The Akshardham: A Landmark of Hindu Architecture & Culture
Why Akshardham?
“Akshardham is ‘The divine abode of Bhagwan Swaminarayan’ — his everlasting home. His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj, the fifth spiritual leader of BAPS and inspirer of Swaminarayan Akshardham, had a simple but enduring vision: may everyone find peace and inspiration upon entering Swaminarayan Akshardham regardless of one’s beliefs and background.”
Introduction
For the past eighteen months, I’ve been part of an extraordinary journey — volunteering to construct the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham in Robbinsville, New Jersey. This project, however, was more than just the creation of the largest Hindu mandir in the western hemisphere; it has been about the embodiment of faith, devotion, and community spirit. This article reflects on my experiences, the mandir’s architectural splendor, its cultural significance, and the profound lessons it imparted.
The Vision
The vision for Akshardham was to construct a Mahamandir (a large Hindu temple) in the Western Hemisphere and to bridge the ancient wisdom of Hinduism with the dynamism of the modern world. Under the spiritual guidance of Pramukh Swami Maharaj and Mahant Swami Maharaj, the mandir was conceptualized as a space where spirituality meets artistry, and tradition meets technology. It stands as a symbol of Hindu heritage, seamlessly integrating into the multicultural tapestry of America. Nestled in the quaint 486-acre township of Robbinsville, New Jersey, Akshardham is a marvel that represents a confluence of ancient Hindu architectural principles and modern building techniques. The vision for Akshardham was inspired and guided by the spiritual wisdom of Pramukh Swami Maharaj and Mahant Swami Maharaj, leaders of the BAPS organization. This grand structure, 255ft (w) x 345ft (l) x 191ft (h) and sitting at the center of 183 acres is a place of worship and a vessel for preserving and celebrating Hindu culture and spirituality. It is a testament to ancient Hindu architecture and modern craftsmanship that bridges the richness of Indian heritage with the ethos of modern America.
A Collective Endeavor
My journey began in 2022, joining alongside ~400 other full-time volunteers (note: over the construction and inauguration period, there have been a total of 12,500 volunteers). Our backgrounds were as varied as our skills — from artisans adept in traditional crafts to professionals bringing contemporary expertise. Together, we embarked on a mission to handcraft a Mahamandir that would stand the test of time. The effort involved handling and meticulously placing nearly 2 million cubic feet of stone, each piece echoing stories of devotion and perseverance. Our collective effort was fueled by a shared commitment to create something timeless. My role in the project was multifaceted, encompassing a range of responsibilities from precise stone cutting and preparation to the strategic placement of each stone. I had the privilege of contributing to completing the three main domes, known as the Mahasamarans, a highlight of my experience (image 5). My journey then led me to work on two distinct sections of the Parikrama, where I honed my skills in stone placing under the guidance of master artisans. As the project progressed, I joined the courtyard team, embracing a diverse array of tasks. My responsibilities expanded to operating various types of heavy machinery: lull, front-loader, bobcat, and excavator, each playing a vital role in the construction process. Additionally, I helped to prepare the courtyard for electrical, and water piping systems as well as concrete pours. These tasks required precise coordination and attention to detail to ensure a solid and level foundation. My involvement in this phase was not just about laying concrete; it was about laying the groundwork for a space that would welcome thousands of visitors, creating a serene and sacred atmosphere in the heart of the Akshardham complex. Each task, whether simple or complex, was a lesson in patience, cooperation, and humility. The most transformative aspect was the sense of camaraderie and collective purpose. Every task, no matter how small, was infused with a spirit of selfless service (seva) and dedication. This experience was more than volunteering; it was an opportunity to imbibe the values of patience, perseverance, teamwork leadership, and spiritual growth.
Architectural Marvel & Cultural Significance
Akshardham’s architecture is a homage to millennia-old Hindu architectural principles, realized through contemporary design. Its layout comprises a central shrine, a sacred space where Bhagwan Swaminarayan and his exemplary devotee, Gunatitanand Swami, are enshrined (image 3). Revered as two eternal entities, they manifested on Earth with the divine mission to guide and liberate souls striving for moksha (liberation). The central shrine is encircled by 12 sub-shrines dedicated to various deities, signifying the diversity within Hinduism. The mandir is adorned with 9 majestic shikhars and 9 pyramidal shikhars, each reaching towards the sky — a symbolic representation of human aspiration towards the divine. The crowning jewel is the elliptical dome, the largest to be constructed from stone and an architectural feat that blends traditional craftsmanship with modern engineering (image 4). Akshardham is a beacon of Hindu teachings, it’s a place where stories from the Vedas and epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata are brought to life through art and architecture. The mandir walls are not just stone; they are canvases depicting scenes from Hindu scriptures, bringing to life the rich tapestry of Indian mythology and philosophy. It serves as a cultural bridge, connecting the diaspora with their roots and offering a space for people of all backgrounds to explore and appreciate the richness of Hindu philosophy. It’s a place where generations can connect with their roots and where visitors from all walks of life can experience the essence of Hinduism’s timeless values.
Reflection
The journey to build the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham has been nothing short of transformational. It taught me about the power of faith, the strength of community, and the beauty of diversity. This Mahamandir is not just a physical structure; it is a living testament to the human spirit’s capacity for creating something magnificent through collective effort and devotion. This experience has imprinted on me a profound sense of accomplishment and gratitude. It transcended the act of volunteering; it was a pilgrimage of self-discovery and spiritual awakening. As the mandir stands tall, it not only represents a significant cultural landmark but also a mosaic of countless stories, woven into its sacred walls.
Visuals
