Why is Moddabidri called as the kashi of Jains? Here’s why!

Moodabidri, a small town located in the Dakshina Kannada district of Karnataka, is a place of great significance to the Jain community in India. The town is known as the "Kashi of Jains" due to its rich cultural heritage, historical significance, and numerous Jain temples and monuments. In this travel article, we will delve deep into the history of Moodabidri and explore the reasons behind its nickname.

Moodabidri is situated at a distance of around 35 kilometers from Mangalore, the nearest major city. The town is easily accessible via road and rail, with regular bus and train services connecting it to other major cities in Karnataka. The nearest airport is the Mangalore International Airport, which is located around 45 kilometers away.

History of Moodabidri

The history of Moodabidri dates back to the 8th century AD when it was ruled by the Alupas, a dynasty that ruled over parts of modern-day Karnataka and Kerala. The town flourished under their patronage and became an important center of trade and commerce. Later, in the 16th century, it came under the rule of the Vijayanagara Empire, and later the Keladi Nayakas.

However, it was during the reign of the Jain kings of the Bhairarasa dynasty in the 14th century that Moodabidri emerged as a major center of Jainism. The Bhairarasa kings were devout Jains and were responsible for the construction of many Jain temples and monuments in the town. The town continued to flourish under their patronage and became a hub of Jain scholarship and culture.

Important landmarks of Moodabidri

One of the most prominent landmarks of Moodabidri is the Thousand Pillar Basadi, which was built in the 15th century by the Bhairarasa king Devaraya Wodeyar. The temple is dedicated to Lord Chandranatha, one of the 24 Tirthankaras of Jainism,

and is renowned for its intricate carvings and architecture. The temple gets its name from the fact that it has 1,000 pillars, each of which is uniquely carved and decorated with sculptures and motifs.

Another important temple in Moodabidri is the Tribhuvana Tilaka Chudamani Basadi, which was built in the 16th century by the Jain king Immadi Bhairava I. The temple is dedicated to Lord Neminatha, another Tirthankara of Jainism, and is renowned for its exquisite carvings and paintings. The temple has three floors and is adorned with numerous sculptures and murals depicting scenes from Jain mythology.

Apart from these two temples, there are several other Jain temples and monuments in Moodabidri, including the Guru Basadi, the Mahadeva Basadi, and the Shantinatha Basadi. Each of these temples has its own unique history and architecture and is worth a visit for anyone interested in Jainism and its culture.

However, Moodabidri is not just a place for Jains to come and pay their respects to their deities. The town is also home to several educational institutions, including the Jain School and the Jain College, which offer courses in various fields of study. These institutions have played a major role in promoting Jainism and its culture in the region and have produced many prominent Jain scholars and intellectuals over the years.

Moodabidri's cultural heritage is its cuisine

Another important aspect of Moodabidri's cultural heritage is its cuisine. The town is renowned for its vegetarian food, which is prepared using traditional Jain recipes and techniques. Some of the must-try dishes include the Kadubu, a type of steamed rice cake, and the Masala Dosa, a crispy pancake stuffed with spicy potato filling.

Moodabidri is a town of great cultural and historical significance for the Jain community in India, and its nickname "Kashi of Jains" is well-deserved. The town's rich history, architecture, and cuisine make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Jainism and its culture.

Falls and Greenery in Moodabidri

Apart from the Jain temples and monuments, Moodabidri is also home to several natural attractions, including the Karkala Falls, the Kudremukh National Park, and the Manipal Lake. Visitors can indulge in activities like trekking, camping, and bird-watching in these places and enjoy the beauty of nature.

One of the best times to visit Moodabidri is during the annual Mahamastakabhisheka festival, which is held once in 12 years. The festival is a grand celebration of Jainism and attracts thousands of devotees from all over the world.

During the festival, the idols of Lord Bahubali, the son of the first Tirthankara Adinatha, are bathed with milk, water, and other auspicious liquids in a ceremony called Abhisheka. The festival is a great opportunity for visitors to witness the grandeur of Jain culture and its traditions.

Moodabidri is a hidden gem in Karnataka that is not to be missed by anyone interested in history, culture, and nature. Its nickname "Kashi of Jains" is a testament to its rich Jain heritage, and its temples, monuments, and cuisine make it a unique and memorable travel destination. So pack your bags, book your tickets, and head to Moodabidri to explore the wonders of this beautiful town.