Akshardham temple wins a wonder label

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Delhi has always been known for its architectural heritage but now it can boast of a wonder as well. The Akshardham Temple of Delhi has been included in the list of “Seven Wonders of the 21st Century” by Reader’s Digest. The 100-acre complex is on the fifth rank in a list that includes Buddha statue in Lushan County, China at the first position, Cave of Crystals, Mexico at second, Museum of Islamic Art, Qatar at third among others.
Interestingly, no one is aware what aspects of the structure has won it the inclusion in the list, not even the temple authorities. “We were unaware, infact, baffled when we got to know that our temple has been included in the list of seven wonders of the 21st century,” says Janak Dave, the spokesperson of the Akshardham Temple. But the temple authorities think that it’s the splendid design of the temple that attracted them. “The seven structures listed in it are very different from each other, so one can’t point out the criteria for their choice. But it’s for sure that the magnificent design of the temple would won it the credit,” says Dave.
Even young architects in the capital are of the same views. Abhinav Gupta, a town planner, says that examples like the Pyramids of Egypt and the leaning tower have been in the list of seven wonders because of their interesting features. “Even our own Taj Mahal. When you look at these structures, you know there’s something different in them. The entire Akshardham temple is so fascinating with influences from our culture and tradition. And this one is also different from the Islamic Indian architecture that India is usually known for,” says Abhinav.
Some think that the structure’s merit is in the way it has been built. “While most of the structures in the 21st century have made the best possible use of the newest technology of the time, this one has been built following the older methods,” says architect Vaibhaw Vishal, who mentions reading that there’s no use of iron pillar to hold the main temple together.
The temple has been built with the help of 11,000 people over four years in the ancient style of building. “No iron or steel pillar has been used in the structure, rather stone blocks interlock them. The basic materials used are red stone, marble and it has some of the most beautiful carvings, both geometrical and floral,” says Dave.
A.G.K. Menon, convener, INTACH, says that the beauty of the Akshardham temple is the traditional art. “The temple has a base of the traditional art. The display is really good. While Indian architecture has always been known for a beautiful display of its tradition and culture, the Akshardham Temple continues the trend,” he says and adds, “It is keeping the tradition alive and it’s a good enough reason to be included in the list,” he concludes.