Swaminarayan Akshardham brilliantly displayed the essence, tradition, and eternal spiritual message of ancient Indian architecture
Akshardham refers to sacred dwelling place of God. It is known as the eternal place of dedication, purity, and peace. Its spiritual message, vibrant dedication traditions, and ancient architecture are echoed in its art and architecture.
The temple pays tribute to Bhagwan Swaminarayan (1781-1830), avatars & Hindu sages. Its experience is an enlightening journey through the glorious art of India, making value, contribution to human progress, happiness, & harmony.
What is Akshardham?
Akshardham means the divine abode of God. It is hailed as an eternal place of devotion, purity, and peace. Timeless Hindu spiritual messages, vibrant devotional traditions, and ancient architecture all are echoed in its art and architecture.
It is full of traditional temples, exhibition halls, musical fountains, 60 acres of Indian lush gardens, and lotus gardens.
It is an art of India’s splendid value and human progress, happiness, and Enlightening journey of harmonious contribution.
It is a traditional Mandir (temple) dedicated to Bhagwan Swaminarayan, reflecting the beauty and spirituality of ancient Indian art, culture, and architecture.
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What is the Spiritual Significance of the Akshardham?
Every element of Akshardham echoes spirituality – Mandir, exhibitions, & gardens. The temple has more than 200 idols, representing many spiritual pillars for 1000’s of years.
Its spiritual premise is that every soul may be sacred. Whether we are serving families, neighboring countries, or all living things in the world, every service can help people move towards divinity.
Every prayer is a call to improve oneself and to be close to God. Visiting the temple is a spiritually rich experience.
Whether it is to realize the power of prayer, to feel the power of non-violence, to understand the universality of the ancient principles of Hinduism.
Or simply to appreciate the beauty of the dwelling place of God on earth, every element has spiritual significance.
Akshardham New Delhi
The core of the Swaminarayan Akshardham complex is Akshardham mandir. The palace was unveiled on November 6, 2005, to provide honor to the house of God.
His glory and Divinity – God’s eternal, beautiful, and peaceful home in the world. It is God’s temporary residence, as well as the dedication, values , and culture that he inspired.
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The architecture of Akshardham Mandir New Delhi
Architecturally, the mandir is a tribute to traditional Indian architecture in India.
Its design focuses on ancient & medieval Indian architectural science monographs Shilpa Shastras, which guides the design and construction of mandir, from its unique carving style and its proportion to avoid use.
Therefore, mandir can be manufactured without using ferrous metals in the building.
The temple consists of 234 carved pillars, 9 ornate domes, 20 four cornered spires, and 20,000 statues of Hindu spiritual figures. The mantle is 141.3 feet above the sky and 316 feet wide. 356 feet long.
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Inside the temple, each beautifully carved pillar, ceiling, and dome share a devoted story, exploring for gods, or capturing events in life of Bhagwan Swaminarayan.
Inside the temple, each elaborately carved pillar has a devoted story or dedicated to darshan of a deity.
Garbhagruh
The inner sanctum or garbhagruh of the Akshardham mandir is home to Bhagwan Swaminarayan and his divine succession of gurus – Gunatitanand Swami, Bhagatji Maharaj, Shastriji Maharaj, Yogiji Maharaj, and Pramukh Swami Maharaj.
As for manifestations of Aksharbrahma, the gurus, as manifestations of Aksharbrahma, are God’s eternal servants and ideals of saintliness and devotion.
They reside in the garbhagruh eternally offering service and worship to Bhagwan Swaminarayan.
Items sanctified by Bhagwan Swaminarayan during his time on Earth are also preserved for darshan directly behind the garbhagruh.
Around the garbhagruh, special altars are devoted to other Hindu deities of Sanatana Dharma: Shri Sita-Ram, Shri Radha-Krishna, Shri Lakshmi-Narayan, and Shri Shiv-Parvati.
