Shri Mahavir Digambar Jain Temple
A prominent Digambar Jain temple in Chennai, serving the city's Jain community with regular worship services and cultural events.
History
Chennai's Jain community, though small, has a distinguished presence dating to the medieval period when Jain merchants traded along the Coromandel Coast. The Shri Mahavir Digambar Jain Temple serves as the primary centre of Digambar Jain worship in the city. The temple was built in the mid-20th century and has been progressively expanded and renovated. It hosts the annual Mahavir Jayanti celebrations with processions and community gatherings.
Architecture
The temple features a white marble exterior with a shikhara (spire) in the North Indian Nagara style, distinct from the Dravidian temples that dominate Chennai's skyline. The inner sanctum houses a marble idol of Lord Mahavir in the padmasana (lotus) posture. The temple complex includes a meditation hall, a library of Jain philosophical texts, and a community hall used for religious discourses.
Visiting Information
Located in the Anna Nagar area. The temple is open to visitors of all faiths. Mahavir Jayanti (March–April) and Paryushana Parva (August–September) are the major festivals. Vegetarian food is served during community events.