Avarankuppam Manikka Swamiji Temple Seva Trust
“You are what you believe in. You become that which you believe you can become” ― Bhagavad Gita
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Our Guru
ஸ்ரீலஸ்ரீ சத்குரு ஜெய்ராம் பிர்மயோகீஸ்வர மாணிக்க சுவாமிகள்
This life for me is an endeavor to help people experience and express their divinity. May you know the bliss of the Divine. – ManikkaSwamy The word “guru” is derived from Sanskrit and means “dispeller of darkness.” Gurus are highly respected in many Eastern religions, such as Hinduism, Buddhism, and Sikhism, and are often seen as a source of divine inspiration and enlightenment.
Our Guru is a yogi and a mystic
a man whose passion spills into everything he encounters. Named one of India’s 50 most influential people, Sadhguru’s work has touched the lives of millions worldwide through his transformational programs. Sadhguru has a unique ability to make the ancient yogic sciences relevant to contemporary minds, acting as a bridge to the deeper dimensions of life. His approach does not ascribe to any belief system, but offers methods for self-transformation that are both proven and powerful.
An author, poet, visionary,
internationally renowned speaker and bestselling author, Sadhguru has been an influential voice at major global forums including the United Nations World Headquarters and the World Economic Forum, addressing issues as diverse as socioeconomic development, leadership and spirituality. He has also been invited to speak at leading educational institutions, including Oxford, London Business School, IMD, Stanford, Harvard, Yale, Wharton and MIT, to name a few.
Dedicated
to the physical, mental and spiritual wellbeing of humanity and gifted with utter clarity of perception, Sadhguru possesses a perspective on life and living that never fails to intrigue, challenge and surprise all those he encounters.
A book that empowers you to explore your spiritual self and could well change your life. “More Than a Life” is the extraordinary story of Sadhguru – a young agnostic who turned yogi, a wild motorcyclist who turned mystic, a skeptic who turned spiritual guide. Pulsating with his razor-sharp intelligence, bracing wit and modern-day vocabulary, the book empowers you to explore your spiritual self and could well change your life. In his early years, Jaggi Vasudev (or Sadhguru as he is now known) was a chronic truant, a boisterous prankster, and later a lover of motorbikes and fast cars. It is evident that the same urgency, passion and vitality echo in his spiritual pursuits to this day, from his creation of the historic Dhyanalinga – the mission of three lifetimes – to his approach as a guru. In Sadhguru’s view, faith and reason, spirituality and science, the sacred and the material, cannot be divided into easy binaries. He sees people as “spiritual beings dabbling with the material rather than the reverse”, and liberation as the fundamental longing in every form of life. Truth for him is a living experience instead of a destination, a conclusion, or a matter of metaphysical speculation. The possibility of self-realization, he strongly believes, is available to all. Drawing upon extended conversations with Sadhguru, interviews with Isha colleagues and fellow meditators, poet Arundhathi Subramaniam presents an evocative portrait of a contemporary mystic and guru – a man who seems to pack the intensity and adventure of several lifetimes into a single one.
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Sri Jyothiram Swamiji
Siddhars are highly revered spiritual masters in Hinduism who are believed to have achieved great levels of spiritual enlightenment through intense meditation and spiritual practice. They are often regarded as being in a state of union with the divine, possessing supernatural powers and abilities, and having the ability to perform miracles.
The teachings of the siddhars are highly regarded in Hinduism, and their spiritual insights and practices have influenced many aspects of Hindu philosophy, spirituality, and culture. They are often associated with the practice of yoga, meditation, and various forms of spiritual and mystical practices.
Mandir Information
“A Mandir is a place of paramount peace…to realize God” – H.H. Pramukh Swami Maharaj
Significance
History
Making of Mandir
The Mandir by Numbers
Murtis
Key Terms
Significance
In Sanskrit, Mandir means a place where the mind becomes still and experiences inner peace. Since Vedic times, India’s sages have been enlightened with profound spiritual truths that served as basis of their rituals, philosophies, scientific discoveries and religious faith. As an expression of their spiritual faith, the yogis evolved and created beautiful Mandirs to uphold these traditions. In a similar token, this Mandir aims to serve as a place of understanding and appreciation of India art, culture and religion for generations to come. It will stand as a sanctuary for countless men and women, who will be able to sustain their culture and heritage in the form of arts, language, music, and spiritual learning. The Mandir will provide a platform to encourage the act of giving back to our communities through various charitable efforts like Walkathons, Health Fairs, Blood Drives, and more. The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Robbinsville, NJ will inspire the onlookers through its divinity, architecture, and humanitarian efforts for generations to come.
