The Hutheesing Jain Temple is not just a place of worship—it’s a living cultural landmark, a symbol of faith and architectural excellence, and a must-visit religious tourism site. Whether you’re drawn by its artistry, history, or peaceful ambience, it promises a deeply enriching experience.
Why Hutheesing Jain Temple Deserves the Spotlight?
If you’ve ever strolled through the heritage trails of Ahmedabad, Gujarat, you’ve likely heard about the Hutheesing Jain Temple. This iconic Jain pilgrimage site blends spirituality and stunning temple architecture. This sacred site isn’t just another structure; it’s a timeless chapter from India’s cultural heritage, a place of spiritual reflection, and an architectural masterpiece that commands reverence.
What This Article Will Cover?
This comprehensive guide explores the religious, cultural, and architectural significance of Hutheesing Jain Temple. We will dive into its history, the visionary behind it, its symbolic architecture, temple rituals, Jain festivals, and travel tips for religious tourists. Whether you’re a Jain devotee, heritage lover, or a curious traveller, this guide is your key to understanding the legacy of this revered temple.
The Historical Roots of Hutheesing Jain Temple
When Was It Built?
Constructed in 1848 during a period of severe famine in Gujarat, the Hutheesing Jain Temple was more than a religious project — it was a beacon of social welfare. Providing jobs to hundreds became a spiritual monument of hope.
The Man Behind the Marvel – Seth Hutheesing
Seth Hutheesing, a prominent Shwetambara Jain merchant, commissioned this sacred monument in honour of the 15th Tirthankara, Lord Dharmanath. After his untimely death, his wife continued the work, supported by a temple trust.
Architectural Genius – Premchand Salat
Architect Premchand Salat, renowned for his mastery of Maru-Gurjara temple design, combined it with Mughal-style jali work and toranas to create a one-of-a-kind structure.
Architectural Brilliance and Design
Temple Structure and Materials
Crafted from white marble, the temple stands within a symmetrical courtyard adorned with jali windows, arched balconies, and lotus motifs. The sanctum sanctorum, or garbhagriha, houses a serene idol of Lord Dharmanath.
52 Devakulikas and Symbolism
Within the temple are 52 devakulikas—miniature shrines dedicated to different Tirthankaras. This design reflects the unity in diversity within the Jain tradition.
The Manastambha – Pillar of Devotion
Standing tall at 78 feet, the Manastambha was inspired by Kirti Stambha of Chittorgarh. It is a symbol of humility and spiritual pride, greeting every devotee at the entrance.
Religious Importance and Jain Cultural Influence
Spiritual Vibes and Jain Teachings
The temple echoes Jain’s philosophical elements—clarity, compassion, and spiritual purity. The minimalist design of the idol, open space, and symmetry reflect Jain Agama principles.
Jain Festivals and Rituals
Festivals like Mahavir Jayanti, Paryushan, and Kartik Purnima are celebrated with grandeur—featuring community meals, puja rituals, and religious discourses. While non-Jains may not participate in rituals, they’re welcome to observe and experience the ambience.
Travel Guide to Hutheesing Jain Temple
Timings, Entry & Guidelines
- Morning: 8:00 AM
- Evening: 5:00 PM
- Closed during: 12 PM to 3 PM
- Entry Fee: Free, but spiritual etiquette is expected—remove shoes, dress modestly, and maintain silence.
Best Time to Visit
The winter months (November–February) are ideal for a serene experience. Early morning visits are recommended to enjoy the tranquil setting and avoid crowds.
How to Reach the Temple?
Location & Access
Located in Shahibaug, near Delhi Darwaza, the temple is easily accessible:
- Auto/Cab: Widely available
- AMTS Bus: Connected via city routes
- Train: 4 km from Ahmedabad Junction
- Air: 7 km from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport
Nearby Attractions
Make it a heritage circuit by visiting:
- Sidi Saiyyed Mosque
- Sabarmati Ashram
- Teen Darwaza
- Jama Masjid
Photography & Visitor Tips
- Photography: Allowed outside and in the courtyard (check with staff)
- Local Guide: Hiring one offers a deeper cultural context
- Temple Etiquette: No loud conversations, modest clothing, no touching idols
- Facilities: Though no Dharamshala exists on-site, nearby guesthouses cater to Jain tourists
FAQs
Is Hutheesing Jain Temple open to all visitors?
Yes! The temple welcomes everyone, regardless of religion or nationality, as long as visitors respect the customs.
How much time should I spend at the temple?
You can explore the temple comfortably in 30 to 45 minutes, but feel free to stay longer to soak in the atmosphere.
Are guides available for tourists at the temple?
While official guides aren’t stationed at the temple, you can hire local guides nearby for a small fee.
What are some nearby Jain temples worth visiting?
You can visit the Shree Sammet Shikharji Temple and Ajitnath Derasar in Ahmedabad for more Jain heritage.
Can I participate in religious rituals as a non-Jain?
You can observe the rituals, but active participation may be limited out of respect for religious practices.
What is the importance of the Hutheesing Jain temple?
The Hutheesing Jain Temple is a symbol of devotion, resilience, and heritage, built during a famine in 1848 to honour Lord Dharmanath, the 15th Jain Tirthankara.
What is the specialty of Jain temples?
Jain temples are known for their exquisite marble architecture, intricate carvings, spiritual serenity, and adherence to non-violence and purity in design.
Who was Hathi Singh?