Mandapams
The interior of Akshardham mandir can be divided into nine mandapams or theme spaces. Each of these nine mandalas is filled with beautifully carved murtis and pillars and is covered by a unique dome and ceiling.
Travel through these mandapams and meet famous devotees, great incarnations, and joyous celestial bodies.
The mandapam’s ornate design and intricate carvings inspired reflections on God’s incredible beauty and the beauty he created.
Mandovar
The facade of the traditional stone temple is called Mandovar. Swaminarayan Akshardham’s mandovar is the largest and most elaborate mandovar made in India in the past eight hundred years.
It is 25 feet tall and 611 feet long and has 200 carved statues of Hindu colossus, Sadus, devotees, Acharyas, and incarnations.
The foundation of mandovar is called jagati. In this layer, we can find biological carvings in our daily life. First, we have elephants that represent power, and then some lions symbolize bravery and ferocity.
Since then, people have discovered a small species known as speed (an ancient dragon).
In the subsequent layers, people found carvings of flowers representing beauty and fragrance. In the middle of mandovar, known as vibhuti, are sculptures of incarnations, sage, devas, acharyas, and devotees.
At the top of this layer are the Samaras, who advise people to strive for a high spirit of life.
The entire mandovar inspires people to liberate their lives from the dull pleasures and to ascend to the ultimate state of God’s realization.
These relics are priceless treasures because they contain immense spiritual power. Inside these relics is the figure of Lord Swaminarayan.
Narayan Peeth
Pursuing commandments or worship is an ancient Hindu tradition of respect and prayer. Faithful believers walk clockwise around the mandrel to strengthen their belief that God should be the center of human life.
In the temple of Akshardham, the paths carrying out these gyrations are decorated with three 60-foot bronze relief panels.
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These panels illustrate the sacred events that occurred in Swaminarayan’s life and help faithful believers follow this path, remembering God when performing circumcision.
The mandir layer where these panels are installed is called Narayan Peeth.
Gajendra Peeth
Traditionally and symbolically, mandir stands on the shoulder of an elephant.
After a unique creative adaptation, the elephant at the base of Swaminarayan Akshardham is not only motionless.
Gajendra Peeth or Elephant Plinth showcases the stories and legends between elephants and nature, people, and gods.
The depiction of the elephant is to commemorate these magnificent and gentle animals and share the message of peace, beauty, and tenderness.
Entry and Timings
| Entry | Free and open to all. |
| Timings | 9:30am to 8:00pm |
| Aarti | 10:00am and 6:00pm. |
| Time to See | 45 minutes |
Important information about Mandir Complex
- Shoes are not allowed in Mandir. Please deposit them in the shoe-house located in front of the mandir.
- Please collect your shoes back before you visit the Gajendra Peeth.
- Gajendra Peeth provides ample space for wheelchair movement.
- The Mandir and Narayan Peeth are not wheelchair-accessible
Exhibitions at Akshardham Mandir New Delhi
The exhibition is displayed in three large halls, each with a unique display style. They are a source of education, information, & inspiration, a fourfold combination of art, science, culture, and spirituality.
These exhibitions are fascinating in art, amazing in science, moving in culture, and spiritually enhanced, creating an amazing environment that can bring audiences to ancient India.
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These exhibitions perfectly combine ancient values and wisdom with the best modern media and technology to provide a powerful and exciting experience for Hindu heritage and universal values.
The three halls are Sahajanand Darshan-Value Hall. Neelkanth Darshan – large format film; Sanskruti Darshan – cultural cruise.
Sahjanand Darshan
Visitors walk into a world of values that can change lives and the world. Through a series of exhibitions using animated characters, scenic spots, and short films.
It shows the universal values of love, unconsciousness, non-fear, service, humility, compassion, spiritual awareness, honesty, unity, and equality.
Neelkanth Darshan
Come and check out this unique giant screen theater. Explore the highest mountain range and the deepest canyon in the Himalayas, trek through the rain-forest of Assam and admire the magnificent Rameshwaram mandir.
