Bhandasar Jain Temple is an ancient Jain pilgrimage spot in Rajasthan, India. More specifically, this temple is located in Bikaner district of Rajasthan. It is also known as the Bhandreshwar Temple. It is dedicated to the 5th Jain Tirthankara, Sumatinath and was built during the 15th century. This temple was commissioned in 1468 by a wealthy Jain merchant, Bhandasa Oswal and the construction of the temple was completed in 1514, after his death. This temple not only serves as a pilgrimage centre, but is also a tourism product of Rajasthan. Visitors are drawn to this temple not only because it is a place for attaining spiritual peace, but also due to the architectural design of the temple and over the top detailing. Visitors to the temple will be greeted with the splendid sight of the entire city of Bikaner if they ascend the highest floor of the Bhandasar Jain Temple. This temple is known to be the most famous of the 27 Jain temples in Bikaner.
Architecture of Bhandasar Jain Temple
Bhandasar Jain Temple is designed by a renowned Jain merchant known as Bhanda Shah. This ornate two-storied Jain temple is built of red sandstone and white marble. It is believed that 40, 000 kilograms of pure ghee was employed instead of mortar for the purpose of construction of this temple. Locals have witnessed the ghee seeping through the floor on hot days. Besides ghee, coconuts were also utilized for the erection of this temple. Bhandasar Jain Temple is characterized by excellent Rajputana architecture comprising of wall paintings, `usta` art, gold leaf paintings, adorned ceilings, frescoes, exquisitely carved statues and rich mirror crafts. The supporting pillars of this temple have floral arabesques and depictions of the lives of the 24 tirthankars (great Jain teachers) inscribed on them.
Beautiful Italian marble floors are present on the ground floor of the temple which consists of sandstone pillars, sculpted idols of charming ladies, attractive floral patterns and white marble pillars. A high silver throne measuring about 2 feet is a prominent architectural marvel of this Jain temple. Atop this silver throne is seated an impressive statue of Lord Sumatinath manufactured using white marble. A few miniatures of the sentries of Gods exist on the first floor of the Bhandasar Jain Temple along with some carved balconies. Apart from these features, the first floor is simpler as compared to the second floor.
The second floor is much more marvellous and also contains beautifully carved balconies and a series of idols of the different Jain Tirthankaras over the temple sanctum sanctorum. The steps leading to the second floor tower are lined by the same porcelain tiles which were imported from Victorian England to decorate the main alter of the temple.
It is important to note that no leather items are permissible inside the temple including shoes, belts, bags and accessories, in compliance with the Jain custom. These items should be removed and held at the front entrance for return pick-up without cost.
Visiting Information
Bhandasar Jain Temple has good transport availability. Nearest airport to Bhandasar Jain Temple is in Jaipur. Nearest railway station to Bhandasar Jain Temple is in Bikaner. Roads leading to this temple are motorable via buses. This temple has parking and toilet facilities for the visitors.
Related Article:
Jain Temples in India
Muchhal Mahavir Temple
Nasiyan Temple
Bhandasar Jain Temple
Naya Mandir
