Kesariyaji Rishabhdeov Jain Temple, Udaipur - Timings, History, Darshan, Pooja Timings

At a distance of 64 km from Udaipur, Kesariyaji Tirth or Rishabhdev Jain Temple is a Jain temple located in Rishabhdeo town of Udaipur District in Rajasthan. It is one of the prominent pigrimage places in Rajasthan, and among the must-include places in Udaipur packages.

Kesariyaji Tirth is a revered site dedicated to Lord Rishabhadeva, the first Tirthankara in Jainism. The deity is also referred to as 'Kesariaji' due to the significant offerings of saffron made in his honor. This temple stands as one of the four principal pilgrimage sites in the Mewar region of Rajasthan, alongside Shrinathji, Shri Eklingji, and Shri Charbhujaji. Notably, Rishabhdev is venerated not only by Jains but also by Hindus and the Bhil community, the predominant indigenous group in the area.

The temple was established in 874 CE under the rule of Rawal Khuyan, the monarch of Mewar. Its strategic location along a vital trade route attracted the patronage of affluent merchants. An inscription from 1422 CE reveals that renovations occurred during the 14th and 15th centuries. Since the 14th century, there has been a documented history of disputes over the temple's control among the Digambara, Svetambara, and Hindu communities, influenced by their connections to the rulers of Mewar. However, on March 30, 1966, the Rajasthan High Court affirmed its status as a Svetambara Jain temple.

An architectural marvel, the temple is constructed from white marble and features elaborate carvings that showcase the region's rich cultural legacy. It comprises 52 Jinalayas and 1,100 pillars, alongside idols of Hindu deities such as Durga Maa, Shiva, and Lord Krishna. The principal idol, known as Kesariyaji, is crafted from black stone and is approximately 3.5 feet high in a lotus position. In front of the main shrine, there is an idol of Marudevi, the mother of Rishabhanatha, depicted seated on an elephant. The temple complex also includes several smaller shrines dedicated to various Jain deities.

Numerous legends attempt to ascertain the age of the temple. One such legend recounts that a tribal individual named Dhula Bhil unearthed the idol of Lord Rishabhdev beneath a mound where a Kaamdhenu was said to daily dispense its milk. Another tale suggests that this idol was once venerated by Ravan in Lanka before being transported to Ayodhya by Lord Rama. Eventually, it was brought to Ujjain and later miraculously reappeared in the town of Rishabdeo.

A fair is held annually to commemorate the birth anniversary of Rishabhanatha, attracting a significant number of devotees from distant regions. Additionally, a rath yatra is conducted from the main temple to the Pagliyaji temple.

Timings: 5.30 AM - 8.30 PM

Entry: Free