Largest modern Hindu temple outside India opens in US

BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham, the largest Hindu temple constructed outside India in modern times, opened its doors on Sunday in Robbinsville, New Jersey. 

The temple will be accessible to the public starting from Oct. 18.

Monument of spiritual significance: Ahead of the grand dedication ceremony, India’s Permanent Representative at the UN Ambassador Ruchira Kamboj led a delegation of ambassadors and UN representatives to the temple. 

During the event, Dilip Chauhan, deputy commissioner at the New York City Mayor’s Office for International Affairs, hailed the temple as a “dream come true” for devotees, volunteers and followers across the U.S. He highlighted that the temple serves as a cultural complex that unites communities and fosters diversity.

U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-NY, 6) emphasized the significance of the temple by dedicating Oct. 8 as “Akshardham Day” in New York City’s 6th Congressional District.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi acknowledged the importance of the occasion, stating, “It is an occasion of profound spiritual significance for the vast legion of devotees worldwide.”