BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Chicago, Hindu temple in Bartlett, Illinois, US
The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir is a Hindu temple in Bartlett constructed from Italian marble and Turkish limestone, following traditional Hindu architectural design principles. The complex sits on an expansive property and displays intricate stone carvings throughout its structure.
The community started with small gatherings in Chicago in 1972 before constructing this temple, using stones carved by craftspeople in India. The complex's completion represented a major development for the Hindu presence in the area.
The temple serves as a gathering place for the Hindu community, hosting regular assemblies where people come together for prayer and devotional singing. It also functions as a school where visitors can learn about Hindu traditions, classical music, and the Gujarati language.
Wear comfortable shoes as exploring the complex involves considerable walking, and plan your visit outside of main prayer times for a quieter experience. The site is open to the public on most days and offers free entry.
The stone pieces were assembled like a three-dimensional puzzle, with each carved by Indian craftspeople before being shipped and fitted together on site. This building method is uncommon for temples in America and demonstrates a level of craftsmanship that is remarkable in its precision.
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