After 12 years of meticulous planning and construction, the grand inauguration of the BAPS Akshardham in Robbinsville, New Jersey, is set for this October. This magnificent temple complex will be a landmark as the largest Hindu temple outside of India. It marks the third Akshardham, known as the abode of the Divine, with the other two located in Gujarat and New Delhi, the latter being the world’s largest Hindu temple complex. The architectural marvel of Akshardham, comprising a Maha Mandir (traditional temple), welcome center, museum, and event space, sits on a sprawling 183-acre site.
The construction of the Maha Mandir was a monumental endeavor, with the assistance of over 12,500 volunteers hailing from various cultural backgrounds, languages, and faith expressions, coming from North America and around the world. Craftsmen in India meticulously carved white sandstone, limestone, marble, and granite for this sacred structure. The Maha Mandir features nine shikharas or spires, each symbolizing a distinct aspect of Hindu scriptures, such as Vedic astrology.
The BAPS tradition, which stands for Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha, is rooted in Hinduism and follows the teachings of Bhagwan Swaminarayan. It reveres six spiritual leaders, with the current one being Mahant Swami Maharaj. The Akshardham complex aims to offer visitors a glimpse of Indian celebrations and artistic prowess. The Welcome Center, adorned with thousands of diyas (lights), leads to the vegetarian Shayona Cafe, creating an immersive experience. The air carries the fragrance of incense, and Sanskrit chants resonate in the vicinity, surrounding the Brahm Kund pond, a tribute to the sacred waters that flow through India. Notably, this pond includes waters from rivers that touch all 50 states of the United States, brought to New Jersey by dedicated volunteers.
