Shri Ghantakaran Mahavir Jain Temple (Mahudi Jain Teerth), Mahudi,Gandhinagar,Gujarat

Mahudi Jain Temple (aka Derasar) is situated in Mahudi town in Mansa taluka of Gandhinagar district, Gujarat. It is a pilgrimage centre for Śvetāmbara Jains and other communities who visit the temple of Jain deity, Ghantakarna Mahavir and of the 6th Tirthankara, Padmaprabh. It was known as Madhupuri historically.

History

Mahudi Jain Temple was established by Śvetāmbara Jain monk, Buddhisagarsuri in 1917 CE (Maghsar Sudi 6, Vikram Samvat 1974). There is an inscription in Brahmi script. In 1916 CE, the foundation stone was laid on land donated by Vadilal Kalidas Vora. He, along with Punamchand Lallubhai Shah, Kankkuchand Narsidas Mehta, and Himmatlal Hakamchand Mehta became trustees of a trust established to manage the temple. The central deity of this temple is a 22-inch marble idol of Padmaprabh. There is a separate shrine dedicated to Ghantakarna Mahavir, the protector deity. The deity is holding a bow and arrow, not commonly seen in the temples of this faith which stresses the importance of non-violence. The Guru Mandir, a shrine dedicated to Buddhisagarsuri was established later.

Culture

Devotees offer sukhadi a sweet that is made fresh on the premises to Ghantakarna Mahavir. After offering a part of it, the remaining is consumed by devotees within the temple complex. Tradition forbids the eating of it inside the main temple and the carrying away of such offerings outside premises. Guards monitor and redirect noncompliant devotees.

Every year, on Kali Chaudas (the fourteenth day of the dark half of the month of Aso), numerous devotees visit the Ghantakarna Mahavir temple to attend a religious ceremony, Havan.

Next to the temple outside, devotees of all ages climb a ladder to ring the bell.

Mahudi Jain Tirth is a revered pilgrimage site dedicated to Shri Ghantakarna Mahavir Bhagwan, known for its spiritual significance and beautiful architecture. Located in Gujarat, India, this temple attracts thousands of devotees seeking blessings, protection, and prosperity. The temple’s serene atmosphere, combined with its intricate carvings and traditional design, makes it a must-visit for Jain followers and spiritual seekers alike.

One of the most unique aspects of Mahudi Tirth is its prasad—sukhdi, a traditional sweet made from wheat flour, jaggery, and ghee, along with coconut offerings. It is believed that this prasad must be consumed within the temple premises, as taking it outside is considered inauspicious. This tradition is deeply rooted in faith and adds to the temple’s spiritual aura.

The temple complex is well-maintained, with facilities for pilgrims to rest and meditate. Many devotees visit Mahudi not only for darshan but also to seek divine intervention from Shri Ghantakarna Mahavir, who is believed to protect devotees from obstacles and misfortunes. On special occasions and festivals, the temple witnesses a massive gathering of followers, creating a vibrant and devotional atmosphere.

Apart from its religious significance, Mahudi Tirth is also known for its peaceful surroundings, making it an ideal place for introspection and spiritual rejuvenation. Whether visiting for religious reasons or simply to admire its architecture, Mahudi Jain Tirth offers a profound experience that leaves devotees feeling blessed and spiritually enriched.