Scroll through to preview the key features on the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham campus.
At the centerpoint of the campus stands the Akshardham Mahamandir. Regardless of one's beliefs and background, Akshardham will inspire all to connect with each other and with the Divine. HH Pramukh Swami Maharaj, the fifth spiritual successor of Bhagwan Swaminarayan, envisioned a majestic spiritual campus in the United States that would consolidate thousands of years of inspiring Hindu art, architecture and culture.
At the campus entrance stands a 49-foot image of Bhagwan Swaminarayan, portrayed as a youthful yogi. Known as Nilkanth Varni during his teenage years, he was the founder of the Swaminarayan Hindu tradition. His calm and undisturbed pose, engaged in deep yogic prayer, symbolizes spiritual focus and discipline, echoing his journey, where he fostered compassion, empathy, and service in the hearts of all. The legacy of his reforms in the late 18th century that addressed the oppression of women, young children, and marginalized castes stands the test of time.
Experience a serenity of a traditional Indian stepped pond, filled with water from India's 108 holy rivers and those flowing through the fifty states in the U.S. Here, we pay homage to life-giving elixir and honor the precious waters of our planet. Just as our civilization reveres rivers for their ability to cleanse and nourish, this step-well invites you to pause, reflect, and embark on a journey of self-discovery.
In Hindu traditions, the art of welcoming guests transcends hospitality; it is considered a sacred practice. As ancient sacred texts proclaim, “Atithi devo bhava”—a host must see the divine in every guest. Within the hallways of warmth and inclusivity, people from diverse communities, irrespective of religion, ethnicity, or cultural heritage, are welcomed and introduced to the essence of Hinduism and Swaminarayan Akshardham.
The mandir, a place of Hindu worship, holds the essence of tranquility, where the mind finds stillness, and the soul discovers inner peace. In this mandir, meticulously carved from stone, worshippers gather to seek blessings from the sacred images, the murtis. Here, you will find an opportunity to deepen your understanding of yourself and explore your connection with the Divine.
At Shayona Café, enjoy a delightful ensemble of vegetarian Indian and Western cuisines. Here, culinary artistry melds with spiritual principles, creating a menu that not only tantalizes the taste buds but also resonates with the core ideas of non-violence. Each dish is made with mindfulness, aiming to nurture the mind, body, and soul. Before serving, food is offered to the Divine, transforming it into prasād, or blessed food. Shayona Café provides an opportunity to experience a fusion of flavors, appreciate diverse dishes, and nourish your palate and soul.
The Hindu Learning Center will introduce the spiritual history of Hindu faith, share its rich cultural heritage, and highlight the core idea of unity in diversity.