Anant Chaturdashi Marked with Devotion at Mathuras Chaurasi Jain Temple

Mathura, September 26, 2026: Mathura witnessed a day of profound spiritual observance as the Jain community celebrated Anant Chaturdashi, marking the auspicious conclusion of the annual Paryushan festival. Across the city, Jain temples were adorned with special decorations, creating a serene and religious atmosphere that persisted throughout the day. At the historic Sri 1008 Jambuswami Digambar Jain Siddha Kshetra Chaurasi, situated in Krishna Nagar, the presence of the esteemed Acharya Sri Suratna Sagaracharya Maharaj provided a significant spiritual focus for the gathered faithful.

Spiritual Significance and Rituals

The observance of Anant Chaturdashi serves as the culmination of the ten-day Dashlakshan Parva, a period defined by austerity, fasting, self-reflection, and the pursuit of internal purity. Throughout the day, devotees engaged in various religious rituals, including formal worship, Abhishek (ritual bathing of deities), and Shanti Dhara. The proceedings were conducted under the guidance of Acharya Sri Suratna Sagaracharya Maharaj, whose presence offered the congregation an opportunity for spiritual enrichment. Participants expressed their dedication to the principles of self-control, sacrifice, and the path of Jinendra, taking solemn vows to integrate these virtues into their daily lives.

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The Legacy of the Chaurasi Siddha Kshetra

The Sri Chaurasi Digambar Jain Temple stands as one of Mathura’s most significant religious sites, recognized historically as the place of Nirvana for Sri Jambuswami, the last Kevali in the tradition of Lord Mahavira. According to historical records, Jambuswami attained Moksha at this location at the age of 84. The site is popularly known as ‘Chaurasi’ due to this historical connection to his age, as well as ancient references suggesting the region was once encompassed by 84 groves or mounds. The temple’s main sanctum houses a white stone idol of Lord Ajitnath, the second Tirthankara, which was discovered during excavations in Gwalior and subsequently enshrined here. Furthermore, the ancient footprints of Jambuswami are preserved on the main altar, serving as a focal point for thousands of pilgrims who visit the site annually.

Temple Architecture and Visitor Information

The present structure of the Chaurasi temple, as noted in management records, dates back to between 1800 and 1807, marking it as more than 200 years old. The temple serves not only as a place of worship but also as a hub for the community and visiting pilgrims. It is maintained with facilities for those seeking a period of spiritual retreat, including a Dharamshala for overnight stays and a dedicated dining facility serving traditional Jain cuisine at scheduled times. The temple is accessible to the public daily, with regular darshan timings beginning at 05:00 AM and concluding at 09:00 PM, with main entrance hours extending until 09:30 PM. Entry to the complex remains entirely free of charge for all visitors.

Commitment to Religious Discipline

Beyond the formal ceremonies of Anant Chaturdashi, the day served as a reminder of the rigorous spiritual discipline maintained by the community during the Paryushan period. Many devotees practiced strict fasting, silence, and focused meditation to foster self-purification. The atmosphere within the Krishna Nagar campus reflected this devotion, with the congregation collectively pledging to uphold the values of non-violence and truth throughout the coming year. As the festival concluded, the message shared by the presiding saints emphasized that the true essence of these rituals lies in the transformation of the individual, encouraging a life characterized by compassion and consistent self-reflection.