Follow in the footsteps of young Bhagwan Swaminarayan Neelkanth and traverse the Indian subcontinent in this epic, large-format movie.
Sanskruti Darshan
Travel by boat through thousands of years of ancient Indian history. Experience the lifestyle of the Vedic era.
Walk through the oldest university and watch the eye surgery that took place more than a thousand years ago. This 12-minute boat ride introduces India’s important contribution to the world.
Entry and Timings
| Entry | Adults (Above 11 +) : Rs 220 Children (Age 3-11) : Rs 120 Senior Citizens (Above 60) : Rs 170 Children (Below 3 years): Free |
| Timings | 10:00am and 8:00pm |
| Time to See | Sahjanand Darshan: 1 hour Neelkanth Darshan: 45 Minutes Sanskruti Darshan : 15 minutes |
Important information about Exhibitions
- Entry to exhibitions on a first come first serve basis.
- Expect a long waiting time on busy days.
- No food or drinks allowed inside exhibition halls. Please deposit your water bottles on entry and collect them back on exit
- Restrooms are located at entry and exits of exhibition buildings. Expect a long waiting time on busy days.
- No food or drinks allowed inside exhibition halls.
Narayan Sarovar at Akshardham Mandir New Delhi
Since the Vedic era, India has had a glorious tradition of respecting rivers, lakes, and stepped wells. According to this tradition, the sacred body of water Narayan Sarovar surrounds the main temple of Akshardham.
Narayan Sarovar contains the holy water of 151 rivers and lakes sacred by Bhagwan Swaminarayan.
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Including Manasarovar, Pushkar Sarovar, Pampa Sarovar, Indradyumna Sarovar, Manikarnika Ghat, Prayag Triveni Sangam, Kshipra River, Gangs River, and the Yamuna, etc.
There are 108 bronze colored gaumukh on the outer wall of temple, symbolizing the names of 108 gods, from which holy water spewed out.
Entry and Timings
| Entry | Abhishek Donation: Rs 50 per person |
| Timings | 9:30am and 8:00pm |
| Ritual Duration | 15 mins |
| Time to See | 10-25 Minutes |
Important information about Abhishek Mandapam
- Deposit your shoes in a shoe-house outside the Abhishek Mandapam.
- Please wash your hands before entering and maintain silence during Abhishek.
Sahaj Anand Water Show at Akshardham New Delhi
Sahaj Anand water show called Yagnapurush Kund home. It is a replica of a traditional stepped well, measuring 300 feet x 300 feet, with 2,870 steps and 108 gods.
The nine-rose design of the central swimming pool is a replica of the ceremonies or arrangements used in the sacred rituals of Hinduism.
At the top of the stepped well is Neelkanth Varni’s 27-foot bronze Murti.
He presided over the determination to rise step by step, dedication, and courage, attracted everyone who saw him. fireballs and underwater flames, water spray and surround sound symphony.
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Sahaj Anand Water Show is an amazing 24-minute speech that combines a variety of interesting media to bring the story from Kena Upanishad to life.
The symphony of multi-color lasers, video projections, underwater flames, water jets and surround sound with lights and live actors produced fascinating and inspiring presentations.
International experts contributed their expertise through BAPS volunteers and sadhus to make this unique speech.
The children frolicked by the lake and were surprised to see the water joining their fun. Soon, through their dances and songs, a flower was created from the lake water.
However, their joy disturbed the Deva-Elemental God celebrating the defeat of the demon. The seemingly faint flowers of children are in danger of being destroyed by the wrath of God.
The innocence and hope of the children are intertwined with the power and self of genius.
As the event progressed, it was discovered whether the flowers survived. Learn about Sahaj Anand’s secret-born spontaneous happiness.
This story is adapted from Kena Upanishad, one of the treasures of knowledge and wisdom in the Vedic era.
