Sacred Heart Syro-Malabar Cathedral, cathedral in Rajkot,Gujrat, India
The Sacred Heart Syro-Malabar Cathedral is a church in Rajkot that blends Hindu, Islamic, and Christian architectural elements into a single structure with five domes and a pointed tower. Stone carvings and decorative details inspired by Indian temples and mosques adorn the building, while an ornate cross sits atop the main dome on a lotus flower base.
The cathedral was established on December 8, 2000, as a place of worship for the Syro-Malabar Catholic community in Rajkot. Since its founding, it has served as an active spiritual center for this Eastern rite Catholic tradition in Western India.
The name "Prem Mandir" or "Temple of Love" reflects the community's focus on compassion and care. Inside, symbols such as flames, flutes, and lotus flowers from various faith traditions are displayed in the windows and doors, emphasizing shared values across different spiritual paths.
The cathedral is located on Kalawad Road and is easily accessible from central Rajkot by foot or vehicle. The open courtyard in front provides space for quiet reflection, and visitors can walk around the building to see the carved details and mosaics at their own pace.
Inside, Jesus is depicted sitting in a meditation pose on a lotus-shaped platform, acknowledging Indian spiritual traditions. This artistic choice demonstrates how Christian religious imagery can blend with local cultural symbols to resonate with a broader community.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.