Akshardham History
The Akshardham in New Delhi encapsulates 10,000 years of Indian history in all of its awe-inspiring grandeur and beauty. It perfectly depicts India’s architectural brilliance, traditions and eternal spiritual wisdom. The temple was built with the subtleties of scripture and Pancharatra Shastra in mind.
The Akshardham Temple is a true representation of Indian culture, architecture and spirituality in general. With the blessings of HDH Pramukh Swami Maharaj of the Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) and the untiring efforts of close to 11,000 artisans and thousands of BAPS volunteers, the Swaminarayan Akshardham complex was completed in only five years. The structure was inaugurated on November 6, 2005, and was named the World’s Largest Comprehensive Hindu Temple by Guinness World Records.
The Backstory of its Inception
Over two hundred murtis of the most revered Hindu deities and sages adorn the mandir. Akshardham’s principal tenet is that each soul carries divine potential. And that every little act of kindness toward fellow humans, other living beings, communities or our country takes us one step closer to god. It believes in the power of prayer in self-betterment.
Yogiji Maharaj, who was at the helm of affairs of the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, envisioned this grand project way back in 1968. Despite multiple attempts, there was little progress, and Yogiji Maharaj passed away in 1971. His successor, Pramukh Swami Maharaj persisted relentlessly in the following years.
Finally, in April 2000, the Swaminarayan Sanstha was granted land by the Delhi Development Authority and the Uttar Pradesh Government for the temple complex, overlooking the Yamuna river. The construction work for this colossal endeavour began in November 2000 and was completed by November 2005.
This architectural marvel became the physical representation of the organization’s core principles of Ahimsa (nonviolence), Dharma (duty) and Brahmacharya (celibacy).
Activities Available
Main temple
The main temple undoubtedly is a stunning example of architectural beauty and grandeur.
It is of magnificent proportions at 141 feet (43 meters) tall, 316 feet (96 meters) broad and 356 feet (109 meters) long.
The intricate carvings all over the interior and exterior walls depict various life forms. One of the most revered symbols of Hindu worship, the elephant, features prominently in the carvings. At the temple’s base are 148 life-size, perfectly sculpted elephants, weighing a total of 3000 tones. Another astounding fact is that the temple is not supported by steel or concrete. That’s some genuine architectural brilliance at work there!.
Musical fountain
The Musical Fountain (also known as the Yagnapurush Kund) is India’s largest step well. It measures 300 by 300 feet with 2,870 steps and 108 tiny shrines. Yes, you don’t have to travel to a remote town in Rajasthan to see a step well; the largest one is right here at the Akshardham Temple.
An enchanting Musical Fountain Show brightens up the evenings here.
Other aspects
Other features contribute to the temple’s larger-than-life appearance. One is the vision and creative talent that went into its conception, implementation and execution. The structure depicts Hinduism’s teachings and India’s history along with other concepts on the beginning of life on earth, the arrival of humans and their progress. The place seeks to showcase life in all its beauty and complexities in accordance with the organization’s beliefs.
Significance
The Akshardham Temple was inducted into the Guinness World Records in 2007 for being the world’s largest comprehensive Hindu Temple, attracting visitors from all over the world. The temple complex’s IMAX theatre and a stunning musical fountain are crowd pullers. In this regard, it’s worth noting that the entire temple complex is closed on Mondays.
This temple is thought to have exemplified Indian culture and its evolution over 10,000 years. It powerfully demonstrates the essence of India’s earliest forms of building, spiritual significance and traditions. The visit to the temple is thought to be an educational journey through values, art and their united efforts towards humanity’s harmony, progress and enjoyment. With exhibits like Nilkanth Kalyan Yatra, Yagnapurush Kund, Yogi Hraday Kamal, Sahajanand Pradarshan, Sanskruti Vihar, and Bharat Upavan, the temple complex gives visitors a glimpse into the country’s long history.
Akshardham Inside Photos
Akshardham Temple Delhi Boat Ride During and Show
The timings for Akshardham fountain show are after the sunset. As per the latest information, it currently starts at 6:15 p.m. The fountain show in the premises of Akshardham Temple is known as Sahaj Anand Water Show. Akshardham light and sound show timings include a brief duration of 24 minutes.
The Akshardham Temple Delhi Boat ride is a captivating journey that transports visitors through the glorious past of Great Indian history.
Lasting for approximately 15 minutes, this boat ride offers a unique opportunity to delve into the rich cultural heritage of India and witness its significant contributions to the world.
As you embark on this remarkable experience, you will be transported back in time to a Vedic marketplace bustling with trade and commerce.
The boat then takes you on an educational voyage where you witness students being taught at Takshashila, widely believed to be the oldest university in the world.
This glimpse into ancient knowledge continues as you witness eye surgery being performed over a thousand years ago – showcasing India’s advanced medical practices ahead of their time.
Furthermore, visitors are enlightened about Yoga, which originated in India and has become an invaluable gift to modern society for maintaining physical and mental well-being. Lastly, as your boat glides across pristine waters, it highlights another astounding contribution by showcasing people playing chess – reminding us all that this popular game was indeed invented in India centuries ago..
Akshardham Which GOD
Located in the heart of India i.e., New Delhi, Akshardham Temple is a marvel of architecture that unfolds the cultural legacy of thousands of years and is a tribute to Lord Swaminarayan (1781- 1830) who is the avatars, devas and great sages of Hinduism.
GARBHAGRUH. The inner sanctum or garbhagruh of the Akshardham mandir is home to Bhagwan Swaminarayan and his divine succession of gurus – Gunatitanand Swami, Bhagatji Maharaj, Shastriji Maharaj, Yogiji Maharaj, and Pramukh Swami Maharaj.
Akshardham Area in Acres
In April 2000, after 18 years, the Delhi Development Authority offered 24 hectares (60 acres) of land, and the Uttar Pradesh Government offered 12 hectares (30 acres) for the project. Upon receiving the land, Pramukh Swami Maharaj performed puja on the site for success in the project.
Popularly known as just Akshardham, the grand temple is dedicated to Bhagwan Swaminarayan, a revered 19th-century Hindu spiritual leader, as per a report in ANI. Built over a span of more than 12 years between 2011 to 2023, the temple complex is spread over 183 acres.
Is Mobile allowed in Akshardham?
Definitely not. There are counters In front of the temple where you must deposit your mobile phone. The queues are very long so its better to keep your mobile in your car or leave it at home.
Conclusion:
Akshardham Temple is a marvel of architecture located in the heart of India, New Delhi. It is a tribute to Lord Swaminarayan (1781-1830) who was worshipped as a manifestation of god. The temple is a fine example of architectural prowess that upholds the Hindu cultural legacy of thousands of years.
The enormous structure took close to five years to build and was inaugurated on November 6, 2005. Today, the majestic tower stands on the Yamuna River’s banks, attracting millions of tourists and pilgrims worldwide. The phrase Akshardham is composed of ‘Akshar,’ which means eternal, and ‘Dham,’ which means dwelling, which signifies divine or eternal abode.
By Sanjana Singh