Shri Swaminarayan Akshardham- New Delhi

Address

Shri Swaminarayan Akshardham Patparganj, Pandav nagar, NH 24, Akshardham Setu, New Delhi 110092 India Tel: +91-11-4344 2344 Fax: +91-11-4344 2323

Deity

Bhagwan Swaminarayan, Ram, Krishna, Shiva , Lakshmi Narayan. Amman: Parvati, Sita,

Introduction

• Location: New Delhi, India, near the border with Noida.
• Significance: A quintessential Hindu shrine embodying Indian culture, architecture, and spirituality.
• Dedication: The temple is dedicated to Swaminarayan, an 18th-century Indian yogi and spiritual figure.
• World Record: Recognized by the Guinness World Records as the world’s largest comprehensive Hindu temple.
• Complex Features: Known for its aesthetic beauty, unique exhibitions, sprawling campus, and tranquil environment.
• Construction: Built by BAPS (Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha), inspired by Yogiji Maharaj and established by Pramukh Swami Maharaj.

Puranic Significance

• Conception: The temple was envisioned by Shri Yogiji Maharaj around 1968, during his tenure as the spiritual head of BAPS.
• Construction: Initiated by his successor, Pramukh Swami Maharaj, after obtaining 90 acres of land (60 from the Delhi Development Authority and 30 from the Uttar Pradesh Government).
• Timeline: Construction commenced in 2000 and was completed in 2005, with the temple opening to the public on November 6, 2005.
• Architectural Style: A celebration of classical Hindu architecture from ancient and medieval India, the temple adheres to Pancharatra Shastra and Vastu Shastra principles.
• Dimensions: The Akshardham Mandir stands 141 ft high, 316 ft wide, and 356 ft long, featuring over 234 exquisitely carved pillars, 20 quadrangle spires, 9 elaborate domes, and 20,000 sculptures of spiritual personalities.
• Materials Used: Constructed using Italian Carrara marble and Rajasthani pink sandstone, adorned with motifs and images of deities, flowers, dancers, and musicians.

Special Features

• Intricate Craftsmanship: Every element of the temple complex showcases exceptional artistry and craftsmanship.
• Surroundings: The temple is enveloped by open gardens, a courtyard designed in stepwell style, and various water bodies.
• Cultural Exhibits: The complex also features unique exhibitions that highlight Indian culture, spirituality, and traditions.

Festivals

• Janmashtami: Celebrating the birth of Lord Krishna.
• Diwali: The festival of lights, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness.

Century/Period/Age

6th November 2005.

Managed By

Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan (BAPS)

Nearest Bus Station

Akshardham

Nearest Railway Station

Akshardham Metro Station

Nearest Airport

Delhi

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