Thiruparuthikundram Sri Digambar Jain Temples, also known as Thirupparuthikundram Jain Temple, is an 8th-century Digambara Jain temple located in Thiruparthikundram, northeast Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu. Popularly called Jain Kanchi, this temple is dedicated to the Jain Tirthankaras. Remarkably, it harmoniously incorporates Hindu deities as Ksetrapalas within its premises. Built in Dravidian architecture during Narasimhavarman II's reign, it was later expanded by the Jain community with support from the Cholas, Pallavas, and Vijayanagar rulers.
The temple reflects the Pallava dynasty's embrace of Jainism, with legends attributing its construction to Simhavishnu, the first Pallava king. Inscriptions from Narasimhavarman II (700-728 CE), Medieval Chola kings, and Vijayanagara rulers testify to its rich history. Endowments from rulers like Rajendra Chola and Krishnadevaraya enriched the temple. It also boasts many paintings, repainted during Krishnadevaraya's time, with 13th-century origins. Tamil Nadu's archaeological department now protects this historic site.
Built in classic Dravidian style, the temple features a three-tiered gopuram and three parallel circular sanctums. The central sanctum houses Mahavira, flanked by Lokanathar to the north and Neminatha to the south. Painted pillars lead to these shrines, which are adorned with bronze images. The flag post (Dwajasthambam) and ceiling paintings depicting Krishna's life story, captioned in Tamil-Grantha script, highlight its unique cultural blend and artistic heritage.
Distinct elements like the Adinatha sub-shrine, unchanged since the 16th century, set Thiruparuthikundram Sri Digambar Jain Temples apart. The musical hall (Sangeetha Mandapa), built in 1387 by Vijayanagara minister Irugappa, exemplifies its multifaceted architecture. Contributions from figures like Sage Pushpasena Vamanarya and Azhagiya Pallavan enhanced its design. Over centuries, while the temple underwent structural changes, it retained its spiritual essence, showcasing a remarkable confluence of Jain and Hindu traditions.