Exploring Thrilokayanathar Temple: Thirupparuthikundram Jain Temple & Jeenaswamy Trilokyanathar Temple / Sri Digambar Jain Temple – A Stunning Fusion of Jain & Dravidian Architecture in Thiruparuthikundram, Kanchipuram | History, Temple Timings, Contact Details & Travel Guide (Updated)

– jain temple representing the grand pallava architecture

The Trilokyanatha / Trilokyanthar Temple, also known as the Thirupparuthikundram Jain Temple or Jeenaswamy Trilokyanathar Temple, is a historically significant 8th-century Digambara Jain temple located in Thiruparthikundram, a historic suburb about 8 km from Kanchipuram. Often referred to as Jain Kanchi, Kanchipuram was once a flourishing center of Jain culture, spirituality, and education, making this temple an integral part of the region’s rich religious legacy.

This stone temple, dedicated to the Jain Tirthankaras, is especially unique due to its harmonious fusion of Jain and Hindu elements. Hindu deities, particularly as Kshetrapalas (guardian deities), are integrated into the temple’s design, showcasing a rare spiritual amalgamation. Built in the Dravidian architectural style, the temple’s origins trace back to the Pallava dynasty, specifically during the reign of Narasimhavarman II (700–728 CE), with later expansions under the Cholas, Pallavas, and Vijayanagara kings. Today, it is protected by the Tamil Nadu Department of Archaeology, under the care of hereditary trustees. The Pallava rulers, who reigned from the 4th to the 9th century CE, played a pivotal role in promoting Jainism in Kanchipuram.

History of Trilokyanatha Temple / Thiruparuthikundram Jain temple / Jeenaswamy Trilokyanathar temple

The Trilokyanatha Temple’s history reflects the influence of Jainism on the Pallava dynasty, particularly during the reign of early Pallava rulers who were known to have embraced Jainism. Local legends attribute the temple’s construction to a Pallava disciple of Jain sages Vamana and Mallisena, while other sources credit the temple’s foundation to Simhavishnu, the first Pallava king, in the late 6th century.

Built around 800 CE, the temple’s significance is further highlighted by inscriptions from various dynasties, including:
– Narasimhavarman II (Pallava dynasty, 700–728 CE)
– Rajendra Chola I (1054–1063 CE)
– Kulothunga Chola I (1070–1120 CE)
– Vikrama Chola (1118–1135 CE)
– Krishnadevaraya (Vijayanagara Empire, 1509–1529 CE)

These inscriptions reveal the long-standing patronage and endowments bestowed upon the temple. The 13th-century murals were repainted during the 15th–16th centuries under Krishnadevaraya. Additionally, the gopuram (tower) was constructed in 1199 CE by Sage Pushpasena Vamanarya, with further expansions in the 13th century and the addition of the Sangeetha Mandapa (Musical Hall) in 1387 CE.

Architectural Marvel of Trilokyanatha Temple / Thiruparuthikundram Jain temple / Jeenaswamy Trilokyanathar temple

The Trilokyanatha Temple showcases the beauty of Dravidian architecture, featuring a three-tiered gopuram (gateway tower) and intricate carvings that adorn its structure. The temple houses three parallel sanctums:
– The central shrine enshrines an image of Mahavira.
– The northern shrine is dedicated to Lokanathar, the 24th Tirthankara.
– The southern shrine is dedicated to Neminatha, another revered Tirthankara.

Spectacular wall paintings on the ceiling

The wall paintings span the entire ceiling and are absolutely spectacular. Each sanctum is circular, containing bronze idols of the deities, with the Mahavira sanctum further enhanced by Dharmadevi and a Tirthankara on either side, epitomizing Jain iconography. The temple is also renowned for its painted pillars leading to the sanctum and its captivating ceiling murals, which feature Tamil-Grantha script captions. These paintings depict Jain scriptures and the life of Krishna, symbolizing the cultural fusion of Jain and Hindu stories.

The Adinatha sub-shrine, which remains preserved in its original 16th-century form, adds to the temple’s historical and architectural value.

