Glistening in glass, the exquisite Kanch Mandir of Indore has crossed the 101-year milestone

The Temple of Glass, or the Kanch Mandir of Indore, a unique marvel still standing tall after a century had hit the 101-year milestone in July this year. A Jain temple adorning Indore's Itwaria Bazaar, it was built by Sir Seth Hukumchand Jain, a preeminent Indian industrialist and trader.

Glistening in glass, the foundation stone of the temple was said to be laid in 1903 and completed in July 1921. The temple, an exquisite heritage structure, showcases Indore's excellent architectural and historical roots in all glory. It is renowned for its magnificent glass antiques, shining silver worship tables, and golden intricate work.

The detailed glasswork uses a variety of glasses here, some of which are coloured and form mosaic across the walls, floors and roofs at the Jain temple. It is said that these glasses and mirrors were imported from different countries. The temple is built with white stone like a medieval mansion from inside, with a shikara and a canopied balcony. The creator had hired craftsmen from as far as Iran to execute the incredible palace.

"It features delicately crafted lanterns & cut glass chandeliers. Tourists can also see around 50 murals in the temple, each of which portrays one of the Jain stories," Madhya Pradesh Tourism wrote in its praise.

The aim behind building such a structure was to proffer to followers of Jain religion throughout the world, a beautiful place of worship. And, today, the temple does, still, fascinate throngs of tourists in its cradle. All Jain festivals are also celebrated at the Indore's Temple of Glass with fervour and enthusiasm.