Bhomiya Ji Maharaj – The Guardian of Sammed Shikharji

Bhomiya Ji Maharaj is the revered protector deity (kshetrapal) of the sacred Jain pilgrimage site Sammed Shikharji in Jharkhand, one of the holiest places in Jainism where 20 out of 24 Tirthankaras attained moksha. Unlike other deities who are symbolic or celestial, Bhomiya Ji is believed to embody the natural protective energy of the mountain itself, guiding and safeguarding devotees on their spiritual journey.

Origin and Story

According to Jain tradition:

• Bhomiya Ji was once a devout Jain king named Chandrashekhar.
  

• Before his death, he promised an Acharya that he would protect the Jain Sangh as a divine guardian.
  

• After death, though he initially enjoyed heavenly pleasures, he remembered his pledge and chose instead to become the protector of Sammed Shikharji.
  

• Since then, he has been revered as Bhomiya Ji Maharaj, the eternal guardian of the sacred hills.
  

Iconography and Presence

• Form: Bhomiya Ji is represented in the shape of a mountain deity, symbolizing the living spirit of Shikharji itself.
  

• Statue: A prominent, adored idol of Bhomiya Ji Maharaj is installed at the foothills of Shikharji, where devotees seek blessings before beginning their yatra (pilgrimage).
  

• Offerings: Devotees traditionally offer oil, vermillion, and prayers, while singing bhajans dedicated to him.
  

Significance to Devotees

• Protection: Seen as the guardian of the sacred hills, ensuring pilgrims’ safety from dangers, fear, and misfortune during their journey.
  

• Wishes Fulfilled: Many believe Bhomiya Ji fulfills heartfelt wishes, especially when invoked with faith.
  

• Miracles: Countless stories tell of devotees regaining lost vision, speech, or health after sincere prayers to Bhomiya Ji Maharaj.
  

• Pilgrimage Tradition: Every pilgrim visiting Sammed Shikharji traditionally first pays respect to Bhomiya Ji, seeking his permission and blessings before climbing the holy mountain.
  

Festivals and Worship

• • Holi Festival: The day of Bhomiya Ji Maharaj’s idol installation, celebrated annually on Holi, is his grand festival, drawing thousands of devotees.
    

  • Community Gatherings: Devotees unite in singing bhajans, performing rituals, and seeking protection for their families and communities.
    

  • Daily Faith: For many, Bhomiya Ji is not just a guardian of Shikharji but also a protector in everyday life, invoked for strength and courage.
    

Hidden Fact

🔎 Hidden Fact: Pilgrims believe that without first taking blessings from Bhomiya Ji Maharaj, one’s journey to Sammed Shikharji is considered incomplete. His shrine is seen as the spiritual gateway to the Tirth, and even today, locals say they can feel a divine vibration of safety and strength when bowing before him.