Kunthunath Bhagwan – The Seventeenth Tirthankara

Kunthunath Bhagwan was the seventeenth Tirthankara of the present Avasarpini Kaal (the descending half-cycle of time) in Jainism. A beacon of spiritual knowledge, he guided countless beings on the path of Ahimsa (non-violence), Satya (truth), and Tyag (renunciation), ultimately leading them toward liberation.

Birth and Early Life of Kunthunath Bhagwan

He was born in Hastinapur (present-day Uttar Pradesh, India) to King Shursen and Queen Shree Devi of the Ikshvaku dynasty. His birth was marked by divine signs, foretelling his spiritual greatness. He had a golden complexion and a height of 35 Dhanush (approximately 105 feet). His auspicious symbol was the Goat (Bakra), representing patience and resilience.

Kunthunath Bhagwan lived for an astonishing 95 lakh Purva and guided multitudes toward righteousness. He renounced all worldly pleasures and attained Keval Gyan (omniscience), ultimately achieving Moksha at Sammed Shikharji.

Life Events & Kalyanaks of Kunthunath Bhagwan

• Garbh Kalyanak (Conception) – Queen Shree Devi experienced 14 auspicious dreams, heralding the birth of a divine soul.
• Janma Kalyanak (Birth) – His birth was celebrated grandly in the city of Hastinapur.
• Diksha Kalyanak (Renunciation) – After deep reflection on life’s impermanence, he renounced his kingdom and adopted the ascetic life.

Lesser-Known & Interesting Facts of Kunthunath Bhagwan

• Name Origin – His name "Kunthunath" is derived from the rare and radiant Kunthu Mani gem believed to exist during his era.
• Spiritual Legacy – He had thousands of disciples who followed his teachings on the path to Moksha.
• Influence on Royalty – Many kings renounced their thrones after hearing his sermons and embraced Jainism.
• Samavsharan – His divine spiritual assembly was attended by humans, celestial beings, and even animals.
• Tirtha Expansion – His influence led to the creation of many Jain temples and monastic centers.

Worship & Temples of Kunthunath Bhagwan

• Hastinapur Jain Temples – Honored as his birthplace with beautiful shrines dedicated to him.
• Sammed Shikharji – Sacred site where he attained Moksha.
• Shri Mahavirji (Rajasthan) – Houses idols of many Tirthankaras, including Kunthunath Bhagwan.

Kunthunath Bhagwan: Questions & Answers

1) What is the symbol (Lanchan) of Kunthunath Bhagwan?
His symbol is a Goat (Bakra), signifying patience, endurance, and spiritual growth.

2) How tall was Kunthunath Bhagwan?
He was 35 Dhanush tall, approximately 105 feet.

3) What was the complexion of Kunthunath Bhagwan?
He had a golden complexion, representing divine brilliance and purity.

4) How long did Kunthunath Bhagwan live?
He lived for 95 lakh Purva, an immense lifespan according to Jain cosmology.

5) In which time period (Yug) was he born?
He was born during the Avasarpini Kaal, the descending cycle of time.