Temple architecture across India has diverse styles, though the basic nature remains the same. We are going to discuss a few of the prominent temples based in Delhi here. Now, let’s dive into the details.
Lotus Temple
The Lotus temple derives its name from its appearance, that resembles lotus flower which is considered auspicious by Indians. The architect Fariborz Sahba constructed it to reflect the clarity and simplicity of Baha’i faith. This temple is an example of architectural supremacy, and also attracts a lot of visitors. It’s located at Kalkaji, south Delhi.
Lotus temple differs from typical Indian architecture prevalent in an Indian temple, in a way that it uses water and light as an important element. Having nine petals in three ranks, it rises from the podium surrounded by nine ponds. External illumination is done so as to make it look like floating on water.
Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple
This magnificent temple opened in November 2005. It was developed in the guidance of Pramukh Swami Maharaj. It’s similar in appearance to its sister temple in Gujarat. The construction was commanded by eight holy men of Panchatantra Shastras. Around 11000 workers and artisans contributed to building this phenomenal structure, featuring 20000 statues, floral motifs, carved pillars, and arches. The lawns are spread in around 100 acres, embellished with fountains and greenery.
One notable thing is that no ferrous metal is used following the Shilpa Shastra. The divine framework uses six thousand light red sand rocks, all imported from Rajasthan.
Chhatarpur Temple
Chhatarpur Temple is also known as Adya Katyayani Shaktipeeth temple. This temple is situated at Chattarpur Delhi and is very near to Qutub Minar. It is the second-largest temple complex in India. The architecture of this temple is marked by the stunning and lavish use of marbles and sophisticatedly carved jalis. It was inaugurated by Sant Nagpal Ji in 1975.
Chattarpur temple is constructed with a fusion of North and South Indian styles of temple architecture with well-manicured gardens. It also secures a spot in the best heritage sites of South Delhi. The entire temple complex is spread in around seventy acres. The temple consists of separate and shared areas dedicated to each deity, isolated into three complexes with each comprising twenty small temples.
Laxminarayan Temple (Birla Temple)
This temple is dedicated to the preserver of Trimurti i.e – Lord Vishnu. Inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi, it was developed by B. R. Birla between 1933 to 1939. The temple is extended into 7.5 acres.
It encompasses multiple shrines, fountains, gardens, and Geeta Bhawan. Its architect Chandra Chatterjee is considered a proponent of modern Indian architecture movement. The architect was impressed by Swadeshi moment of the twentieth century.
This three-storeyed temple built in the Northern Style of temple architecture. The entire temple has carvings from Hindu mythology. This temple extended over 100 acres. The artisans from Banaras led by Vishwanath Shastri sculptured idols on the temple. The peak Shikhar of the temple above the sanctum is around 160 meters high. The shrine is decorated with fresco paintings.