जैन तीर्थकरों की शाश्वत जन्मभूमि अयोध्या
By Vijaykumar Pandeya, Alok Kumar Mishra
Summary
This research paper examines the historical and archaeological significance of Ayodhya as an eternal Jain pilgrimage site, focusing on the births of five Jain Tirthankaras. According to Jain tradition, Ayodhya is considered the perpetual birthplace of Tirthankaras in every cycle of time. The paper identifies that five of the twenty-four Tirthankaras of the current descending era were born in Ayodhya: Lord Rishabhdev (Adinath), Lord Ajitnath, Lord Abhinandannath, Lord Sumatinath, and Lord Anantnath. The study cites various ancient Jain texts, including the Tiloyapannatti and Adipurana, to provide specific details about each Tirthankara's birth, including their parents, the lunar day, and the constellation under which they were born. The paper clarifies that while only the first Tirthankara's birth is explicitly mentioned as occurring in "Ayodhya," the other four are described as being born in "Saket" or "Saketpuri," which are established as alternative names for Ayodhya. Other historical names for the city include Kaushal, Vinita, Rampuri, and Vishakha. The research also documents the current state of Jain temples and memorial shrines (tonks) in Ayodhya dedicated to these Tirthankaras, noting their locations and historical inscriptions. Many of these sites were restored through the efforts of Jain nun Aryika Shri Gyanmati Mataji. The paper concludes that based on ancient Jain literature and archaeological evidence, Ayodhya's status as an eternal Jain pilgrimage site is confirmed.
Conclusion
This study confirms that Ayodhya is not only the birthplace of Lord Rama but also the eternal and sacred birthplace of five Jain Tirthankaras: Rishabhadeva, Ajitanatha, Abhinandananatha, Sumatinatha, and Anantanatha. The research, supported by ancient Jain texts and archaeological evidence, establishes Ayodhya’s identity as a timeless Jain pilgrimage site. The ongoing preservation and restoration of the Tirthankaras’ memorial shrines (tonks) in Ayodhya, driven by the efforts of Jain ascetics, ensure that this sacred heritage remains accessible for worship. These findings reinforce Ayodhya’s unique status as a shared spiritual center, highlighting its profound significance for both Jain and Hindu traditions and underscoring the need for continued scholarly and devotional attention to its multi-religious legacy.