History
The construction for the site of the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Robbinsville, NJ began in early 2010. The Mandir was the second phase of the Hindu American Religious Center construction and was completed early in the overall project to facilitate a leveled growth of the center. In looking at the construction specifics, chiseled European marble was used to build the 12,000 sq. ft. Mandir. Despite heavy snowfall during the winter months, the mandir was completed by 2014.. A consecration ceremony was held on August 10th, 2014 in the presence of His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj, senior swamis from India and devotees from across the world.
The 5th, and last phase of the project, the Swaminarayan Akshardham Mahamandir is expected to be completed within the next 5-7 years. The foundation for the Mandir is complete, and the stone carving has begun in India. Phase 4, the Visitor’s Center, will also house a small exhibition on Indian history and culture. Countless volunteer hours have gone in the design and planning for this project. The devotees have truly upheld their Guru’s vision and woven it into their mission.
In order to fully admire the Mandir’s beauty and grandeur, let’s take a glimpse at how the Mandir was made. The Mandir, built in the Nagaradi style, stands 42 feet tall, 133 feet long and 87 feet wide and is made entirely of Italian Carrara marble (68,000 cubic feet); only the third Mandir of its kind. The beautiful carvings seen around the Mandir are not only aesthetically appealing, but are also meaningful in many ways. For example, 98 pillars depict the lives of the great paramhansas (spiritual aspirants) and devotees of Bhagwan Swaminarayan. Their inspiring stories, as well as Bhagwan Swaminarayan’s key messages are incorporated throughout the Mandir.
Making of Mandir
The process behind building a magnificent Mandir such as this one is multifaceted. The stone marble was quarried in Europe and sent to India through sea cargos. Once the marble reached India, it was trucked to Rajasthan where hundreds of talented artisans would begin the work of hand carving the stones. All the pieces were first assembled at the workshops in India to ensure that they fit appropriately and accurately and were subsequently numbered, using a system developed by the onsite engineers. The pieces were then disassembled, packed with care and shipped to America, where the pieces were organized to begin the process of assembling the Mandir. From Europe to USA, each stone travelled a distance of 21,500 miles.
Encasing the Mandir is a beautiful protective Mandap standing 55 feet tall and 135 feet wide. The Mayur Dwar, or main gate, of the Mandap is adorned with 236 carved peacocks, and various other carved elephants, devotees and paramhansas. The Mandap allows for the Mandir to be enjoyed year round, and shielded from the elements, it will ensure that the Mandir will maintain its beauty for generations to come. When looking at it from this perspective, you can certainly gauge the complex process that was required to build such a grand scale Mandir. However, the efforts that are not seen to the naked eye were equally important while making this mandir. This Mandir, like all other BAPS Mandirs, is the epitome of volunteerism and serves as a symbol to show the value of sacrificing one’s time and efforts towards bettering the community. Volunteers of all ages have devoted their time and resources from the beginning: assisting in the construction work, cleaning up around the site, preparing food for all the artisans on a daily basis and helping with other tasks. A total of 4.7 million man hours were required by craftsman and volunteers to complete the Mandir. His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj has continuously inspired everyone to dedicate their best efforts towards completing this Mandir that would serve as a platform for cultivating Hindu values and serving the community in many ways.
The Mandir by Numbers
40 small Fasnakar style shikhars (spires)
2 large and 8 small ghummats (domes)
98 sthambhas (carved pillars)
66 intricately carved peacock style arches
144 carved sacred figures
58 decorative ceiling designs
34 decorative grills
91 elephants with various musical instruments and flowers
44 Ganesh Murtis portrayed offering devotion to Bhagwan
13,499 individual carved stone pieces
Height: 42 feet
Width: 87 feet
Length: 133 feet
Murtis
Bhagwan Swaminarayan and Aksharbrahman Gunatitanand Swami
Shri Ghanshyam Maharaj
Shri Radha-Krishna Dev
Shri Harikrishna Maharaj
Brahmaswarup Bhagatji Maharaj
Brahmaswarup Shastriji Maharaj
Brahmaswarup Yogiji Maharaj
Brahmaswarup Pramukh Swami Maharaj
Shri Sita-Ram Dev, Shri Lakshman and Shri Hanumanji
Shri Shiva-Parvati Dev, Shri Ganeshji and Shri Kartikeya
Shri Nar-Narayan Dev
Shri Vithoba-Rukmani Dev
Shri Lakshmi-NarayanDev
Shri Tirupathi Balaji Dev
Shri Ghanshyam Maharaj Abhishek Murti
Key Terms
Mandir | Temple/place of worship |
Murti | Sacred image of the Deities and gurus |
Darshan | Seeing the Deities with reverence and adoration |
Arti | Ritual waving of lighted wicks before the Deities |
Thal | Ritual offering of food to the Deities |
Abhishek | Performed by gently pouring water over the murti, it is a prayer for spiritual progress, peace, and fulfillment of wishes |
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Visitor Information
Things to Do & See
Directions
Accessiblility
Group & School Visit
Visiting Hours
Visitor's Info
Things to Do & See
Enjoy hours of beauty, peace and discovery at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Robbinsville, NJ – a masterpiece of exquisite Indian design and workmanship. Marvel at the intricate marble carvings, participate in Hindu rituals or learn about the world’s oldest living faith – Hinduism. Whatever you prefer, you can plan and prepare for your visit here.
