OPINIONS

Shri Nani Palkhiwala
Eminent Advocate & Economist

"This will be a great Monument of modern India and will be India's glory in capsule form."

November 1, 1985
His Holiness Dalai Lama
Spiritual & Political Head of Tibet

"It is my hope that this beautiful complex built in the rich tradition of this country will help to preserve both the ancient heritage as well as the religious endeavor."

December 1, 1985
H.E. Gyani Zail Singh
President of India

"The Swaminarayan Movement is a Faith that has been serving the nation. Many saints and sages have descended on this earth and enshrined the highest ideals of life. Who has preserved these values? It is saints like Pramukh Swami who have imbibed them. By virtue of their lives and deeds, they possess a spiritual appeal; because of this, people listen to them and get inspired to live by those values. The Government needs such noble saints; however, they do not need the Government...... And had I not visited Akshardham, I would have missed a lot in my life."

December 13, 1985
Shri Abid Husain
Indian Ambassador to USA

"A visit to this great house of Devotion and Spirituality is like a pilgrimage to one of India's biggest shrine. Akshardham is a place of virtue, devotion and knowledge. Going through the place makes me feel inspired - the glory of India's past and the efforts of present sages and the hope of a better world to follow, swells the heart with joy and confidence. India's sanskruti and culture, the presence of godliness all around makes one feel proud of being an Indian. In building Akshardham, Swamiji has made India's spiritual life alive. Here man stands between the visible and the non-visible and through the teaching of the great Swamiji it becomes possible for ordinary men to experience the Almighty Lord of the world, the maker of this universe. May Swamiji's message of love, harmony and devotion spread and make this world a better place."

November 1, 1992
Shri L.K. Advani
President, Bhartiya Janta Party

"I have seen many exhibitions and museums in many parts of the world. But I can say with all honesty that I have not seen a presentation of Indian values and ideals so beautiful and effective as here in Akshardham. It is so beautiful that it is simply beyond the ken of imagination. The ancient Indian belief of the sages is portrayed here through the presentation of the fundamental principles of all the religions of the world. Our concept of 'The world as one family' is really effective. I believe that whoever comes here will take a deep and lasting impression of spirituality with him. I am sure that not only Indians will yearn to visit Akshardham but foreigners will also be attracted to it."

November 1, 1992
Shri Geet Sethi
World Billiards Champion

Akshardham is unique and overwhelming in its appeal. I have never seen a complex so beautiful, so thought-provoking and so well-managed."

November 1, 1992
H.E. Samson Kisseka
Former Vice President of Uganda

"I am truly happy and very delighted to have come all the way from Uganda to attend this celebration. This is so important that though I had State duties I thought I must come. And I have found that I have done the right thing in coming here. This Movement has done so well and so much for India. You are retaining unity, moral behavior and respecting all religious beliefs. I have been very impressed to see Akshardham and the service your people are rendering."

November 1, 1992
Hon. Samuel Convery
Mayor of Edison, New Jersey, USA

"Tremendous feeling of awe. I have never seen anything like it before in my life. My experience today of seeing this wonder of the world has created in me a true appreciation of life, love and service in the people of India. Akshardham belongs to all mankind."

November 1, 1992
Pujya Mahant Avaidyanathji
Gorakshapithadhish, Gorakhpur

"I am certain that whoever visits this newly created Akshardham will take fresh inspiration from it. Pramukh Swami Maharaj has inspired this complex for the good of society, to give direction to people. It is not merely built to spread the message of the religious movement. This is what I feel in the short time that I have been here. I have also seen here that children are given inspiration to become good moral citizens that will enrich our society of tomorrow. It can be said that Akshardham fulfills the requirements for the multiple advancement of our society. At the center of this noble activity is Pramukh Swami Maharaj. I commend his spirit of enthusiasm, his effort and his vision in creating this monumental project. This will definitely help to transform our society for the better."

November 1, 1992
Pujya Acharya Shushilmuniji
President, Int. Mahavir Jain Mission

"A single visit to Akshardham is worth more than all the teachings and all the knowledge that one would get from countless life-molding books. Upto now we beheld the famous Jain temples of Abu for their matchless beauty, but Akshardham is no way inferior. This is the first time that such a project has been attempted in our day and age. Only Pramukh Swami Maharaj is capable of accomplishing such a feat. Akshardham is now the 8th wonder of the world - the other 7 wonders pale into insignificance in front of this Monument . The other wonders are rich in architectural beauty but they do not offer life-inspiring messages as Akshardham does. The art and beauty in Akshardham is unique and so are the lively messages that it has to offer."

