Akshardham Mandir, Gandhinagar

Gujarat, Gandhinagar, Gandhinagar

Akshardham temple in Gandhinagar is one of the largest and most prominent temples in the state of Gujarat. An architectural marvel, the temple complex caters to not just spirituality but also art, education, exhibitions and research. The shrine is a tribute to the life, principles and teachings of Swaminarayan. The foundation stone-laying ceremony for the Akshardham mandir was conducted by Pramukh Swami on 14 December 1979. The completed complex was inaugurated on November 4, 1992. On September 24, 2002, two armed terrorists attacked Akshardham, killing 33 people and wounding 70. The terrorists were later killed by the Indian National Security Guard ending the siege. The Akshardham complex was reopened fourteen days after the attack.

Legend

Located in the capital of Gujarat, the complex is a tribute to Swaminarayan and the celebration of his life and teachings. Followers of Swaminarayan believe that the soul goes to Akshardham after attaining moksha.

Architecture

The core of the Akshardham complex is the Akshardham Mandir, built from 6,000 metric tons of pink sandstone from Rajasthan. An architectural masterpiece, it features 97 carved pillars, 17 domes, 8 balconies, 220 stone beams and 264 sculpted figures. No steel or iron has been used anywhere in the construction. The mandir's central chamber houses a seven-foot-tall, gold-leafed image, of Swaminarayan. In each of the four corners of the mandir sits a life-sized marble murti of the successors of Swaminarayan. The first floor of the mandir, the Vibhuti Mandapam displays the spiritual character of Swaminarayan, while the basement of the mandir, called the Prasadi Mandapam, encases various relics from his life.The complex's five exhibition halls use audio-visual presentations and life-sized dioramas to explore various themes in Hinduism.

Pic Courtesy : commons.wikimedia.org

Darsan Info

Visiting Hours : Tuesday to Sunday from 9:30 AM to 7:30 PM.

The complex remains closed on Mondays

Other attractions at Akshardham includes Audio Animatronics Show, Sat-Chit-Anand Watershow, Mystic India show, rides for kids etc.

Darsan Dresscode

Devotees are advised to wear clean and conservative attire

Culture

Gandhinagar is the capital of Gujarat. Navrathri is celebrated with great fervour in the area. The folk dances of Gujarat, Garba, Raas, and Dandiya are performed during this time.