________________
Jainism in Mathura
marble image of Mahāvīra is the principal idol on this vedī; one image of Pārsvanatha is built of brass and the other of black stone; the solitary image of Rṣabha is built of brass. Another vedi contains a white marble image of Jambūsvāmī in the kayotsarga posture. The images of some Jaina male and female deities Kṣetrapāla, Sarasvati and Padmavatī, too, have been installed in the complex of this temple.
An annual fair was instituted in AD 1870 at the Chaurasi site by a Bharatpur Jaina named Nain Sikh.53 This tradition continues. Originally, the annual Jaina fair at Chaurasi, Mathura was held for a week in October-Novemeber.54 Presently, it is held on 26 January every year. A Rathyatra Mahotsava on the occasion of the annual fair, and religious and cultural programmes are the characteristic features of this fair, which attracts Jaina pilgrims from many parts of the country.55 A varied Jaina establishment, including an educational institution, has grown around the Jaina temple at Chaurasi, Mathura. This temple is the principal centre of Jaina religous and cultural life at Mathurā. Śrī 1008 Jambūsvāmī Digambara Jaina Siddhakṣetra Chaurasi, Mathura is held in great esteem by the Jainas and Chaurasi, attracts Jaina pilgrims from many parts of the country.
The Jainas in Mathura are divided into the Svetambara and the Digambara sect. But, despite their differences, the Śvetambaras and the Digambaras are one regarding the doctrines and discipline of Jainism, at least in respect of fundamental and significant points. Therefore, one can speak of Jainism as a whole. Most of them are educated and economically well-off, and enjoy a respectable position in the city. The Jainas are not a large community in Mathura. But their religious zeal and fervour have made Jainism a living and vibrant religion in this city.
53. MDM, p. 13; DGM, 1911, p. 83.
54.
MDM, p. 13; DGM, 1911, p. 83. According to Dr. Jyoti Prasad Jain, the 8-day Kārtikī fair at Chaurasi, Mathura and the Rathotsava were instituted by Seth Raghunath Das. See J.P. Jain, Pramukha..., op.cit., p. 354.
55.
Information provided by Dr. Jai Prakash Jain; Souvenir of the Annual Fair and Rath yatra, Jaina Siddhakṣetra, Chaurasi, Mathura.
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
@急卐0
243
www.jainelibrary.org
