Keshavpuram Digambar Jain Temple, Delhi
With the blessings of Bhagwan Mahavir Swami, the temple arranges one to two pilgrimage tours annually.
To ensure the smooth administration of the temple, a dedicated committee of around 20 members oversees its operations. Key individuals contributing to the management of the temple include:
Introduction
Situated in A-Block, Keshavpuram, Delhi, Shri Digambar Jain Temple was constructed between 1978 and 1979. Its establishment was made possible through the dedicated efforts of the local Jain community, with the distinguished leadership of Lala Attarsen Jain, whose visionary efforts led to the formation of a trust for the construction of the temple. This trust has since been responsible for the temple’s administration and preservation. Following the temple’s construction, revered idols were ceremoniously enshrined, having been brought from some renowned region of Madhya Pradesh. This auspicious event took place under the guidance of Sushri Satyavati Didi. The idols exude an ancient and magnificent aura, leaving devotees in awe of their grandeur and sanctity.
At the entrance of the temple’s Garbh Grah (sanctum sanctorum), a magnificent Manastambha (pillar of honor) stands tall, captivating visitors with its architectural grandeur. The sanctum itself is situated on the first floor, accessible via a gracefully designed staircase that leads devotees into a serene hall, where three exquisitely crafted Vedis (altars) stand as symbols of divine sanctity. The central altar enshrines the divine idol of Bhagwan Mahavir Swami, sculpted from pristine white stone. Adding to the temple’s spiritual and artistic splendor, a striking idol of Bhagwan Parshvanath Chaubisi, meticulously crafted from Ashtadhatu (an alloy of eight metals), is also reverently placed within the Vedi.
To the right of the main altar is Bhagwan Parshvanath’s altar, featuring a stunning idol carved from black stone. Notably, this idol does not have a serpent hood and is remarkably captivating. This altar also enshrines two other Ashtadhatu idols. The third altar is dedicated to Bhagwan Mahavir, featuring two more Ashtadhatu idols. Another section of the temple houses dedicated shrines for Goddess Padmavati and Kshetrapal Baba. Daily ritualistic prayers and worship are conducted in the temple, and Shantidhara is performed every Sunday. Major Jain festivals such as Mahavir Jayanti and the Annual Rath Yatra are celebrated with grandeur and devotion. A special communal meal is arranged for devotees after the Rath Yatra procession.
Jain Samaj
Approximately 200 Jain families reside in and around Keshavpuram, with nearly 100-150 devotees visiting the temple daily for prayers and worship. The temple administration actively organizes various welfare initiatives, including charitable donations and medical aid. Multiple health camps have been conducted at the temple, offering dental and eye check-ups to the local community. A free body check-up camp has also been organized in the past.
“With the blessings of Bhagwan Mahavir Swami, the temple arranges one to two pilgrimage tours annually.”
The temple complex also includes a well-maintained guesthouse on the first floor below the sanctum. This facility comprises four well-furnished rooms and two large halls, fully equipped with essential amenities. The temple management ensures proper accommodations for visiting Jain monks and sages from various Jain pilgrimage sites and temples.
History
The ancient city of Delhi finds mention in the Mahabharata as Indraprastha, the capital of the Pandavas. Today, Delhi stands as not only the capital of India but also a major tourist hub. It is home to India’s most significant government institutions, including the Rashtrapati Bhavan (Presidential Palace), Parliament House, and Central Secretariat, showcasing remarkable examples of modern architecture.
Delhi’s historical significance is equally profound. Iconic landmarks such as the Purana Qila (Old Fort), Safdarjung’s Tomb, Jantar Mantar, Qutub Minar, and the Iron Pillar attract visitors from around the world. The city also houses revered religious sites of various faiths, including Birla Temple, Katyayani Shakti Peeth, Lal Jain Temple, Bangla Sahib Gurudwara, Lotus Temple, Akshardham Temple, and Jama Masjid. The India Gate, a national war memorial, proudly stands on Rajpath, honoring the martyrs of the nation.
Presently, Delhi serves as a major commercial center and is home to nearly 200 to 250 Jain temples, highlighting its religious diversity and cultural heritage.
Know something about this temple?
Spot something missing or incorrect, or have extra info to share? Let us know and our team will take a look.
To ensure the smooth administration of the temple, a dedicated committee of around 20 members oversees its operations. Key individuals contributing to the management of the temple include: