Kundalpur – From Ancient Temples to the World’s Tallest Jain Mandir

Kundalpur, located in the Damoh district of Madhya Pradesh, is a prominent historic Jain pilgrimage site renowned for its spiritual, architectural, and cultural heritage. It is most famous for the 15-foot-tall statue of Bade Baba (Lord Adinath / Rishabhanatha) in Padmasana posture, which draws thousands of pilgrims. The site is also known for the construction of the world’s tallest Jain temple (189 feet), uniquely built without iron or cement, reflecting ancient engineering practices.

Location

• Situated at Kundalgiri, Kundalpur, around 35 km from Damoh city, Madhya Pradesh.

Religious Significance

• Bade Baba (Adinath): The central deity of Kundalpur, with a majestic 15-foot-high Padmasana idol of Lord Adinath.

• Siddha Kshetra: Believed to be the place where Shridhar Kevali, the last Shrut Kevali, attained salvation.
  

• Pilgrimage Center: A revered site for Digambar Jains, considered a place of deep spiritual energy.

Historical Importance

• Ancient Roots: Kundalpur is recognized as an ancient Jain tirth, with references dating back to early centuries of Jain tradition.
• Kalchuri Period (7th–13th century): Jainism flourished here under Kalchuri rulers, with temples built that still stand as architectural marvels.
• Later Temples: Many temples were built or renovated in the 18th–19th centuries, showcasing continued devotion and patronage.
  
  

Key Features

• Bade Baba Temple: Houses the iconic 15-foot statue of Lord Adinath in Padmasana.

• Number of Temples: Around 63 temples, with 22 dedicated to Bade Baba.

• World’s Tallest Jain Temple: Currently under construction at 189 feet high, designed using stone and lime techniques—avoiding iron and cement—to replicate ancient temple traditions.
• Architectural Heritage: The temples feature intricate carvings and design styles spanning different eras of Jain history.

Pilgrimage & Festivals

• Annual Fairs & Celebrations: Major Jain religious festivals, including Mahavir Jayanti, see large gatherings of devotees.

• Daily Rituals: Continuous pujas, abhishekas, and chanting create a deeply spiritual environment.
  

• Cultural Hub: Kundalpur attracts pilgrims, scholars, and architects interested in both religious practice and heritage conservation.
  

Cultural & Spiritual Importance

• Kundalpur is revered as a “Siddhakshetra”—a place where souls have attained liberation.

• The site serves as a living example of Jain devotion, combining ancient traditions with modern revival efforts like the construction of the tallest temple.

Hidden Facts

• The world’s tallest Jain temple at Kundalpur is being built without iron or cement, using only lime, stone, and traditional techniques—a rare feat in modern architecture.

• The idol of Bade Baba is believed to radiate such spiritual energy that many devotees report a sense of inner calm and blessings merely by sitting in its presence.
  

• The belief that Shridhar Kevali attained Moksha here elevates Kundalpur’s importance as a Siddha Kshetra, making it one of the most sacred sites in Jainism.