Entry and Timings
| Entry | Adults (Above 11 +): Rs 80 Senior Citizens: Rs 60 Children (Age 3-11): Rs 50 Children (Below 3 years): Free |
| Timings | The first show starts after sunset |
| Time to see | 24 mins |
Important information about Sahaj Anand Water show
- In windy conditions, the audience may get wet by fountain water.
- Show language – Hindi.
Akshardham Gandhi Nagar, Gujarat
Swaminarayan Akshardham in Gandhinagar was unveiled by Pramukh Swami Maharaj in 1992. Akshardham is devoted to the life and work of Bhagwan Swaminarayan.
Through 3-D diorama, audio-visual display, and audio-animated electronic products, he demonstrated the ancient wisdom revealed in the Upanishad, Ramayana, Mahabharata, and Vachanamrut.
The building houses the Temple of Akshardham. Three exhibition halls; AARSH Institute; children’s entertainment venues and attractions; lush green gardens; mysterious India, large-format movies; and traditional cuisine.
The monument is located in the Gujarat State Capital, only a few minutes away from the largest city of Gujarat in Ahmedabad. It provides information, spiritual, and entertainment appeal to thousands of tourists every year.
The architecture of Akshardham Mandir Gandhi Nagar, Gujarat
Aesthetically speaking, Mandir pays tribute to traditional Indian architecture. Its design is under ancient Indian papers on architectural science: Shilpa Shastras.
Shilpa Shastras guided the design and construction of mandir, from its grand proportions and unique carving style to its unique construction, without the use of ferrous metal.
The Temple of Akshardham is composed of 97 carved pillars, 17 gorgeous domes, 220 stone beams, 57 stone screens, 3 porches, and 256 statues of Hindu spiritual figures.
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The temple stretched 108 feet into the sky, spanned 131 feet, and was 240 feet long.
Inside the temple, each elaborately carved pillar has a devoted story or dedicated to darshan of a deity.
Garbhagruh
The garbhagruh (internal temple) of Akshardham mandir is the hometown of Bhagwan Swaminarayan and his sacred successor.
Sacred clans include Gunatitanand Swami, Bhagatji Maharaj, Shastriji Maharaj, Yogiji Maharaj), Pramukh Swami Maharaj, and Mahan Swami Maharaj: our masters of the sampradaya.
As the embodiment of Akshar Barama, they are the eternal servants of God and the ideals of holiness and dedication. They live in garbhagruh and always serve and worship Bhagwan Swaminarayan.
Swaminarayan Darshan
Akshardham is the residence of truth, beauty, and auspiciousness, which has shaped and reshaped millions of lives. This is because Bhagwan Swaminarayan lives in all his glory and blesses everyone.
When the 18th century was engulfed by social, political, and spiritual darkness, Bhagwan Swaminarayan brought spiritual enlightenment.
Celebrating his 49 years on earth between 1781 and 1830, Swaminarayan Darshan relived his sacred life through exclusive paintings.
Prasadi Mandapam
Bhagwan Swaminarayan is widely regarded as the manifestation of God. His devotees meticulously preserved the articles he used and passed on from generation to generation.
In Prasadi Mandapam, the sanctified items were properly processed and displayed in real life, to provide future generations with the historical witness of Bhagwan Swaminarayan’s incarnation on earth.
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These relics are priceless treasures because they contain immense spiritual power. Inside these relics is the figure of Lord Swaminarayan.
Entry and Timings
| Entry | Free and open to all. |
| Timings | 9:30am to 7:30pm |
| Aarti | 10:00am and 6:30pm. |
| Time to See | 20 minutes |
Important information about Mandir Complex
- Shoes are not allowed in Mandir. Please deposit them in the shoe-house located on both sides of the mandir.
- Please collect your shoes back before you visit other parts of the complex.
- The mandir is not wheelchair accessible.
Exhibitions at Akshardham Mandir Gandhi Nagar, Gujarat
The exhibition is displayed in five halls, each with its unique style. The exhibition is a source of information and inspiration, a combination of art, science, culture, and spirituality.
They are fascinating in art, amazing in science, moving in culture, and spiritually enhanced, creating an amazing environment and bringing tourists to ancient India.