November 1, 1992
Pujya Mahant Nrityagopaldasji
Badi Chhavani, Ayodhya

"It is said in the Ramcharitmanas that as one enters the precincts of Rishi Kakbhushandi's ashram, one experiences divine peace. A similar feeling is experienced as one enters the grounds of Akshardham. A feeling of blissful joy is experienced here. Having seen the beautiful structure of Akshardham, I feel that the rich art of India and its glorious architectural tradition is still alive and preserved in its entirety. In terms of sheer beauty, Akshardham is in a league of its own. No other temple can match its beauty. The exhibition here is an inspiration to all. It will inspire goodness in society and promise the all-round progress of our nation. Just as one feels peace and joy in the closeness of God's company and abode, likewise, one enjoys a similar blissful state here in Akshardham. Many people get a divine inspiration here, an experience of God's love and care. I think Akshardham is a unique and matchless pilgrim place of our country which offers sublime peace to everyone."

November 1, 1992
Pujya Chinna Zeer Swamiji
Head of Ramanujacharya Gaadi, Andhra Pradesh

"I feel it is one of the great wonders of the world. We feel that this is the real place that we have to see. Simply because here we see the scientific wonders based on spiritual wonders and this is what today's world is in need of. Akshardham is giving good medicine in a beautifully capsulized form to society. Here, religion is put in a colorful scientific capsule and presented to society."

November 1, 1992
Pujya Satyamitranandgiriji
President, Samanvay Trust, Haridwar

"In our modern times Akshardham is an amazing religious place. For centuries people will derive inspiration from this holy place. I have faith that this architectural gift from Pramukh Swami Maharaj, will become more historic than the Taj Mahal."

November 1, 1992
Smt. Anuradha Paudwal
Singer

A mind blowing experience. Must see to believe.

November 4, 1992
Pundit Shivkumar Sharma
Eminent Santoor Artiste

"A rare Monument which is created out of total devotion, dedication and selfless service."

November 8, 1992
Dr. Dinesh Vyas
Eminent Advocate & Economist

"To be very honest I don't have any words to describe my feelings of respect for Akshardham. I have seen the whole Akshardham complex. It has been built very beautifully. I think it is a creation of a great spiritual power. The spiritual power that is here will be responsible for the progress of our future India. I am very impressed with Akshardham. Indian culture has been presented here at its best. Whoever comes here will take with him a power and life's noble values that will be of great benefit to him in future."

November 16, 1992
Pujya Jathedar Rachhpal Singh
Leader of Akali Dal

"Whatever I have seen in this Mandir inspires man to become closer to God. It helps man to make his life more moral, and it activates him to serve all living beings. Also, by visiting this Mandir, all our Hindus will be deeply inspired in making their lives more pure."

November 17, 1992
Shri B.V. Doshi
Eminent Architect

"Akshardham is timeless, where people can learn about the eternal quest, values, the soul, and about man and his duties. It is not just a temple, it is a place for a cultural quest, and through this it is a quest of the self. It is a place where people would not be sitting in one place only but they can do research, see the Multimedia show, the museums and finally I think after they have gone round they would go to the temple where the spirit is. This is probably one of the rare temples built in contemporary times where one can expect thousands of people to come and yet it would not look crowded. I think this is important. It is an integration of a contemporary sect or philosophy and its manifestation in the form of a temple."

November 21, 1992
Dr. V. Kurien
Former Chairman, National Dairy Development Board

"Anyone who has visited Akshardham cannot but be astounded at the performance, at the excellence and at the achievements here. Here is dedication, integrity and excellence."

November 22, 1992
Pujya Chidanand Swamiji
President, The Divine Life Society, Rishikesh

"By the grace of beloved Pramukh Swami, I have been very fortunate to have seen Akshardham. I touched the holy feet of Bhagwan Swaminarayan's idol and circumambulated Akshardham. I saw the museum of holy relics and I was purified. For two and a half hours I saw everything and it seemed as if I had been to heaven. The ideals of the Upanishads, Ramayan and Mahabharat displayed in the halls can elevate man to heaven and make him pure. The experience is unforgettable. Akshardham is a testimony to the work perfection and capabilities of saints. And such perfection can only be possible through renunciation and devotion.

