Jain Temple in Chennai is located in T. Nagar. This is a gleaming white, two-tired Jain Shantinath Jain Mandir. This temple stands in a striking contrast to the rock-cut temples of Tamilnadu.
About Jain Temple :
Jain Temple – Chennai The Jain Temple in Chennai is contrary to all other temples built in South.Most of the temples in south are built with rocks where as the Jain Temple has been built with the lime-and-soapstone and marble, which has given it a sparkling appearance. This is a significant temple among the modern style of architecture. The temple also includes some beautiful sculptures of Lord Mahavira, other tirinthkaras and Lord Shantinath to whom the temple is dedicated.
The temple is built of lime-and- soapstone and marble creating a dazzling impression. This is a marvel of modern temple art with an elevated sanctum accessible by a flight of steps.
Attraction Of Jain Temple In Chennai :
First Jain temple in South India is in Chennai, this temple is known as Shree Gujarati Swetamber Jain Mandir. Lord Parshwanatha, the 23rd Teerthankar is the presiding deity of this renowned shrine. The three gopurams and five doors of the Mandir have marble carvings based on the architectural principles of the famous Dilwara temples. Only marble has been used in the construction, and the architects, carvers and workers were brought in from Rajasthan. The idol is made of Quartz selected from the Chellur mines in Karnataka. The stone was considered special due to its green color, which, according to Jain scriptures, is the colour of God. Jain acharyas walk all the way to the Gujarati shwetambar Mandir from North India and stay here for ‘Chatur Masa’. This is a must place to visit for all those visiting Chennai.
Features of Jain Temple in Chennai
- Jain Temple in Chennai is an example of brilliant architecture and exceptional structure.
- This temple is an important specimen of the modern style of architecture.
- The temple is dedicated to Lord Shantinath.
- The temple also includes some beautifully sculpted marble idols of Lord Mahavira and other Tirinthkaras.
- The temple is open to all, but only those who bathe in the temple premises can enter the sanctum.
- According to the Jain philosophy, the Jains are to devote their lives to imbibe good deeds and control sin, to comprehend sin and finally seek salvation or by attaining a state of freedom from sin and attachment.
- The founder of Jain sect Lord Mahavira was born at Trishila in Bihar.
- At the age of 30, he left the materialistic life and became a Jain monk.
- A preacher of non-violence, he attained ‘Kaval Gyan’ at the age of 42, which means ‘omniscience’.
- He advocated his disciples to possess noble ideals.
- The symbol of his sect is Swastik.
- There are three main principles of Jainism which includes Heya (imbibe), Gyeya (comprehend) and Upadeya (seek).
- The precepts of Jainism state that we should always do good to others and control sin.
History Jain Temple In Chennai :
The founder of Jain sect lord Mahavira was born at Trishila in Bihar. At the age of 30 he left the materialistic life and became a Jain monk. He attained “Kaval Gyan” at the age of 42, which means “omniscience”. He was a preacher of non-violence. There are three main principles of Jainism popularly known as “teentatavas” which includes Heya (imbibe), Gyeya (comprehend, and Upadeya (seek). The teachings of Jainism stated that we should always do well for others and control sin. They should not have any attachment to the materialistic world. Jainism also says that in order to attain moksha (salvation) one should follow the path of Nirjara or freedom from sin.
The temple is open to all, but only those who bathe in the temple premises may enter the sanctum. It is located in the center of a park and the entrance is extremely attractive. The beautiful arch is in the shape of twin converging elephant tusks. The tomb of Dr. C.N. Annadurai is flanked by imposing memorial pillar and eternal flame. People of Tamil Nadu affectionately called him ‘Anna’ meaning the elder brother. Today Anna Square is a scared place for the people of Tamil Nadu.
How to Reach Jain Temple in Chennai :
By Air : The Kamaraj Domestic Airport and the Anna International Airport are located at Tirusulam at a distance of 20 km from the city.
By Rail : Chennai is also well connected to all the major cities in India through a wide network of railways. The rail service connects to all the main cities of the neighboring state and the country.
By Road : The excellent road network of Chennai makes it easily accessible from other important cities of Tamil Nadu and the neighboring states.