These exhibitions blend ancient doctrines with the best modern media and technology to provide a powerful and exciting experience for Hindu traditions and universal values.
Visitors will walk around the principles that can help change their lives and the world.
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Through a series of exhibitions, using 3D phantoms, light and sound performances, animated characters, scenic spots, and short stories, show the universal principles of love, impermanence (non-violence), fearlessness, service, humility, compassion, honesty, solidarity and equality.
Inside the temple, each elaborately carved pillar has a devoted story or dedicated to darshan of a deity.
Neelkanth and Sahjanand
People can shape their lives through Bhagwan Swaminarayan’s life events.
From the glass corridor to the cable bridge, from the mountains to the jungle, from the fiber to the sky, to the morning of the village, the audio-visual performance.
The unique display of the diorama and the surrounding environment make the atmosphere full of surprises and curiosity.
Mystic India
Come and sit down in this unique giant screen theater.
Explore the highest mountain range and the deepest canyon in the Himalayas, trek through the rain forest of Assam and admire the magnificent Rameshwaram mandir.
Follow in the footsteps of young Bhagwan Swaminarayan Neelkanth and traverse the Indian subcontinent in this epic, large-format movie.
Premanand
Discover the spiritual heritage that can change lives and change the world.
Diorama and live performances demonstrate the core values of Hinduism and herald eternal happiness.
These values are rooted in the Upanishads, Ramayana, and Mahabharata – India’s most sacred classic.
The message they convey is eternal and closely related to people of all ages, beliefs, and cultures.
Sant Param Hitkari
Welcome to Sant Param Hitkari, India’s first-ever audio animation electronics show. Back in time to the early 19th century, attend a spiritual gathering in front of Lord Swaminarayan.
In the re-entertainment of a party, famous saints and devotees were brought into life, and at that party, Lord Swaminarayan stated that he would obtain eternal happiness.
Entry and Timings
| Entry | Adults (Above 11 +) : Rs 60 Children (Age 3-11) : Rs 40 Children (Below 3 years): Free |
| Timings | 10:00am and 5:30pm |
| Time to See | Neelkanth and Sahjanand: 45 minutes Mystic India: 45 Minutes Premanand: 30 minutes Sant Param Hitkari : 15 minutes |
Important information about Exhibitions
- Exhibition tickets include Neelkanth and Sahajanand, Mystic India, Premanand, and Sant Param Hitkari – all five exhibitions.
- Separate tickets for the individual exhibition are not available.
- Entry to exhibitions on a first come first serve basis.
- Expect a long waiting time on busy days.
- No food or drinks allowed inside exhibition halls
Abhishek Mandapam at Akshardham Mandir Gandhi Nagar
Abhishek is a ritual held by God to satisfy his prayers. Pilgrims water the gods during chanting and chanting.
Visitors can perform Murel by Neelkanth Varni (young by Bhagwan Swaminarayan, yoga form). This bathing ritual of the murti is a unique participatory ceremony, open to all visitors.
The most common is Abhishek accompanied by a prayer to fulfill the desire. Thereafter, each participant or devotee bathed Neelkanth Varni’s sage (idol) with a small pot of holy water.
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During shloka recitation and bathing rituals, tourists are encouraged to pray for the happiness of their friends and family, and the harmony and happiness of all.
Entry and Timings
| Entry | Abhishek Donation: Rs 50 per person |
| Timings | 10:00am and 7:00pm |
| Ritual Duration | 15 mins |
Important information about Abhishek Mandapam
- Deposit your shoes in a shoe-house outside the Abhishek Mandapam.
- Please wash your hands before entering and maintain silence during Abhishek.
Sat-Chit Anand Water Show at Akshardham Gandhi Nagar
In the sunset, sit in the outdoor amphitheater and experience the inspiration of the Sat-Chit-Anand water show.
Take yourself to the place of death, watch the fearless Nakita face the god of death, Yama, and finally get knowledge of eternal life and eternal happiness from him.
