All about Akshardham, New Delhi

Akshardham : Facts and Figures

Here are some essential facts about Ashramdham

• Inaugurated on 6th November 2005

• Designed and Constructed by Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS)

• Inspired by HH Yogiji Maharaj (1892-1971 CE)

• Created by Pramukh Swami Maharaj

• Over 300,000,000 volunteer hours have gone into making the complex.

• More than 8,000 volunteers across the world participated in building the Mandir.

• The Mandir is built using intricately carved sandstone and marble.

• Akshardham exhibits Hinduism, including Bhagwan Swaminarayan's life and his teachings, such as prayer, compassion, and non-violence.

• Open gardens, water bodies and a step-well-styled courtyard

Let's explore the individual Parts that constitute the Temple:

Mandir

The heart of the Swaminarayan Akshardham is the Akshardham Mandir. It was opened on 6 November 2005; the Mandir was built to offer shelter to the God that honours. His glory and divinity -- an immortal, gorgeous and peaceful home for God on Earth. It is a temporal adobe of God and the devotion, culture and values he inspires.

The Mandir is built based on Hindu traditions and architecture. It is designed with intricacy to the ancient and middle-age-medieval Hindustan treatises on architectural science;- Many architectural masters have guided the Mandir's designs and construction from its significant style of carving and its proportions. Accordingly, the Mandir is made without ferrous metal in its construction.

The Akshardham mandir consists of 234 intricately carved pillars, nine ornate domes, 20 quadrangle spires and 20,000 statues of Hinduism's spiritual personalities.

The Mandir is 141.3 feet high, 316 feet wide and 356 feet long. Inside the Mandir, each worshipfully carved pillar, dome and ceiling - shares a story of devotion, offers a darshan of a deity, or narrates an incident from the life of Bhagwan Swaminarayan.

Garbhagruh

The inner sanctum or Grbhagruh of the Akshardham mandir is Bhagwan Swaminarayan's home and his succession of gurus, eternal servants of God and Ideals of saintliness and devotion. They reside in the Garbhagruh and offer services and worship to Bhagwan Swaminarayan. Articles sanctified by Bhagwan are preserved for public darshan behind the garbhagruh.

Around the grabhagruh, special altars are devoted to other deities of Sanatana Dharma: Shri Radha-Krishna, Shri-Sita Rama, Shri Lakshmi-Narayan, and Shri Shiva-Parvati.

Mandapams

The Interior of the Akshardham mandir is made of nine mandapams or thematic spaces. These nine mandapams are decorated with intricately sculpted murtis and pillars that are capped by unique domes and ceilings. Travelling through these mandapams, one meets renowned devotees and great avatars and enjoy celestial beings. The ornate designs and intricate sculpting of the mandapams inspire an image of God's inconceivable beauty and the beauty he inspires in creation.

Mandovar

The external face of a traditional stone is known as a mandovar. Swaminarayan Akshardham's mandovar, with its intricate carvings, is one of the largest mandovars built in Hindustan in the last eight decades.

Mandovar is 25 feet high, 611 feet long and with 200 sculptured stone idols of great rishis, sadhus, acharyas, devotees and avatars. The base of the Mandovar is called the Jagati. This layer has carvings of sages, rishis, sadhus, avatars, acharyas and devotees.

We also find elephants symbolizing strength; the lion symbolizes bravery and ferocity. One can find even Vyal (an ancient animal) that was renowned for its speed.

To beautify the structure further, carvings of flowers are included. Flowers stand for their beauty and fragrance. In the middle of the mandovar, known as vibhuti, has sculptures of avatars, devas, sages, devotees and Acharyas.

And on top of the layer includes samarans who strive for spiritual height in their lives. The entire mandovar inspires people to liberate his/her life from the shackles of routine mundane pleasures and ascend to the ultimate state of God-Realisation.

Narayan Peeth

A Mandir stands as a symbol of tradition and symbolically, on the shoulders of elephants. A creative adaptation the elephants are moving around and do not stand still. The Gajendra Peet or Elephan plinth represents stories and legends of -elephants with nature, and humans and God. This depiction of these elephants is to honour elephants with the honouring of grand yet gentle animals and share the message of peace, beauty and gentleness.

