This time, I am taking you all to a Jain temple in Mattancherry, Kochi, my home town . I feel this could be a different experience for all my dear readers as it was for me. As I entered this temple peace enveloped me as I could feel the tranquility inside. This temple is an ideal place to meditate and I could see many were doing so.
The motto of Janisim is AHIMSA . Ahimsa Parmodharma is the greatest law. No violence even in thoughts and action, respecting all the individuals, flora and fauna too and they follow the path of Live and Let Live. GREAT VALUES. Hatred and violence cannot be eradicated by counter violence and counter hatred but by love and spirit of forgetting and forgiving, i.e Kshama I think if every one understands and starts emulating these values it would bring lot of peace on earth. Jainisim believes in equality of man and does not recognize caste , creed and untouchability. It also lays emphasis on Karma theory " What you sow you reap". It is open to all. They also believe in unity and celebrate all the major festivals like Paryushanparva. It is an eight day festival and the community works together to make it a successful one.
The main idol in the temple is of Bhagawan Shri Dharamnath the 15th Jain Tirthankar. This temple was constructed in the year 1904AD. As it has completed a century this has become a JAIN TIRTH.When I visited the temple it was the time of the festival and during this period they eat only cooked and steamed pulses with out using oil or spices known as Ambel . Fasting and meditation is an excellent way to discipline the self.
There is a common belief among many that Lord Mahavir was the founder of Jainism. He was the 24th Tirthankar and was renowned as the apostle of Ahimsa and harbinger of peace. Jainism existed thousands of years earlier to Lord Mahavir. This trip helped me to clarify that doubt I had in my mind too. The first Tirthankar was Lord Rushabdev. There are many shrines inside the temples dedicated to various Tirthankars and Goddesses .Many Jain Tirth Sthans are beautifully depicted on the walls of the shrine.. This was a new experience for me as I was accustomed to visiting only South Indian temples. I have provided the information collected from the temple office which is under the care of Shree Cochin Swetambar Murtipujak Sangh. Those who are desirous of getting more information may log on to http://www.jaintemplecochin.org/
How to reach:
The nearest railway station is Ernakulam Junction which is 10 Kms from Mattancherry.
Nearest airport is Nedumbassery.
Private buses ply from Ernakulam to Mattancherry.
Nearest airport is Nedumbassery.
Private buses ply from Ernakulam to Mattancherry.
One can avail ferry service also from Ernakulam to Mattancherry.
Budget and luxury hotels are available in Ernakulam and Wellington Island which is between Ernakulam and Mattancherry.
Budget and luxury hotels are available in Ernakulam and Wellington Island which is between Ernakulam and Mattancherry.
