The Enchanting Tijara Jain Temple
Nestled amidst the serene Aravalli Hills in Alwar, Rajasthan, lies the Tijara Jain Temple, a beacon of tranquillity for the Jain community. Renowned as an Atishaya Kshetra (Place of Salvation), this temple is dedicated to Lord Chandraprabhu, the eighth Tirthankara (spiritual leader) in Jainism. As an Atishaya Kshetra, the temple is believed to be a site where miracles have occurred. This belief attracts countless devotees seeking spiritual solace and divine intervention.
Unearthing a Glorious Past
The temple's history is as captivating as its architecture. Though the exact origins remain veiled in time, the discovery of a Chandraprabhu idol in 1956 reignited the area's significance as a Jain pilgrimage centre. This discovery fueled the belief that Tijara was once a revered Dehra, a place of Jain idol worship. The subsequent establishment of the temple in 1956 marked the town's resurgence as a spiritual hub.
A Testament to Architectural Finesse
Enter the Tijara Jain Temple and be ready to be amazed by its majestic architecture. Constructed from white marble, the temple complex emanates an atmosphere of calmness and purity. The main hall offers a serene and expansive environment, ideal for quiet contemplation and spiritual reflection.
Ceremonies and Traditions
The Tijara Jain Temple is a vibrant centre of Jain worship. Devotees perform various rituals throughout the day, offering prayers and practising meditation. One of the most significant rituals is the "Abhishek", a bathing ceremony where idols are anointed with holy water, milk, and other offerings. Jain festivals like Mahavir Jayanti (birth anniversary of Lord Mahavira) and Paryushan Parva (eight-day festival of introspection) are observed with great devotion, attracting a large number of pilgrims.