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New Jersey Akshardham:
In the heart of New Jersey, USA, a grand celebration of art, culture, and spirituality is set to unfold on October 8, 2023. The BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham, a marvel of Hindu temple architecture, is ready for its formal inauguration under the divine guidance of Mahant Swami Maharaj, the spiritual head of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha. Spanning a sprawling 183 acres and standing tall at 255 ft x 345 ft x 191 ft, this monumental edifice has been a labor of love for over 12,500 volunteers who dedicated 12 years (from 2011 to 2023) to its creation.
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A Masterpiece of Sacred Design
Akshardham is a testament to the artistry of traditional Hindu temple architecture. It has been meticulously designed in accordance with ancient Hindu scriptures, featuring design elements from India's rich cultural heritage. This majestic temple comprises one primary shrine, 12 sub-shrines, nine shikhars (spire-like structures), and nine pyramidal shikhars. Notably, it boasts the largest elliptical dome ever constructed using traditional stone architecture.
An Ode to Hindu Spirituality and Culture
Adorned with a staggering 10,000 statues and statuettes, intricately carved motifs of Indian musical instruments and dance forms, and depictions of various aspects of Hindu spirituality, Akshardham is not merely a place of worship but a treasure trove of cultural and spiritual diversity. It stands as a beacon of Hinduism's universal values: peace, harmony, tolerance, service, and devotion.
Beyond Worship: A Hub of Learning and Inspiration
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Akshardham transcends the boundaries of religion, offering a place of learning and inspiration for people from all walks of life. Through cultural exhibitions, festivals, seminars, workshops, and youth programs, this temple seeks to propagate the universal values embedded in Hindu traditions.
The Second Largest in the World
BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham, while breathtaking in its grandeur, is possibly the second largest Hindu temple globally, after Cambodia's Angkor Wat. Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the world's largest Hindu temple, occupies a staggering 162.6 hectares (1,626,000 m2; 402 acres) of land.
A Vision Realized and a Tribute Paid
The creation of Akshardham is a realization of the vision of Pramukh Swami Maharaj, the previous spiritual leader of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha. He aspired to establish a haven in the Western hemisphere where universal values, rooted in Hindu tradition, could be celebrated and cherished.
A New Jersey Landmark
Come October 18, 2023, Akshardham will open its doors to the world. Anticipated to welcome millions of visitors annually, this monumental temple is set to become an iconic landmark in New Jersey, a symbol of Hindu heritage and culture, and a testament to the unity and dedication of the Indian diaspora.
Angkor Wat: The World's Largest Hindu Temple
While Akshardham stands as the second largest Hindu temple, it bows in reverence to Cambodia's Angkor Wat, a magnificent temple complex built in the 12th century by King Suryavarman II. Spanning a staggering 162.6 hectares (1,626,000 m2; 402 acres), Angkor Wat is renowned as the largest religious structure globally in terms of land area.
A Masterpiece of Hindu Cosmology
Angkor Wat, designed to symbolize Mount Meru, the mythical abode of Hindu gods, boasts a moat and an outer wall enclosing three rectangular galleries, each rising above the next. These galleries, interconnected by stairs and causeways, are adorned with intricate bas-reliefs depicting scenes from Hindu mythology, history, and culture. Its central tower soars to a height of 65 meters (213 feet) above the ground.
More Than Worship: A Marvel of Human Achievement
Angkor Wat is more than just a place of worship; it's a living testament to the artistry and architectural prowess of the Khmer people, who nurtured a sophisticated civilization from the 9th to the 15th centuries. Beyond that, it serves as a source of immense pride and inspiration for the resilient Cambodian culture, which has endured centuries of turmoil.
A Symbol of Cultural Richness
One of Cambodia's top tourist destinations, Angkor Wat captivates millions of visitors each year. This sacred site, adorned with images of Buddha added over time by Buddhists, symbolizes the resilience and diversity of Cambodian culture.
As Akshardham in New Jersey readies itself for its grand opening, it shines as a beacon of art, culture, and spirituality. In homage to Angkor Wat, the world's largest Hindu temple, Akshardham stands as a testament to the magnificence of Hindu heritage and the enduring spirit of human achievement. Both these temples remind us of the universal values embedded in the heart of Hinduism and serve as an invitation to explore the beauty, diversity, and spirituality they encompass.
