Shri Digambar Jain Lal Mandir is a temple from the flourishing era of the Mughal Empire and an embodiment of the ancient philosophical traditions of India. Located opposite the magnificent Red Fort on the bustling Chandni Chowk, it is the oldest and most famous Jain temple in Delhi. Its red sandstone walls rise above the noisy marketplace.
What is Jainism? A Brief Introduction
Before delving into the history of the temple, it is important to understand the philosophical foundation that gave rise to it. Jainism is one of the oldest religions of India. At the core of this religion lies the principle of ahimsa — non-violence towards all living beings. Jains believe that every soul is potentially divine and can achieve liberation from the endless cycle of rebirth through self-discipline, asceticism, and the refusal to cause harm to any form of life.
Followers of Jainism revere 24 great teachers, called Tirthankaras ("ford-makers"), the last of whom was Mahavira, who lived in the 6th century BCE. The key vows of Jains include non-violence, truthfulness, non-stealing, chastity, and non-attachment to worldly goods. The Lal Mandir temple belongs to the Digambara sect ("sky-clad"), whose monks, following the example of Mahavira, renounce clothing, symbolizing complete renunciation of worldly attachments and absolute detachment from the material world.
History of Shri Digambar Jain Lal Mandir
The history of Shri Digambar Jain Lal Mandir began in 1656, when the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan founded the city of Shahjahanabad, known today as Old Delhi. The ruler invited wealthy Jain merchants and financiers to settle in the new city and allotted them land on the southern side of Chandni Chowk. According to ancient legend, one of the Jain officers of the Mughal army kept a statue of a Tirthankara in his campaign tent for personal worship. Over time, this place began to attract other followers, and eventually, the first temple structure was erected on its site.
Originally, the temple was known as Urdu Bazar Mandir or Lashkari Mandir, meaning "military temple". It received its modern name — Lal Mandir, meaning "Red Temple" — thanks to its façade made of red sandstone, characteristic of the Mughal architectural tradition. This colour is not accidental: it echoes the colour of the walls of the Red Fort, creating a harmonious architectural ensemble on the main square of Old Delhi.
There is an intriguing legend associated with the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, known for his religious intolerance. The legend says that he banned the use of musical instruments in the temple. However, miraculously, the sounds of drums continued to emanate from the sanctuary. Struck by this miracle, Aurangzeb personally visited the temple and revoked his ban, acknowledging the divine power dwelling in this place.
The modern building of Shri Digambar Jain Lal Mandir, which we see today, was built after the fall of the Mughal Empire and dates back to 1878. In 1931, a significant event took place: Acharya Shantisagar, the first Digambara monk to visit Delhi in eight centuries, arrived in the city, and in his honour, a memorial was installed in the temple, which is revered by pilgrims to this day.
Architecture and Interior
The temple is a two-storey building made of red sandstone, which harmoniously fits into the Mughal architectural landscape while simultaneously carrying unique features of Jain temple architecture.
At the entrance, visitors are greeted by a manastambha — a tall column symbolizing the pillar of honour and victory over worldly passions. This column is a traditional element of Jain temples and reminds one of the need to leave behind all worldly attachments before entering the sacred space.
On the ground floor of Shri Digambar Jain Lal Mandir are administrative rooms and a place for storing footwear, as it is forbidden to enter the temple wearing shoes or carrying any leather items. This rule is strictly observed by all visitors, regardless of their religion, and is a sign of respect for the shrine. The main prayer hall is located on the second floor, reached by steps through a small inner courtyard surrounded by an elegant colonnade.
The interior of Shri Digambar Jain Lal Mandir impresses with its calm and peaceful atmosphere. The gilded ceilings and walls of the sanctuary glimmer in the light of oil lamps and candles. In the central hall are installed three main statues of Tirthankaras made of white marble, skillfully carved and radiating purity. The main shrine is dedicated to Lord Mahavira, the twenty-fourth and last Tirthankara. Also here one can see statues of Lord Parshvanatha, the twenty-third Tirthankara, and Lord Rishabhanatha, also known as Adinatha, the first Tirthankara, who opened the path to liberation for all subsequent teachers.
Pilgrims bring offerings here: fruits, grains, rice, and also light candles and oil lamps, filling the air with the subtle fragrance of sandalwood and incense. The sounds of mantras and bells create a feeling of complete detachment from the bustling world outside the temple walls.
A Unique Attraction: The Bird Hospital
One of the most unique and touching features of the Shri Digambar Jain Lal Mandir temple complex is the Bird Hospital, located in a separate building behind the main temple. This is not just a shelter, but a fully-fledged veterinary clinic for injured and sick birds, which was founded in 1930. The current hospital building was constructed in 1957 and has since continuously served the cause of saving feathered creatures.
The hospital, possibly the only one of its kind in the world, treats about fifteen thousand birds annually. Its existence is a direct manifestation of the Jain principle of ahimsa and compassion towards all living beings. Injured pigeons, crows, parrots, and other urban birds are brought here, where they receive qualified care, treatment for fractures and illnesses, and are then released back into the wild.
Interestingly, the hospital specializes in treating vegetarian birds, since according to Jain beliefs, one cannot feed some living beings at the expense of others. This amazing place leaves a deep impression on visitors and serves as a living reminder that compassion knows no bounds and extends to all forms of life.
Practical Information for Tourists
The temple is located directly opposite the Red Fort, at the intersection of Netaji Subhas Marg and Chandni Chowk. This is a central location in Old Delhi, making it easy to find; moreover, it serves as an important landmark for anyone exploring the historic city centre.
The temple is open to visitors daily during morning and evening hours: from six in the morning until noon, and from half past five in the evening until nine at night. On Fridays and Sundays, the morning opening hours may be extended until one in the afternoon. It is important to remember that the temple is closed for a long break from noon until half past five in the evening, so you should plan your visit accordingly. Entry to the temple is free.
Upon entering, you must remove your shoes and deposit all leather items — belts, wallets, bags — in the cloakroom. Photography inside the temple is strictly prohibited, which helps preserve the sacred atmosphere and respect for the faithful. It is recommended to wear modest, closed clothing that conforms to traditional standards of propriety when visiting Hindu and Jain temples.
What can you see inside? Visitors can admire the magnificent marble statues of the Tirthankaras, enjoy the calm and meditative atmosphere of the prayer hall, and observe the ritual of lighting candles and oil lamps performed by pilgrims. It is also highly recommended to visit the unique Bird Hospital — this is an impressive sight that leaves no one indifferent.
