Tirth Stavana

This document is a devotional booklet titled "Tirth Stavana," published by Anandji Kalyanji Pedhi. It was released on November 17, 2015, coinciding with a "Gaan Utsav" (celebration of music and devotion). The booklet is dedicated to the glorification of various Jain pilgrimage sites and the Tirthankaras.

Here's a breakdown of its content:

1. Introduction and Purpose: The booklet emphasizes the sanctity and transformative power of Jain pilgrimage sites ("Tirth"). It highlights that visiting these holy places, performing rituals, and engaging in devotion helps to halt or reduce the cycle of rebirth. The "Gaan Utsav" is presented as a way to experience the sacred atmosphere of these tirths through music and devotional singing.

2. Featured Tirths (Pilgrimage Sites): The booklet provides detailed descriptions of several important Jain pilgrimage sites, focusing on their history, significance, and architectural marvels. These include:

• Shri Shatrunjay Mahatirtha (Palitana): Described as the "city of temples," it boasts a vast number of temples and idols, highlighting its immense spiritual importance and history of renovations.
• Girnar Tirth: Located on a mountain, it features numerous temples dedicated to various Tirthankaras, with a particular focus on Lord Neminath. The document details the history of its renovations and the prominent temples.
• Taranga Tirth: Known for its mountain-top temples, it emphasizes the historical connection to Acharya Hemchandrasuri and King Kumarpal. It details the various temples and their unique features.
• Sherisa Mahatirtha: This tirth has a history of destruction and subsequent revival, with a focus on the reconstruction of its main temple and the consecration of Lord Parshvanath as the main deity.
• Vamaj Tirth: Presented as a twin tirth to Sherisa, it holds an ancient idol of Lord Adinath believed to be from the time of Emperor Samprati.
• Kumbhariya Tirth: Located near Ambaji, this tirth is known for its five exquisite marble temples, renowned for their architectural beauty comparable to the Dilwara temples.
• Ranakpur Tirth: This tirth is celebrated for its magnificent temple with intricate carvings, particularly the 1444 pillars and the four-faced idol of Lord Adinath.
• Muchhala Mahavir Tirth: Famous for a legend involving the image of Lord Mahavir having a mustache, it is a site of strong faith and devotion.
• Makshi Tirth (Makshi Parshvanath): This tirth in Madhya Pradesh features a tall, impressive temple dedicated to Lord Parshvanath, with a history of renovations and a captivating idol.

3. Anandji Kalyanji Pedhi: The booklet also provides information about the Anandji Kalyanji Pedhi, an organization that represents Jain Sangh (communities) across India. It details the history of the Pedhi, its establishment, and its role in managing and preserving Jain tirths and temples. The Pedhi's involvement in various charitable activities, such as animal welfare and preservation of ancient Jain literature, is also mentioned.

4. Devotional Compositions (Stavans): A significant portion of the booklet is dedicated to devotional songs (stavans) and prayers dedicated to various Tirthankaras, including:

• Stavans: Devotional hymns dedicated to Shri Shatrunjay, Shri Rishabh Dev, Shri Ajitnath, Shri Neminath, Shri Parshvanath, Shri Mahavir Swami, and other Tirthankaras. These are presented in various Gujarati and Hindi devotional styles.
• Mantras and Stotras: Recitations of the Namokar Mahamantra, Ushavasargaharam Stotra, and the famous Bhaktamar Stotra are included, which are considered highly sacred and beneficial.
• Brij Bhasha Compositions: Several devotional poems and songs in Brij Bhasha, sung by the renowned Gundicha Brothers, are also featured, showcasing a blend of classical music and devotion.
• Aarti and Mangal Diwo: Traditional Jain Aarti (worship songs) and Mangal Diwo (auspicious lamps) are included.
• Vadhai: A celebratory song expressing joy and auspiciousness.

5. Gundicha Brothers: The booklet specifically mentions and praises the Gundicha Brothers, renowned Dhrupad singers, for their performance at the "Gaan Utsav." It highlights their mastery of classical Indian music and their dedication to spiritual melodies.

Overall Theme: "Tirth Stavana" is a compilation of prayers, hymns, and information aimed at fostering devotion and reverence for Jain pilgrimage sites and the Tirthankaras. It serves as a guide to understanding the significance of these sacred places and the spiritual benefits derived from visiting them. The booklet embodies the Jain philosophy of reverence for all living beings and the pursuit of spiritual liberation through devotion and righteous conduct.