Infant Jesus Church, Viveknagar, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
Introduction
Infant Jesus Church is a Roman Catholic church in Bangalore. Established in 1971, in Vivek Nagar area of Bangalore, the church is dedicated to Infant Jesus. It is known as the Infant Jesus Shrine and was built to commemorate the historic Infant Jesus of Prague; since then numerous miracles have been attributed to the shrine leading to its increasing popularity.A new church building adjacent to the old building was added in 2005.
Constructed in the Gothic architectural style, the church’s towering spires and intricate stained glass windows are a testament to the craftsmanship of its builders. Its origins trace back to the late 19th century when it was built to honor the Infant Jesus of Prague, a cherished religious icon known for its miraculous powers.
Over the years, the church has become a pilgrimage site, drawing devotees from far and wide who seek solace and blessings. The church’s serene ambiance and beautifully adorned interior create a reverential atmosphere for prayer and contemplation, making it a tranquil oasis in the heart of the bustling metropolis.
History Of The Infant Jesus Church
In the mid-sixties, the Sacred Heart Parish of Bangalore extended to areas like Somanahalli, now known as Viveknagar which were far away for pastoral care. So, Rev. Fr. Paul Kinatukara, the parish priest of the Sacred Heart Church felt the need for a separate parish for areas around Somanahalli and undertook a vigorous unsuccessful search for a suitable land.
One day as the Parish Priest was walking; he entered a garden in Somanahalli. It was a well maintained Rose garden. He was impressed. “If only I could get this land for the Church” he wondered. “Oh! How nice it could be”. But then, he felt that it was impossible, because over a lakh of roses were exported per week from there.
However he felt a mysterious power overcoming him and made him resolve on the spot to buy this land at any cost. With this frame of mind, he returned home. As days rolled by, on suggestion, he prayed to the Infant Jesus of Prague [Nine hour Novena] for two months for help in his quest for land. His prayers were immediately answered and the rose garden was brought for a windfall price. 18th April, 1969, the foundation for a new church was laid by Most Rev. Dr. S. Lourduswamy, the then Archbishop of Bangalore. 1971, Rev. Fr. L. Peter was appointed as the first parish priest of the new church, who took steps to celebrate the holy mass on the newly acquired land, brought the Infant Jesus statue from Sacred Heart church and installed it in an improvised old tent and thus began the “Tent Church” which lasted for over eight years.
May the newly acquired land, popularly known as the “Rose garden” surrounded by thick vegetation was infested with snakes and poisonous reptiles and with no street lights was plunged in darkness at night. All this did not deter the faithful who flocked to the church. 1972, this new parish was canonically erected by the Most Rev. Dr.P.Arokiaswamy, the then Archbishop of Bangalore. 1974, the local authorities turned down the plan for the new Church for want of the approval of the Bangalore Development Authority, but Fr.Peter patiently toiled on. 26th October 1977, the powerful and miraculous intervention of Infant Jesus finally enabled him to get the approval and the entire development charges of Rs.50,000 was completely waived off, which was the first ever waiver in the history of the Bangalore development authority.
Since all the events occurred on Thursday, the day was dedicated to Infant Jesus. 29th June 1979, the Most Rev. Dr .D. S. Lourduswamy, Secretary of the Sacred Congregation for the Evangelizations of the people, came from Rome, blessed and opened the new Infant Jesus Church in the presence of a very large gathering of devotees of different faiths.
A new church building adjacent to the old building was added in 2005.The present church building was inaugurated on 9 June 2005, by Rev. Dr. Bernard Moras, Archbishop of Bangalore. The new building has been devoted to Rev. Dr. Pedro Lopex Quintana who is Apostolic Nuncio to India. The new building is made up of a fan like hall which has the ability to house 2,500 people at a time. The responsibility of the architectural work of the new building was given to K. Thomas and Associates in Bangalore. The central mural of the church replicates the nativity scene at the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem.
Architecture
The infant jesus church, bangalore new church was designed by architect Thomas Associates, it has a a fan shaped hall, to accommodate about 2500 people with 9 faces and openings running all round the church.
In addition, there is a mezzanine area and basement parking. The podium is a little above than the level of the aisle with ramps on the both sides and steps to climb. This architecture is so unique that no matter where people are sitting, they will feel that the altar is facing them, irrespective of how far they are from it. The main mural which is 6×9 metres replicates the nativity scene in the nativity church of Jerusalem.
Infant Jesus Church in Bangalore boasts of a modern design that beautifully complements its spiritual significance. The church’s interiors are grand, with intricate carvings and decorations that are a sight to behold. The Infant Jesus Shrine inside the church is equally striking, with a beautiful image of the Infant King that radiates warmth and comfort.
