Papauraji Jinmandiro Ka Adbhut Samucchaya

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided text from "Shri Papauraji: Jinmandiron ka Adbhut Samucchaya" by Darbarilal Kothiya, based on the two pages you provided:

The text describes Jain pilgrimage sites in India, highlighting their significance in Indian culture, religious life, and art. It then focuses specifically on Papauraji, a prominent Jain pilgrimage destination in Bundelkhand.

General Significance of Jain Pilgrimage Sites:

• Embodiment of Religious Devotion: These sacred lands are presented as tangible manifestations of the deep religious sentiments of the Indian people. Visiting them is described as a way to cleanse oneself and find peace.
• Symbols of Indian Culture: They are presented as icons of Indian culture, offering joy similar to visual art and guiding individuals towards spirituality.
• Artistic Heritage: The architectural craftsmanship of temples and structures in these pilgrimage sites reflects the glory and dignity of the architectural styles of their respective eras, leaving a lasting impression on visitors.
• Social Hubs: A significant portion of India's festivals, gatherings, and fairs take place at these pilgrimage sites, indicating their vital role in sustaining and representing Indian society and its dignified culture. Their presence is felt throughout India, from Puri to Dwarka and Sammeta Shikar to Girnar.

Bundelkhand's Religious Landscape:

• Bundelkhand, situated in the heart of India, is characterized by its advanced practices, compassionate thinking, and extraordinary religious faith, alongside inherent bravery.
• The region is rich with numerous pilgrimage sites that have illuminated it for thousands of years.
• It boasts both Siddhakshetras (areas where souls have attained liberation) like Dronagir and Reshindhigir, and Atishaykshetras (sites known for miraculous events or extraordinary idols) like Devgarh, Papauraji, Aharr, and Khajuraho.
• The art of Devgarh and Khajuraho reflects the faith and devotion of their inhabitants, while the natural beauty of Dronagir and Reshindhigir attracts visitors. The grand and impressive Shantinath idol in Aharr further enhances faith and attraction.

Papauraji: The Marvelous Collection of Jain Temples:

• Location and Approach: Papauraji is a sacred pilgrimage site located three miles southeast of Tikamgarh (Madhya Pradesh). It is easily identifiable by its tall and grand spire-topped temples that beckon from a distance. A large Lion Gate on the west side with a gentle aesthetic immediately influences the visitors' emotions positively.
• Layout and Scale: The entire complex is enclosed by a wide rampart. Within this boundary, on a level ground, stand 107 grand Jinnalayas (Jain temples). Many of these temples date back centuries.
• Unique Features: The "Choubis" (representations of the 24 Tirthankaras) here are noteworthy, with separate circumambulations for each and one combined circumambulation for all. The area is beautified by small gardens, wells, and rest houses (Dharmashalas), making it very picturesque and aesthetically pleasing.
• Spiritual Atmosphere: The environment is described as exceptionally peaceful and conducive to spiritual practice. The sight of 107 spire-topped temples reaching towards the sky amplifies the feelings and devotion of the general public. The idols within the temples are said to exude a soothing and cool stream of "Shantarasa" (the aesthetic sentiment of peace) through their silent teachings, captivating visitors in devotion for hours.

Socio-Religious Contribution of Papauraji:

• Fostering Faith Despite Economic Conditions: Despite the region being economically and educationally underdeveloped, its religious sentiments are strong, as evidenced by the activities at Papauraji.
• Annual Gatherings for Social Progress: The annual fair at the site provides an opportunity for the community to gather, assess their direction, and resolve their problems.
• Educational Initiatives: The Shri Veer Digambar Jain Vidyalaya is located on the premises. This institution plays a crucial role in providing religious education to the region, with hundreds of students graduating as scholars. The school was established through the efforts of the late Pt. Motilalji Varni, who was instrumental in its growth and management. B. Thakurdasji also made significant contributions to its development during his tenure. The services of both these individuals are remembered for the progress of both the site and the school.

Personal Testimony:

• The author shares a personal experience of teaching at the Vidyalaya for three years. During this time, they experienced great peace and an increase in religious devotion, which they attribute to the influence of the site.
• The text concludes with a strong recommendation to visit and pay homage to this sacred pilgrimage site.