Akshardham

Akshardham, meaning "the abode of the eternal, divine" in Sanskrit, refers to two major Hindu temple complexes in India built by the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha. The most widely known are Swaminarayan Akshardham in Delhi and Swaminarayan Akshardham in Gandhinagar, both established to celebrate the life of Bhagwan Swaminarayan and to promote Indian art, culture, and spirituality.

The Delhi complex is located on the banks of the Yamuna in southeast Delhi. It centers on a large temple dedicated to Swaminarayan and includes a cultural exhibition area, landscaped gardens, and ancillary structures. The complex emphasizes spiritual devotion, traditional sculpture, and multimedia presentations that illustrate aspects of Hindu philosophy, history, and values. It is a prominent tourist and pilgrimage site and has become one of the city’s most visited landmarks.

The Gandhinagar complex is situated in the capital of Gujarat and follows a similar concept, with a central temple and accompanying educational and cultural facilities. It features marble-and-stone architecture, sculpture, and exhibitions designed to convey spiritual and cultural themes, along with gardens and water features. Like the Delhi site, it aims to present Hindu philosophy and Indian artistic traditions to visitors.

Both Akshardham complexes serve as devotional spaces and cultural centers, drawing visitors for worship, education, and inspiration. They are managed by BAPS and are noted for their emphasis on devotion, nonviolent values, and the preservation and presentation of Indian art and history in a modern setting.