Akshardham Temple in Delhi: A Marvel of Hindu Architecture and Spirituality

Akshardham is a Hindu temple and spiritual-cultural campus located in Delhi, India. The temple is close to the border with Noida and is also referred to as Akshardham Temple or Akshardham Delhi. The complex displays millennia of traditional and modern Hindu culture, spirituality, and architecture. Inspired by Yogiji Maharaj and created by Pramukh Swami Maharaj, it was constructed by BAPS. The temple was officially opened on 6 November 2005, with the building being completed in two days short of five years

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**1. Guinness World Record Holder:**

   Akshardham has secured a place in the Guinness Book of World Records as the world's largest Hindu temple campus[2]. Spanning over 100 acres of land, this sprawling complex is a masterpiece of art and architecture[1].

**2. Architectural Marvel:**

   The temple's architecture is a sight to behold, adorned with intricately carved sculptures of dancers, deities, musicians, and nature. It boasts more than 20,000 murtis (sacred idols) of acharyas, swamis, and devotees. With nine domes and 234 ornately carved pillars, every inch of Akshardham resonates with divine craftsmanship[2].

**3. Unique Design Elements:**

   Akshardham's design incorporates one main shrine, 12 sub-shrines, nine shikhars (spire-like structures), and nine pyramidal shikhars. Of particular note is the temple's largest elliptical dome, constructed using traditional stone architecture and designed to last for a thousand years[4].

**4. Vastu Shastra and Pancharatra Shashtra:**

   The temple's construction adheres to the principles of Vastu Shastra and Pancharatra Shashtra, ancient Indian architectural and spiritual guidelines. The main complex, known as Akshardham Mandir, embodies these principles, creating a space of spiritual significance and beauty[6].

**5. Transforming East Delhi:**

   Beyond its spiritual importance, Akshardham has transformed the landscape of East Delhi. The area surrounding the temple has become highly coveted, with developments such as the Commonwealth Games Village of 2010 springing up around it. Today, it stands as one of Delhi's most sought-after residential localities[2].

Akshardham Temple is more than a place of worship; it is a living testament to India's glorious past and a symbol of its enduring spiritual legacy. Visitors from across the globe come to marvel at its architecture, immerse themselves in its spirituality, and witness the fusion of tradition and modernity in this remarkable place.

In conclusion, Akshardham Temple in Delhi is a beacon of Hindu culture, spirituality, and architectural excellence. Its significance reaches far beyond religious boundaries, drawing people from all walks of life to experience its grandeur and serenity.

*Sources:*

[1] [Wikipedia - Swaminarayan Akshardham (Delhi)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Swaminarayan_Akshardham_(Delhi))

[2] [Magicbricks - Akshardham Temple Delhi](https://www.magicbricks.com/blog/akshardham-temple-delhi/129481.html)

[3] [List of Largest Hindu Temples](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_largest_Hindu_temples)

[4] [Indian Express - Hindu temple, largest outside India](https://indianexpress.com/article/world/hindu-temple-largest-outside-india-modern-new-jersey-8954200/)

[5] [Deccan Herald - World's largest Hindu temple](https://www.deccanherald.com/world/worlds-largest-hindu-temple-outside-india-in-modern-era-to-be-inaugurated-on-october-8-in-new-jersey-2698818)

[6] [EaseMyTrip - Akshardham Temple Delhi](https://www.easemytrip.com/blog/akshardham-temple-delhi-information)