Mahavirswami Jain Temple – Kolkata, West Bengal

 

About The Jain Temple

The Mahavir Swami Jain Temple, also known as Calcutta Jain Temple, is a significant religious site in Kolkata. Built in 1867 by Rai Badridas Bahadur Mookim, the temple is known for its intricate mirror and mosaic work, stained glass windows, and exquisite marble sculptures. It is part of a complex of four Jain temples, dedicated to different Tirthankaras, with the main shrine dedicated to Lord Mahavir. The temple is surrounded by a lush garden with fountains, exotic plants, and artistic sculptures.

Description:

While the entire complex is celebrated for its opulent design, the Mahavirswami temple, built in 1868, is often noted for having a slightly more subdued exterior compared to the highly ornate Parsvanath temple within the same premises. However, its interior is equally, if not more, exquisitely decorated. The temple showcases a rich blend of architectural styles with intricate carvings, mirror work, stained glass windows, and decorative paintings. The marble floors are often adorned with elaborate floral designs, contributing to the serene and pure ambiance of the sacred space. The surrounding gardens with their vibrant flowers, fountains, and a well-maintained reservoir further enhance the beauty and tranquility of the temple complex.  

Specialty:

The specialty of the Mahavirswami Jain Temple, shared with the other temples in the complex, lies in its breathtaking architectural grandeur and intricate artistry. The detailed mirror inlay work, the use of stained glass depicting religious themes, the ornate chandeliers, and the meticulously crafted sculptures are particularly noteworthy. A unique and often highlighted feature of the Parasnath complex, which includes the Mahavir Swami temple, is a ghee lamp that is said to have been burning continuously since the temple's inception in 1867, symbolizing an eternal flame of faith. The peaceful and spiritual atmosphere, despite being in a bustling city, is also considered a significant specialty, attracting devotees and visitors seeking solace.

Temple Highlights

Speciality: Famous for its ornate architecture, mirror-inlaid pillars, glass mosaics, and lush gardens.

Main Shrines:

Shitalnath Ji Temple – Dedicated to the 10th Tirthankara, Shitalnath.

Chandraprabhu Ji Temple – Dedicated to the 8th Tirthankara, Chandraprabha.

Mahavir Swami Temple – Dedicated to Lord Mahavir, the 24th Tirthankara.

Dadawadi Temple – Houses footprints of Acharya Jin Dutt Kushal Suri.

Best Time to Visit: October to February (Winter months) for pleasant weather.

Temple Information

Address: 27, Badridas Temple Street, Maniktala, Khanna, Ward No. 15, Kolkata, West Bengal 700004, India

Coordinates: Latitude 22.5983, Longitude 88.3747

Timings: 6:00 AM – 10:00 AM & 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Sevas (Services):

Regular Pujas & Aartis

Special Jain rituals on festivals (Paryushan, Mahavir Jayanti, Samvatsari, etc.)

Travel Information

How to Reach the Temple?

By Bus:

Nearest Bus Stop: Maniktala Bus Stop

Bus Numbers: AC-23A, AC-50, AC-6, 215, 227, 47B

By Train:

Benoy Badal Dinesh Bag (BBDB) Station (0.33 km away)

Sealdah Railway Station (4 km away)

Howrah Railway Station (6 km away)

By Air:

Nearest Airport: Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU), Dumdum (13 km away)

Transport Options: Prepaid taxis, Ola/Uber, Public Buses

Facilities for Pilgrims

Food:

Prasadam available on special occasions.

Nearby Jain-friendly Restaurants:

Shree Krishna Bhojnalaya (Jain Thali)

Bhikharam Chandmal Bhujiawala (Snacks & Sweets)

Haldiram’s (Vegetarian Options)

Accommodation:

Dharamshalas:

Shree Digambar Jain Bhavan (Budget-friendly)

Shree Shwetambar Jain Dadawadi Dharamshala

Hotels Nearby:

The Lalit Great Eastern Kolkata (Luxury)

Hotel Himalay (Budget)

Various OYO & FabHotels

Nearby Attractions

Jain Temples:

Pareshnath Jain Mandir (Belgachia)

Shree Digambar Jain Mandir

Shree Sheetalnath Jain Temple

Other Famous Places:

Dakshineswar Kali Temple (12 km)

Victoria Memorial (7 km)

Indian Museum (6 km)

Howrah Bridge (5 km)

Marble Palace (2.5 km)

Eco Park (14 km)

Nearby Cities

Howrah (6 km)

Barrackpore (23 km)

Kalyani (50 km)

Durgapur (170 km)

Bardhaman (100 km)

Shopping & Local Specialities

Handicrafts – Terracotta, jute products, wooden carvings

Textiles – Tant Sarees, Baluchari Sarees, Kantha Embroidery

Sweets – Rasgulla, Sandesh, Mishti Doi

Jewelry – Famous for Bengali-style gold jewelry

Books – College Street, "Boi Para" (largest book market in Asia)

The Mahavir Swami Jain Temple in Kolkata is not just a religious site but also a cultural landmark that reflects the rich history and artistic brilliance of Jain architecture. It serves as a center for spiritual gatherings, meditation, and devotion, offering a tranquil retreat for its visitors. Whether one seeks religious enlightenment or architectural beauty, this temple remains a must-visit destination in Kolkata.