Sri Swamiji visits Kanakagiri
renowned Jain Pilgrimage temple

9th June 2009

Shri Kshetra Kanakagiri is one of the ancient Jain religion pilgrimage centre. Shri Kshetra is situated in Chamaraja Nagar Dist, about 55 kms from Mysore. The main Diety of this Kshetra is Vijaya Parshwanatha Thirthankar, a 23rd Thirthankar. This Kshetra has a history of 1500 years. The other deities of the said Kshetra are goddess Padmavathi, Kushmandini Devi, Jwalamalini Devi, they are all considered as Yakshis. The history reveals that the Cholas, Gangas and other rulers were worshipping the said deities. The Wodeyars of Mysore were also worshipping the above deities. One of the important Digambar Jain Muni Pujya Padaru was also living in Shri Kshetra. He was a acclimed Ayurveda exponent and has written several great works on Ayurveda and Dharma Shashtra.
The pointiff of Shri Kshetra is Sri Sri Sri Bhuvana Keerthi Bhataraka Mahaswamiji.
Sri Swamiji performed Asta Vidarchane to Vijaya Parshwanatha Swami and other deities in the presence of Bhataraka Swamiji for World peace.

The shrine is situated atop a hillock having sweeping vistas of the nature all around. The original temple is of 5th century with later additions made in 9th, 14th and 19th Century. Quietitude is all pervasive here. Sri Swamiji also visited the library which holds valuable ancient Ayurvedic Texts.

The hill also has a small water pond in a rocky bowl. Water is present through out the year and it is used for Pujas.

Sri Swamiji also met Jain Munis doing penence in the area. The sorrounding hills have many caves which were used by mendicants for meditation and prayer.

Sri Swamiji stayed in the temple from 5.30 PM to 7 PM and returned to Mysore.

Scenery from hill top outside temple.

Ashta Vidha Archane in the Sanctum

Sri Swamiji offers prayers to Vijaya Parshwa Natha, the main deity in the Kshetra

Padmavathy Devi idol

The Mahaveera idol. The behind cup board contains rare and ancient Tala Patra (palm leaf) texts