In the history of the world, Palitana, a city in Gujarat’s Bhavnagar district, is the first to outlaw the sale and consumption of non-vegetarian cuisine. Due to Jainism’s fundamental principles and powerful influence, this revolutionary choice represents a significant cultural and religious shift.
Meat sales, eating, and animal slaughter are prohibited in Palitana, and anyone who engages in these activities risks legal repercussions. This decision was made following over 200 Jain monks’ persistent demonstrations demanding the closure of roughly 250 butcher shops throughout the city. Their acts highlighted the Jain community’s ethical and religious convictions, which maintain ahimsa, or non-violence, as a central tenet.
Since Jainism bestowed upon the world the profound philosophical concept of “Anekantwad,” which loosely translates to “developing a maturity to observe tolerance and diversity,” Jains have lived peacefully alongside meat consumers and sellers for centuries, never pressuring them to change their ways. When Jains opposed the sale and ban of meat near their temples and other holy sites, it was usually during the eight days of holy Paryushana Parva, their most important religious holiday of the year. During this time, they ask for forgiveness for any sins they may have committed in the previous year, whether intentional or not, through their words, deeds, and thoughts.
The Jains’ religious importance of Shatrunjay Hills and Palitana
However, Palitana is among the holiest places of worship for the Jain sect of Shwetambhar Murtipujak. Palitana, often known as “Jain Temple Town,” is a highly esteemed pilgrimage site for Jains. With more than 800 temples, the most well-known of which is the Adinath Temple, it is close to the Shatrunjaya Hills. Hundreds of tourists and devotees visit these locations annually, underscoring the city’s spiritual significance.
To put things in perspective, Palitana is what Mecca is to Muslims, Ram Janmabhoomi is to Hindus, and Jerusalem is to Christians. Jains revere Palitana because it is the birthplace of the Shatrunjay Hills, also known as “Shashwat Bhumi,” or the eternal land, which will endure the passing of time and serve as a source of faith and salvation for billions of future lives.
The first Tirthankar of the current cycle, Lord Aadinath, is said to have attained salvation, or “nirwana,” to moksha through the sacred Shatrunjay Tirth, according to Jainism. The dynasty’s name comes from an incident in which a Jain Shravak offered Ikshu juice, or sugarcane juice, to break Lord Aadinath’s strenuous penance of over 400 days of fasting—a penance known as “Varshitapa” in Jain jargon. The Jains believe the religious shrine is billions of years old and will continue to exist forever.
The demand for meat prohibition in Palitana is based on the sanctity of life for all living things and the sacred significance of Shatrunjay Hills.
The fundamental Jain principle of Ahinsā, the holiness of the Shatrunjay Hills, and the shrine situated atop them serve as the foundation for the calls to outlaw the sale and consumption of meat in Palitana. Another fundamental principle of Jainism that serves as the basis for its ethics and ideology is ahinsā. It means to be completely harmless to everyone and everything, including the biggest beasts and tiniest microbes on Earth, as well as to oneself. All living things have equal rights, according to Jainism, regardless of their size, form, or level of spiritual development. No living thing, including insects, plants, or animals, has the right to hurt, kill, or cause harm to another living thing. The foundational principle of Jainism’s Ahimsa precept is that all life, not just human life, is sacred and untouchable.
In Jainism, all living things—including plants, animals, and insects—are considered sacred, holy, priceless, and untouchable, in contrast to many other religions where this concept only applies to humans. The Jains wished to make sure their holiest shrine became a sanctuary for helpless animals, where they might develop and live their lives without being slain for mankind’s culinary preferences, in order to support this concept and demonstrate compassion for animals exposed to ruthless slaughter.
Palitana is a well-known pilgrimage place, particularly for Jains, and is situated in Gujarat, India’s Bhavnagar district. The precise locations are roughly 71.8243° E longitude and 21.5253° N latitude. Shatrunjaya Hill, home to one of the largest concentrations of Jain temples, is why this city is well-known.
Who Is Allowed to Visit Palitana?
Non-Jains are welcome to visit Palitana as well. Although the Jain community regards it as having great religious value, visitors of all religions and backgrounds are welcome to take in its spiritual atmosphere, architectural wonders, and cultural diversity.
Principal Attractions:
1. The Temples at Shatrunjaya Hill: This hill has about 900 exquisitely carved, exquisitely built eleventh-century temples. Usually, pilgrims must ascend 3,800 steps to the summit, which is regarded as an extremely fortunate excursion.
2. Adinath shrine: This most venerated shrine honours Lord Adinath, the first Jain Tirthankara. It provides a quiet, spiritual atmosphere and spectacular views.
3. Museum: The Palitana Jain Museum displays historical objects, texts, and artifacts about Jainism and the area’s history.
Noteworthy in History: Palitana’s temples, mostly constructed during the Chalukya era, are evidence of the area’s rich history in architecture and culture. The town is a major centre of religion and the pinnacle of Jain architectural design.
Difficulties When Travelling: Ascending Shatrunjaya Hill is very tough, so visitors must be healthy. During the walk, it can be difficult to climb thousands of steps, especially in hot and muggy weather.
Advantages of Travelling: Palitana’s architectural beauty and spiritual tranquility are unmatched. It is a once-in-a-lifetime pilgrimage for Jains. For others, it provides an in-depth exploration of Jain history, spirituality, and culture. The panoramic views from the hill, the quiet ambiance, and the elaborate temple sculptures make it a great visit.
Transportation Details:
By Air: Bhavnagar is the closest airport, about 51 kilometres away. From there, buses and taxis to Palitana are accessible.
By Train: Palitana has a train station of its own and is well-served by major Gujarati cities.
Via Road: Taxis and buses arrive regularly from Bhavnagar, Ahmedabad, and other adjacent cities.
Palitana is an experience that combines history, culture, and spirituality rather than just a place to visit. Palitana offers a singular experience with its magnificent temples, serene atmosphere, and the essence of Jain heritage—whether you’re a pilgrim or a tourist.
