Swaminarayan Akshardham came into existence as a result of Shri Yogiji Maharaj’s wish to build a temple complex in Delhi. He conceived this idea around 1968 when he was serving as the spiritual head of Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha, better known as BAPS. However, it was his successor and fifth spiritual guru in line after Bhagwan Swaminarayan, Pramukh Swami Maharaj who started the construction of the temple.
About 60 acres of land was granted by the Delhi Development Authority and 30 acres by the Uttar Pradesh Government for the erection of this temple. The construction started in 2000 and was completed within five years. Standing on the banks of River Yamuna, Akshardham Temple was opened to the public on 6th November 2005. The temple was inaugurated by Pramukh Swami Maharaj in the presence of eminent personalities such as Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, L.K. Advani, B.L. Joshi, and Dr. Manmohan Singh – the then Prime Minister of India.
One of the biggest temples in Delhi as well as in India, this spiritual place was constructed by BAPS. More than 8000 volunteers participated and 300,000,000 volunteer hours were spent in the construction of this temple.
Akshardham Temple, Delhi: Architecture
Akshardham Temple, Delhi is a celebration of classic Hindu architectural styles that were prevalent in various parts of India during the ancient and medieval times. Standing in the center of this complex is the main temple that was built on the principles of Pancharatra Shastra and Vastu Shastra. Called the Akshardham Mandir, this main shrine is 141 feet in height, 316 feet in width, and 356 feet in length.
With more than 234 exquisitely carved pillars, 20 quadrangle spires, 9 elaborate domes, and 20,000 sculptures of spiritual personalities from India, the temple embodies India’s culture and spiritual richness. Carved motifs and images of deities, flowers, dancers, and musicians adorn the walls and ceilings of this temple.
Each part of the Akshardham Temple complex is a work of intricate art that exhibits flawless craftsmanship. The temple has been constructed using Italian Carrara marble and Rajasthani pink sandstone. It is surrounded by open gardens, a courtyard built in stepwell style, various water bodies, and other structures.
Akshardham Temple, Delhi: Today
Today, the Akshardham Temple complex is one of the top tourist places in Delhi. It draws visitors from all parts of India and beyond due to its exceptional beauty and colossal size. The temple complex is arguably the largest one to be built in India in the last 800 years. In 2007, the temple was awarded the title of the Largest Comprehensive Hindu Temple in the World by the Guinness World Record.