The Sri Adinatha Jain Temple, located in Danavulapadu village in Kadapa district, Andhra Pradesh, is a historically and spiritually significant site dedicated to Lord Adinatha (Rishabhanatha), the first Tirthankara of Jainism. Though not as widely known as other temples, it is one of the oldest Jain heritage sites in South India, showcasing the region's connection with Jain dharma during ancient times.
📜 Sthala Puranam – The
Sacred Legend of Danavulapadu
1. Divine Footsteps of Lord Rishabhanatha:
_ According to Jain belief and local tradition, Lord Adinatha, the first
Tirthankara, is said to have blessed this region during his travels,
sanctifying the land with his presence.
_It is believed that during his lifetime (in the prehistoric age of Jain
cosmology), Rishabhanatha practiced meditation and preached dharma in
various parts of ancient India, and this site was one of his spiritual
halting points.
2. Establishment by Jain Acharyas and Kings:
_ The temple is thought to have been built during the reign of the
Western Ganga dynasty or Rashtrakutas, who were great patrons of
Jainism.
_ The original shrine is believed to have been installed by Digambara
Jain monks and supported by local Jain merchant communities.
_ According to tradition, this region was once a flourishing Jain
settlement, and the temple stood as a beacon of spiritual learning,
ahimsa (non-violence), and tapasya (austerity).
3. Mystical Origin of the Idol:
_ The idol of Lord Adinatha (made of polished black stone) is believed
to be self-manifested (Swayambhu) by some local traditions, while others
say it was discovered during excavation by Jain devotees guided by
dreams and omens.
_ The idol is notable for its serene expression, meditative posture, and
intricate iconographic features that reflect deep spiritual symbolism.
3. Destruction and Rediscovery:
_During periods of foreign invasion and religious transitions, the
temple faced destruction and neglect.
_ Despite this, the core sanctum and the idol survived, protected by
nature and local reverence.
In the modern era, the temple was rediscovered, restored, and is now
under the care of the Jain community and heritage conservation bodies.
🪔 Spiritual Beliefs and
Practices
- The temple is considered a Tirtha Kshetra (pilgrimage site) for
Digambara Jains, with the belief that prayers and penance here yield
purity of soul, removal of karmic bondage, and spiritual upliftment.
- It is especially sacred during Adinatha Jayanti and other Jain
festivals like Mahavir Jayanti and Paryushan.
🏯 Architectural
Highlights
_ The temple showcases early medieval Jain architecture with carved
pillars, sculpted mandapas, and a peaceful sanctum.
_ Nearby inscriptions and relics suggest the existence of Jain
monasteries, schools (pathshalas), and monk communities centuries ago.
📍 Cultural and
Historical Significance
- Danavulapadu stands as a silent testimony to the spread of Jainism in
South India, especially in the Rayalaseema region.
- The temple is often visited by Jain pilgrims from across India,
historians, and archaeologists who seek to understand the depth of Jain
influence in Andhra Pradesh.
_ It is listed as a protected archaeological monument and is part of
ongoing preservation efforts.
Conclusion
The Sri Adinatha Jain Temple of Danavulapadu is more than just an
ancient structure; it is a spiritual time capsule carrying echoes of
Jain monks, royal patronage, and unwavering faith in non-violence and
truth. With Lord Adinatha's serene form at its heart, the temple invites
all seekers—Jain and non-Jain alike—to experience the tranquility of
meditation, the power of self-discipline, and the eternal light of Jina
dharma.