November 22, 1992
Mr. Rajesh Khaitan
Industrialist

“To feel the presence of God - this is the monument which one and all should visit. I am fortunate to have done so!”

December 1, 1992
Mr. Ramkrishna Bajaj
Industrialist

I am convinced that Akshardham, a magnificent piece of work, is impossible without the will of God, the blessings of Pramukh Swami Maharaj and the effort of the volunteers. There is so much to learn and so much inspiration from this complex. Now-a-days, our younger generations do not want to know anything about our ancient tradition. Unfortunately, they are ignorant of our rich culture. In such times a monument like Akshardham is absolutely essential for the revival of cultural ideals. The youth of today can learn a lot from Akshardham. Pramukh Swami is inspiring new works and programme in this direction. When people realise that he is selfless then it will become easier for them to change their thoughts and accept nobler and higher thoughts.

December 1, 1992
H.E. Anatoli M. Drukol
Ambassador of Russia

"Excellent! Magnificent temple in a splendid park - one of the most beautiful places of modern and ancient India."

March 23, 1993
Hon. Atal Behari Vajpayee
Prime Minister of India

"A pleasant surprise! The effort of filling the whole ocean into a pot is truly commendable. The concept is attractive! The noblest experience of leaving a long-lasting impact through the combination of light and sound. A project worthy of emulation, which transmits the eternal message of religion right down to the common man. Congratulations!"

May 16, 1993
H.E. Lech Walesa
President of Poland

"O Lord! Please guide my generation!"

February 1, 1994
H.E. D. R. Hasselman
Consul General of Holland

"A masterful blend of philosophy and modern technology offer the visitor the opportunity of deeper reflection. I wish this exhibition to contribute to the betterment of the people of India and the world."

July 1, 1994
Shri Shrichand Hinduja
Renowned Industrialist

Akshardham gave us a great experience. We felt as if we were in ‘Vaikunth’. We all are grateful to Pujya Pramukh Swamiji and his devotees for creating a living centre and reviving the vedic tradition and culture.

September 16, 1995
Pujya Tejomayanandji
Head Chinmaya Mission

A long cherished desire of mine is fulfilled today. I consider myself blessed to visit this holy Akshardham. It was a joy to spend some time with the great sadhus here. Please convey my humble prostrations to H. H. Shri Pramukhswami Maharaj.

December 1, 1995
Sivaya Subramuniyaswami (Hawaii)
Founder 'Hinduism Today' Magazine

Which display is the best it is hard to remember. We are so impressed. The spiritual message is clear – Aum.

December 1, 1995
Pujya Chandrashekhar Vijayji
Head of Tapovan Ashram

"Pramukh Swami has worked wonders by inspiring the artists and sadhus to create on this earth such a priceless jewel like Akshardham."

October 3, 1996
Hon. Vasudev Pandey
Former Prime Minister of Trinidad & Tobago

"This is a truly remarkable demonstration of how to fuse the past, the present and the future. Truly a miracle! God bless you all."

February 1, 1997
Sister Vincent A.C.
Eminent Christian Nun

"It was an enriching experience, depicting noble truths and values in the context of religion, culture, art and architecture. May all those who visit Akshardham continue their search for the infinite, the pure and the Truth eternal in their hearts, in their lives and in the whole universe. Thanks to the services of the guide whose pleasant manner, knowledge, and patient and clear explanations are greatly appreciated."

May 6, 1997
Sadhvi Anantkirtishri
Eminent Jain Renunciate

"After visiting Akshardham, I feel that I have visited the eighth wonder of the world. It is not merely a monument, a pilgrimage or a temple, it is a classic mirror of our holy Indian Culture. 'NA KSHARATI ITI AKSHAR' - one which is indestructible is called 'Akshar'. Hence, immortal Akshardham endows us with self-realization and God-realization. Man has always been a lover of art and beauty. Akshardham attracts thousands of visitors from India and abroad by its beauty and art. Each and every department of it is so beautiful that one cannot decide which can be called the best. His Holiness Pramukh Swamiji and his disciples have given their valuable contribution for this great Dham. But I can say with confidence that one who once visits Akshardham, takes its golden memories with him forever."

June 6, 1997
Shri R. K. Laxman
Internationally acclaimed cartoonist

"Excellent, elevating experience!"

August 17, 1997
HRH Prince Philip of Britain
Prince of Britain

"We don't see such things in this century.... I am extremely pleased for this remarkable opportunity of visiting Akshardham. Swamiji is doing great work and may he be supremely successful in achieving his goal of curing conflicts and creating peace in this world."

