History – The history of Varanasi/Kashi begins from the time of Bhagawan Adinatha. The four Kalyanas of Bhagawan Suparshwanatha and Parshwanath viz the Garbha, Janma (Birth), Diksha and Kevalagnana (omniscience) have taken place at this place. It was the capital of king Malla during the period of Bhagawan Mahavira. We can find a mention about this place in the book ‘ Vividh Tirth Kalpa’ written by Acharya Jinaprabhsurisvarji in the 14th Century. It is also said that Yaksha Daranendra and Yakshi Padmavathi of Bhagawan Parshwanath had lived in this region thereby increasing the sanctity of the place. It is said that the Swayamvara of Sulochana, daughter of the king of Kashi/Varanasi was arranged at this place.
Temples – We can find twenty-five Digambara and Swetambara temples at this place.
Parshwanath Jain Temples at Bhelupur – This is the place of birth of Tirthankar Parshwanath. Beautiful Jain temples dedicated to Parshwanath with 2 different Jain temples as per the Digambar and Swethambar Jain sects are built here. The main deity of the Digambar temple is a 75 centimeters (2.46 ft) black-colored idol of Parshvanath dating back to the 9th-11th century. The main deity of the Swethambar temple is a 60 centimeters (2.0 ft) white-colored idol of Parswanath. It is located in Bhelapur about 5 km from the center of Varanasi city and 3 km from the Benares Hindu University.
Johriji Temple – The diamond idol of the Tirthankar at Johriji temple is very unique. During the last renovation, the present idol was installed as Mulnayak in place of the old idol in the Swetambara temple. The old idol can be found on the temple premises.
How to Reach – Kashi is situated at a distance of 3 kilometers from Varanasi.
Main Deity – About 2 feet high white coloured idol of Bhagawan Parshwanatha in the padmasana posture.