Shobhnath temple

Welcome to the Shobhnath Temple, an ancient Jain temple located in the city of Shravasti, Uttar Pradesh. This temple is a significant pilgrimage site for Jains as it is believed to be the birthplace of Sambhavanatha, the third Tirthankara. Shravasti was ruled by Jain kings from the 9th-10th century such as Mayurdhwaj, Hansdhwaj, Makardhwaj, Sudhavadhwaj, and Suhridhwaj. The Harivamsa Purana, composed by Jain acharya Jinasena in 783 CE, narrates the installation images of Kamadeva and Rati by Kamadatta in front of the temple. Chandraprabha, the eighth Tirthankara, also visited this site during his vihara. The temple is mentioned in the Vividha Tirtha Kalpa composed by Jinaprabha Suri in the 14th century. The Shobhnath temple is dedicated to Sambhavanatha and is built in the Irani style with a dome added during the medieval period. During excavations, the remains of three Jain temples were found, and a number of Jain idols have been discovered in padmasan and kayotsarga posture dating back to the 10th-11th century CE from the lower part of the temple. It is believed that idols of all 24 Tirthankaras existed here. The idol of Rishabhanatha found during the excavation is noteworthy. The idol has Rishabhanatha in padmasan posture with three umbrellas over the head, two lions and bull carved beneath his legs, and yaksha-yakshi on each side. Kartik Purnima is the primary festival celebrated at the Shobhnath temple. The Shobhnath temple is open to visitors from sunrise to sunset. Visitors are required to remove their shoes before entering the temple premises. Photography is allowed but not inside the temple. It is recommended to dress modestly and respectfully. The Shobhnath temple is a significant pilgrimage site for Jains, and its rich history and architecture make it a must-visit destination for tourists interested in exploring India's cultural heritage.

Source: Wikimedia