October 15, 1997
Hon. Keith Vaz
Member of Parliament, Britain

"It is as it says HEAVEN. It is truly the eighth wonder of the world. It is the most wonderful temple and Monument that I have ever visited. A splendid and unparalleled work of art and love which will live forever in the hearts and minds of millions of people throughout this planet. It is a Monument not just to the memory of Lord Swaminarayan, but also of the whole of Hindu Culture. I think we can all be very proud of the achievements. My wish is that all people of Indian origin in Britain should come and visit Akshardham."

November 1, 1997
H.E. Walid Mansoor
Consul General of Israel

"I have never during my life in a very short time had such a wonderful and huge experience as the one I have had here. Please come and visit Israel."

November 11, 1997
Dr. Zeenat Shoukat Ali
Professor - St. Xavier's College

An inspiring experience for me where values and ideals are portrayed with great feeling. An impressive piece of art and thinking.

The “Sewa” of the young people has impressed me the most.

Communal harmony can be promoted through projects of this kind. Happiness or "Sukh" through ideals of all the saints can be an important factor bringing the people of India together.

April 25, 1998
Surjitsinh Barnala
Minister of Chemical & Fertilizer

I am extremely happy to visit this magnificent temple and its displays arranged are various structures. It is very inspiring and I thank the organization for showing me round to all good places.

August 2, 1998
Mrs. Jean Patrick UK
Words fail me to express my wonderment at this remarkable exhibition. Much could be gained if our world leaders could be influenced by the teachings in this place. It has made a profound impression on me, I hope that I shall never forget, and that I shall become a better person as a result.
November 10, 1998
Dr. V. A. Subramaniam
Director of Surgery, Cardiology, Lennox Hill Hospital

My life has been uplifted by the spiritual experience. The visit to the most beautiful temple in the world has made an impact on me. It has been truly a life time experience for me. I pray to Lord Swaminarayan for the peace and health of all mankind.

March 2, 1999
H. E. Rob Young
British High Commissioner

My visit was a fascinating and moving experience. The spiritual impact of the Akshardham is palpable. The visual effects, both indoors and outdoors, are well judged. I look forward to a longer visit one day.

September 8, 1999
H.E. Rob Layire
High Commissioner of Australia

This was a memorable experience for my wife & I. Harmony is hard to achieve anywhere but Akshardham shows the way. The cultural & spiritual music also point to harmony. I hope to come again.

September 26, 1999
Mr D. R. Kartikeyan
Director General, National Human Rights Commission

After visiting the Mandir Complex at Neasden, London, I had developed great admiration for the Pramukh Swami Mahjaraj and the Swaminarayan Movement. It is strengthen further today. Apart from giving spiritual inspiration and guidance, the Revered Swamiji has been rendering admirable social service. With such a noble and Godly soul guiding us, the nation's interests are safe. Pranam to the Swami Maharaj.

January 9, 2000
Shri APJ Abdul Kalam
Eminent Nuclear Scientist

Divine experience it is. God bless the team.

January 15, 2000
Lt. Gen. S.K.Sinha
Governor of Assam

A unique temple giving a glimpse of the past with most modern scientific technologies, presenting the present in an environment of architectural splendour exquisitely executed and providing facilities for study of future with all available resources. I have never before seen anything like this. It is so inspiring and illuminating giving unmatched faith in our culture and religion.

June 22, 2000
Ms. Kiran Bedi

I thank The Gujarat Chamber of commerce (Women’s wing) for having brought me to this temple today. It is my good destiny that I came here and will come back again. This place is a marvel of spiritual learning. Much more need is to be known about this in the rest of India. I thank Jayesh for the perfect education.

July 1, 2000
Jack Straw
Home Secretary, Great Britain

I have greatly enjoyed my visit, and have been most impressed by the commitment and dedication of those who have built & worship here, as I was on my visit to the sister temple in Neasden, U.K.

September 8, 2000
Mr. Bill Clinton
Hon’ble president of USA

Thank you, for welcoming me, for making me feel at home, helping the people hurt by earthquake. working for peace and reconciliation.

April 5, 2001
Shri N. N. Jha
Governor of Andaman & Nicobar

Feel greatly honoured to visit this sacred and revered temple & place. Swami’s teachings are highly relevant to living existence, and indeed, for all times.

December 7, 2001