Chunne Miyan's Lakshmi Narayan Temple
Also known as the Shri Lakshmi Narayan Temple, this historical place of worship in Bareilly is far more than just a temple; it stands as a powerful symbol of Hindu-Muslim unity, representing the syncretic Ganga-Jamuni Tehzeeb culture of North India. Its unique fame comes from its founder, Seth Fazl ur Rahman, a respected Muslim businessman popularly known as Chunne Miyan. He constructed the temple and donated the land in 1960 for the local Punjabi community, who were displaced after the Partition of India and had no place to worship. The foundation stone was famously laid by India's first President, Dr. Rajendra Prasad, cementing its national significance as a monument to communal harmony. The temple is dedicated to Lord Lakshmi Narayan (an avatar of Lord Vishnu and his consort Goddess Lakshmi) and also features a distinct statue of Ashoka at its entrance, which is highly unusual for a Hindu temple. A photograph of Chunne Miyan carrying the container for Kar Seva (voluntary labor) during the construction is displayed inside, serving as a permanent testament to his devotion to humanity over religious division.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
Duration:
1 Hour:Place Type:
Category:
Religious & Cultural Heritage:Entry Fees:
Free of Cost:
Temple Entry: There is no entry fee whatsoever for the temple, being a place of public worship.
Offerings: Devotees can voluntarily purchase prasad (offerings) from stalls outside the temple. <...Free of Cost:
Temple Entry: There is no entry fee whatsoever for the temple, being a place of public worship.
Offerings: Devotees can voluntarily purchase prasad (offerings) from stalls outside the temple.
Donations: Voluntary donations are accepted for the temple's upkeep but are not mandatory.
Photography: Photography is free, but visitors should always be respectful, especially in the main sanctum.Timing:
Morning to Evening:
Regular Timings: Generally open from early morning around 6:30 AM to late evening around 9:00 PM, with the possibility of a brief closure during the midday hours (e. g. , 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM).Morning to Evening:
Regular Timings: Generally open from early morning around 6:30 AM to late evening around 9:00 PM, with the possibility of a brief closure during the midday hours (e. g. , 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM).
Ideal Visit Time: Early morning (7:00 AM to 9:00 AM) for a peaceful and quick visit before the Bazaar gets crowded, or the evening (6:00 PM to 8:00 PM) to witness the beautiful evening aarti.
Weekly Off: The temple is typically open all seven days, but visitors should check before a planned visit.Special Events:
Janmashtami and
Diwali:
Krishna Janmashtami: Being dedicated to Lord Vishnu (Narayan), the birth of his avatar, Lord Krishna (Janmashtami), is a major festival celebrated with great pomp, including special aartis, decorations, and de...Janmashtami and
Diwali:
Krishna Janmashtami: Being dedicated to Lord Vishnu (Narayan), the birth of his avatar, Lord Krishna (Janmashtami), is a major festival celebrated with great pomp, including special aartis, decorations, and devotional singing.
Diwali: The festival of lights is a major event, celebrated to honor Goddess Lakshmi (consort of Narayan) with elaborate lighting, decoration, and community feasts.
Republic Day/Independence Day: Due to its historical link with Dr. Rajendra Prasad and the theme of national unity, the temple sometimes holds special flag-hoisting or community events on national holidays, highlighting its secular significance.Best Photo Spots:
Photo Spots:
The Entrance and Ashoka Statue: The main entrance, framed by the Ashoka statue and the temple Shikhara, is the most symbolic photo spot.
The Idol of Lord Narayan: A respectful photo of the bright...Photo Spots:
The Entrance and Ashoka Statue: The main entrance, framed by the Ashoka statue and the temple Shikhara, is the most symbolic photo spot.
The Idol of Lord Narayan: A respectful photo of the brightly decorated main deity, Lord Lakshmi Narayan (if permitted).
Chunne Miyan's Memorial: The inner area displaying the photograph of Chunne Miyan is a mandatory cultural photograph, capturing the essence of the temple's history.
The Vibrant Bazaar Context: A photograph capturing the temple's contrasting calm façade set against the bustling, narrow lanes of the Bada Bazaar outside.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Witness Communal Harmony:
Offer Prayers: Perform darshan and offer prayers to Lord Lakshmi Narayan in the main sanctum, following the traditional Hindu rituals and practices.
Reflect on Unity: Spend time reflecting on the temple's profound message of religious harmony and unity, especially by viewing the photograph and plaque dedicated to Chunne Miyan.
Explore the Bazaar: Since the temple is in the vibrant Bada Bazaar, spend an hour before or after your visit exploring the market's traditional shops, street food, and local crafts.
Observe the Ashoka Statue: Take time to observe the unusual statue of Emperor Ashoka and understand its significance in the context of the temple's inclusive message.
Archi...Witness Communal Harmony:
Offer Prayers: Perform darshan and offer prayers to Lord Lakshmi Narayan in the main sanctum, following the traditional Hindu rituals and practices.
Reflect on Unity: Spend time reflecting on the temple's profound message of religious harmony and unity, especially by viewing the photograph and plaque dedicated to Chunne Miyan.
Explore the Bazaar: Since the temple is in the vibrant Bada Bazaar, spend an hour before or after your visit exploring the market's traditional shops, street food, and local crafts.
Observe the Ashoka Statue: Take time to observe the unusual statue of Emperor Ashoka and understand its significance in the context of the temple's inclusive message.