The altar panel and sanctuary are also impressive, with sacred motifs that serve as a solemn reminder of the church’s holy purpose. One of the most remarkable features of the church is its stained-glass windows, portraying the Joyful Mysteries of the Rosary in vivid, stunning colors. The vibrant hues perfectly complement the spiritual resonance of the church and create a captivating atmosphere of serenity and tranquility.
The modern design of the church is a beautiful contrast to the period architecture associated with most religious buildings. The Infant Jesus Church’s contemporary structure speaks volumes about its relevance and commitment to providing a vibrant and inclusive environment for its congregation.
The church’s unique design is a fitting backdrop for intimate spiritual gatherings and grand ceremonies alike. Overall, the perfect fusion of modern and traditional elements make the church an architectural marvel that all devout and curious Christians should experience at least once in their lifetime.
Artistic Beauty of Infant Jesus Church, Bangalore
The Glass-Enclosed Shrine holding a Statue of Our Lady of Vailankanni is a sight to behold, and the Nativity Scene carved above the Altar Panel is a masterpiece. The Statue of Our Lady of Vailankanni holds a special place in the hearts of the church’s devotees. This statue, believed to be a replica of the original Our Lady of Vailankanni, is a symbol of devotion and faith. It represents the divine intercession and blessings of the Virgin Mary, making it a focal point for pilgrims seeking solace and spiritual guidance within the church’s hallowed walls.
The Wood Statue of Infant Jesus, surrounded by red neon lights below the Nativity Scene panel, gives off an ethereal glow, inviting visitors to stop and take a closer look. Equally significant is the Wood Statue of Infant Jesus, which is a precious relic cherished by the faithful. This finely crafted statue of the Infant Jesus of Prague is a testament to the church’s dedication to the veneration of the Infant Jesus. It is a source of hope and miracles for those who offer their prayers and petitions before it.
The Stained Glass Windows depicting the Joyful Mysteries of the Rosary add an exquisite artistic touch to the church’s interior. These windows are not only a feast for the eyes but also a powerful tool for meditation and reflection. Each window portrays scenes from the Joyful Mysteries, helping the faithful to contemplate the life of Christ and the role of the Blessed Virgin Mary in the salvation narrative.
Movie Of Kulanthai Yesu (Baby Jesus)
Rector Antony says the church saw a sharp rise in the number of followers after the 1984 release of Kulanthai Yesu (Baby Jesus), a Tamil film starring Saritha, Rajesh and comedian Senthil. The film dramatized the power of the shrine; the storyline was of a childless Hindu couple who had a child after visiting Infant Jesus in Bangalore. The movie, with its overtly sentimental undertones, appealed to the masses—the bits of action and comedy helped. Soon, word on the church spread among the Tamil-speaking population of Karnataka—and in Tamil Nadu too. Today, you can buy the film’s DVD in the church.
Feast Day
Every year on 14th January, a grand feast is organized and this celebration has been observed here since 1971. On this day, thousands of spectators gather around to watch various holy ceremonies which are organized in the Church.
Mass Timing
Sundays:
- 5.45 a.m. – Tamil
- 7.00 a.m. – English
- 8.30 a.m. – Tamil
- 10.00 a.m. – Kannada
- 11.15 a.m. – Tamil
- 5.00 p.m. – English
- 6.00 p.m. – Tamil
Monday, Tuesday, Friday and Saturday:
- 5.45 a.m. – Kannada
- 6:30 a.m. and 11:15 a.m. – Tamil
- 6:00 p.m. – English
Wednesday:
- 5.45 a.m. – Kannada
- 6:30 a.m. – English,
- 11:15 a.m. – Tamil
- 6:00 p.m. – Mass followed by Adoration in Tamil
Thursday – Novena Masses: Special day dedicated to Infant Jesus
- 5.45 a.m. – Tamil & English
- 6.30 a.m. – English
- 9.00 a.m. – Telugu
- 10.00 a.m. – Kannada
- 11.15 a.m. – Tamil
- 4.00 p.m. – Konkani
- 5.00 p.m. – English
- 6.00 p.m. – Tamil
- 7.30 p.m. – Malayalam
Contact Info
Infant Jesus Shrine
Post Box 4712, Viveknagar,
Bengaluru – 560 047,
INDIA
Phone No.
Phone: 080 2530 1206 / 080 2530 4110
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How to reach the Sanctuary
Airway
The nearest airport is Bangalore Airport which is 38.9 kilometers(1hr 12mins) away from the Infant Jesus church, Bangalore.
Railway
The nearest railway station is Bangalore City Railway Station which is 8 kilometers away from the Infant Jesus church, Bangalore.
