Sunday 27 January 2013

Birla Mandir...

Located on the Mandir Marg in Connaught Place, Birla Temple is the popular name for the Laxmi Narayan Temple in Delhi and the temple spreads over an area of 7.5 acres (30,000 m2) approximately and built up area is 0.52 acres (2,100 m2). It was built by BD Birla and inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi(Father of the Nation) with the belief that it should be open to all castes and all faiths as he believed in Sarvodaya('universal uplift' or 'progress of all'). He believed that in order to fight against injustice of the British we first need to give up all inhuman practices, thus giving the same message through this temple as well. Dedicated to Laxmi (goddess of wealth) and Shiv (the preserver) this temple is frequented by locals and tourists round the year. There's one interesting thing about the temple, although it is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, it also has a large Buddhist shrine which shows unity in diversity.

Built over a period of 6 years between 1933 to 1939, this temple is constructed entirely of red sandstone and white marble. The tall structure is surrounded by gardens and fountains but as far as architecture is concerned, the Birla Temple does have a sort of beauty of its own but it's build under Nagara style of Hindu temple architecture. Its blends Orissan temple style with the Mughal style, its peculiar fascination with red-and-white is definitely Mughal. And perhaps you've already noticed the semi-Mughal arches at the entrance and on some windows. But still a synchronized blend of sculptures, idols, spires and jalis, makes this temple an architectural marvel in the capital city. The highest shikhara of the temple above the sanctum  is about 160 feet high. The temple faces the east and is situated on a high plinth. The shrine is adorned with fresco paintings depicting his life and work. It's a must visit place if you want to find peace and serenity in this bustling city Delhi...

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