The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, located in Chino Hills, California, is a dazzling marvel of traditional Indian architecture and a spectacular location for any type of photoshoot. As a spiritual abode that welcomes visitors of all faiths, the Mandir offers a unique experience of cultural exploration, architectural admiration, and spiritual awakening.
The Mandir is an amazing place for photoshoots. The architecture of the Mandir is the reason it is a popular backdrop for photography. Many engagement shoots have taken place at the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir. In this article, I will discuss everything you need to know about this breathtaking photoshoot location.
I am RayCee the Artist, a professional portrait photographer and event photographer. If you would like to have your very own photoshoot at this location, please feel free to contact me at raycee@rayceeartist.com! And If you would like to purchase a fine art print of my BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir photograph, please visit the following page: "Temple Fine Art Print."
Overview of the Mandir
The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir is a Hindu temple complex situated in the picturesque surroundings of southwestern San Bernardino County, in the city of Chino Hills. Named after the Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS), a Hindu denomination renowned for its commitment to spirituality, social harmony, and community service, the Mandir serves as a spiritual beacon and a cultural landmark.
The Architecture of the Mandir
The architecture of the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir is a splendid blend of ancient craftsmanship and modern engineering. The Mandir is the first earthquake-proof temple in the world, a testament to its advanced structural design. The main building, a traditional Hindu mandir, stands majestically on a 20-acre site, surrounded by a 91-foot lotus-shaped pond, a cultural center, gymnasium, and classrooms.
The construction of the Mandir was a colossal endeavor involving approximately 900 volunteers, who dedicated around 1.3 million man-hours to bring this architectural masterpiece to life. Designed to be eco-friendly, the Mandir features a solar power system that generates electricity, reducing its impact on the environment.
History of the Mandir
The inception of the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir dates back to 1977, when Pramukh Swami Maharaj, the erstwhile spiritual leader of BAPS, visited California. Inspired by his teachings, a small group of devotees began holding regular assemblies. Over the years, the congregation grew, and the vision of a larger, more traditional Mandir began to take shape.
The journey to construct the Mandir was not without hurdles. Despite numerous challenges, including public opposition and regulatory hurdles, the devotees persevered, driven by their unwavering faith and the guidance of their spiritual leader. Finally, in August 2011, the Mandir received unanimous approval from the City of Chino Hills to construct the traditional Mandir with spires up to 78 feet high.
Construction of the Mandir
The construction of the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir was a labor of love, dedication, and sacrifice. Volunteers, including many second-generation Indian-American students, worked tirelessly, weathering extreme conditions to construct the Mandir. The director of construction, Rakesh Patel, described the process as a "sacrifice," emphasizing the immense effort and dedication of the volunteers.
Structure of the Mandir
Composed of 35,000 pieces of meticulously hand-carved Italian Carrara marble and Indian Pink sandstone, the Mandir is a sight to behold. The structure encompasses five pinnacles, two large domes, four balconies, 122 pillars, and 129 archways, all intricately etched with carvings in marble and sandstone. The hand-carved motifs narrate a mosaic of tales of inspiration, devotion, and dedication, along with depictions of historical figures from Hinduism.
Features of the Mandir
The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir is an architectural marvel that boasts numerous unique features:
5 Shikhar (pinnacles)
2 intricately carved domes
4 balconies adorned with hundreds of carved motifs
35,000 individual stone pieces assembled like a puzzle
122 hand-carved pillars
129 seamlessly integrated archways
6,600 hand-carved motifs and images
1,500 craftsmen from India
91-foot, Lotus-shaped reflection pond and fountain
597 kW of clean energy generated annually by a state-of-the-art solar system
20 skylights for natural and energy-saving lighting
1.3 million man-hours of construction
Built to last for 1000 years
Charitable Initiatives
In addition to serving as a place of worship and cultural education, the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir is also a hub for various charitable initiatives. These include:
Health and Safety Fairs
The Mandir hosts regular health fairs, providing free check-ups and tests for the community. Through these fairs, the Mandir has facilitated access to healthcare for thousands of individuals. Additionally, the Mandir also organizes blood donation drives and Children's Health and Safety Days to promote health and safety awareness.
Walkathons
The Mandir organizes annual walkathons to raise funds for various charitable causes. The event, which witnesses participation from a large number of community members, serves as a testament to the Mandir's commitment to community service.
COVID-19 Response
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Mandir stepped up to provide relief and assistance to the community. From hosting special prayers for those affected by the pandemic to organizing vaccination drives, the Mandir played an active role in supporting the community through these challenging times.
Visit the Mandir
The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir welcomes visitors of all faiths to explore its architectural splendor and experience its serene ambiance. Visitors are asked to maintain decorum and respect the sanctity of the Mandir. Entry to the Mandir is free, and it is open daily from 9 am to 7:30 pm.
Conclusion
A visit to the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Chino Hills is more than just a cultural excursion; it's a spiritual journey and an architectural adventure that leaves visitors in awe. So, if you're looking to experience a slice of India in the heart of California, the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir awaits you with its grandeur and tranquility.
I am RayCee the Artist, a professional portrait photographer and event photographer. If you would like to have your very own photoshoot at this location, please feel free to contact me at raycee@rayceeartist.com! And If you would like to purchase a fine art print of my BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir photograph, please visit the following page: "Temple Fine Art Print."