Credit: Saikat Sarkar
About Nasiyan Temple
Jain architecture is quite prevalent in the western and southern parts of India. The temples are quite famous for their beautiful carvings. Soniji ki Nasiyan, also known as the Ajmer Jain Temple, is a unique example of such a type. The temple’s chamber consists of 1000 kg of gold to depict Ayodha.
History
Every temple is dedicated to one of the 24 tirthankaras, which are greatly revered by the Jain community. Nasiyan temple is dedicated to Rishabadev, who is first of the 24 tirthankaras. Rai Bahadur Seth Moolchand and Nemichand Soni laid the foundation of the temple on October 10, 1864 and completed on May 26, 1865. The whole temple’s construction was carried out under the instruction of Pandit Sadasukhdasji of Jaipur.
Made of red sandstone, the temple was earlier known as Siddhkoot Chaityalaya but later, when the main chamber, known as the Swarna Nagari “City of Gold,” was added, people began to call it ‘Sone ka Mandir’ or ‘Soni Mandir’
Architecture
The temple architecture is quite fascinating, with the use of wood, red sandstone marble, etc. At the entrance, the gate of big redstone welcomes the visitors. The marble stairs lead from there to the main temple. Unique carvings on the pillars and images of different Tirthankars on the walls are just eye-catching. A large white marble idol of Lord Rishabhnath in the “Samavasarana” makes the whole atmosphere spiritual.
Other parts of the temple
Vedi’s
Vedis constitute an important part of rituals in Jain religion. There are 3 vedi’s where idols of Tirthankaras are installed to perform rituals by jains only.
Shantinath statue
The largest Shantinath statue in the world is 54 feet long.
Manastambha
82 feet high, Manastambha is a beautifully and artistically designed structure located inside the temple complex. Manastambha foundation was laid out by R. B. Seth Tikamchand Soni and B. Seth Sir Bhagchand Soni.
Library
A big library was established in 1974 under the auspicious presence of 108 Acharya Vidyasagar. It was established by R.B. Seth Sir Bhagchand Soni. The library houses rare Jain scriptures that are great sources of resources to scholars.
Visitors
The temple includes a number of visitors ranging from Dr. Rajendra Prasad, Prime Ministers Jawaharlal Nehru, Indra Gandhi, Morarji Desai, & Rajiv Gandhi to Commander-in-Chief General K.M. Kariappa.
Map and Location of Nasiyan Temple
Located at a distance of just 1 km from Ajmer Junction Railway station and 1.5 km from Ajmer Dargah Sharif, the place is easily accessible to visitors.