Seth Bhandasar Jain Temple: A Jewel of Bikaner
If you are looking for a place to admire the beauty and heritage of Jainism, you should not miss the Seth Bhandasar Jain Temple in Bikaner, Rajasthan. This temple is one of the oldest and most magnificent Jain temples in India, and is dedicated to the fifth Tirthankara, Sumatinath. In this blogpost, I will tell you more about the history, architecture, and attractions of this temple, and why you should visit it.
History:
The Seth Bhandasar Jain Temple was built by a wealthy merchant named Bhandasa Oswal in the 15th century. He was a devout follower of Jainism, and wanted to create a temple that would honor his faith and his guru. He started the construction of the temple in 1468, but he died before it was completed. His daughter continued the work, and finished the temple in 1541. The temple is also known as Bhandashah Jain Temple, after its founder.
One of the most interesting facts about this temple is that it was constructed using ghee (clarified butter) instead of water in the mortar. According to legends, Bhandasa Oswal used 40,000 kg of ghee in the construction of this temple, as he believed that it would make the temple stronger and more durable. Some people also say that the ghee was used to protect the temple from termites and insects. The temple is protected by the Archaeological Survey of India and is a national monument.
Architecture:
The main deity of the temple is Sumatinath, the fifth Tirthankara of Jainism. He is depicted in a sitting posture, with a blue complexion, and a halo around his head. He is surrounded by other Jain idols and images, such as the 24 Tirthankaras, the yakshas (attendants), and the vidyadevis (goddesses of knowledge). The walls and ceilings of the temple are adorned with paintings and frescoes, depicting the life and teachings of the Tirthankaras, as well as scenes from Jain mythology and history. The paintings are done in vibrant colors, using natural pigments and gold leaf. The pillars and arches of the temple are decorated with floral and geometric patterns, and inlaid with mirrors and glass pieces, creating a dazzling effect.
Attractions:
The Seth Bhandasar Jain Temple is not only a place of worship, but also a place of wonder and beauty. There are many attractions that you can enjoy in and around the temple, such as:
- The view of the Bikaner skyline from the top floor of the temple. You can see the majestic Junagarh Fort, the Laxmi Niwas Palace, and the Rampuria Havelis, among other landmarks.
- The museum inside the temple. Which displays various artifacts and relics related to Jainism, such as manuscripts, coins, sculptures, and paintings.
- The bhojanshala (dining hall) near the temple. Which serves delicious vegetarian food to the visitors, following the Jain principles of ahimsa (non-violence) and aparigraha (non-attachment).
- The camel safari outside the temple. Which allows you to explore the desert landscape and the rural life of Bikaner.
- The nearby attractions, such as the Karni Mata Temple, the Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary, and the National Research Centre on Camel.
Ticket Prices and Timings:
The Seth Bhandasar Jain Temple is open to all visitors, regardless of their religion or background. The temple does not charge any entry fee, but you can make a donation if you wish. The temple is open from 5:00 am to 1:00 pm, and from 5:30 pm to 11:30 pm. The best time to visit the temple is during the morning or evening, when you can witness the aarti (ritual worship) and the bhajan (devotional songs) performed by the priests and the devotees.
Conclusion:
The Seth Bhandasar Jain Temple is a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to experience the culture and spirituality of Rajasthan. It is a temple that showcases the glory and grace of Jainism, and the craftsmanship and creativity of Bikaner. It is a temple that will fill you with awe and admiration, and make you appreciate the diversity and richness of India.
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