"Dream, Dream, Dream! Conduct these dreams into thoughts, and then transform them into action."
- Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam
10 Oct 2023
In Robbinsville, New Jersey, the grandeur of the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham stands tall, boasting its status as the largest Hindu temple outside India. This remarkable spiritual haven pays homage to Bhagwan Swaminarayan, a revered 19th-century Hindu spiritual leader, and embodies the visions of the esteemed saint Pramukh Swami Maharaj, his 5th spiritual successor.
The journey of constructing this magnificent Mahamandir commenced in 2015 and culminated in its official inauguration on October 8, 2023. The ceremony was graced by Mahant Swami Maharaj and distinguished dignitaries, marking a significant milestone in its completion.
Spanning a sprawling 185 acres, this monumental marvel has been a labor of love and dedication, involving the expertise of over 12,500 volunteers from various corners of North America. The temple's creation is a blend of meticulous craftsmanship, with stones sourced from European regions and carefully assembled by diverse volunteers under the guidance of skilled artisans from India.
The finishing touches were delicately applied to the temple's core and surroundings. The Akshardham temple encapsulates the essence of Indian culture, with intricately sculpted stone figures portraying the rich heritage of Indian music, dance, and performing arts.
With a Guinness World Record already held by its counterpart - the Akshardham Temple in New Delhi, India, for being the largest all-encompassing Hindu temple, the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham in the United States adds another jewel to the crown of the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, which has crafted numerous temples across the globe.
The BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham in New Jersey is a reflection of human dedication and spiritual reverence, transcending borders and rewriting architectural history.