Updated May 25, 2023
Lakshmi Narayana Temple
When it comes to witnessing any of the spectacular monuments known for their splendor and beauty in India’s vast and magnificent cultural heritage, the mere mention of Birla Mandir captivates the hearts of teeming millions. It is one of the largest Hindu temples, with great grandeur.
Information & History
- Lakshmi Narayan Temple is another name for Birla Mandir.
- Industrialists Sh. J.K. Birla and Baldeo Das Birla constructed this beautiful tourist attraction.
- Its construction began in 1933 and took six years to complete.
- In 1939, Mahatma Gandhi, the father of our nation, inaugurated Birla Mandir intending to keep its entry open to all people, regardless of caste or creed.
- It is located west of Connaught Place and is one of the most beautiful temples that add four moons to India’s glorious heritage.
- It honors Lord Vishnu, also known as Lord Narayana (the Preserver), and his consort Goddess Lakshmi (symbolic of prosperity).
- On the temple premises, devotees perform an Aarti, utilizing flowers, lamps, incense sticks, and other sacred artifacts, to evoke a genuine sense of divinity.
- Maharaja Udaybhanu Singh laid the foundation stone for Birla Mandir.
- The first building in the Birla temple series was the Birla Mandir in Delhi.
Architecture of Birla Mandir
- The Indian Swadeshi Movement heavily influenced Birla Mandir’s architecture.
- Sris Chandra Chatterjee designed the temple with a modern mindset, extensively using modern technologies while emphasizing religious and national beliefs.
- The temple has three beautifully carved stories and is in the Nagara style of architecture.
- The temple was built with the help of over 1000 skilled artisans from Benares.
- The temple’s idols are Jaipur marble (The Pink City).
- The temple also has some beautiful works made of Kota stone, primarily from Agra, Jaisalmer, Makarana, and Kota.
- The temple features numerous fountains, waterfalls, shrines, and lovely sculptures, each with its own religious and national significance.
- An artificial landscape also enhances the temple.
- Under the supervision of Acharya Vishwanath Shastri, various skilled artisans constructed the temple’s Kota idols.
- The temple’s central hall houses a giant statue of Lakshmi Narayan.
- Among the most significant features of the Birla Temple is its Shikara, which stands approximately 160 meters tall.
- This magnificent temple is oriented eastward. The beauty of the temple fascinates its visitors even more during the sunrise.
- North of the temple is the famous Geeta Bhawan, dedicated to Lord Krishna.
- The other sides of the temple find their dedication to Lord Buddha, Shiva, and Krishna.
- The temple also houses the holy Vedas.
Festivals in Birla Mandir
- Birla Mandir is well-known for hosting festivals such as Janmashtami, Ramnavami, and Diwali.
- The temple is lavishly decorated during these festivals with brilliant, dazzling multi-colored lights, creating a breathtaking and scintillating sight.
- Thousands of devotees from all over India pay their respects to the deities and rejoice in the occasion.
Best time to Visit Birla Mandir
- Because of the pleasant weather, the best time to see the fantastic beauty of Birla Mandir is between October and March.
- The temple is open for visitors from 7 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 9 p.m.
- Friday, the day of Goddess Lakshmi, is considered the best day for visiting the temple during the week.
How to Reach?
Commuting to Birla Mandir is also not a Herculean task because it is in a central place that is easily accessible to all and has numerous transportation options.
Conclusion
Such historical sites help us develop a more profound connection to the richness of our diverse cultural heritage.
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