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The magnificent BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham, now proudly standing in New Jersey, represents a remarkable achievement in modern Hindu temple architecture and cultural preservation. Here are ten essential facts to acquaint you with this monumental structure before you plan your visit:
01. A Monumental Effort: Over the span of 12 years, from 2011 to 2023, the construction of Akshardham has been brought to fruition through the dedication of more than 12,500 volunteers hailing from various corners of the United States. This collaborative endeavor showcases the power of collective commitment and spirit.
02. Impressive Dimensions: Akshardham is truly colossal, stretching across an astonishing 255 feet in length, 345 feet in width, and soaring to a majestic height of 191 feet. This grand temple complex covers an expansive area of 183 acres, making it a striking architectural marvel.
03. Inauguration Date: The eagerly awaited inauguration of BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham, guided by the spiritual leadership of Mahant Swami Maharaj, is slated for October 8, with doors officially opening to visitors on October 18. This momentous occasion is sure to draw admirers from all walks of life.
04. Location and Accessibility: Situated approximately 60 miles south of the iconic Times Square in New York or around 180 miles north of Washington, DC, the temple's strategic location ensures accessibility to a broad audience, attracting Hindu devotees and individuals of diverse faiths and beliefs.
05. Cultural Heritage Embraced: Akshardham's architectural design draws deeply from ancient Hindu scriptures and India's rich cultural heritage. It showcases a breathtaking collection of over 10,000 statues, intricate carvings depicting Indian musical instruments, and a variety of dance forms.
06. Impressive Size: Among modern-era Hindu temples, Akshardham ranks as one of the largest, second only to Cambodia's renowned Angkor Wat, as reported by PTI. Its architectural splendor is a testament to the grandeur of Hindu temple design.
07. Unique Architectural Features: The temple's distinctive design includes a central main shrine, an array of 12 sub-shrines, nine towering shikhars (spire-like structures), and an additional nine pyramidal shikhars. Notably, Akshardham boasts the largest elliptical dome in traditional stone architecture, designed to endure the test of time for a millennium.
08. The Brahma Kund: Within the temple's precincts, you'll discover the Brahma Kund, a traditional Indian stepwell filled with water collected from over 300 water bodies worldwide. This includes the sacred rivers of India and waters from all 50 states of the United States, symbolizing unity in diversity.
09. A Global Collaborative Effort: The realization of Akshardham is a testament to international collaboration. Volunteers from across the United States received guidance and support from skilled artisans in India. This remarkable achievement has only been possible due to the dedicated efforts of countless volunteers who have generously contributed their time and resources.
10. A Cultural Icon: As a symbol of Hindu culture and architectural excellence in the Western world, BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of cultural preservation and devotion. It beckons visitors from near and far to witness its grandeur and celebrate the rich heritage it embodies.
