Sri Pavapuri, The Land Where Lord Mahavira Attained Nirvana.

Summary

J. L. Jaini’s travelogue takes readers to Srī Pāvāpuri, the site where Lord Mahavira attained nirvana. Pilgrims travel from Bakhtiarpur to Behar and then seven miles by bullock cart, ekka or tandem through palm‑lined roads and across the dried‑up Paimar River. Nearing Pāvāpuri they glimpse the Panchapahari hills and enter a hamlet whose simplicity belies its sacred significance. Half a dozen temples built by Śvetāmbara and Digambara sects commemorate Mahavira’s nirvana. Most visitors arrive during Diwali, when Mahavira attained liberation, and continue until March. The main temple stands on an island in a tank; a low chamber houses three niches — the central one bearing Mahavira’s foot‑impressions and the others those of his disciples Gautama Svami and Sudharmāchārya. The tranquil surroundings, lotus‑strewn waters and playful fish evoke a sense of peace and purity. Jaini remarks that pilgrimages, undertaken in the right spirit, foster self‑confidence, broaden perspectives and encourage cooperation among co‑religionists. He cites the English custom of sending youth on a tour of Europe and Bacon’s praise of travel to illustrate how journeys enrich understanding. At the same time he warns against pilgrimages used merely for fundraising or preserving old customs without improvement. True benefit arises when travellers use such occasions to deepen their faith and work to refine the changing details of religious practice. He hopes his educated brethren will seize the opportunity to visit Pāvāpuri, sit at the hallowed feet of Mahavira and return inspired to pursue peace, joy and truth.