The Eternal Vigil: How Peacocks Became Guardians of a Sacred Jain Shrine

In the ancient town of Dholera, a remarkable spiritual phenomenon unfolds each evening at the Shri Adinath Jain temple. As the sun sets and the aarti ceremony begins, a pair of peacocks arrives to perch upon the temple’s central spire, remaining through the night until the morning ritual concludes. This sacred vigil has continued for nearly a century, transcending generations of the majestic birds.

The temple itself, established over 210 years ago, houses the murti of Mulnayak Shri Adinath Bhagwan (Rishabhdev) — the first Tirthankara of Jainism. Inspired by the grandeur of the Palitana temple’s Motisha Tonk, the vision of Seth Motisha and his devoted munim Veerchandbhai Shah led to the creation of this architectural marvel. Within its walls rest sacred images of Adinath, Ajitnath, and Mahavira Swami, alongside the revered presence of Guru Buddisagarji Maharaj and the miraculous Chakreshwari Mata.

Devotees report hearing celestial melodies emanating from the temple, while the peacocks’ unwavering punctuality — through storms and scorching heat — symbolizes the dharma of steadfastness. Before departing from this world, the elder peacocks are said to instruct their young to maintain this sacred duty, embodying the Jain principle of continuity in devotion across all forms of life.