Sat-Chit-Anand Water Show is an amazing 45-minute speech, bringing an ancient story that continues Kathopanishad.
The Sat-Chit-Anand water show immediately attracts you with its 80-foot-wide x 60-foot-high water curtain, multi-color lasers, video, and light projections, fireballs, and underwater flames, water spray and surround sound symphony.
Come and join the live actors to take you through a journey of inspiration and inspiration.
Experience the unparalleled multimedia interpretation performance produced by international expert Yves Pepin and his professional team, BAPS volunteers, and sadhus.
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The show first brings you a mysterious and fascinating introduction to India’s deep culture and spiritual glory. Shortly thereafter, you will meet Nachiketa, the protagonist of the eternal Vedic era.
He is a fearless, unwavering 9-year-old boy. His curiosity angered his father Uddalak.
As a punishment, Udalak sent him to Yam Raj, the god of death. Nachiketa arrives at Yamraj’s residence and learns that the god of death will go away for the public.
When the powerful Yamamaraj returned, he was stunned, saw young Nachiketa at his door, and tried to scare him away with earthquakes, tornadoes, volcanoes, fire, and thunderstorms.
Nachiketa knew nothing about it. Naki Keita’s courage impressed him deeply, and Yamaraji offered him three bonuses.
Nachiketa unselfishly first asked to restore his father’s inner peace. Then he asked for knowledge about Yagna, a ritual for people to obtain divine wisdom.
Last but not least, Nachiketa asked Yamraj to reveal the truth of life after death and the road to eternal happiness.
As the event evolved, we learned the ultimate secret of true “Sat-Chit-Anand”-“Truth-Consciousness-Bliss” with young Nachiketa.
Entry and Timings
| Entry | Adults (Above 11 +) : Rs 100 Children (Age 3-11) : Rs 70 Children (Below 3 years): Free |
| Timings | The first show starts after sunset |
| Time to see | 45 mins |
Important information about Sat-Chit-Anand Water show
- As Sat-Chit-Anand is an outdoor show, it is subject to cancellation due to rainy weather. Guests sitting in the first few rows may get wet in windy conditions.
- Show language: Hindi.
Conclusion
In this article, we have tried to shed light on the famous Hindu temple Akshardham, there are two such temples in India; one in New Delhi and others in Gandhi Nagar, Gujarat.
The temple was created to pay tribute to Swami Narayan and it has a marvelous architectures.
Also hosts several exhibitions that keep the audience of all ages enthralled and they get abreast with the rich culture of India and about the spiritual significance of the temple.
People Also Ask (FAQs)
Why Akshardham temple is famous?
Akshardham Temple of New Delhi is also known as Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple. It is one of the largest Hindu temple complexes in India. … Its history and facts reflect 10,000 years old India’s culture, spirituality, and architecture. It has been made in the memory of Jyotirdhar Swaminarayan Bhagwan.
Which God is in Akshardham temple?
Akshardham temple is a temple belonging to the Swaminarayan Sect that was started by a yogi, and an ascetic by the same name. Shree Krishna is their deity of choice.
What is the meaning of Akshardham?
Akshardham (from the words Akshar meaning indestructible, and Dham meaning abode or home) is believed to be the divine abode of Swaminarayan by his followers. It is the immortal abode of God or the abode of Swaminarayan. This is a common term used in the Swaminarayan Hindu philosophy.
What is the best time to visit Akshardham?
The best time to go to the temple is the winter season, which begins in October and also finishes in February. It is better to visit in the late afternoon, as you will have enough time to explore all the attractions and be at the musical fountain right in time for the show. The temple is open from 9:30 am to 6:30 pm.
What is famous in Akshardham?
The record was presented for Akshardham as the World’s Largest Comprehensive Hindu Temple (certificate). The certificate states, “BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham in New Delhi, India, is the world’s largest comprehensive Hindu temple. It measures 356 ft. (109 m).