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Sri Digambar Jain Lal Mandir is one of the most famous Jain temples in Delhi. It is situated opposite the Red Fort in Delhi. As dating back to the rule of the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb, it is considered as the oldest temple of the city. Originally, Delhi Shri Digambar Jain Lal Mandir was built in 1658 AD. However, since that time numerous modifications, renovations and reconstructions have been carried on in this temple. Standing amidst the noisy and chaotic main street of Chandni Chowk, Shree Digambar Jain Lal Mandir of Delhi presents a picture of serenity. The sanctum sanctorum is dedicated to Lord Parshvanath, the twenty-third Jain tirthankara.
The main shrine is sited at the first floor of this grand temple. It can be reached by taking a flight of steps, after crossing a small courtyard encircled by a row of pillars. Besides the main shrine of Lord Mahavira, the temple has numerous other shrines. One amongst the other shrines is dedicated to Lord Adinath, who was the first 'tirthankara' of the Jainism. Lord Parsavnath is also enshrined here.
One of the unique features which you find in the temple is a medical center for birds situated inside the temple premises. Known as the Birds' Charity Hospital, this center is based on Lord Mahavira's message of - 'Live and let Live'. Jain merchants bring partridges, trapped and injured by fowlers, to this place, which serves as a rescue sanctuary also. The hospital has separate wards for pigeons, parrots, sparrows and domestic fowl. The birds of prey are also treated here, but on a strictly outpatient basis. Once the birds get better and recover, they are released into the open sky to lead a free life again.
The religion of Jainism stresses on the 'Vaishnavism' keeping the fact in mind, devotees bring fruits, grains, rice and other such things to make an offering to the Lord. The soothing ambiance of the shrine gets enhanced with the radiance of the butter lamps and candle lights. The walls of the shrine are also festooned with gilded paintwork. The divine aura of the temple brings a kind of spiritual vibes to the mind.
Besides all this visitors find the temple complex, there is a bookstore with a wide collection of books. This assortment includes rare books of the Jain literature. Apart from the books, one can find exclusive curios and souvenirs that are associated with the Jainism. Paryushan, Samvatsari, Deepawali and Jnaan Panchami are the important festivals that attract devotees in large numbers to Digambar Jain Temple. Like other temples, visitors are required to take off their shoes before entering the temple.
Best Time to Visit
Visitors have to visit Digambar Jain Temple for during the annual events. The important festivals at the temple are Paryushan, Samvatsari, Deepawali and Jnaan Panchami.
Location
Digambar Jain Temple is located just opposite the massive Red Fort at the intersection of Netaji Subhas Marg and Chandni Chowk.
Temple Dedicated to: Lord Mahavira
Special Feature
Digambar Jain Temple is a Jain pilgrim center of Digambar sect.
How to Reach
Digambar Jain Temple being located in the capital city can be reached from any corner of the city by local buses or visitors hire taxi and auto rickshaw.
Nearest International Airport: Indira Gandhi International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Old Delhi Railway Station
Nearest Metro Station: Delhi Main
