Kulpakji to Navagraha Tirth: A Journey of Faith, Fellowship and Spiritual Discovery | Painter Babu Rishabh

Beyond Darshan: Discovering the Soul of Jainism with Nikhil Sir and His Sangh

Some journeys introduce you to sacred places. Others introduce you to the people who make faith come alive.

I have always believed that travel becomes meaningful when it offers something beyond photographs and destinations. My recent pilgrimage through Telangana turned out to be one such experience—an opportunity to explore the spiritual heritage of Jainism with Nikhil Sir and his entire Jain Sangh.

I knew Nikhil Sir before this journey, but I was stepping into a group where almost everyone was new to me. What I did not anticipate was how naturally I would feel welcomed into their circle.

The warmth was immediate, the cooperation effortless, and the collective spirit genuinely heartwarming. Whether it was travelling together, sharing meals, coordinating schedules or participating in the spiritual activities, everyone contributed to making the experience memorable. It was a beautiful reminder that the essence of a Sangh lies not just in shared beliefs, but also in the way people care for and support one another.

Our journey from Mumbai to Telangana brought us to the revered Kulpakji Jain Tirth, where the tranquillity of the temple offered a welcome pause from the bustle of everyday life. Darshan, puja, bhavana and chovihar became more than items on a schedule; they were moments to reflect, reconnect and appreciate the richness of Jain spiritual traditions.

The morning at Kulpakji was not merely a stop on an itinerary. It was the heart of the journey.

Kulpakji is not merely an ancient temple in Telangana. It is a living Jain tirth- a sacred space where centuries of faith continue to breathe. With the presence of Adinath, Neminath and Mahavir Bhagwan, and a Jain legacy stretching back over two millennia, standing there feels less like visiting history and more like becoming, for a moment, a part of it.

From there, the road carried us to Chaitanyapuri, where another night of fellowship awaited.

The journey continued through Hyderabad, where the city's cultural character offered a different perspective on the region. From the historic charm of Charminar to its celebrated pearls and the vibrant craftsmanship of Pochampally textiles, Telangana revealed itself through a fascinating blend of heritage, artistry and living traditions.

Another deeply significant chapter unfolded at Navagraha Tirth, where the Shakrastava Abhishek and Mahaa Aarti created an atmosphere filled with devotion. Our visit to the 52 Jinalaya further enriched this spiritual exploration, bringing the pilgrimage to a memorable close before our return journey.

Yet, what stayed with me most was not simply the magnificence of the temples or the rituals we witnessed. It was the collective enthusiasm of the Sangh and its commitment to keeping Jainism's spiritual values visible, accessible and relevant.

Later, we continued towards the 52 Jinalaya—another beautiful chapter before beginning our journey back to Hyderabad station.

In a world that often celebrates speed, achievement and individual success, this journey offered a gentler lesson: the importance of faith, discipline, compassion and community.

I would especially like to appreciate Nikhil Sir and his entire Sangh for giving me the opportunity to be part of this experience. Their efforts to promote the spiritual dimensions of Jainism deserve recognition, and their hospitality made me feel less like an outsider and more like a fellow traveller sharing something meaningful.

I began this journey knowing Nikhil Sir. I returned having experienced the warmth of an entire community.

Some journeys leave you with memories of places. The best ones leave you with a renewed appreciation for people, purpose and faith.

Grateful for the opportunity, the companionship and the spiritual insights this pilgrimage brought my way.

Jai Kulpakji.

 “I don’t just tell stories. I build legacies.”

Every landmark has a foundation. Every industry leader has an untold journey.

For over 15 years, I have been documenting, shaping, and amplifying stories that deserve to be remembered- across journalism, public relations, branding, and India's evolving real estate landscape.

As the Editorial Director of Realty Files™, India's luxury real estate magazine, I go beyond project launches and market trends to uncover the people, purpose, and perseverance behind the country's most influential developers, architects, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders.

Because buildings create skylines but stories create legacies.

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Recognized with an Honorary Doctorate for my contribution to Journalism and the Arts, I believe storytelling is not just communication—it is influence, legacy, and impact.

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Whether it's documenting the evolution of India's real estate sector, uncovering the untold journeys of industry leaders, or helping brands find a voice that people remember, my purpose remains the same: 

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