Akshardham Temple: A Monument of Unity, Culture, and Spirituality in New Jersey

In a historic moment, the second-largest Hindu temple in the world and the largest in the Western Hemisphere, the Akshardham Temple, has been inaugurated in the picturesque city of Robbinsville, New Jersey. This monumental temple stands at a staggering height of 191 feet, sprawled across a magnificent 185-acre landscape. The temple’s inauguration, on October 8, witnessed the presence of thousands of devotees, leaders, and dignitaries, underscoring the temple’s significance as a symbol of unity, culture, and spirituality.

The Vision

At the heart of this grand endeavor lies a divine wish—to create an Akshardham in North America, welcoming people of all backgrounds, irrespective of race, creed, or religion. This vision, cherished by the Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan (BAPS) leader Mahant Swami Maharaj, has now become a reality.

Diverse Attendees

The grand inauguration ceremony was graced by the presence of distinguished guests, including Delaware Governor John Carney and Congressman Steny Hoyer. Their participation highlights the universal appeal and importance of this monumental temple.

A Monument to Indian Culture and Tradition: The Akshardham Temple serves as a remarkable testament to Indian culture and tradition. It stands as a living monument dedicated to the life and teachings of Bhagwan Swaminarayan, emphasizing the four pillars of ekantik dharma—dharma, gyan, vairagya, and bhakti.

Volunteer Efforts

One of the most astonishing aspects of this temple’s construction is the collective effort of 12,500 volunteers. These dedicated individuals, ranging from those who served for as little as 10 days to those who committed more than three or five years, have come together to bring this grand project to life.

Artistic Treasures

The temple is a treasure trove of Indian culture and art. It features intricate carvings depicting the stories of the Ramayana and Mahabharata, adorned with over 150 Indian musical instruments and dance postures, reflecting the rich tapestry of Indian heritage.

Global Collaboration

Stones from seven different countries, including India, Bulgaria, Italy, Greece, and Turkey, were utilized in the temple’s construction. This amalgamation of stones represents different cultural streams and demonstrates a profound sense of pluralism, reflecting the diverse and inclusive values of the temple.

Inclusivity Through Water

The temple’s Brahmakund, or step wall, showcases water collected from 400 different rivers and lakes from around the world, including the Ganga and Yamuna in India, the Mississippi, East River, and Lake Michigan in the US. This symbolism conveys that the complex is open to all and fosters a sense of belonging for anyone who visits.

Universal Values

The Akshardham Temple is a reflection of universal values, transcending religious boundaries. It promotes inclusivity, seva (service), bhakti (devotion), spiritual transcendence, and love for all of humanity. The teachings and messages inscribed within the temple resonate with figures like Socrates, Reverend Martin Luther King, President Abraham Lincoln, and Albert Einstein, reinforcing the idea that these are universal human values.

A Message to the World

Jain spiritual leader Acharya Lokesh Muni, who visited the temple, noted that it conveys India’s message to the rest of the world—the idea that we are one family. Congressman Steny Hoyer commended not only the exquisite craftsmanship but also the sense of community that built the temple. He highlighted that the values enshrined within this structure are not just Hindu values; they are human values.

A Message from Prime Minister Narendra Modi

The Consul General of India in New York, Randhir Jaiswal, delivered a message of congratulations from Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the temple’s construction. This underscores the global recognition and significance of the Akshardham Temple.

The Akshardham Temple in New Jersey stands as an exceptional embodiment of culture, spirituality, and inclusivity. It not only serves as a place of worship but also as a symbol of unity, bringing together people from diverse backgrounds. With its grandeur, rich artistic heritage, and universal values, this temple has etched its place as a remarkable global landmark. It signifies that in a world often divided by differences, there are places where unity, culture, and spirituality converge to inspire and uplift all of humanity.