Architectural Photography: Capture the temple's exterior architecture, especially the contrast between its vibrant colors and the old-city surroundings.
Attend Aarti: Try to attend one of the daily Aartis (usually morning and evening) to experience the collective fervor and spiritual atmosphere of the devotees.
Interaction: Engage in a brief, respectful conversation with the local temple management or devotees to learn more about the temple's history and the life of Chunne Miyan.
Information
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Why Famous:
Famous:
The Muslim Founder and Hindu-Muslim Unity:
Communal Harmony: It is famous throughout India and globally as a unique, powerful symbol of Ganga-Jamuni Tehzeeb, having been founded and built by a Muslim m...Famous:
The Muslim Founder and Hindu-Muslim Unity:
Communal Harmony: It is famous throughout India and globally as a unique, powerful symbol of Ganga-Jamuni Tehzeeb, having been founded and built by a Muslim man, Chunne Miyan, for the Hindu community.
Presidential Link: The fact that its foundation stone was laid by Dr. Rajendra Prasad, the first President of India, gives it national historical and political importance.
Deity: It is a significant center of worship for Lord Lakshmi Narayan, attracting Hindu devotees from all over the region for darshan and religious ceremonies. -
Architecture:
The Harmony of Indian Temple Design:
Style: The temple exhibits a post-independence North Indian Hindu temple architectural style, characterized by a vibrant, multi-story structure with a prominent Shikhara (spire) and a Mandapa (hall) leadi...The Harmony of Indian Temple Design:
Style: The temple exhibits a post-independence North Indian Hindu temple architectural style, characterized by a vibrant, multi-story structure with a prominent Shikhara (spire) and a Mandapa (hall) leading to the main sanctum.
Symbolism: The architecture is deliberately inclusive, with the distinct presence of a statue of Emperor Ashoka at the entrance, a secular symbol of ancient Indian morality and unity, which is a key part of its unique design.
Dimension: The temple occupies a compact space within the dense Bada Bazaar locality but utilizes vertical space effectively. The central Shikhara rises to be visible from the immediate surroundings, a typical feature of Hindu religious architecture.
Interior Design: The interior is brightly decorated, featuring the main idols of Lord Lakshmi Narayan, and displaying the photograph of the Muslim founder, Chunne Miyan, highlighting the central message of unity and devotion. -
How To Reach:
Deep Inside the Old City:
By Air: Nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport (PGH). Take a taxi to Bada Bazaar in Bareilly.
By Train: Nearest station is Bareilly Junction (BE). The temple is about 3 KMS away. D...Deep Inside the Old City:
By Air: Nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport (PGH). Take a taxi to Bada Bazaar in Bareilly.
By Train: Nearest station is Bareilly Junction (BE). The temple is about 3 KMS away. Due to its location deep inside the dense, narrow lanes of the Bada Bazaar, a taxi or auto-rickshaw can only go near the main area.
By Road: Access by car is highly restricted. It is best to park on the periphery of the Bada Bazaar area and cover the remaining distance on foot or by a cycle-rickshaw.
By Local Transport: Cycle-rickshaws and auto-rickshaws are the most effective way to navigate the narrow lanes of the old city from the main road up to the temple's closest access point. -
Weather and Best Time to Visit:
Winter Evenings:
Seasons: The winter season (October to March) is highly recommended, as the crowded lanes of the Bada Bazaar can be very hot and humid in the summer. The weather is pleasant for walking in the old city during the day.
<...Winter Evenings:
Seasons: The winter season (October to March) is highly recommended, as the crowded lanes of the Bada Bazaar can be very hot and humid in the summer. The weather is pleasant for walking in the old city during the day.
Festival Time: Visiting around Diwali or Janmashtami provides a vibrant, unforgettable experience of the fully decorated and illuminated temple.
Time of Day: Evenings (6:00 PM onwards) are the best, as the Bazaar is at its most lively, and the temple is illuminated for the evening aarti and has a fantastic spiritual atmosphere. -
Near Tourist Places:
Near Tourist Places:
Alakhnath Temple (3 KMS):
Gandhi Udhyan Park (3 KMS):
Bareilly Junction Railway Station (3 KMS):
Children's Park (3 KMS):
Jagannath Temple (2 KMS):
Dargah-e-Ala-Hazrat (6 KMS): Bada Bazaar (0.
1 KMS):
Ghanta Ghar (
1 KMS):
Jat Regimental Centre (5 KMS):
Phoenix United Mall (8 KMS):
Tourism Tips
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Navigating the Bazaar and Etiquette:
Health & Safety: The narrow lanes of the Bada Bazaar can be crowded; be mindful of your belongings and walk carefully. The market is generally safe.
Packing: Travel lig...Navigating the Bazaar and Etiquette:
Health & Safety: The narrow lanes of the Bada Bazaar can be crowded; be mindful of your belongings and walk carefully. The market is generally safe.
Packing: Travel light, as the lanes are congested. Carry a small shopping bag if you plan to explore the market.
Accommodation: Stay at hotels near the Civil Lines area for better access and comfort.
Cultural Respect: Remove footwear before entering the temple and dress modestly. Be extremely respectful when photographing the site, especially the photo of Chunne Miyan.
Local Shopping: Leverage the location to shop for traditional goods, gold/silver, and local snacks in the historic Bada Bazaar.
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