Information of Chaumukh Temple, Bhavnagar, Gujarat (History, Mythology, Architecture)

Situated in Palitana city of Gujarat, Chaumukh Temple is one of the uppermost temple in the district. It is located in the highest point of the northern corner of Satrunjaya hill of Palitana city. Chaumukh Temple is one of the most protruding temples for Jain pilgrims which can be observed from a distance of about 40 konometer. It was created in the year 1618 by an affluent mercantile. The temple is regarded as the house of lord Rishabh, also known as lord Adinath. Lord Adinath was the first Jain tirthankar. Furthermore, Chaumukh Temple is also regarded as one of the most complex Jain temples of India. It also claims of being one of the five most significant holy places for Jain devotees.

Chaumukh Temple Religious Significance

Palitana city is in reality a pilgrimage location which is famous for numerous Jain temples and out of which Chaumukh Temple is quite popular. Among various other temples of Palitana, Chaumukh Temple has a unique mention among Jain pilgrims. Considerable number of devotees come to this temple as a place of worship as well as to visit. The significance of the temple lies in the fact that it possesses an idol of lord Adinath with four faces, fronting cardinally.

The respected and holy Chaumukh Temple belongs to primeval period of 17th century. It is an honoured place of worship for many Jain devotees. Being dedicated to lord Adinath, the foremost among 24 other Jain tirthankaras, Chaumukh Temple has great religious significance of its own. The temple was created by a rich Jain merchant and has taken many years to finish the construction. Thus the religious importance of the temple is highly appreciated and thus huge number of devotees from all over India comes to offer prayer to seek blessing for happy and joyful life.

Chaumukh Temple Mythology

In accordance with Jain mythology, lord Adinath is regarded as the founder of Jainism. He was born in Ayodhya before the growth of present human civilisation. On that time people were embryonic and uneducated. Lord Adinath showed them the way of agriculture, animal nurture, cooking, painting and other related arts which are vital for survival and progress. He familiarised people with the period of action. During the reign of lord Adinath, establishment of marriage, ritual activities of incinerating the dead ones and festivals for the respect of gods came into reality. He introduced about 72 disciplines comprising arithmetic, arts, singing and dancing among others. He also taught people about extracting liquid from fruits. Lord Adinath is accredited with converting the tribal society into an orderly society. Unlike other mythical figures of Indian mythology, lord Adinath was also a great warrior having considerable strength. Nevertheless, he never required to demonstrate his warrior virtue. Lord Adinath is popular for supporting pacifism. He was one of the biggest initiators of civilisation development. Chaumukh Temple was created for the honour of such divine figure.

Chaumukh Temple Architectural Significance

Chaumukh Temple is an architectural glee with grand attractiveness. It has rectangular structures which are mixed together to give a foundation of a dome. These structures are quite symbolical in nature. Chaumukh Temple has exclusive assortment of jewels which can only be observed with prior authorisation of the related authorities. The interiors of Chaumukh Temple signify five sacred hills of Jain religion. The columns of the temple possesses lovely flowery designs which add a diverse appeal to the entire place. By visiting Chaumukh Temple, travellers and devotees can positively feel a sense of composure as well as bless of god.