Shri Digambar Jain Lal Mandir

Jain Lal Mandir was constructed in the middle of the seventeenth century AD. Located just opposite the Red Fort, this famous pilgrimage of Jains is situated in old Delhi. The Temple was built in 1656 AD using red sandstone; however, it has undergone many alterations and additions since then. It was constructed for Lord Parashvanath, the twenty-third Tirthankara of the Jains, and is one of the oldest Jain pilgrimages. The Digambar Jain Lal Temple is managed by a Shree Agarwala Digambar Jain Panchayat Trust. The important festivals celebrated at Digambar Jain Temple are Paryushan, Samvatsari, Deepawali and Jnana Panchami.

History of Jain Lal Mandir 

When Jahangir was the emperor, he gifted land to the Jains in Chandni Chowk, situated on the southern side of the city, to settle within the city of Shahjahanabad and allowed them to construct small temples within the walled city. 

After the construction was complete, the idols were placed within the temple. From 1800 to 1807, Raja Harsukh Rai contributed to certain modifications in the structure of the temple to enhance its beauty. But Sikhara, i.e. the topmost part of the temple was not allowed to be constructed during Mughal Rule and the same was built only after independence. 

The Digambar Jain Mandir has a legendary story of its own. Legend has it that the sound of the musical instruments and beating of the drums that used to come from the temple disturbed Aurangzeb. He ordered them to stop; however, even after that, he continuously heard these sounds. 

The architecture of Digambar Jain Temple

The temple is made of red sandstone, accounting for its name “Lal Mandir”. The walls have intricate carvings and beautiful paint works. The temple welcomes the devotees with a “Mahastambha”, a column that stands at the entrance and is adorned with shrines of the great Lord Mahavir. He was born in 599 BC as a Prince in Vaishali City, known as Bihar today. It also has the statue of Lord Adinath and Lord Parasnath who succeeded Lord Mahavir. The primary devotional hall is on the first floor and the small courtyard is surrounded by rows of pillars. It is a two-storey building. 

There are three main chambers where the statues of Tirthankaras of Jainism, such as Lord Mahavira and Lord Adinath, are placed. The ambience of these chambers is calm, quiet and peaceful. There is also a balcony overlooking Chandni Chowk, with streamers hung on it. The balcony is well-maintained and clean and is also painted once a year. The temple attracts a large number of devotees every year who come bearing offerings of fruits, grains and candles. It is an extremely peaceful and serene place for offering prayers. The temple walls have detailed carvings and paintwork in the antechambers.

Other Facilities within Temple Complex

The temple premise also runs a charitable medical centre for birds where free treatment is offered. It is the only institution of its kind that treats almost fifteen thousand birds every year. This charitable medical centre was built in 1956. Its ideology was inspired by Mahavir’s message – live and let live.  

Free treatment is given to the birds that are brought here. It functions as a rescue sanctuary. Squirrels do not hurt the birds, therefore they are also treated here. Eagles and other carnivorous birds are only treated here as outpatients. The centre has an outpatient department, general wards and ICU, and is fully equipped with all the facilities to tend to their needs. Those birds which have healed and recuperated are released on Saturdays. 

The temple complex also has a bookstore with impressive and interesting literature on Jainism, along with souvenirs related to the Jain faith. One can buy books on Jain religion and other things from here.  

How to reach Digambar Jain Temple

It is located just opposite the famous Red Fort. One can easily reach there through various modes of transport available. The nearest railway station is the Old Delhi Railway Station and the nearest airport is the Indira Gandhi International Airport. A lot of local buses are also available to reach there. The interconnected metro network is also a good option to reach this place. One needs to get down at Chandni Chowk metro station and take a small walk to the temple. 

Conclusion

Jain Lal Mandir is one of the holy places for Jains and is a great example of  architectural marvel.Certain rules that are implied on the visitors include   carrying any leather items inside the temple is not allowed and you need to deposit wallets, handbags, belts etc. before entering the premises . Photography is prohibited inside.