Shri Mirpur Teerth located in Rajasthan is a Jain pilgrimage centre. The teerth kshetra is situated amidst a forest that is surrounded by hills. It is behind Mount Abu near Mirpur. The temple is dedicated to Lord Parshvanatha, the twenty-third Jain Tirthankara.
History of Shri Mirpur Teerth
According to history Shri Mirpur Teerth dates back to the ancient times. The teerth kshetra of Mirpur was established by King Hamir in Vikram Savant Era 808. As stated the ksheta was earlier a very rich and prosperous city. Ruins of many temple and idols have been found here that depicts its antiquity. As per an inscription the temple of Lord Parshvanatha was constructed by King Samprata. Since its construction the temple has been repaired and renovated by Shri Samant, the disciple of Acharya Jayanand Surisvarji in 821 of Vikram Samvat Era. Another renovation activity was done from V.S.1550 to 1556. This temple also finds its mention in the `World and Encyclopaedia of Arts.` The artistic stone carvings of the temple resemble the Dilwara temples at Mount Abu in Rajasthan. This is also the birth place of Shri Parshvachandrasuri Maharaj Saheb, the founder of Parshvachandra gachchha.
The idol of Lord Parshvanatha is believed to possess miraculous powers. Devotees from far off places visit the temple to offer their prayers. It is believed that if prayed with all devotion the Lord fulfils the wishes of the pilgrims.
Temple of Shri Mirpur Teerth
The temple of Shri Mirpur Teerth houses the idol of Shri Bhidbhanjan Parshvanatha Bhagwan. The Swetambara temple has been magnificently decorated with intricate artistic designs. The creative temple work boast about the skills of the craftsmen. The walls and pillars of the temple are adorned with specimens of ancient art. Other than these the carvings on the domes and arched gates that adorn the temple are said to be nearly thousand year old. The carving of elephants in the temple looks stunning and further enhances the beauty of the temple. These are regarded as exquisite specimens of art work of the times of Pallav. The figures of yaksha, gandharvas, gods and goddesses all around the temple look very appealing to the eyes. The idol of the Lord is 90 cm in height and is black in colour. It is seated in a padmasana posture. The idol has been beautifully carved from a single stone and looks very appealing. The smiling face of the Lord looks very calm and serene.
The Temple of Shri Mirpur Teerth organises many annual gatherings and functions. A fair is held here every year on the tenth day of the dark half of the month of Magasar. There are provisions for dharamshalas or rest houses for the pilgrims. These are well equipped with all modern facilities. Apart from this there are Upashrays, an Ayambilshala and a Jnanabhandar. The teertha is situated on beautiful natural surroundings on Shivnath River. The temple is enclosed by scenic beauty that mesmerises and fascinates the pilgrims. The calm and tranquil environment and the surrounding greenery make it a suitable place for religious activities. The kshetra is well connected to road, rail and air. Taxi services and bus services are easily available here. The nearest bus stop is located at Shirohi. The nearest railway station is also located at Shirohi. The nearest airport is located at Udaipur.