Neasden Temple: Sheer Magnificence

Neasden Temple is situated in Neasden, which is in north London. The temple is popularly called Neasden Temple. The temple is a wonderful example of Indian craftsmanship and stonework. Neasden Temple is home to white pinnacles that tower high above and intricate pillars carved out of marble. The entire design of the temple has its basis in Vedic principles of architecture and art.

Neasden Temple has its dedication to Bhagwan Swaminarayan. His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj was his spiritual successor. The latter has also served as the temple’s creator and BAPS’s spiritual leader.

This stunning marble structure is the largest temple that lies outside India. Every year, half a million tourists and pilgrims pay a visit here.

Yogiji Maharaj visited London in 1970. He expressed his desire of creating a large temple in the city. 25 years later, this dream became reality. Pramukh Swami Maharaj supervised the construction of the temple in 1995.

Land for the temple was acquired in 1990. Construction work began in a short period of time. In the year 1992, large shipments left for India comprising of limestone from Bulgaria and marble from Italy. In India, various Hindu themes and deities were carved on the stone.

The carved pieces totaled 26,300. Each of these carved pieces were made in India and then transported to London. The carved pieces were assembled together in a span of three years, from 1992 to 1995.

Neasden Temple’s first carved stone was placed in London in the year 1993. Work on the temple completed in August 1995. The temple was officially thrown open to the public on August 20, 1995.

The marble and limestone used in the temple amounted to 5,000 tons. The design was heavily influenced by ancient temples of India. Neasden Temple is spread over an area of 1.5 acres. Its assembly hall can accommodate nearly 5,000 individuals. The temple also features a wonderful exhibition that elaborated on Hinduism and India.

The temple reaches an impressive height of 70 feet. Five domes and seven pinnacles lie at the temple’s top.

Neasden Temple lays claim to the title ‘World’s Eighth Wonder’. Wembley Stadium and IKEA are two landmarks in the stadium. The temple offers impressive views. There are numerous garages and parking lots that surround the temple. These have a forlorn feel to it. This offers an amazing contrast to the temple.