Regarded a major center of Jainism religion and philosophy, Bibrod Tirth, Ratlam is in the limelight for several reasons in Ratlam, Also known as Kesariyaji, it is inside the large fort in the Bibrod village.Madhya Pradesh. Notable attraction of this Jain worship center is Nearly 76 centimetres (2.49 ft) high, black-colored idol of Bhagawan Adinath in the Padmansana posture.
It was made from a black-colored stone and so is the idol looking amazing in its silent Padmansana posture. There is an inscription that his idol belongs to a period earlier than even the thirteenth century. The idol is so artistic that by merely seeing it, one can guess its antiquity. On seeing this ancient, beautiful and peaceful posture of God, the heart of pilgrims leaps up with a powerful impulse of devotion. It is difficult to find elsewhere such an idol made of sand. The scene of the pinnacles of the temple inside the fort is delightful to see. The idol is of special artistry. A fair is held here from the tenth day to the fifteenth day of the dark half of the month of Magasar. Thousands of devotees come here to worship God with devotion. Devotees don’t miss to worship the idols during their visits.
How to Reach
The nearest railway station of Ratlam is at a distance of 8 kilometers from here. Bus service and private vehicles are available. Board and lodging provisions are there. The nearest Airport is Devi Ahilyabai Holkar Airport, Indore, Madhya Pradesh. Bus Service and private vehicles are available, one can also take a train to Ratlam
The Bibrod Tirth, Ratlam is a notable one in other aspects as well. Of worth noticing is the architecture that showcases excellent art and sculpture work. It portrays the true face of the ancient art and architecture. Devotees feel a comfort zone by looking at the unique posture of Jain God. It is here that devotees feel spiritually incarnated as a pilgrim and so do they keep their devotional spirits alive. It is definitely a special artistry presentation which makes big difference by enchanting devotees.
History
Enriched history of Bibrod Tirth, Ratlam takes one to ancient era while Jainism was flourishing in the country. Researchers have also observed that it existed since 13th century. Famous idol of this Jain shrine offers an indication of that particular period from the inscriptions which definitely signify importance of idols here. Devotees and tourists alike assess the antiquity of idols and their artistic presentations as well.
Such feelings develop by mere seeing an idol worshipped by hundreds of thousands of followers of Jain religion. Of equal importance is the annual fair organized at this shrine from 10th to 15th day of the dark half during the Magasar month. Number of devotees and worshippers increase especially during that period
They believe that if they travel by a bullock cart, it will bring prosperity to the community and take away all their problems.
This unique event takes place once a year on Amavasya (new moon night) in Poush month when hundreds of devotees belonging to Jain community visit the temple of Swami Rishabhdev in Bibrod.
For a six-km bullock cart ride from Ratlam to a Jain temple in Bibrod village, people pay up to Rs 6,000, which is more than the air fare between Indore and Delhi. Demand for carts increases that day as a few number of bullock carts are available in the area. “Most of the devotees book their carts in advance as per their requirements. Small families of two to three members can book a small chakra bullock cart for Rs 2,000 and a big family can book a big cart for up to Rs 5,000 to 8,000. Devotees don’t mind spending high for a short distance since the matter is associated with their belief. “Also, it is a good earning opportunity for bullock cart owners, who mostly are farmers.About 500 to 550 bullock cart owners are plying in the town and neighbouring areas.Not only Jain people but others also have a deep faith in Swami Rishabhdev.
Other places to visit near by
1.Ujjain [Details] 100 Kms One of the oldest & the Holiest city with memories of Ashoka, Vikramaditya, Kalidasa, Mahakaleshwar Temple, Bade 2.Ganeshji ka Mandir, Kaal Bhairav (where whisky is given as prasad to the Lord), Sandipani Ashram, etc.
3.Indore [Details] 125 Kms Rajwada, "Kaanch ka Mandir", Museum, Lal Baugh Palace, Good Shopping Centre, Gardens, Choral Water Falls.
4.Gandhi Sagar Lake [Details] 100 Kms Picnic Spot and Boating.