Happiness & Peace

EXPERIENCES Where Happiness and Peace Reside

The majestic mandir invites visitors to embrace stillness and reflection—and experience ancient Hindu rituals.

BY KATJA RIDDERBUSCH

T

he Lilburn police department doesn’t keep statistics on how many car accidents occur around Lawrenceville Highway, but there have been a few. That’s because this road, in addition to a slew of fast-food restaurants, gas stations, and tire stores, is home to a building that rises from the flat suburban scenery like a white cake with particularly ornate frosting. It’s a stunning sight, to say the least.

The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir is one of the largest Hindu temples in North America. Opened in 2007, it is set on 30 acres of meticulously landscaped grounds. The mandir is made of more than 34,000 blocks of stone— Italian Carrara marble and Turkish limestone for the outside, and Indian pink sandstone for the inside. Following the rules of ancient Hindu scripture, the pieces were hand-carved in India, then shipped to Lilburn and assembled like a majestic 3D puzzle. Tourist blogs have likened it to “a giant Lego set.”

Mandir means “a dwelling place” in Sanskrit—a place where the inner self lives, the mind stops darting in countless thoughts, and the body comes to pause. Once you climb the main steps and enter the temple, you are swept into a different world. There’s a powerful smell of incense and a distinct stillness, with only a faint sound of spiritual chanting echoing from the walls. “Whoever sincerely offers his prayers will attain happiness and peace,” said Pramukh Swami Maharaj, former spiritual leader of BAPS worldwide, upon the temple’s inauguration.

The intricate carvings on the columns—some surrounded by protective glass—feature popular religious figures in Hinduism, and depict tales of devotion and inspiration. Inserted in the walls are small alcoves with colorful shrines holding murtis—sacred images of Hindu deities. Once a day, visitors can participate in a ritual called Arti, an ancient Hindu offering where swamis, or religious teachers, wave lighted wicks before the Murtis while chanting musical prayers.

The complex has a gift shop featuring books on Hinduism, music for meditation, herbal health products, and sweet and savory snacks. There’s also an assembly hall and a family activity center. Shayona Cafe, near the entrance, offers all-vegetarian cuisine. It’s a great way for visitors to taste authentic Indian fare and add a culinary aspect to their spiritual experience.

Plan a Visit

BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir is open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. To experience some of the traditional rituals, the best times to visit are before noon and between 3:30 p.m. and 6 p.m. The midday Arti ceremony is performed daily at 11:15 a.m. Entry is free, but donations are appreciated. Visitors are required to remove their shoes at the entrance. All clothing must cover your shoulders and knees. Photography and video filming inside the mandir are not allowed. Guided tours can be booked in advance, while self-guided audio tours are available at the gift shop for a small fee. Visit baps.org/atlanta for more information.