Ayodhya, the holy city, also carries a divine status as an Energy Sthal of Jainism.

Ayodhya, May 17( sunil jain/ VNI) Ayodhya,the holy city associated with Lord Ram, holds significant importance in Jainismas well. It is considered the birthplace of Lord Rishabhdev, the FirstTirthankar of the Jain faith. For Jain devotees, Ayodhya is a divine place from where they derive energy, known as the "Energy Sthal of Jainism." It is the city where five Jain Tirthankars preached teachings of non-violence and compassion, alongside their first Tirthankar, Bhagwan Rishabhdev. Lord Rishabhdev not only emphasized principles of non-violence and compassion but also taught his subjects the skills of karma and the art of living.Currently, Ayodhya is witnessing the construction of a magnificent temple dedicated to Lord Ram, as well as the development of a Jain temple complex.

 

 Recently, the city witnessed a divine event under the guidance and inspiration of the revered Jain Ganinipramukh Gyanmati Mataji. The event included the Panch Kalyanak Mahotsav and  Mahamastakabhisheka of Bhagwan Rishabhdev, the anointment ceremony, as well as a momentous international festival organized as a mark of reverence towards Jainism. Jain followers from all over India and abroad earnestly worshiped Lord Rishabhdev with utmost devotion. This occasion brought together not only Jain devotees but also pilgrims of different faiths and tourists, creating a truly divine experience.
During the event, one could hear echoes of "Jai Shri Ram" slogans reverberating from one side of the Saryu river while the scent of sandalwood filled the air on the other side,symbolizing the adoration of Lord Rishabhdev.

 

 The ritualistic Abhishek tookplace with sandalwood, saffron, and panchamrit abhishek holy water, accompanied by the chanting of Jain Mantras, Namokar and the recitation of Jain chants. The Amalgamation of sandalwood and saffron, along with the resonating atmosphere,showcased the cultural ethos of India, emphasizing reverence for all religions.According to Jain ancient scriptures, Lord Rishabhdev was born in Ayodhya, making it an important city  of Jainism.

 According to Jain scholars Jainism, a transtheistic faith, maintains that the universe is eternal and was not brought into existence. Nonetheless, it was Lord Rishabhdev who initiated the propagation and popularization of Jainism among individuals, thereby increasing its recognition and adherence.Not only this, when the system of Bhoga Bhoomi was ending from this earth, then by making a system of Karmabhoomi, the subjects were taught the art of living.Through these six activities like Asi, (warfare) , Masi (writing skills ) kasi (Agriculture), Vidya,( knowledge )  Vanijya  (Commerce) and shilp (Craft)

 

Lord Rishabhdev's son, Bharat Chakravarti, took over the kingdom and governed the land with good governance, ensuring happiness,peace, and prosperity for all. Lord Rishabhdev also initiated women's education by teaching Lipi (script) and  Ank (numerals) to his daughters, Brahmi and Sundari,thereby highlighting his support for women's empowerment.

Lord Rishabhdev's offspring, Bharat Chakravarti, assumed the role of ruler of the kingdom and administered the territory with effective governance, guaranteeing happiness, tranquility, and prosperity for all. Lord Rishabhdev also initiated the education of women by teaching alphabets and numerals to his daughters, Brahmi and Sundari, thereby emphasizing his support for women's empowerment.

Ayodhya is not only associated with Lord Rishabhdev but also with other five Tirthankars. The second Tirthankar, Lord Ajitnath, the fourth Tirthankar, Lord Abhinandan Nath, the fifth Tirthankar, Lord Sumatinath, and the fourteenth Tirthankar, Lord Anantnath, all had their birthplace in Ayodhya. These Tirthankars disseminated the principles of truth and non-violence, establishing worldwide harmony. The historic festival and ceremony in Ayodhya were guided by respected Jain leaders and witnessed the presence of numerous saints, sages, and devotees from Jainism.

The organizer of this historic festival, According to DrJeevan Prakash Jain, the entire historical event was guided by Pragyashramani Aryika Shri Chandnamati Mataji and skillful leadership by Peethadhish Swastishree Rabindrakirti Swamiji.In the ceremony, thousands of devotees from the country and abroad with the blessings of Acharya Shri Vipulsagar Ji Maharaj, Acharya Shri Bhadrabahusagar Ji Maharaj, Acharya Shri Vishadsagar Ji Maharaj, Muni Shri Anusharan Sagar Ji Maharaj in the ceremony from April 30 to May 7, 2023. People worshiped 720 idols of 24 Tirthankaras. in Panchkalyanak Pratishtha and Mahamastakabhisheka festival.

The splendid gathering in Ayodhya, blending reverence for Lord Ram and the significance of Jainism, brought together people from varied backgrounds, fostering a sense of unity and spirituality. It honored India's abundant cultural heritage, promoting the values of non-violence, compassion, and respect for all religions. Ayodhya remains a sacred city of sarv dharm sarv samman. VNI News -edited by shobhna jain