New Jersey to Reveal the World’s Largest Temple, Akshardham Temple, on October 8th!
The grand opening of the world’s largest Hindu temple constructed outside of India in modern times is set to occur on October 8th in New Jersey. Situated approximately 60 miles south of Times Square in New York or 180 miles north of Washington DC, the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham temple in Robbinsville Township, New Jersey, was built by a team of over 12,500 volunteers from across the United States over a period of 12 years, spanning from 2011 to 2023.
The Akshardham Temple, renowned for its immense proportions, measuring 255 ft x 345 ft x 191 ft and sprawling across 183 acres, is currently attracting thousands of daily visitors, including Hindus and individuals of diverse faiths from across the nation, who are converging in anticipation of its official inauguration.
Designed in accordance with ancient Hindu scriptures and featuring architectural elements deeply rooted in India’s rich cultural heritage, this temple showcases an astonishing array of 10,000 statues and figurines, alongside intricate carvings that depict Indian musical instruments and various dance forms. In terms of size, this temple is arguably the second-largest globally, with Cambodia’s Angkor Wat as the only potential rival.
The Angkor Wat Temple Complex, dating back to the 12th century, stands as the world’s largest Hindu temple, spanning an impressive 500 acres and earning recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage site. In contrast, the Akshardham Temple in New Delhi, which opened to the public in November 2005, occupies a more modest 100-acre expanse.
According to reports, the magnificent Mahamandir, a grand temple, stands as a tribute to Bhagwan Swaminarayan, a revered Hindu spiritual leader from the 19th century. The inspiration for its construction came from the fifth spiritual successor, the esteemed saint Pramukh Swami Maharaj.
The construction of Mahamandir commenced in 2015, and its official inauguration is scheduled for October 8, 2023, with Mahant Swami Maharaj and distinguished dignitaries set to preside over the event.
Encompassing 185 acres in Robbinsville, the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham temple has been brought to life through the skill and dedication of over 12,500 volunteers hailing from various parts of North America. This collaborative endeavor has given rise to an enduring landmark projected to leave an indelible mark for well over a millennium.
Crafted by a team of devoted BAPS swamis and committed volunteers in India, this sacred structure underwent a meticulous construction process. European stones were sourced from diverse regions and transported to India, where they underwent intricate craftsmanship.
The stone components were transported to the United States, where a diverse team of volunteers, under the guidance of skilled artisans from India, collaborated to construct the temple.
At the temple site in New Jersey, the ground level and primary mandir are undergoing their final touches, and construction is progressing steadily towards a swift completion.
At its zenith, the Mahashikhar is adorned with a golden vessel known as the Kalash, symbolizing wholeness and excellence. Above this, the flag, referred to as the Dhaja, waves proudly, representing victory and the triumph of good over evil.
Within the temple, intricate stone sculptures and figurines skillfully depict the timeless legacy of Indian music, dance, and the performing arts. Additionally, they pay homage to revered sages, saints, and spiritual leaders who have made profound contributions to India and Hinduism.
In India, the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham in New Delhi currently holds the Guinness World Record as the most extensive comprehensive Hindu temple, situated within a sprawling 100-acre complex.
The Akshardham Temple in the United States is poised to surpass its own previous achievements. The BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha has erected approximately 1,400 temples across various regions, including India, the UK, US, Canada, Kenya, South Africa, and Australia.
FAQ,s
- Where is the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham temple located in the United States?
- The temple is situated in the Robbinsville Township of New Jersey, approximately 60 miles south of Times Square in New York and 180 miles north of Washington DC.
- Who played a significant role in the construction of the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham temple in New Jersey?
- The construction of the temple involved the dedicated efforts of more than 12,500 volunteers hailing from various parts of the United States over a period of 12 years, from 2011 to 2023.