Hathi Singh, or Seth Hutheesing, was a wealthy Jain merchant from Ahmedabad who commissioned the Hutheesing Jain Temple before his death.
How to worship in a Jain temple?
Worship involves entering barefoot, dressing modestly, offering prayers in silence, and sometimes performing rituals like abhisheka or meditation before the Tirthankara idols.
What is the history of Kabaleeswaran Kovil?
Kabaleeswaran Kovil, located in Chennai, is a historic Shaivite temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and not associated with Jainism.
How old is the Hutheesing Jain temple?
The temple was built in 1848, making it over 175 years old.
Who is the priest of the Jain temple?
Jain temples typically do not have priests in the Hindu sense. Devotees or temple caretakers often conduct rituals under guidance from Jain monks or scholars.
Which is the most ancient Jain temple in India?
The Shree Shikharji Temple in Jharkhand and the Meguti Temple in Aihole are among the oldest Jain temples, with origins dating back over 1,500 years.
What is the importance of Nithya Kalyana Perumal temple?
This temple is a prominent Vaishnavite temple located in Tamil Nadu, not linked with Jainism.
What is the history of Shankheshwar Jain temple?
Shankheshwar Jain Temple in Gujarat dates back to the 11th century and is dedicated to Parshvanatha, the 23rd Tirthankara.
What is the name of the important Jain text?
The most important Jain scriptures are the Agamas (for Shwetambaras) and Shatkhandagam or Kasayapahuda (for Digambaras).
What are the two famous Jain temples?
Two of the most famous Jain temples are Dilwara Temple in Mount Abu and Ranakpur Jain Temple in Rajasthan.
What is the most important part of Jain literature?
The core Jain literature includes texts on ethics, metaphysics, cosmology, and Tirthankara biographies, especially the Agamas and Kalpasutra.
Which is the oldest Jain temple in India?
The Meguti Temple at Aihole, Karnataka, built in 634 AD, is considered one of the oldest Jain temples.
Where are most Jains in India?
Most Jains reside in Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Madhya Pradesh.
Which is the most mysterious Jain temple in India?
The Gommateshwara Temple in Shravanabelagola is often considered mysterious due to its colossal monolithic statue and spiritual aura.
Which is the 100-year-old Jain temple?
Many Jain temples across India are over 100 years old. The Hutheesing Temple, built in 1848, is well over 100 years old.
Which city is famous for the Jain temple?
Palitana in Gujarat is one of the holiest Jain cities, home to over 900 temples on Shatrunjaya Hill.
Which is Asia’s biggest Jain mandir?
The Shree Shankheshwar Parshwanath Jain Temple is one of the largest Jain temples in Asia.
Which is the tallest Jain idol in India?
The Bahubali (Gommateshwara) statue in Shravanabelagola, Karnataka, stands at 57 feet and is the tallest free-standing Jain idol.
Which is the oldest Jain idol in the world?
Ancient idols like those found in Mathura date back to the 2nd century BCE, making them among the oldest known Jain idols.
Which is the most beautiful Jain temple?
The Dilwara Temples in Mount Abu are considered the most beautiful due to their detailed marble carvings and architectural brilliance.
When was the Hutheesing Jain temple built?
It was built in 1848 during a severe famine in Gujarat.
Where is the holy place of Jains?
Shikharji (Sammed Shikharji) in Jharkhand and Palitana in Gujarat are the holiest pilgrimage sites for Jains.
What is the most beautiful Jain temple in the world?
The Dilwara Temples in India are often considered the most beautiful Jain temples globally due to their unmatched artistry.
What are the two famous Jain temples?
Ranakpur Temple and Dilwara Temples are globally renowned for their heritage and architecture.
Who is the founder of Jainism?
Jainism has no single founder, but Rishabhanath is regarded as the first Tirthankara, and Mahavir is considered the reformer and last Tirthankara of this era.
Which is the largest Jain idol?
The Bahubali statue in Karnataka is the largest Jain idol.
Which is the holiest temple in Jain?
Shikharji is the holiest site, where 20 of the 24 Tirthankaras are believed to have attained moksha.
What should I wear in Jain Mandir?
Visitors should wear modest attire, full-sleeved tops, and covered legs, and avoid leather items or loud colours.
Which God is worshipped in the Jain temple?
Jains worship Tirthankaras, especially Lord Mahavira and Lord Parshvanath, who are enlightened teachers, not gods.
How old is Jainism?
Jainism is one of the world’s oldest religions, with roots dating back over 2,500 years.
Which city is known as Jain Temple City?
Palitana is known as the Jain temple city due to its sacred hills filled with temples.
What is the history of the Jain temple?
Jain temples have evolved since ancient times, with early cave temples and elaborate marble structures reflecting the religion’s growth and patronage.
Where is the Hathi Singh Dera situated?
The Hutheesing Jain Temple (Hathi Singh Dera) is located in Shahibaug, Ahmedabad, Gujarat.
Who built the Digambar Jain temple?
Many Digambar Jain temples were built by royal patrons, merchants, and Jain communities over centuries; specific names vary by temple.
How old is Varanga Jain Temple?
The Varanga Jain Temple in Karnataka dates back to the 9th century CE, making it over 1,100 years old.
Who built the Meguti Jain Temple?
The Meguti Jain Temple was built by Ravikeerti, a minister in the court of Chalukya King Pulakeshin II, in 634 AD.