Entry Fees and Timings

Entry - Free

Timings: 10:00am to 8:00pm

Aarti :10:30am and 6:00pm

Note:

1. Shoes are not allowed in Mandir.

2. Gajendra Peeth is designed to provide sufficient space for wheelchair movement; however, the Narayan Peeth is not wheelchair-accessible.

Exhibitions

The exhibitions are displayed in three large halls, each with a unique style. A source of information, education, and inspiration, they are a fourfold combination of science, art, culture, and spirituality. Artistically mesmerizing, culturally moving, scientifically stunning, and spiritually elevating. The exhibition creates a fantastic ambiance capable of transcending viewers to ancient Hindustan.

A balanced fusion of wisdom and ancient values and the best of modern media and technologies. The exhibition presents a powerful, soul-stirring experience of Hindu culture, heritage and universal values.

The three halls are:

1. Sahajanand Darshan - Hall of Values,

2. Neelkanth Darshan - Large Format Film

3. Sanskruti Dharshan - Cultural Boat Ride.

Sahajanand Darshan - Hall of Values

Visitors walk into a serene world of values that can help change their lives and create a new world. Universal values like ahimsa, love, fearlessness, humanity, service, compassion, spirituality, consciousness, honesty, peace, and unity are displayed through animatronics through a series of representation figures.

Neelkanth Dharshan - Giant Screen Film

Take your seat in the theatre with a giant screen. Explore the highest mountains and deepest of magnificent Himalayas, trek through the rain forest of Assam, and see the fantastic Rameshwaram mandir.

In this epic large-screen film, follow the footsteps of Neelkanth, a youthful Bhagwan Swaminarayan, on his journey across Hindustan subcontinents.

Sanskruti Dharshan - Cultural Boat Ride

Board a boat and sail through a journey into thousands of years of ancient Hindustan History. Experience the lifestyle of the Vedic Era. Sail via one of the oldest universities and watch an eye surgery happening more than a thousand years ago. This 12-minute boat ride presents some of Hindustan's contributions to the world.

Akshardham: Ticket and Timings

Exhibitions Ticket Fees:

Adults (Age 12+): INR 250/-

Seniors (Age 60+): INR 200/-

Children (Age 4 -11): INR 150

Children (Below 4 ): Free

Note:

Tickets include: - Sahajanand Darshan, Sanskruti Darshan and Neelkanth Dharshan.

Separate tickets are not available for individual sections.

Timings:

11:00 am to 8:00 pm

Ticket Counters close at 6:00 pm

1. Sahajanand Darshan: 55 minutes

2. Neelkath Darshan: 45 minutes

3. Sanskruti Darshan:15 minutes

Note:

1. Exhibition Entry: First Come, First Serve Basis

2. On Busy Days: One must expect a long waiting time

3. Food or drinks are not allowed inside the exhibition hall

4. Personal Water Bottles: Deposit on Entry, collect on Exit

5. Rest Rooms: Located at Building Entries and Exits

Water Show

Sahaj Anand - Multimedia Water Show

Immediately after the sunset, grab a cup of hot beverage and sit in the arena while the stage is set up for the magnificent water dance, a musical fountain water show. Immerse yourself in the bliss of the water dancing: a treat for your eyes.

Akshardham: The Arena

The Sahaj Anand Water Show brings home Yagnpurush Kund it's home. A replica of grand traditional step-wells, it measures 300 feet x 300 feet and has 2,870 steps and 108 small shrines. This nine-lotus design of the central pool is a replica of a ritual yantra or arrangement used in Hindu sacred ceremonies. At the head of the step-well is the 27-foot-tall bronze murti of Neelkanth Varni. He presides over the step-well, inspiring determination, courage, and devotion in all who catch his glimpse.

Akshardham: The Show

The Marvelous Sahaj Anand Water Show is a breathtaking 24-minute presentation that includes a variety of intriguing media to bring a real-life story from the Kena Upanishad. Multi-color lasers, underwater flames, video projections, water jets, and surround sound in a symphony with lights and live actors produce an inspiring and captivating presentation. International experts, while volunteering, contributed their expertise with BAPS and sadhus to produce this one-of-a-kind, phenomenal presentation.

The Story of Akshardham

Children play around a lake and are amused to see the water accompanying their joy. Soon, through their dance and song, a flower is formed from the lake's water. However, their merriment disturbs the devas - The Gods of the elements - who are celebrating the victory over demons. The kid's seemingly feeble flower is in danger of being destroyed by the wrath of the gods.

