Vishva Prasiddha Jain Tirth Shraddha Evam Kala - Book Summary

Here is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Vishva Prasiddha Jain Tirth Shraddha evam Kala" (World Famous Jain Tirths: Faith and Art) by Mahopadhyaya Lalitprabhsagar, published by Jityasha Foundation, in English:

The book "Vishva Prasiddha Jain Tirth Shraddha evam Kala" (World Famous Jain Tirths: Faith and Art) is a significant work that delves into the artistic and spiritual grandeur of fourteen prominent Jain pilgrimage sites in India. Authored by the learned Mahopadhyaya Lalitprabhsagar and meticulously photographed by Mahendra Bhansali, the book was inaugurated by the then President of India, Dr. Shankar Dayal Sharma, in February 1996.

Core Themes and Objectives:

Showcasing Artistic Excellence: The primary aim of the book is to highlight the exquisite architectural and sculptural artistry found in Jain temples across India. It emphasizes that these temples are not just centers of faith but also masterpieces of art, where even stone speaks the language of devotion and creativity.
Preserving and Promoting Heritage: The book aims to introduce the artistic splendor of Jain temples to a global audience, fostering appreciation and encouraging pilgrimage.
Connecting Faith and Art: It demonstrates how faith and artistic expression are deeply intertwined in Jainism, with each temple serving as a testament to the devotion and craftsmanship of its creators.
Documenting Important Tirthas: The book systematically presents fourteen significant Jain tirthas (pilgrimage sites), offering a detailed look at their history, architecture, and the spiritual significance attributed to them.

Key Features and Content:

Comprehensive Coverage: The book covers fourteen renowned Jain tirthas, providing detailed descriptions and visual representations of each. These include:
- Rajasthan: Ranakpur, Mahavirji (Chandnpur), Nakoda, Jaisalmer, Osian, Delwara (Mount Abu).
- Gujarat: Girnar, Shankheshwar, Taranga, Mehsana, Palitana.
- Bihar: Rajgir, Pawapuri, Sammed Shikhar.
- Uttar Pradesh: Hastinapur.
- Karnataka: Shravanabelagola.
Artistic and Technical Quality: The book is praised for its artistic presentation, with high-quality printing on excellent paper. The photography by Mahendra Bhansali is described as skillful, capturing the intricate details of the temple art.
In-depth Descriptions of Tirthas: Each featured tirtha is described with a focus on its unique architectural features, historical background, and the devotional significance.
- Ranakpur: Celebrated for its incredibly intricate marble carvings, especially its 1444 pillars, and its unique "Kalpa Vriksha" ceiling. The temple was commissioned by minister Dharanashah and designed by the architect Depa.
- Mahavirji (Chandnpur): Known as a miracle-performing (atishay-kshetra) site, revered for its naturally unearthed idol of Lord Mahavir.
- Nakoda: Famous for its "Haath Ka Hajur" (hand-present) deity, Lord Parshvanath, and the protective deity Bhairavji Maharaj. It is a significant center for economic and social welfare activities funded by devotees.
- Jaisalmer: Renowned for its intricate stone carvings not only in temples but also in the city's havelis (mansions), showcasing a unique style of Western Rajasthan art. It also houses ancient Jain scriptures.
- Osian: An ancient city with early medieval Jain architecture, dating back to the 8th century. It is considered the birthplace of the Oswal community.
- Delwara (Mount Abu): A group of five exquisite marble temples famous worldwide for their unparalleled intricate carvings. The Vimal Vasahi and Lun Vasahi temples are particularly highlighted for their artistic brilliance, including the famous "Derani-Jethani" Goklas.
- Girnar: A sacred mountain revered by both Jains and Hindus, associated with Lord Neminath and Rajimati. It is known for its challenging climb and numerous temples.
- Shankheshwar: Considered a highly miraculous tirtha, known for fulfilling devotees' wishes, especially when observed with specific fasts ('tela' or 'athtam').
- Taranga: Located in Gujarat, this tirtha showcases a beautiful blend of faith and art, with its architecture nestled amidst mountains.
- Mehsana: A modern yet significant Jain tirtha, notable for its large idol of Lord Simandhar Swami, who resides in the Mahavideha region.
- Palitana: Revered as the "city of temples," this is considered the holiest Jain pilgrimage site. It features an astonishing number of temples (over 8613) on the Shatrunjaya hill, symbolizing immense faith and devotion. The site is also known for the 'Navanu' pilgrimage and the observance of Varshitap.
- Rajgir: A historically significant site associated with both Lord Mahavir and Lord Buddha. It was a center of spiritual discourse for Lord Mahavir, who spent twelve Chaturmases here. It also hosted the first Buddhist council.
- Pawapuri: The place where Lord Mahavir attained Nirvana. The famous Jal Mandir, situated amidst a lotus pond, marks the site of his cremation.
- Sammed Shikhar: Considered the foremost tirtha of Eastern India, it is the place where 20 Tirthankaras attained Nirvana. It is also known as Parasnath Hill and is protected by the revered deity Bhomiya Ji Maharaj.
- Hastinapur: An ancient capital of India, historically significant in both the Mahabharata and Jainism. It is the birthplace of three Tirthankaras and the site where Lord Rishabhnath broke his year-long fast (Varshitap) with sugarcane juice offered by King Shreyans.
Spiritual Significance: Beyond the artistic descriptions, the book emphasizes the spiritual power and sanctity of these tirthas, highlighting their role as centers for attaining spiritual merit and liberation.
Contributors and Support: The publication of this significant work was supported by various individuals and organizations, including the Jityasha Foundation, the Jodhpur Jain community, and a dedicated committee. The guidance of Ganiwar Shri Mahimapraksh Sagar Ji was instrumental in its creation.

In essence, "Vishva Prasiddha Jain Tirth Shraddha evam Kala" serves as a beautiful and informative guide to the most sacred Jain pilgrimage sites, celebrating the profound faith and exceptional artistic heritage of Jainism. It is a valuable resource for anyone interested in Indian art, architecture, history, and spirituality.