Trilokyanath temple, Tiruparuthikundram

location Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu

Tangible

Overview

The Trilokyanatha Temple, also known as the Thirupparuthikundram Jain Temple or Jeenaswamy Trilokyanathar Temple, is a remarkable 8th-century Digambara Jain temple located in Thiruparthikundram, in the northeastern region of Kanchipuram in Tamil Nadu, India. This temple holds significant historical and architectural significance and has left an indelible mark on the local culture. The area surrounding the temple is often referred to as Jain Kanchi, attesting to its cultural importance.

This stone temple is primarily dedicated to the Jain Tirthankaras, but it stands out due to its unique integration of Hindu deities alongside Jain deities within its premises, particularly as Ksetrapalas, demonstrating a harmonious coexistence of religious traditions. Constructed in the distinctive Dravidian architectural style, this temple was originally built during the reign of Narasimhavarman II of the Pallava dynasty, showcasing the rich heritage of the region.

Over the centuries, the Trilokyanatha Temple underwent expansions and renovations, a testament to its enduring cultural and religious relevance. The Jain community received financial support for these endeavors from various ruling dynasties, including the Medieval Cholas, later Pallavas, and Vijayanagar kings.

Architecture

Architecturally, the temple boasts a magnificent three-tiered gopuram, which serves as the gateway tower. Within the temple premises, there are three parallel shrines. The central shrine features the image of Mahavira, a significant figure in Jainism. To the north lies the image of Lokanathar, the 24th Tirthankara, while the southern side houses Neminatha. Notably, all three sanctums have circular shapes and contain bronze images of these revered figures. In the sanctum of Mahavira, one can also find Dharmadevi and a Tirthankara on each side.
As you traverse the temple, you’ll come across painted pillars within the hall leading to the sanctum, reminiscent of the ornate artistry seen in other South Indian Hindu temples. Additionally, the temple features a flag post, known as Dwajasthambam, positioned between the entrance and the sanctum, a common feature in such temples.

The Trilokyanatha Temple is adorned with an array of captivating paintings on its ceilings, with captions inscribed in Tamil-Grantha script. These paintings predominantly depict the life story of Krishna, reflecting the assimilation of Jain scriptures with this popular Hindu deity. Notably, the temple houses a unique Adinatha subshrine, which has remained unchanged since the 16th century.

In essence, the Trilokyanatha Temple stands as a living testament to the rich tapestry of India’s cultural and religious heritage, where Jain and Hindu traditions converge in architectural splendor and historical significance.

How to Reach
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By Road
Thiruparuthikundram can be reach via NH48 (GST Road) connecting from Chennai and Kanchipura. Both public and private transportation available.
By Train
The nearest railway station to Thiruparthikundram is the "Chengalpattu Junction" railway station, which is approximately 16 kilometers away.
By Air
The nearest major airport to Thiruparthikundram is the Chennai International Airport (MAA), located approximately 65 kilometers away.

Framed Grandeur: Highlights of Trilokyanatha temple

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