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News Topical, Digital Desk : Lord Mahavira was the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism. Every year, the thirteenth day of the bright fortnight of the month of Chaitra is celebrated as Lord Mahavira's birth anniversary. This year, Mahavir Jayanti will be celebrated on March 31, 2026.

Lord Mahavira's life exemplifies spiritual inclination, devotion, and austerity. Born into a royal family, Prince Vardhamana transformed his life through spirituality and became known as Lord Mahavira. On the auspicious occasion of Mahavir Jayanti, the historical legacy of Jainism must also be discussed.

There are many famous and historic Jain temples throughout the world, including India. But today, we'll tell you about those Jain temples in neighboring Pakistan. The remarkable thing is that Pakistan boasts not just one or two, but numerous Jain temples. Many of these temples have now fallen into ruins, while some are still visited by people. Some have been completely demolished for commercial reasons. 

According to historical records, numerous Jain temples and their remains exist in Pakistan. However, six of these temples are most widely discussed and mentioned as ancient Jain temples. One temple dates back approximately 800 years, while another is said to date back to the 9th century. These temples still bear witness to the rich tradition and history of Jainism.

Jain Temple in Pakistan

Jain Digambar Temple - This temple has a spire, but currently operates as an Islamic school. The temple was demolished during the 1992 riots, when Islamic extremists were protesting the demolition of the Babri Masjid and violence against Muslims in India. 

Nagar Bazar Temple - This temple is also fully preserved, including its spire and torona entrance. The entrance is grand, free-standing, and ornamented. It is said that this temple was in use until Pakistan's independence in 1947 and for a few years thereafter. It is located in the main market of the town of Nagar Parkar.

Karronjar Jain Temple - Karronjar Jain Temple is located in the foothills of the Karronjar range in present-day Pakistan, known for the Nagarparkar temples.

Bhodesar Jain Temple - This Jain temple is located near Nagarparkar in the Sindh province of Pakistan. The temple has a long history, although it is now in ruins. The oldest of these temples is said to date back to the 9th century, while the other two temples date back to the 14th and 15th centuries.

Virvah Jain Temple - The Virvah Jain Temple is a collection of the remains of Jain temples here. One temple here had 27 devkulikas, ornate pillars surrounding the sacred shrine.

Gori Jain Temple - This temple, along with 52 subsidiary temples, was built in 1375-76 AD. It is dedicated to Gori Parshvanath, the 23rd Tirthankara of Jainism, and is located 24 miles from Virvah. The temple was added to the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List in 2016.


Read More: Jain Temple in Pakistan: There are many Jain temples in Pakistan, one of which even reached the UNESCO World Heritage List.

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