Siddhachakra Aradhan Keshariyaji Mahatirth

This document is a comprehensive guide to the Shri Siddhachakra Aradhan Kesariyaji Mahatirth in Ujjain, India, compiled by Muni Jitratnasagar Ji and edited by Muni Chandraratnasagar Ji, published by Ratnasagar Prakashan Nidhi. It serves as a "Ujjain Tirtha Parichay" (Introduction to Ujjain Pilgrimage Site).

Here's a breakdown of the key information presented:

1. Introduction to Ujjain (Avanti Nagari):

• Ujjain is highlighted as a significant and ancient city in India's history, renowned for its religious, cultural, commercial, and social importance.
• It is situated centrally in India, on a plateau on the northern slope of the Vindhyachal range, by the Kshipra River.
• Historically known as Avanti or Avantika, it was a major capital and a center of learning.
• The text mentions its deep historical connections, with mentions in scriptures like the Garuda Purana, and its importance during the time of Mahabharata where Lord Krishna and Balarama studied there.
• Ujjain has attracted praise from poets like Kalidasa, travelers like Fahien, and figures like Mughal Emperor Jahangir and Dr. William Hunter.

2. Jain Significance of Ujjain:

• Ujjain has been a significant Jain pilgrimage site for ancient times, with numerous important events in Jain history occurring there.
• The city is closely associated with Maha Sati Mayanasundari and Shripal Maharaja, who are credited with curing their leprosy through the Siddhachakra Aradhan at the Shripal Marg Khara Kuva temple.
• The Avanti Parshvanath Jinlaya is mentioned in connection with a tragic event and the memory of Avantisukumar.
• Bherugarh's Siddhabad is linked to the powerful devotee Seth Manakshah.

3. Key Jain Sites and Stories:

• Shri Siddhachakra Aradhan Kesariyaji Mahatirth (Shripal Marg, Khara Kuva):

  • This is the central focus of the book.
  • Its history is traced back 1.1 million years to the time of Bhagwan Munisuvratswami.
  • A prominent story recounts how Shri Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana brought a statue of Bhagwan Rishabhdev from Lanka to Ayodhya.
  • Due to divine will, the statue was established in Ujjain, becoming known as Kesariyaji.
  • Shripal Maharaja and Mayanasundari are central to the site's significance, having performed the Siddhachakra Aradhan here to cure their leprosy. This act led to the temple being named Shri Siddhachakra Aradhan-Kesariyaji Mahatirth.
  • The text details the renovation and development of this site under the inspiration of Acharya Shri Chandrasagar Surishwarji M.S. and his disciples, with significant contributions from various Jain communities and individuals. This includes the establishment of a Gyan Mandir (library), dharamshalas, a bhojanshala (dining hall), and the consecration of various idols.

• Shri Avanti Parshvanath Mahatirth:

  • This section narrates the story of Avantisukumar, who attained the Nalinigulm Viman (a celestial abode) through penance at the cremation ground by the Kshipra River.
  • After his death, his father, King Mahakal, built a grand temple there, which became known as Avanti Parshvanath.
  • The story of Acharya Siddhasen Diwakar is recounted, who, after facing a period of penance, revealed a miraculous image of Bhagwan Parshvanath from a Shivling at this site, leading to King Vikramaditya's conversion to Jainism.
  • The text describes the historical and architectural significance of the Avanti Parshvanath temple, its present state, and the presence of other important Jain statues and shrines within its complex.

• Adhishthayak Dev Shri Manibhadra Veer:

  • The text details the story of Seth Manakshah of Ujjain, a prominent Jain merchant.
  • He was misled by a Lokagachha acharya but was later reconverted by Acharya Hemvimalsuri.
  • During his pilgrimage to Siddhachal, Seth Manakshah was attacked by dacoits and was killed. However, due to his strong devotion, he was reborn as Manibhadra Indra in the Vyantar Nikaya.
  • As Manibhadra, he protected Jain monks from harm and established three important places of worship: by the Kshipra river in Ujjain, at Aglot, and at Magarwada.
  • The text notes that while Aglot and Magarwada are well-established Manibhadra tirths, the Ujjain site, the former place of his residence, is unfortunately no longer under Jain control.
  • The Manibhadra statue in Ujjain is considered miraculous, especially for those suffering from fever or eye ailments.

4. Other Jain Temples and Facilities in Ujjain:

• The book provides a detailed listing and description of numerous other Jain temples in Ujjain, including:
  • Shri Rishabhdevji's temple
  • Shri Mahavir Swami's temple
  • Shri Chandrapurva Swami's temple
  • Shri Shankheshwar Parshvanathji's temple
  • Shri Vasupujya Swami's temple
  • Shri Ajitnathji's temple
  • Shri Shitalnathji's temple (including the glass temple)
  • Shri Sumatinathji's temple
  • Shri Parshvanathji's temple at Bherugarh
  • Shri Adinathji's temple (with Shridatta Gurudev's Charan Paduka)
  • Shri Jinadattasuri Dada Wadi
  • Shri Shantinathji's temple
  • Shri Rajendrasuri Gyan Mandir (Nayapura)
• It also details various facilities available for pilgrims:
  • Dharamshalas (guest houses) like Shri Navapad-Lakshmi Nivas, Shri Avanti Parshvanath Tirth Mandir Dharamshala, Shri Mahavir Jain Dharamshala, etc.
  • Bhojanshalas (dining halls) offering free meals, such as Shri Parvati Bai Jain Bhojshala.
  • Ayambil facilities, especially at the Shri Rishabhdevji temple.
  • Upaashrayas (monastic residences) for monks and nuns.
  • A significant Jain Gyan Mandir (library) containing numerous rare Jain manuscripts and texts.
  • A Jain Kanyashala for the religious education of girls.
  • A Jain Upkaran Bhandar (religious supply store).

5. Ujjain Jain Community:

• The document provides information about the Jain population in Ujjain, their various sects (Svetambara, Digambara, Sthanakvasi, Terapanthi), and prominent communities like Oswal, Porwal, etc.
• It highlights the Jain community's significant role in business and their active participation in social, political, and religious activities.
• It lists important Jain religious and philanthropic organizations in Ujjain.

6. Travel Information:

• The text includes practical information for pilgrims, such as:
  • Railway and bus services connecting Ujjain to major cities.
  • Contact numbers for various services like STD, Fire Brigade, Ambulance, Police, Nagar Nigam, Bus/Railway inquiries.
  • Recommended places to stay and eat.
  • A list of important tourist attractions in and around Ujjain, both Jain and non-Jain.

In essence, the book is a devotional and historical account dedicated to the sacred Jain pilgrimage sites in Ujjain, with a particular focus on the profound significance of the Siddhachakra Aradhan and the historical journey of the Kesariyaji idol. It aims to educate and inspire Jain devotees and visitors about the rich spiritual heritage of Ujjain.