, showcasing his devotion and love for the Tirth.
• A marble inscription was placed at the main entrance of the temple, detailing the consecration ceremony.

Current Lakshmani:

• The text emphasizes that the health of individuals is influenced by the air, water, and environment they inhabit. Lakshmani, despite not being on a mountain, boasts pure, sweet, and pleasant air and water, making it difficult for visitors to leave. The water's digestive properties contribute to excellent health.
• The Tirth is currently in a very good state. Visitors can reach it by motor from Dahod station to Alirajpur.
• All necessary facilities are provided for travelers, including rooms, cooking utensils, and bedding, managed by a Munimji (caretaker).
• The revival of Lakshmani Tirth is entirely credited to the dedicated efforts of Acharya Shrimad Vijayyatindrasurishwarji Maharaj. The text states that Lakshmani was revived according to the ebb and flow of history, and the entire credit for its revival goes to him. The document is attributed as being "shared from Shri Rajendrasuri Smarak Granth."

The inscribed stone tablet at the temple entrance details the consecration, the role of the Alirajpur ruler Sarpratapsingh Bahadur in donating land and resources, and the consecration ceremony led by Shrimad Vijayyatindrasurishwarji Maharaj. It highlights the miraculous appearance of 14 beautiful and influential idols of various Tirthankarars and the subsequent construction and consecration of the temple.