Bharuch Jumma Masjid Row: Claims of Jain Vihar Origin Draw Large Crowds to Heritage Site

Claims that Bharuch's historic Jumma Masjid was once a Jain Samari Vihar have drawn increasing attention, with visitors gathering at the site to inspect sculptures and inscriptions that supporters say point to its Jain and Hindu past.

The structure, which is under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), has become the centre of a dispute over its history and religious identity. Supporters of the Jain Vihar claim have demanded that the site be restored to what they describe as its original form.

The claims have not been independently established in the material available, and the site's historical status remains contested.

Sculptures And Samvat 1213 Inscription Cited

Those supporting the claim say sculptures of deities, including Lord Ganesha, along with a figure identified as Jain Tirthankar Mallinath, are present in the structure.

They have also pointed to a plaque bearing the inscription Samvat 1213, which they say supports their claim about the site's Jain history.

According to Muktanand Swami, who has been campaigning for restoration of the site as a Jain Samari Vihar, a sculpture of Ganesha with a mouse is located in the basement, while a figure identified as Lord Mahavir Swami is visible near the main entrance.

Swami has said that the campaign will continue until the site is restored to what his group considers its original form.

More Than 500 Followers Visit Site

The dispute has also led to increased visits by members of the Jain community and followers of Chakradhar Swami.

On the birth anniversary of Chakradhar Swami, more than 500 followers reportedly visited the heritage site. Jain visitors are also expected to gather in large numbers to inspect the sculptures and inscriptions on October 3.

Supporters have claimed that the site was associated with Chakradhar Swami and was historically known as a Jain religious centre.

They have also cited references in writings associated with Bharuch-born author Kanaiyalal Maneklal Munshi in support of their historical claims.

Religious Activity Increasing At The Site

The dispute has continued for around a year, with both Muslim worshippers and followers of the Jain and Mahanubhav traditions visiting the site.

Friday prayers also drew a large gathering of members of the Muslim community at the Jumma Masjid.

Supporters of the Jain Samari Vihar claim say the growing number of visitors from their community has created difficulties for tourists and others visiting the heritage structure, particularly when prayers are being offered.

Questions Raised Over ASI Oversight

Muktanand Swami has also raised questions over the management of the site, alleging that activities continue beyond the hours generally followed for protected monuments.

He claimed that a nationally protected heritage site under the Archaeological Department's jurisdiction should remain closed before sunrise and after sunset, and alleged that late-night activities indicate a lack of proper monitoring.

The claims have added another dimension to the dispute, with campaigners seeking an examination of the site's historical records and present management.

Dispute Over Historical Identity Continues

Supporters of the Jain Samari Vihar claim have alleged that the structure was wrongly identified as a mosque after historical invasions and have called for its restoration.

They have announced that religious and cultural programmes will continue under the leadership of Mahanubhav Panth followers, including Sudarshan Nagarajbaba Kapate.

Meanwhile, Muslim worship at the Jumma Masjid continues, while Jain groups and other visitors are increasingly arriving to examine the sculptures and inscriptions.

The competing claims over the site's history and religious identity remain unresolved, with further historical and archaeological examination likely to be central to the dispute.