The BAPS Swaminarayan temple was inaugurated on Thursday in Jodhpur, Rajasthan. Located in Rajasthan's second-largest city, this temple is considered a center of devotion, peace, and cultural pride.
Jodhpur: The grand inauguration of the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple has taken place in Jodhpur, Rajasthan. This temple is a symbol of devotion, peace, and cultural pride, dedicated to Bhagwan Swaminarayan, the founder of the Swaminarayan sect. Jodhpur's Akshardham Temple is the third Akshardham Temple in the country and the fifth in the world.
Spread across an area of 42 bighas, the construction of this temple was completed in 7 years, with no use of iron or cement. The temple is built entirely from Jodhpur sandstone, and its architecture is in the Nagara style, which was prevalent in Rajasthan and Gujarat from the 10th to the 13th centuries.
When was the temple inaugurated?
This sacred temple was inaugurated on Thursday. Jodhpur's Akshardham Temple is located in the Kaliberi area of Soorsagar in the city. It was constructed under the guidance of Mahant Swami Maharaj, the current guru of BAPS and the spiritual successor to Swami Maharaj. The temple's objective is not merely to be a place of worship but to create a center where people can experience spiritual peace and divine vision. The architecture of Jodhpur's Akshardham Temple is exceptionally grand and magnificent.
- The temple's heights are 191 feet, 181 feet, and 111 feet.
- It features five spires, a magnificent dome, and 14 smaller domes.
- The Nilkanth Abhishek Mandapam is established in the temple, housing a Panchdhatu idol of Bhagwan Swaminarayan as Nilkanth Varni.
- The temple complex includes 10 bighas of gardens, with over 500 trees and 5500 plants planted.
Over 500 artisans contributed to this grand construction. Every idol, dome, and intricate carving in the temple is a testament to immense hard work and artistry.
Cultural and Religious Significance of Akshardham Temple
Jodhpur's Akshardham Temple is not just a center of devotion but also a symbol of culture and social upliftment. Bhagwan Swaminarayan, during his life, emphasized morality, service, and social welfare. Inspired by this, the temple will serve to impart spiritual knowledge, peace, and inspiration to people. This temple is the third in the category of Swaminarayan Akshardham temples across India.
The first Akshardham Temple was built in Delhi, and the second in Gandhinagar, Gujarat. Now, this temple in Jodhpur has established a new center of devotion and culture in Rajasthan.