While in New Delhi, make sure to visit the Lotus temple where a stunning work of modern architecture awaits you. The Bahai House of worship, popularly known as the Lotus Temple resembles a partially open lotus flower surrounded by its leaves and appears as though floating on water. The nine pools representing the floating leaves are surrounded by landscaped walkways, bridges and stairs. The monument is made out of marble and its elegance has attracted millions of visitors since the time it was dedicated to the nation on December 24th, 1986.
The creative mind behind the architecture of this engineering marvel is a young Canadian architect of Iranian decent by the name of Fariburz Sabha. The architect’s choice of the lotus deserves a special mention here. In addition to being the National flower of India, the lotus has a special association with several religions and faiths practiced in India. The lotus is also a symbol of divine birth and purity. Hence the Lotus Temple reflects the glorious culture of India and is in tune with the Bahai faith which believes in the unity of religions.
The Lotus Temple has three layers of nine petals each in its construction. The outermost layer of nine petals is constructed opening outwards and also forms the nine entrances to the outer circular hall. The next layer of nine petals rise above the outer layer and are partially closed. These petals house the central hall. A roof made of glass and steel forms the central portion of the lotus which is open to the sky. This allows natural light into the central hall while also protecting it from the rain.
Unlike several other temples in India, the Lotus Temple draws visitors from all faiths and people from all walks of society are welcome irrespective of their caste, creed or ethnicity. Though it is a temple, you will be surprised to know that there are no priests or idols within the temple and no rituals are performed. The belief of the Bahai teachings lies in embracing the oneness of mankind, religion and God. This is because the Bahai faith raises worship above ritualistic and communal forms.
The main worship centre with its basement belongs to the temple complex, whereas an additional block houses the reception, a library and an administrative section. Audio-visual presentations are played on an hourly basis for the benefit of the customers.
This wonderful work of creativity has found its way into the architectural section of the 1994 edition of Encyclopedia Britannica, with a special mention as an outstanding achievement. The architecture has also received various awards and recognitions regularly. The Lotus temple is also a centre for social service as it promotes unity and harmony among people hailing from different ethnic and economic backgrounds.
By: Abhishek Arora
Posts Tagged ‘Temples In India’
Lotus Temple, Delhi India
November 15th, 2009Pilgrimage – India Travel
October 28th, 2009
Temples in India are doorway to heaven. Since time immemorial the pilgrimages of South India has been attracting devotees from different corners of the world. The centuries old temples are known for their uniqueness in design, rituals, traditions, festivals and believes.
Lets know about some most popular temples in South India
Meenakshi Temple, Madurai – Tamil Nadu
Built sometime between 16th and 18th century AD, Meenakshi temple is popular in the religious circuit all over the world. The shrine is dedicated to Lord Shiva and His consort Parvati, also called as Sundareshwara and Meenakshi. Its 12 gopuras and the tall towers are the major attraction. Each corner of the tower is furnished with stucco figures of mythological deities and animals
Tirupati Temple – Andhra Pradesh
Tirupati temple is draws countless attention of devotees all the year round. The world’s richest temple sits on the Tirumala hill(cluster of seven hills) in Chittoor district. It is devoted to Shri Venkateswara and pilgrims in order to pay special homage before the Lord, organizes an 11 days Brahmotsavam festival in the month of February.
Guruvayoor Temple – Kerala
Located 80 kms from Kochi, Guruvayoor temple is among the popular temples in Kerala. Pilgrims from different parts of the world visit the the holy abode and find pleasure to chant the holy name of Lord Krishna. It is also called as Healing Temple or Bhoolokavaikunta(heaven on Earth). The 23-ft high ‘deepastambham’(pillar of lamps) and koothambalam are the major attractions of the temple.
Lakshmi Narasimha deva Temple – Andhra Pradesh
This divine temple is located upon a 300 foot hill and is called as gateway to Vaikuntha(Vaikuntha-dwara). Pilgrims here will receive chance to offer prayer before the three forms of Lord Narasimha, namely- Jwala Narasimha, Gandabheranda Narasimha and Yogananda Narasimha. A cave inside the temple is believed to the place where the Lord manifested Himself in the form of Gandabheranda Narasimha. One can also find the sculptures of Him in the other two form.
By: Mithi Dey
