The 68th Swaminarayan temple built near the Hollywood city in Los Angeles has been carved out of traditional stone and marble and cutting edge technology to protect it from earthquakes. Days after its inauguration on Sunday December 23rd 2012, one of the biggest Hindu temple in United States, built at a colossal cost of $100 million (Rs 543.5 crore) and designed to last 1,000 years, has become a major draw for its grandeur and architecture.
Constructed from 35,000 pieces of meticulously hand carved Italian Carrara marble and Indian Pink Sandstone, the temple encompasses five pinnacles, two large domes, four balconies, 122 pillars and 129 archways. From the external walls and domes to the inside pillars and ceilings, the mandir is completely etched with intricate carvings in marble and sandstone.
The 6,600 hand-carved motifs depict a mosaic of tales of inspiration, devotion and dedication, along with historical figures from Hinduism. The mandir is situated on a 20-acre site, complete with 91 foot lotus-shaped reflection pond, a cultural center, gymnasium and classrooms.
The upper structure of the complex is protected from earthquake damage by separating it from the base with a series of 40 base-isolator units.
The mandir also uses a solar power system to generate electricity and reduce adverse effects on the environment. The mandir combines the best of traditional stone art and architecture and the best of modern technology.
You can see photos of the new mandir by clicking here and visiting the photo gallery on the linked website. Various videos appear below.