New York Mayor Eric Adams visited the Akshardham Temple in Robbinsville, New Jersey today. Adams spent about 2 hours at the temple complex, touring the Mahamandir and interacting with temple volunteers. After his tour, he also spent time with revered saints and workers. During this, he also talked about the history of BAPS Swaminarayan.

After the discussion Eric Adams came back to the gathering and spoke about the Ramayana and Mahatma Gandhi. He is very knowledgeable about Hinduism and Buddhism and in his youth he traveled with Buddhist monks to Sri Lanka, Bhutan and Nepal. 

Tulsi Gabbard also visited

This is the second high-profile visit by a guest to Akshardham, after National Intelligence Director-designate Tulsi Gabbard. As mayor of the largest city in the United States and the 10th largest city in the world, Adams leads a population of 9 million, roughly equal to the entire population of New Jersey.

Tulsi Gabbard has also shared a post on social media platform X regarding her visit to Akshardham temple. Sharing the post on social media platform X, Tulsi Gabbard wrote, 'I felt very happy to visit Akshardham temple last night.

What is the purpose of the trip?

His visit, along with the recognition of the vision of Pramukh Swami Maharaj, 12,500 volunteers and their inspiring Mahant Swami Maharaj, is an important step towards spreading the message of Akshardham to a wider audience. Eric Adams also played basketball with children inside the temple.  

When did the construction of the temple start?

• The construction of the temple dedicated to Lord Swaminarayan began in 2011 
• It ended last year in 2023.
• It was built by 12,500 volunteers from around the world.
• Among the many major unique features of the temple is the largest dome.

The grand dedication ceremony of Akshardham was held in the presence of Mahant Swami Maharaj in Robbinsville, New Jersey after a nine-day celebration that began on September 30 last year.