Shri Suthari Teerth located in Gujarat is a Jain pilgrimage centre. It is regarded as one of the five teerths in Kutch-Bhuj. It is located at a distance of 10 km from Sandhan and 10 km from kothara. The temple is dedicated to Lord Parshvanatha.
History of Shri Suthari Teerth
According to history Shri Suthari Teerth dates back to the ancient times. The temple is located in the town of Ruthari. It was constructed and ceremoniously opened on the eighth day of the month of Vaishakh in 1895 of the Vikram Samvat Era. The teerth kshetra is associated with many miracles and legends. As per a legend a Shravaka named as Uddeshi had long ago purchased an idol of Lord Parshvanatha from a poor man and kept in his go-down of corn. The following he saw that the go-down was full of corn. Seeing this extraordinary incident Uddeshi consulted a Yati in Suthari who immediately understood the miraculous nature of the Lord. He constructed a small temple and ceremoniously installed the idol in it. A grand ceremony was also organised on this day. Another miracle took place on this day. A bowl of ghee was placed to be used for the function. However, even after continuous usage it did not get over. On this auspicious occasion a Swami-Vatsalya was organized. Ghee, placed just in one vessel, was freely used but not exhausted; it got lessened not in the least. The temple is visited by thousands of devotees from different places. It is believed that by worshipping the Lord with full devotion one can get all their wishes fulfilled.
Temple of Shri Suthari Teerth
The temple of Shri Suthari Teerth is dedicated to Shri Ghrutakallola Parshvanatha Bhagwan. The temple has been magnificently decorated with artistic designs and stands a perfect example of ancient art. The idol is 30 cm in height and is exquisitely attractive. The structure and the art work done in golden-brown colour adorn the beauty of the temple. Apart from these ancient and typical idols of Gautamaswami and Padmavati Devi is also installed here.
The Temple of Shri Suthari Teerth organises many annual gatherings and functions. There are provisions for dharamshalas or rest houses for the pilgrims. These are well equipped with all modern facilities. The temple is surrounded by scenic beauty that attracts and mesmerises the pilgrims. The calm and tranquil environment makes it a suitable place for religious activities. The kshetra is well connected to road, rail and air. The nearest bus stop is located at Kothara. Busses and taxies are easily available for this kshetra. The nearest railway station is also located at Kothara at a distance of 12 kilometres. The closest airport is situated at Bhuj.