Akshardham Temple
Founded on November 2, 1992, the Akshardham Temple in Gandhinagar, Gujarat is one of the largest Hindu temples in the state. This complex is 108 ft tall and is built with 6000 tons of pink sandstone according to the Indian Vastu Shastra. Because of maintaining this science, not a single piece of steel is used in making the gigantic stone edifice. The total area of the premises is around 23 acres. The 2002 terrorist attack in the Akshardham Temple was fatal. Many died in the incident.
Structure
Bochasanvasi Akshar Purushottam Sanstha built the Akshardham monument. The sanctorum consists of the main idol of gold plated Lord Swaminarayan. The 7 foot tall idol is completely plated with 1.2 tons of gold. The Lord is seated with one hand raised in abhay mudra. On His right side the idol of Swami Gunatitanand- Aksharbrahma is established and on His left side the idol of Swami Gopalanand is found. Both of them were the disciples of Lord Swaminarayan. His followers believe that whenever Lord Swaminarayan incarnates in this world he brings Akshardham (means the eternal abode) with him.
The temple stands on pillars, sculpted with images and beautiful artwork. There are 57 window grills, 210 stone beams and 8 ornamented zarokhas and many more. Opulence of artistry is found in the Aksharsham temple.
Attractions
Pilgrims and visitors to the Aksharsham temple enjoy the light and sound presentation of the remarkable history of the Sanatan Dharma. Besides, different stories from the Hindu Mythology and the Vedas are shown in the presentation. They mainly focus on Draupadi’s humiliation at the court by the kaurava brothers after the Pandavas lost the dice game which was a conspiracy of Shakuni, Lord Ram’s search of his beloved wife Sita after Ravana took her as hostage. Spreading the message of universal peace and brotherhood is the true spirit of the Swaminarayan cult.
Visitors also learn the saying of the Rig Vedas and the Puranas through various exhibitions here. The perfect blend of tradition, modernity and ancient values is traced here in the Akshardham temple. Pilgrims and followers of this cult are allowed to meet the patronages those who are taking care of the cult now.
How to reach?
By Air: The nearest airport is in Ahmedabad.
By Rail: The nearest railway stations are at Gandhinagar & Ahmedabad.
By road: Travellers can get hired taxis and cars along with the state transport buses from various parts of Gujarat to reach Akshardham Temple.