Paithan, historically known as Pratiṣṭhāna, is a prominent Jain heritage site in Aurangabad district, Maharashtra, India, located on the banks of the Godavari River. Renowned for its 3.5-foot black stone idol of Tirthankar Munisuvratnath in sukhasana posture, Paithan has a significant Jain legacy.
Historical Background
- Location: It is 56 kilometers from Aurangabad.
- Satavahana Dynasty Capital: It served as the capital of the Satavahana dynasty from the 2nd century BCE to the 2nd century CE, flourishing as a center of politics and commerce.
- Spiritual Hub: Paithan has been associated with many spiritual leaders across religions, including Jainism, Hinduism, and Buddhism, over centuries.
Jain Significance and Mythology – It is believed that Lord Rama worshiped the idol of Tirthankar Munisuvratnath. Acharya Badhrabahu, the last Srutakevali of Jainism, visited Paithan in the 3rd century BCE with Chandragupta Maurya and a large following of disciples while en route to Shravanabelagola.
Other Religious Influences – It is deeply tied to Hindu saints and philosophers, earning it the title “Santpura” for its legacy in the bhakti movement. Saint Eknath, a Marathi saint, lived here, and his shrine attracts many visitors during the annual Paithan Yatra (Nath Shashti). Nearby Apegaon village, birthplace of Saint Dnyaneshwar, lies 12 kilometers from Paithan on the Godavari’s northern bank.
Historical Importance in Trade and Politics – Pratishthana, or Paithan, was a significant trade center with ancient links to Western markets, noted in the 1st-century Greek text Periplus of the Erythraean Sea. Paithan’s exports, especially textiles like Paithani, gained international fame. To curb extravagant imports, Roman officials even restricted imports of luxurious items from Paithan.
Archaeological Findings – Paithan has yielded numerous archaeological artifacts from the Satavahana period and beyond, including terracotta beads, bangles, and coins. Some coins predate the Satavahanas, indicating the city’s ancient connections with the Western world.
Historical Myths and Rulers of Paithan – According to Hindu mythology, King Sudyumna founded Pratishthana after seeking blessings from Shiva and Parvati. Later, the city served as a capital for various empires, including the Asmaka and Yadava dynasties. The Chalukya ruler Pulakesin II later claimed the city, cementing its reputation as a major historical center.
Religious and Cultural Evolution – Since the Satavahana period, Paithan has been a confluence of Jainism, Buddhism, and Vedic religions. During the medieval period, Paithan continued as a significant center for religious movements.
Paithan During the Maratha Period – The Marathas valued Paithan for its religious and economic significance. Chhatrapati Shivaji halted at Paithan in 1679 and appointed a local priest, solidifying its spiritual importance as a moksha-tirtha (place of liberation). The Peshwas maintained close ties with Paithan, appreciating its Paithani textiles and supporting its religious institutions.
Paithan’s rich heritage and historical contributions in politics, religion, and trade underscore its importance as a city that has significantly shaped Maharashtra’s cultural landscape.
Main Deity – 3.5 feet black coloured stone idol of Tirthankar Munisuvratnath/Munisuvrata in sukhasana posture.
Main Temple – The main deity of the temple is located in the basement. The walls of the basement are decorated with attractive glass work related to Jainism, Jain mythology stories, and Tirthankar images. The ground floor of the temple houses the idols of Bahubali, Tirthankar Adinath, Kshetrapala, Munisuvrata, Aranath, other deities and Jain Acharyas. The pinnacle of the temple has an idol of Tirthankar Parshwanath in padmasana posture.
Accommodation – Good accommodation facilities at the dharmashala located adjascent to the temple. It has AC rooms, normal rooms and hall with good facilities.