The world’s largest temple outside of Asia was inaugurated in New Jersey this month. It is a symbol of unity and diversity in America, a nation built by immigrants.
The Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple in Robbinsville, N.J. stands on 185 acres, a project that took 13 years to complete with the effort of more than 12,500 volunteers. The temple stands 42 feet tall, 87 feet wide, and 133 feet long. It features 40 spires, 10 domes, 98 beautifully carved pillars, 66 arches, 144 sacred figures, and 58 decorative ceiling designs. The temple is adorned with 34 ornate grills, 91 elephants holding musical instruments and flowers, and 44 Ganesh statues. It comprises 13,499 carved stone pieces.
Incorporation of quotes:
The temple walls are adorned with plaques and quotes from diverse faiths, including Hinduism, Christianity, and Sikhism, as well as leaders like Martin Luther King Jr, Abraham Lincoln, Socrates, and Albert Einstein. This deliberate inclusion extends a warm invitation to visitors of every faith and background.
“It’s built to last 1,000 years, and will continue to inspire through its carving and themes for generations to come,” said Hari Patel, Project and Operations Administrator for Akshardham at BAPS.
Religious landscape in America:
America, a diverse nation known for its opportunities and immigrant heritage, proudly upholds religious freedom, as articulated in the First Amendment. Based on a Pew Research publication, in 1972, Christianity comprised 90% of religious affiliations, while the unaffiliated and other religions made up about 10%. However, by 2022, Christianity decreased to 63%, and the unaffiliated and other religions rose to 36%, indicating a notable shift in the U.S. religious landscape.
A symbol of this evolving landscape can be found in the construction of the second-largest Hindu temple in the world.
“As an immigrant, I could never have imagined being welcomed so warmly, irrespective of my background or qualifications, and to open-heartedly allow me to build something that I enjoy and value for the next generation,” Patel said.
The temple stands as a source of pride and fascination for many in the Bay Area.
“It’s nice to see some representation of the Hindu culture outside of Asia and close to home,” said Rohan Shukla, a Carlmont High School student.
Shared appreciation not only reflects the temple’s cultural significance but also underscores its powerful role in fostering a sense of pride and unity among people in communities.
“More important than pride and ego, it represents a way of life, and I’m glad that it’s here for everyone to understand and embrace,” said Sudhir Mahajan, a local resident of San Carlos.
The BAPS temple graciously welcomes individuals of all religions, cultures, and backgrounds, providing an opportunity for everyone to experience Indian culture and appreciate architecture.
As the sun sets behind the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple, it not only illuminates its grand spires but also the shared values and dreams of a diverse nation.
