In a historic milestone, the United States is on the verge of unveiling its largest Hindu temple, the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham, set to open its doors on October 8. Located in Robbinsville Township, New Jersey, this magnificent 183-acre temple is a testament to dedication and collaboration, involving the efforts of over 12,500 volunteers from across the United States.
The temple, possibly the second largest of its kind globally, is designed in accordance with ancient Indian culture and architectural principles. It boasts an awe-inspiring array of features, including more than 10,000 statues and carvings of Indian musical instruments and dance forms. Complementing the main shrine are 12 sub-shrines, nine shikhars (spire-like structures), and nine pyramidal shikhars. One of its standout architectural elements is the largest elliptical dome of traditional stone craftsmanship.
To construct this magnificent edifice, nearly two million cubic feet of stone were employed, sourced from various parts of the world, including India, Turkey, Greece, Italy, and China. The incorporation of these diverse stone materials adds a unique touch to the temple’s grandeur.
Within the temple complex, a traditional Indian stepwell, known as the ‘Brahma Kund,’ houses water collected from over 300 water bodies spanning the globe, symbolizing unity and harmony among nations and cultures.
The BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham temple is a testament to the dedication of the Indian diaspora in the United States to preserve and promote their rich cultural heritage. This monumental temple will open its doors to visitors starting October 18, welcoming people from all walks of life to witness its architectural marvels and experience its spiritual ambiance. This landmark event is not only a cultural treasure but also a symbol of cultural diversity and unity in the United States.
Sources By Agencies
