swaminarayan akshardham temple in jodhpur

Akshardham Location Jodhpur

The Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple in Jodhpur is a significant upcoming spiritual and cultural landmark. Located on Mandalnath Road in the Kali Beri area near Sursagar, this temple is part of the Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) network, which is known for its grand temples, including those in Delhi and Gandhinagar.

The temple, still under construction as of the latest updates, is set to be one of the largest Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple in Jodhpur globally, occupying a large area of around 35 bighas. The design integrates traditional Indian architecture with modern construction techniques, featuring intricately carved marble facades, domes, and pillars that depict scenes from ancient scriptures and teachings of Bhagwan Swaminarayan​.

Besides being a place of worship, the Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple in Jodhpur will serve as a cultural and educational hub. It will host various facilities such as an addiction-relief center, a youth center, and cultural exhibitions aimed at promoting spiritual education and cultural understanding​​.

Who Funded Akshardham Temple?

The Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple in Jodhpur, like its counterparts in Delhi and other locations, was primarily funded and developed by the Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS), a socio-spiritual Hindu organization. This organization is known for its widespread contributions to temple construction and community services based on the teachings of Bhagwan Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple in Jodhpur construction involved significant support from volunteers and donations from devotees, which is a common practice for BAPS projects. The meticulous craftsmanship and architectural grandeur are made possible through these combined efforts, highlighting the collective dedication towards promoting spirituality, culture, and education​​.

What is Shilanyas Vidhi?

The term “Shilanyas” comes from the Sanskrit words “shila,” meaning stone, and “nyasa,” meaning placement. This ritual is deeply rooted in Vedic traditions and marks the beginning of the construction, signifying the establishment of the divine presence in the structure from its inception. the key elements and significance of the Shilanyas Vidhi

Selection of the Site: The process begins with the selection of an auspicious site, often guided by Vastu Shastra, the traditional Hindu system of architecture.

Purification: The site is purified through rituals involving water, fire, and other elements to cleanse any negative energies and sanctify the land.

Invocation of Deities: Various deities, particularly those associated with earth and construction, are invoked to seek their blessings. This usually includes prayers and offerings to deities like Vishwakarma and Bhoomi Devi.

Placement of the First Stone: A consecrated stone or brick, often inscribed with sacred symbols and mantras, is placed in the ground at the designated spot. This stone is considered the foundation of the entire structure, representing stability and strength.

Recitation of Mantras: Vedic chants and hymns are recited by priests to invoke blessings and ensure the success of the construction. These mantras are believed to infuse the site with positive energy and divine protection.

Ceremonial Offerings: Offerings such as flowers, grains, milk, honey, and ghee are made to the deities and the earth. These offerings symbolize respect, gratitude, and the desire for a harmonious relationship with nature and the divine.

Symbolic Acts: Rituals may include the placing of coins, gems, or other auspicious items in the foundation as symbols of prosperity and good fortune.

The Shilanyas Vidhi is not only a religious ceremony but also a cultural event that brings the community together, reflecting shared values and aspirations.

Who the god of akshardham?

The deity worshiped in the Akshardham temples, including the one in Jodhpur, is Bhagwan Swaminarayan, the central figure of the Swaminarayan Sampradaya. Bhagwan Swaminarayan (1781-1830) is revered as an incarnation of God by his followers. The Akshardham temples are part of the Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS), which promotes the teachings and spiritual legacy of Bhagwan Swaminarayan.

In addition to Bhagwan Swaminarayan, the temples also honor his divine successors, including Gunatitanand Swami, Gopalanand Swami, and the current spiritual leaders of the BAPS organization. The temples are designed to reflect the principles and values espoused by Bhagwan Swaminarayan, emphasizing devotion, purity, and service.