Shri Devgadh Tirth
Mulnayak
Nearly 375 cm. High, Light - red- colored idol of Bhagawan Shantinath in the Padmasana posture.
Tirth
It is among the hills on the bank of the Betva river at a distance of 3 kilometers from the Devgadh village.
Historicity
It is believed that this place was named as Devagadh in the 12th or the 13th century of the Vikram era. This city was named as Devagadh because it is believed that gods constructed it. There are many ancient idols of various artistry. That is also a reason why it was named Devagadh. On stone inscriptions and pillars of this place, there are inscriptions belonging to the period from the eight to the fifteenth century. Works of art seem to belong to a period earlier than the Gupta age. This tirth presents ancient idols of gods and goddesses, yaksas and yaksinis. Their artistic styles are varied. Pavilion and pillars are splendid specimens of sculpture. On the hills, there are 31 large temples. In all the temples, there are ancient specimens of distinct art. There is also a stone inscription with carvings in eighteen scripts.
Other Temples
On the hills there are in all 39 temples besides this.
Works of art and Sculpture
In temples of this tirth, there are extraordinary and wonderful specimens of art. The special type of iconography of this place is difficult to be found elsewhere. Thousands of idols are made in various styles. Pilgrims feel that they are fortunate to see this art. Also, here is a museum, which stores special, ancient, artistic and spectacular idols. It is extremely difficult to describe the numerous, artistic idols of this place. The works of art of this place have a distinct value and they are outstanding, matchless and famous all over the world.
Guidelines
The nearest railway station of Lalitpur is at a distance of 31 kilometers. Bus service and private vehicles are available. They can go as far as the hill. Boarding and lodging provisions are there in Devgadh.
Trust
Shri Devgadh Kshetra Digambar Jain Prebendh Samiti, Devgadh. Taluka : Lalitpur, Dist.: Zansi, State : Uttar Pradesh, India. Phone: 05176-276311(Secretary), 282533(Kshetra)