Nagaur Ke Jain Mandir Aur Dadavadi

Here's a comprehensive summary in English of the Jain text "Nagaur ke Jain Mandir aur Dadavadi" by Bhanvarlal Nahta:

Overview of Nagaur and its Jain Heritage:

The book details the rich history and presence of Jain temples and Dadavadi in Nagaur, Rajasthan. Nagaur, historically known as "Ahirpur" and "Nagpur," was a significant city in the "Sapadalaksha" or "Sawalakh" region. Despite facing historical shifts in political power and destruction due to conflicts, Nagaur retains a deep and ancient connection to Jainism. The text highlights the Oaswal Jain community's strong presence and influence, with specific mention of the Nagori Gotra and the Nagpuriya Tapagachha and Nagori Lukagachha. The presence of a Digambar Jain community with a significant Jain knowledge repository (Jnana Bhandar) is also noted.

Historical Timeline and Temple Development:

• Early Mentions: Jainism's connection to Nagaur is traced back to the 9th-10th centuries, with mentions of Jain ascetics Krishn and Jayasinhari. Jayasinhari composed the 'Dharmopadeshimala-vivaran' in Nagaur in 215 VS, and Krishnarsi established the Narayan Vasati Mahavir Jinalaya in 617 VS. The text suggests that multiple Jain temples already existed in Nagaur during that period, as indicated by the phrase "Nagaurai jinmandirani jayani neganyani" in the Dharmopadeshimala Vivaran.
• Narayan Vasati: The Narayan Vasati, built by Narayan Shreshthi, is described in detail, mentioning the appointment of 72 trustees at its establishment. It was later known as 'Kanhariyivasati' and was renovated or had its main idol changed by the 17th century.
• 14th Century Mentions: Around 1352 VS, Padmanand Suri composed the 'Nagaur Chaitya Paripati' and a 'Stuti,' mentioning seven Jain temples in Nagaur. These included temples dedicated to Parshvanath, Shantinath, Mallinath, Mahavir Swami, and Rishabhdev.
• 16th-17th Century Descriptions: By the 17th century, descriptions of seven temples included Shantinath (with a brass idol), Adinath, Mahavir Swami (brass idol), Rishabhdev (two mentions), Parshvanath, and the ancient Narayan Vasati. Poet Punyaruchikrit's 'Stavan' from 1678 VS lists nine temples, indicating the construction of new ones (Munisuvrat and another Adinath) and the potential decline of others.
• Present-Day Temples: The text lists seven extant temples in Nagaur today:
  1. A temple outside the village with a dome, housing the idol of Sumatinath Swami, built in 1932 VS.
  2. A domed temple of Shantinath Bhagwan in Ghodavato ki Pol, built in 1515 VS, containing an ancient metal idol from 1216 VS.
  3. A shikhar-bound temple of Adinath Bhagwan in Daffatariyon ki Gali, built in 1674 VS.
  4. Another domed temple of Adinath Bhagwan in the same lane, built by Surana Raysingh.
  5. A domed temple of Adinath Bhagwan in Hirawadi, built by Shri Sangh in 1566 VS.
  6. A 16th-century temple of Adinath Bhagwan called 'Bada Mandir', featuring beautiful glass work and idols.
  7. A shikhar-bound temple of Chandrprabh Bhagwan in Jain Dharamshala near the station, built in 1963 VS.
• Temple Renovations and Idols: The text notes that the Hirawadi temple, described as being from 1566 VS, might have an older inscription from the 12th century, suggesting earlier origins or idols were replaced during renovations. Several other temple inscriptions and idol installations are mentioned, dating from the 14th to 19th centuries.

Prominent Jain Acharyas and Their Visits:

The book extensively documents the visits and activities of various influential Jain acharyas in Nagaur:

• Shri Jinavallabh Suri: Responsible for the construction of a temple of Neminath Swami, where specific rules for offerings and women's entry were inscribed.
• Shri Jindatt Suri: Faced a situation where a wealthy merchant refused to accept a religious discourse on 'Ayatan-Anayatan' if it contradicted established practices, but the Guru upheld his principles.
• Shri Jinchandra Suri (Kālīkāl Kevali): Made several visits to Nagaur, including a significant one in 1371 VS after the disruption in Jalore, and in 1375 VS where he appointed his successor, Kushalkirti (Shri Jinkushalmuri), as Vachhanacharya. His visits were marked by large congregations, ordinations, and philanthropic activities.
• Shri Jinkushalmuri: His presence in Nagaur is highlighted, with an invitation to visit and his footprints being installed in the Dadavadi in 1623 VS.
• Shri Jinsagar Suri: Mentions Nagaur in his work.
• Shri Jinlabh Suri: Visited Nagaur in 1815 VS but proceeded to Sachor, despite expectations from Bikaner followers.

The Dadavadi of Nagaur:

• Ancient Origins: The Dadavadi of Nagaur is considered very ancient, likely established around 1406 VS, coinciding with the demise of Shri Jinaladh Suri, the successor of Shri Jinpadmasuri.
• Footprint Installation: The installation of the footprints of Shri Jinkushalmuri in the Dadavadi in 1623 VS is a significant event.
• Renovations: The Dadavadi underwent renovations in 1775 VS by the Kharataragachha Sangh, under the guidance of Pandit Gajanan Muni. Another renovation occurred in 1882 VS.
• Current Status: The Dadavadi is now known as "Nau Chhatriyan" and is progressing with the construction of a Mahavir Swami temple.
• Praise in Stavan: The Dadavadi of Nagaur is frequently praised in various stavan (devotional hymns) by renowned poets, highlighting its importance and veneration within the Jain tradition. These include praises by Sadhikiti, Rajsagar, Abhayasom, Udayaratna, Khushyal, Jayachand, Upadhyay Kshamakalyan Gani, and Lalithkiti (disciple of Rajharsa).

Literary and Scholarly Contributions:

The text also lists several important literary works composed in Nagaur during the Chaturmas (monsoon retreat) of various ascetics and scholars, showcasing Nagaur as a hub of Jain literary activity. These include works by Kankasom, Sadhukiti, Shrivallabh Upadhyay, Surachand Gani, Vidyasagar, Samaysundarji, Sahajkirti, Punyakirti, Matiratna, Himameru, and Dipchand. The significant contribution of Muni-raj Shri Mohanlalji, who was initiated in Nagaur and later led a Kriyoddhar (reform), is also noted.

Conclusion:

The book "Nagaur ke Jain Mandir aur Dadavadi" provides a comprehensive historical and religious account of Jainism in Nagaur, emphasizing the ancient lineage of Jain presence, the architectural and historical significance of its temples, and the active participation of Jain acharyas and communities in its development. It serves as a valuable resource for understanding the Jain heritage of this historical city.