MANDIR VISIT
For Individuals & Families:
Individuals and families are not required to book their visit in advance. On arrival, please inquire at the reception desk for the availability of a guide. If one is not available, the Audio Tour Guide should always be on hand for your visit.
For Groups:
For group visits, advanced booking is required to make your visit more organized and fulfilling. Full details can be found on the Group Visit page.
Audio Tour Guide:
Audio tour guides will be available starting January-February 2015. With these, you can take a fully guided tour of the Mandir. Using the simple audio system, you can listen to detailed information about the various features of the Mandir. At your own pace, learn about the importance of a Hindu mandir, the fascinating story of how the Mandir was built, the Hindu sentiments for each of the sacred images, the significance of Hindu rituals such as the arti, the meaning behind certain architectural designs, and much more.
Please request the Audio Tour Guide at the Information Desk. A deposit will be required when you pick it up, which will be refunded when the device is returned. Due to limited supply, please note that the Audio Tour Guide is not available for school groups.
Personal Guide:
Volunteer guides may be available during the day for individuals and families or small groups of 8 or less. Please inquire at the Information Desk on arrival if a guide is available.
ARTI CEREMONY
One of the highlights of a visit to the Mandir is to witness the midday arti ceremony performed daily at 11:15 AM. It is an ancient Hindu offering made by waving lighted wicks before the sacred images to the accompaniment of a musical prayer. Many visitors have described the experience as awe-inspiring.
SHRI GHANSHYAM MAHARAJ ABHISHEK CEREMONY
The artistically mesmeric Shri Ghanshyam Maharaj Abhishek Mandapam is located near the entrance of the mandir. Here visitors can perform abhishek of Shri Ghanshyam Maharaj. An abhishek is a special Hindu ritual. When united with deep faith and devotion, it is a sincere appeal for divine grace. Performed by gently pouring water over the murti, it is an offering, it is an expression of reverence and a prayer for spiritual progress, peace, and fulfillment of wishes.
AKSHARPITH (BOOK & SOUVENIR SHOP)
The Souvenir Shop is located in the Activity Center wing of the complex. It is filled with a wide selection of books, postcards, CDs, DVDs, herbal health products and gifts for all ages, tastes, and budgets.
SHAYONA SWEETS AND SNACK CENTER
Why not complete your visit with a meal at the Shayona food center? With its all-vegetarian cuisine, Shayona is the perfect way to experience some traditional and authentic tastes of India. You can select from various menu options for sit-down or to-go, including a wide selection of sweets and snacks.
PHOTO OPPORTUNITY
To remember your visit, please take a photo of yourself or your group with the Mandir as a background.
Please note that photography or filming inside the mandir is strictly prohibited. Postcards and photographs showing the interior of the Mandir and can be purchased from the Souvenir Shop.
Directions
BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir
112 North Main Street
Robbinsville, NJ 08561
Some GPS maps may not show the mandir address – Google Maps can be used for correct directions. Enter your location in the box below to get directions.