The hope and innocence of children are spotted against the powers and high ego of the devas. As events unfold, identify whether the flower stays alive. Learn the secret of Sahaj Anand - spontaneous, innate bliss. This story is being adapted from the Kena Upanishad. One of the numerous treasures of knowledge and wisdom from the Vedic -era.

Why Akshardham is Must-Visit Temple:

Architectural Grandeur: Akshardham Temple exemplifies the everlasting essence of Indian architecture, perfectly integrating ancient Hindu traditions with contemporary design aspects. The elaborate carvings, sculptures, and embellishments on its front are awe-inspiring, demonstrating Indian artisans' unsurpassed talent and craftsmanship.

From the towering spires that pierce the sky to the delicate floral designs that grace the walls, Akshardham's architecture exemplifies India's rich tradition and artistic excellence. The temple's magnificence is more than just a visual spectacle; it also represents the enduring spirit of faith and devotion that has influenced India's cultural landscape for generations.

Water Show: The Musical Fountain Show at Akshardham is a captivating display that transports guests to a world of fantasy. As darkness falls, the vast water basin in front of the temple comes to life with a symphony of light, sound, and water effects. Jets of water dance and leap in time with a mesmerizing musical composition, forming complicated patterns and shapes that captivate the audience. The program tells stories from Indian mythology and history while brilliant lights and projections illuminate the water, bringing depth and richness to the performance. It's a truly remarkable experience that makes an indelible effect on everyone who witnesses it.

Boat Ride: A quiet boat trip on the Yagnapurush Mandapam will transport you through the heart of Akshardham Temple in peace. As you float across the tranquil waters, be mesmerized by the spectacular grandeur that appears before you. The elaborate carvings, soaring spires, and harmonized color scheme make a captivating spectacle.

The smooth lapping of the water against the boat, combined with the relaxing ambient, creates an ideal setting for introspection and spiritual thought. It's a unique perspective that allows you to appreciate the grandeur and complexities of Akshardham Temple from a whole new perspective.

Spiritual Significance: Akshardham bears significant spiritual significance for followers because it is a dedicated temple to Swaminarayan Bhagwan. It serves as a place of worship where people can connect with their inner selves and receive divine blessings. The temple's tranquil and peaceful milieu, combined with its exquisite design and devotional attitude, provides a great setting for prayer, meditation, and spiritual reflection. Devotees frequently visit Akshardham to seek blessings, pray, and find comfort in the presence of the holy. The temple's spiritual value is based not just on its physical structure, but also on the spiritual experiences it provides to visitors.

Food Court: The food court in Akshardham Temple caters to a wide range of tastes and preferences. The food court, which serves a wide range of vegetarian cuisines, ensures that tourists can have tasty and nutritious meals following their spiritual journey. From traditional Indian dishes like thali and dosas to worldwide favorites like pizzas and pastas, the menu offers a delectable selection of choices. The emphasis on fresh, high-quality ingredients and expert preparation ensures an unforgettable eating experience. Whether you're looking for a quick nibble or a leisurely dinner, Akshardham's food court provides a pleasant culinary experience that compliments the temple's spiritual ambiance.

Tickets and Timings

Tickets Fee:

Adults (Age 12+): INR 90, Seniors (Age 60+): INR 90, children (Below 4-11): INR 60, and

Children (Below Age 4): Free

Timing: The first Show Starts after the sunset. Multiple shows may be conducted during weekends or public holidays (the show timing is 7:15, and the show time is 24min.

Note:

1. In breezy conditions, the audience may get wet from the fountain water

2. Show language - Hindi.

Conclusion:

The Swaminarayan Akshardham - has become one of the main tourist attractions spots in Delhi. Akshardham is gaining popularity across the Globe; travelers from various parts of the world visit Delhi to witness the phenomenal beauty of the Mandir.

Akshardham is an eternal abode of God, a Hindu house of worship, and a spiritual and cultural avenue that exhibits devotion, harmony, and learning.

This timeless marvel with spiritual messages, vibrant devotional traditions and also, and ancient architecture all are echoed in its spell-binding art and architecture. A tribute to Bhagawan Swaminarayan, devas, avatars, and great sages of Hinduism.

Akshardham mandir includes over two hundred murtis, representing spiritual stalwarts over millennia. The spiritual space of Akshardham is that each soul is potentially divine.

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