Ajmer Jain (Soniji Kinasiyan) Temple – Rajasthan

Address

Ajmer Jain (Soniji Kinasiyan) Temple Prithivi Raj Marg, Dumada, Dargah Bazar, Ajmer, Rajasthan 305001

Deity

Rishabhanatha

Introduction

• Location: The Ajmer Jain Temple, popularly known as Soniji Ki Nasiyan or the Lal Mandir, is situated on Prithvi Raj Marg in Ajmer, Rajasthan. It is conveniently located near Akbar Fort.
• Construction: Built in the late 19th century, the temple is renowned for its architectural richness and historical significance, making it a major attraction in the region.

Puranic Significance

• Swarna Nagari: The temple’s main chamber, called Swarna Nagari (or “City of Gold”), features exquisite gold-plated wooden figures that depict various figures from Jainism. This chamber contains 1,000 kg of gold used to create a stunning depiction of Ayodhya.
• Dedication: The temple is dedicated to Lord Rishabhdev (Agnidev), the first of the Tirthankaras, and has strong ties to the Digambhar Sect of Jainism.
• Cultural Importance: According to Kurt Titze in his book, “Jainism: A Pictorial Guide to the Religion of Non-Violence,” Soniji Ki Nasiyan is described as one of Ajmer’s main attractions. The temple serves as a place of peace and devotion, attracting a large number of tourists and devotees.
• Accessibility: The temple is easily reachable from any part of Rajasthan, located just 1 km from the Rajasthan Railway Station.
• Construction History: Construction began in 1964, and the temple was officially opened for worship on May 26, 1865, with the installation of the idol of Agnidev. It was commissioned by Rai Bahadur Seth Moolchand and Nemichand Soni, prominent Jain businessmen from Ajmer, leading to its other name, ‘Nasiyan of Seth Moolchand Soni’.
• Red Temple: The temple is made of red stone, which is why it is also referred to as the Red Temple. In 1895, the Swarna Nagri was added, which further popularized the temple as the “Sone ka Mandir.”

Special Features

• Main Temple: The entrance gate, made of red sandstone from Karauli, leads to a marble staircase adorned with images of the Tirthankaras. Inside, the temple features uniquely designed columns.
• Mulnayak Idol: The primary deity of the temple is a large white marble idol of Rishabhanatha. Daily Abhiṣeka (ritual bathing) of the deity is performed with water, milk, and other offerings.
• Vedi’s: The central image of Rishabhdev is depicted seated in the Samavasarana, imparting true knowledge to humanity for liberation from the cycle of life and death. The three Vedi’s were renovated in 2005, with the idols of the Tirthankaras re-installed amidst religious ceremonies. Only Jains are permitted to perform rituals in this area.
• Shantinath Statue: A 54-foot statue of Shantinatha is currently under construction and will be the largest of its kind in the world.
• Manastambha: Upon entering the temple, visitors are greeted by an 82-foot high Manastambha (a pillar of honor) that was constructed by R. B. Seth Tikamchand Soni and R. B. Seth Sir Bhagchand Soni. It depicts the Panch Kalyanak (the five stages in the life of Lord Adinath) through intricate models and statues.
• Museum: The temple is divided into two parts: the worship area featuring the symbol of Lord Adinath and a museum, both of which are still owned by the Soni family of Ajmer. The rear side of the temple showcases Ayodhyanagari, which is entirely gold plated.

Festivals

• Mahavir Jayanti: This significant festival commemorates the birth of Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara, and is celebrated with various religious activities and community gatherings at the temple.

Century/Period/Age

1964

Managed By

Ajmer Jain (Soniji Kinasiyan) Trust – Rajasthan

Nearest Bus Station

Ajmer

Nearest Railway Station

Rajasthan Station

Nearest Airport

Sanganer Airport located in Jaipur

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