Sri
Digambar Jain Lal Mandir is situated opposite the Red Fort in Delhi.
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 halls
surrounding the main shrine are adorned with meticulous carvings, and
pretty paintwork.One of the unique features of 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.
