Akshardham, the largest Hindu temple in the United States, has been dedicated in Robbinsville, New Jersey. Spanning over 185 acres, the temple serves as a symbol of unity, peace, and harmony for people across America and the world. The grand dedication ceremony of Akshardham took place in the presence of Mahant Swami Maharaj following a nine-day celebration.
The construction of the temple, dedicated to Bhagwan Swaminarayan, began in 2011 and was completed this year. It was a collaborative effort involving 12,500 volunteers from around the world. One of the temple’s unique features is its largest elliptical dome constructed from stone.
Lenin Joshi, a volunteer, expressed that the Swaminarayan Akshardham temple showcases India’s heritage and culture to modern America. Built by a diverse group of volunteers, including men, women, and children from various backgrounds, the temple stands as a testament to love while preserving traditions and promoting peace, hope, and harmony.
Joshi highlighted several distinctive aspects of the temple, such as the utilization of 1.9 million cubic feet of stone sourced from 29 different sites worldwide. The temple incorporates elements of ancient Indian art, architecture, and culture, including intricate carvings, statues, and water from holy rivers.
Deputy Commissioner Dilip Chauhan from the New York City Mayor’s Office for International Affairs described the inauguration and dedication of the Akshardham temple as a dream come true for devotees and followers in the United States. He emphasized that the temple is not exclusive to any particular community but rather serves as a cultural complex that will unite diverse groups of people, acting as a bridge between local, state, and federal governments and the faith-based community.
Yogi Trivedi, a scholar of media and religion, commended the temple’s foundation of selfless service and devotion, noting that these values would resonate not only with Hindu-Americans but also with Americans and visitors from around the world. Trivedi emphasized that while the temple’s architecture is awe-inspiring, its innovative messaging is unique and groundbreaking. Messages of unity, democracy, and freedom from iconic leaders can be found within the temple, appealing to a broad range of individuals.
Globally, BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham temples are renowned landmarks of Hindu art, architecture, and culture. They serve as spiritual and community hubs, welcoming individuals of all faiths and backgrounds. The Robbinsville temple joins the ranks of the previously established Akshardham complexes in Gandhinagar, India, and New Delhi.
The dedication of Akshardham represents a significant milestone in promoting unity, peace, and harmony. Its cultural significance and inclusive nature are celebrated not only within the Hindu-American community but also by individuals from diverse backgrounds seeking spiritual enlightenment and a sense of shared humanity.
