LARGEST HINDU TEMPLE OUTSIDE INDIA IN THE MODERN ERA OPENS IN CENTRAL NEW JERSEY
A Grand Spiritual Landmark in the US
The BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham temple, opened in 2025 in Robbinsville Township, New Jersey, stands as the largest Hindu temple in the Western Hemisphere and the third largest in the world. This sprawling 183-acre complex is a monumental achievement by the Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS), symbolizing India’s rich religious and cultural heritage in the diaspora.
Architectural Brilliance and Cultural Significance
The temple integrates traditional Hindu design and craftsmanship with modern engineering, featuring more than 10,000 intricately carved statues representing deities, devotees, dancers, and animals, crafted from stone sourced worldwide.
Its exteriors are built with durable Bulgarian limestone designed to withstand New Jersey’s harsh winters, while interior stones come from India, Greece, and other countries, enhancing its global cultural essence.
A signature feature is the centrally located stepwell filled with water from 108 sacred rivers of India and all 50 US states, highlighting spiritual connections across continents.
The temple houses multiple shrines dedicated to Swaminarayan and other revered figures, including a 49-foot golden statue of Bhagwan Swaminarayan.
Community and Volunteer Effort
More than 12,500 volunteers from around the world contributed to its construction over roughly eight years, embodying community spirit and devotion. Volunteers remain active in maintaining the temple grounds and providing guided tours, offering visitors an immersive experience into Hindu spirituality and Indian culture.
Spiritual Hub and Tourist Attraction
The temple is envisioned as a global pilgrimage site, not just for Indian Americans but Hindus worldwide, strengthening religious ties in the diaspora.
With large visitor centers, museums, and facilities, it also serves as an educational space about Hindu philosophy, history, and values.
The site hosts cultural events, festivals, and spiritual programs that promote intercultural understanding and communal harmony in New Jersey and beyond.
Challenges and Controversies
During construction, there were legal challenges concerning labor practices, with some artisans alleging harsh working conditions. BAPS has denied these claims, stating the workers participated as religious volunteers. This remains a noted aspect of the temple’s history.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)
Q1: Where is the largest Hindu temple outside India located?
It is located in Robbinsville Township, central New Jersey, USA.
Q2: What is the name of the temple?
The temple is called BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham.
Q3: How large is the temple complex?
The complex spans about 183 acres.
Q4: When was the temple opened?
It opened in 2025, with public access beginning in mid-October.
Q5: What are the notable architectural features?
Intricate stone carvings, a 49-foot golden statue of Bhagwan Swaminarayan, a stepwell holding water from 108 sacred Indian rivers and all US states, and a blend of traditional Indian and global materials.
Q6: How was the temple constructed?
Over 12,500 volunteers worldwide contributed over roughly eight years, combining craftsmanship from artisans across several countries.
Published on: August 6, 2025
Published by: PAVAN
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