Public Transportation Options to BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Robbinsville NJ
1. TRAIN
From New York Penn Station, take the Northeast Corridor (NEC) Rail Line to Princeton Junction Station
From Newark Penn Station, take the Northeast Corridor (NEC) Rail Line to Princeton Junction Station
From Newark Airport, take the AirTrain from your terminal to the Newark Airport Rail Station. From there, take the Northeast Corridor (NEC) Rail Line to Princeton Junction Station
From the Trenton Transit Center, take the Northeast Corridor (NEC) Rail Line to Hamilton Station
2. BUS
From New York’s Port Authority Bus Terminal (gates 415 or 416), take the Coach USA (Suburban Transit) Line 300 Bus to the Hightstown, NJ station
3. CAR
From I-95 North | From I-95 South |
1. Take Exit 7A toward I-195 West | 1. Take exit 8 toward Hightstown/Freehold |
2. Keep left at the fork, follow signs for Interstate 195W/Trenton/Hamilton and merge onto I-195W | 2. Merge onto NJ-133 |
3. Take exit 5B to merge onto US-130 North towards New Brunswick | 3. Exit on US-130 South |
4. Merge onto US-130 North | 4. Pass Hankins Road |
5. Take the exit toward Voebel Rd. jughandle just after Voebel Rd. junction | 5. Slight right turn onto North Main Street |
6. Go straight to BAPS Mandir | 6. Turn right at the next crossroads to BAPS Mandir |
4. TAXI
For transportation from Hamilton, Hightstown, Princeton Junction or Trenton stations to the mandir, we recommend arranging a local taxi service. One can easily be found by searching online or clicking http://bit.ly/1EFy4an
BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Robbinsville is not affiliated or associated with any of the transportation providers mentioned above nor is it responsible for any loss or damage sustained during transit.
Accessiblility
All facilities and areas of the complex are wheelchair accessible. Wheelchairs can be provided, subject to availability. Parking spaces for physically challenged drivers are located in the parking lot closest to and directly opposite of the Mandir entrance. Within the complex, volunteers are on hand if any assistance is required. They will be happy to help and guide you. If you think you or your group will require special assistance, please inform us in advance by emailing tours.rbv@usa.baps.org or calling (609) 918-1212 and ask for the booking office.
Group & School Visit
GROUP VISITS
A group visit to the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Robbinsville, NJ is an ideal way to learn about Hinduism and enjoy exquisite Indian art and architecture. Whether it’s learning about the world’s oldest living faith, or seeing a traditional Hindu temple and witnessing the arti ceremony, visitors young and old find their trips to the Mandir to be educational, inspiring and memorable.
These are some of the reasons why so many groups choose to visit the Mandir. Some of the many that visit regularly includes schools, community groups, boy scouts and girl scouts, youth groups, senior citizens, interfaith groups, art and architecture aficionados, international tour operators, and many others.
Booking in advance is essential. Please use our online booking form and the visitor guidelines to help us make your visit as smooth, pleasant and productive as possible.
We regularly receive many more requests than we can entertain – especially during the summer and school year – so please be sure to book as early as possible to avoid disappointment.
Light snacks and refreshments may be available upon request, subject to an additional charge. Please note this on the booking form if interested.
Visits are entertained throughout the week, including on weekends and federal holidays, subject to available visiting time slots.
There are separate seating arrangements for males and females inside the maha-mandap sanctuary during the arti ceremony. All visitors are requested to adhere to these arrangements during this time.
Please note that morning slots are recommended because the midday arti (ritual service) takes place at 11:30 am. Furthermore, afternoon visitors will need to wait until 4.00pm (on weekdays) to view the sacred deities because the shrines are closed between 12:00 pm and 4:00 pm (on weekdays).
We request that all groups arrive at the Mandir at least 10 minutes prior to their allotted time-slot.
WHAT TO EXPECT DURING YOUR VISIT
Your visit will consist of a short welcome and introductory address, a video presentation of the history and construction of the Mandir, and a guided tour of the Mandir. This will take approximately 80 minutes, and is free. Please allow extra time if you wish to visit the Souvenir Shop and Shayona Food Center
What | Where | Time (approx) |
Welcome and Introductory Remarks | Mandir Foyer | 10 minutes |
History of the Mandir video | Mandir Foyer | 20 minutes |
Guided Tour including Darshan (viewing of sacred images) | Inner Sanctum | 30 minutes |
Arti Ceremony at 11:30am (if applicable) | Inner Sanctum | 20 minutes |
THINGS TO BEAR IN MIND FOR GROUP LEADERS
It is advised that group leaders should make a pre-visit to the Mandir to plan their group trip. Please contact the Booking Office for any assistance.
Please ensure that the visitor information & guidelines are read carefully and adhered to at all times. We advise that there be a suitable adult-child ratio to facilitate adequate supervision of minors.
As marble has been used to cover the Mandir floor, please do not allow children to run. Please take extra care while visiting the main shrines when using the steps. Please do not touch the carvings and columns.
BOOKING PROCEDURE
The easiest way to book a visit is to fill out the online booking form , which will be automatically submitted to the Booking Office.
