Perhaps it is the fluttering of pigeons that first draws your attention to the Sri Digambar Jain Lal Mandir. Or maybe it is the striking red sandstone. Right here in the heart of Chandni Chowk stands Delhi’s oldest Jain temple.
Sri Digambar Jain Lal Mandir offers a tranquil escape. It stands directly across from the Red Fort. This temple has witnessed centuries of Delhi’s history.
Back in 1656 when Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan ruled, the temple’s story began. Shah Jahan invited Agrawal Jain merchants to settle in Delhi. He granted them land near Chandni Chowk. A Jain officer in the Mughal army kept a Tirthankara statue in his tent. This tent became a place of worship for other Jain officers. Thus, the Sri Digambar Jain Lal Mandir was born.
Interestingly, the temple was also known as “Urdu Temple.” This was because of its location in the Urdu Bazaar. Some legends say that Emperor Aurangzeb once banned musical instruments here. Miraculously, sounds of drums were still heard. Aurangzeb himself visited. He lifted the ban. Today’s buildings date back to 1878 after the fall of the Mughal Empire.
Inside Sri Digambar Jain Lal Mandir, you will find idols dating back to 1491. These idols were installed by Bhattaraka Jinachandra. The main icon represents Tirthankara Parshva.
Notice the Manastambha column at the entrance of Sri Digambar Jain Lal Mandir. The main devotional area is on the first floor with red sandstone spires. Shrines of Lord Mahavira, Rishabhanatha, and Parshvanath are here. The gilded paintwork shines under the butter lamps creating a soothing atmosphere.
In 1931, Acharya Shantisagar, a Digambara Jain monk, visited Delhi. It was the first visit by a Digambara monk in eight centuries. There is a memorial to mark this event.
Behind the Sri Digambar Jain Lal Mandir is something special. It is the Jain Birds Hospital. This hospital treats about 15000 birds each year. It has been running for over 60 years.
Remember to remove your shoes and leather goods before entering the Sri Digambar Jain Lal Mandir complex. Inside, you will find a bookstore with books on Jainism. Visit during festivals like Paryushan and Diwali for the grandest celebrations. As you leave, take a moment to appreciate the serenity of this ancient temple. It is a peaceful contrast to the bustling city outside.