Tirthankar birthplace a hub of global Jain tourism: Minister

Varanasi: The 200-metre-long and eco-friendly 3-tier ghat being constructed at a cost of Rs 17.06 crore along Ganga at the birthplace of 8th Jain Tirthankar Bhagwan Chandraprabhu will soon open for the general public.Under Jain Circuit, Uttar Pradesh tourism department is constructing the modern ghat, which is about 99% complete. UP tourism and culture minister Jayveer Singh said, quieter compared to other ghats of Varanasi, this site will give a new dimension to tourism in the district.Singh said, "Under the visionary leadership of PM Narendra Modi, chief minister Yogi Adityanath is showing his commitment to expansion of spiritual tourism and as part of this, Chandravati Ghat project along Ganga is taking shape rapidly. It will not only give global recognition to lesser-known religious sites but also reflects govt's commitment to sustainable development. He said that in 2025, arrival of over 17.3 crore tourists was recorded in Varanasi, which reflects the city's growing global identity and tourism appeal. It is expected that in the coming days, Chandravati will attract Jain devotees."Regarding progress in work on the project, officials associated with it said structural work of the 3-tier ghat is complete. The third level of the platform has also been constructed and work on flooring and railing will be carried out by the Jain Shwetambar Tirth Society. This project has been developed as a modern river front, capable on one hand to protect the temple boundaries from erosion, and on the other hand to prevent Ganga water from entering temple premises. The ghat has been constructed using low carbon footprint technology. Based on gabion structure, the construction ensures stability and ecological balance without affecting groundwater balance.The new ghat is being equipped with modern amenities while preserving traditional and cultural heritage. Keeping convenience of tourists in mind, easy access to the Ganga bank has been ensured with newly constructed steps. Additionally, facilities such as toilets, portable changing rooms, signage and parking have also been provided. Heritage lighting, stone benches, latticed railings and green zones on the ghat are adding to its beauty, making this site increasingly attractive for tourists.Located 20 kms from Kashi, Chandravati is a sacred site for Jain devotees, associated with birth and life journey of 8th Jain Tirthankar Bhagwan Chandraprabhu. The site is related to Chyavan Kalyanak, Janma Kalyanak, Diksha Kalyanak and Kevalgyan Kalyanak. The temple located here is more than 500 years old. According to Jain scriptures, Bhagwan Chandraprabhu was born to King Mahasen and Queen Lakshmana Devi and attained Keval Gyan (omniscience) after performing penance under a Nag tree on the banks of Ganga.Singh described the project as excellent example of balancing heritage conservation and sustainable development. He said, "Construction has been carried out using eco-friendly technologies while respecting Jain traditions, which will make this scheme a model for future projects." He added that the development is part of a broader plan to strengthen Jain Circuit in the state, under which prominent sites like Chandravati will be connected at the national and international level to promote tourism.