New Jersey unveils the world’s largest temple, Akshardham Temple

The grand inauguration of the world's largest temple constructed outside of India in the modern era took place on October 8 in New Jersey.

Located about 60 miles south of Times Square in New York or 180 miles north of Washington DC, the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham temple in the little Robbinsville Township of New Jersey was constructed by over 12,500 volunteers from across the US over 12 years from 2011 to 2023.

The Akshardham Temple, known for its massive size, measuring 255 ft x 345 ft x 191 ft and spanning 183 acres, is currently drawing thousands of visitors daily. These visitors include Hindus and people of various faiths from all over the country, gathering ahead of its official inauguration.

Designed in accordance with ancient Hindu scriptures and featuring design elements rooted in India's rich cultural heritage, the temple boasts a stunning array of 10,000 statues and statuettes as well as intricate carvings depicting Indian musical instruments and dance forms.

In terms of size, the temple is possibly the second largest globally, following Cambodia's Angkor Wat.

The Angkor Wat Temple Complex, dating back to the 12th century, stands as the world's largest Hindu temple, sprawling across 500 acres and earning recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage site. In contrast, the Akshardham Temple in New Delhi, opened to the public in November 2005, occupies a more modest 100-acre expanse.

All about the temple in 10 points:

• According to the reports, the majestic Mahamandir, a grand temple, is a tribute to Bhagwan Swaminarayan, a respected 19th-century Hindu spiritual leader. Its construction was inspired by the 5th spiritual successor, the revered saint Pramukh Swami Maharaj.

• Construction on this Mahamandir commenced in 2015, and its official inauguration is scheduled for October 8, 2023, with Mahant Swami Maharaj and esteemed dignitaries presiding over the event.

• Spanning 185 acres in Robbinsville, the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham has been brought to life through the expertise and dedication of over 12,500 volunteers from across North America. This collaborative effort has given rise to an enduring landmark set to leave its mark for well over a millennium, as reported.

• Crafted by a team of devoted BAPS swamis and dedicated volunteers in India, this sacred structure underwent a meticulous construction journey. European stones were sourced from diverse regions and transported to India, where they underwent intricate craftsmanship.

• The stone pieces were transported to the United States, where a diverse group of volunteers, guided by skilled artisans from India, collaborated to craft the temple.
• In New Jersey's temple location, the ground level and primary mandir are receiving their finishing touches, and construction is steadily advancing toward its speedy completion.

• At its peak, the Mahashikhar is embellished with a golden vessel, which is known as the Kalash, representing completeness and excellence. Above this, the flag, known as the Dhaja, flies proudly, symbolizing victory and the triumph of good over evil.

• Inside the temple, there are complex stone sculptures and figurines that skillfully depict the timeless legacy of Indian music, dance, and the performing arts. Furthermore, they pay tribute to the revered sages, saints, and spiritual leaders who have made profound contributions to India and Hinduism.

• The one located in New Delhi, India, the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham presently holds the Guinness World Record as the largest comprehensive Hindu temple, nestled within an expansive 100-acre complex.

• The Akshardham Temple in the United States will likely surpass its own prior accomplishments. The BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha has erected around 1,400 temples across diverse regions, encompassing India, the UK, the US, Canada, Kenya, South Africa, and Australia.