Cultural Significance of the Trilokyanatha Temple

For over 600 years, the Trilokyanatha Temple was administered by traditional trustees before its management was taken over by the Tamil Nadu Department of Archaeology in 1991. Kanchipuram has long been a center of Jainism and cultural exchange, and the surrounding area of Parutti (meaning cotton) highlights the town’s historical importance in handloom weaving—a tradition that continues today, with Kanchipuram being famous for its silk sarees.

The temple stands as a testament to the patronage Jain ascetics received from Tamil kings and the spread of Digambara Jainism throughout the region. Its rich history underscores Kanchipuram’s role as a prominent seat of Jain learning and spiritual influence.

Key Features of Trilokyanatha Temple / Thiruparuthikundram Jain temple / Jeenaswamy Trilokyanathar temple

1. Historical Inscriptions: Inscriptions from Pallava, Chola, and Vijayanagar dynasties document endowments and expansions, emphasizing the temple’s historical significance.
2. Architectural Wonders: The temple boasts three sanctums, painted pillars, and exquisite ceiling murals, all reflecting the grandeur of Dravidian architecture.
3. Cultural Fusion: A harmonious blend of Jain and Hindu elements, making the Trilokyanatha Temple a unique spiritual site.
4. Preservation: The temple is a protected monument under the Tamil Nadu Archaeological Department.
5. Legacy of Learning: The temple’s role in promoting Jainism in Tamil Nadu underscores Kanchipuram’s legacy as a center of learning and spiritual knowledge.

The Sangeetha Mandapam: A Cultural Masterpiece

The Sangeetha Mandapam, added during the Vijayanagara period in the 14th century, stands out for its architectural beauty. Measuring 61 feet in length, the mandapam is supported by 24 intricately designed pillars. The ceiling, decorated with 15th-century paintings in the Vijayanagara style, depicts the life stories of three prominent Tirthankaras—Rishabadeva, Neminatha, and Mahavira.

Enduring Legacy of Jainism in Kanchipuram

The Jeenaswamy Trilokyanathar serve as reminders of Kanchipuram’s rich Jain heritage, which flourished under the Pallava dynasty and continues to inspire spiritual seekers and history enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re drawn to the art, architecture, or the deep spiritual legacy, these temples offer a profound experience for any traveler looking to explore the lesser-known facets of Kanchipuram.

Travel Tips for Trilokyanatha Temple / Thiruparuthikundram Jain temple / Jeenaswamy Trilokyanathar temple in Pillaiyarpalayam, Kanchipuram

Address of Trilokyanatha Temple / Thiruparuthikundram Jain temple / Jeenaswamy Trilokyanathar temple in Pillaiyarpalayam, Kanchipuram :

It is situated around 8 km from the center of Kanchipuram and about 70 km from Chennai.
Trilokyanatha Jain Temple, Thiruparthikundram, Kanchipuram – 631502

Temple Timings: Morning: 8.00 AM to Evening 6.00 PM
Phone Number: +91 9944502277 / +91 9655217018

How to reach Trilokyanatha Temple / Thiruparuthikundram Jain temple / Jeenaswamy Trilokyanathar temple in Pillaiyarpalayam, Kanchipuram

By Road: Thiruparthikundram, where the Trilokyanatha Jain Temple is located, is easily accessible by road from both Chennai and Kanchipuram. The temple is about 70 kilometers from Chennai, and the drive takes around 1.5 to 2 hours via Chennai-Kanchipuram Highway (NH 48) or Chennai-Kanchipuram Road. From Kanchipuram, it is only about 7-8 km, and the drive takes 15-20 minutes. You can travel by private car, taxi, or bus from both cities, with bus services available from Chennai Mofussil Bus Terminus (CMBT) and Kanchipuram Bus Stand.

By Train: The nearest railway stations to the Trilokyanatha Jain Temple are Maraimalai Nagar Railway Station and Kanchipuram Railway Station. From Chennai, you can board a train from Chennai Egmore or Chennai Central Railway Station, with the journey taking 1 to 1.5 hours to Maraimalai Nagar, from where you can take a short taxi or auto-rickshaw to the temple. Alternatively, from Kanchipuram Railway Station, which is about 7-8 km from the temple, you can easily reach the temple by taxi or auto in 15-20 minutes.

By Air: The nearest airport to the Trilokyanatha Jain Temple is Chennai International Airport (MAA), about 70 kilometers away.

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