New Delhi’s Akshardham Temple has been included in the list of the Seven Wonders of the 21st century by Reader’s Digest. The other six wonders listed in this list of wonders are – the Spring Temple Buddha, China; Cave of Crystals, Mexico; Museum of Islamic Art, Qatar; Bahai Mandir, Israel; Darvaza Gas Crater, Turkmenistan; and Millau Viaduct, France. Akshardham Temple stands out in the 5th place whereas the list is topped by the Spring Temple Buddha of China.
Akshardham Temple, New Delhi
Akshardham Temple is a 100-acre temple complex with its main temple dedicated to Lord Swaminarayan. The temple is built and managed by the Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS ).
Swaminarayan Akshardham in New Delhi epitomises 10,000 years of Indian culture in all its breathtaking grandeur, beauty, wisdom and bliss. It brilliantly showcases the essence of India’s ancient architecture, traditions and timeless spiritual messages. The Akshardham experience is an enlightening journey through India’s glorious art, values and contributions for the progress, happiness and harmony of mankind.
The grand, ancient-styled Swaminarayan Akshardham complex was built in only five years through the blessings of HDH Pramukh Swami Maharaj of the Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) and the colossal devotional efforts of 11,000 artisans and BAPS volunteers. The complex was inaugurated on 6 November, 2005.