The form allows you to suggest two preferred dates. Once the details of the day, date and time-slot are accepted by the Booking Office, your allocated visiting slot will be sent to you by email within 3 working days. Please contact the booking office at tours.rbv@usa.baps.org
CANCELLATION PROCEDURE
If, after having confirmed your booking, you realize that you will not be able to make your visit for any reason, please let us know by email or phone as soon as possible so that your slot can be made available for another group.
SCHOOL VISITS
We will begin accepting educational and school visits in Spring 2015. For more information about school visits, please email us at tours.rbv@usa.baps.org.
Visiting Hours
The Mandir is open to the public daily throughout the year, including all bank and federal holidays.
Mandir Visiting and Tour Timings
Enjoy the Mandir’s Architecture and Beauty 9 AM – 7:30 PM
Murti Darshan TimingsDarshan is the ritual of viewing the sacred images installed in the mandir
The worship of God through belief in his presence in a sacred image is considered to be one of the foremost aids to spiritual realization in Hinduism.
Monday to Friday | Saturday, Sunday and Federal Holidays* |
9:00 AM to 10:30 AM | 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM |
11:15 AM to 12:00 PM | 11:15 AM to 12:00 PM |
4:00 PM to 6:15 PM | 3:30 PM to 6:15 PM |
7:00 PM to 7:30 PM | 7:00 PM to 7:30 PM |
Please note:
Darshan is closed daily from 10:30 am to 11:15 am and 6.:15 pm to 7:00 pm during the offering of Bhagwan’s daily Thal (Bhog)
Darshan will be open all day on Ramnavmi,and Janmashtami, only if they occur on Saturday or Sunday.
Darshan will be open all day on Diwali and Annakut.
*Federal Holidays include New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day.
Daily Arti Ritual
Arti is the ritual of waving lighted wicks in reverence of the sacred images. Performed in a spirit of humility and gratitude, faithful followers become immersed in God’s divine form. It is the innermost calling of the soul and symbolizes the five elements: space (akash), wind (vayu), light (tej), water (jal), and earth (pruthvi).
Rajbhog Arti | 11:15 AM |
Sandhya Arti | 7:00 PM |
Abhishek Timings
An abhishek is a special Hindu ritual. When united with deep faith and devotion, it is a sincere appeal for divine grace. Performed by gently pouring water over the murti, it is an offering, it is an expression of reverence and a prayer for spiritual progress, peace, and fulfillment of wishes.
Monday to Friday | Saturday, Sunday and Federal Holidays* |
9:00 AM to 10:30 AM | 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM |
11:15 AM to 12:00 PM | 11:15 AM to 12:30 PM |
4:00 PM to 6:15 PM | 3:30 PM to 6:15 PM |
7:10 PM to 7:30 PM | 7:10 PM to 8:00 PM |
Weekly Assemblies:
Bal Sabha (Boys Grades: Pre K – 8): | 5:00 – 7:00 PM Saturdays |
Balika Sabha (Girls Grades: Pre K – 8): | 5:00 – 7:00 PM Saturdays |
Kishore Sabha (Boys Grades: 9 – 12 & College): | 1:30 – 3:00 PM Saturdays |
Kishori Sabha (Girls Grades: 9 – 12 & College): | 1:30 – 3:00 PM Saturdays |
Yuvak Sabha (Post College English): | 3:30 – 5:00 PM Saturdays |
Yuvati Sabha (Post College English): | 3:30 – 5:00 PM Saturdays |
Satsang Vadil Sabha (Gents & Ladies Gujarati) | 5:00 – 7:00 PM Saturdays |
Premvati Mandal (Ladies Gujarati): | 3:00 – 4:00 PM Saturdays |
Visitor's Info
The Mandir is a sacred house of God and a place of daily worship. In the interest of preserving its sanctity and ensuring worshippers can enjoy the spiritual ambiance, all visitors are requested to abide by the following guidelines in all areas of the complex.
Dress Code: | |
Shoes: | |
Photography & Videography: | |
Food & Drink: | |
Mobile Phones: | |
Smoking: | |
Conduct: | |
Children: | |
Pets: | |
Copyright: | |
Please Note: Because of the many special services throughout the year, timings and access for the Mandir are subject to change, sometimes unavoidably without notice. While all reasonable measures will be taken to avoid any inconvenience, the Management apologizes if any is inadvertently incurred. The Management also reserves the right to refuse admission to those who do not follow the guidelines and to those who may be inappropriately dressed. The Management is not responsible or liable for any loss or damage of any personal belongings of the visitors, during their visit to Mandir. |
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