Priyanshi Pareek
Mangi-Tungi, situated around 125 km from Nashik, Maharashtra, India, features twin pinnacles with a plateau between them. Mangi, standing at 4,343 ft (1,324 m) above sea level, is the western pinnacle, while Tungi, at 4,366 ft (1,331 m), is the eastern one. This prominent landmark is located near Tahrabad and is approximately 30 km (19 mi) from the city of Satana.
Mangi Giri
Seven ancient temples grace the hill, accompanied by numerous installations of ‘charanas’ (saints’ feet) in accordance with Jain beliefs. The hill also boasts a significant pond named Krishna Kund, believed to witness the final moments of Lord Krishna according to Jain tradition. Additionally, the site features the Balbhadra Cave, where idols of Balram and other revered figures, who pursued salvation and attained heaven, find their place.
Tungi Giri
The hill proudly hosts five temples and two caves dedicated to Bhagwan Chandraprabhu, the 8th Tirthankara, along with the Ram Chandra Cave. Within these caves, ancient idols of Hanuman, Gava, Gavaksha, Neel, and more are venerated. Notably, one cave showcases the ascetic saint form of Kritantvakra, Ram’s chief of army. Along the path connecting Mangi & Tungi Hills, two additional caves house Shuddha & Buddha Munies (ascetic saints). A colossal statue of Bhagwan Munisuvrat Nath in Padmasana posture graces the site, accompanied by idols of Lord Bahubali and others.
108 feet Rishabhdev Statue ft Jain Idol of Rishabhdev Bhagwan
In February 2016, a momentous event unfolded with the inauguration of The Statue of Ahinsa, dedicated to Lord Rishabhanatha, considered the first Tirthankara in Jainism. This towering Jain statue, reaching a height of 108 feet (113 feet with the pedestal), stands as one of the world’s tallest. The consecration drew dignitaries, including Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and prominent figures from the Indian Government. Revered by Jains globally, the statue is not just a symbol of faith but an architectural masterpiece.
The project’s roots trace back to 1996, marked by the laying of the foundation stone under the inspiration of Gyanmati Mataji, a Jain nun. Chandanamati Mataji provided motivation, guiding President Ravindrakirti Swamiji and Chief Secretary Dr. Pannalalji Papdiwal over two decades in crafting this religious marvel.
Philosophical Importance
According to Jain philosophy, Mangi Tungi is revered as a siddha kshetra, a place of salvation. Legendary figures like Ram, Hanuman, Sugriva, Nal, Neel, Mahaneel, Gava, Gavaksha, and 99 crores Jain ascetics are believed to have attained salvation at this sacred site.
Complementing the natural splendor are eight Digambar Jain temples, constructed over the past century and a half. The landscape is further adorned by a colossal 108-foot monolithic statue of Tirthankar Adinath, emphasizing the spiritual significance of the hills.