Hundreds of devotees gathered in Robbinsville, N.J., on Aug. 21-22 to mark the beginning of the construction of a Swaminarayan temple that will also serve as a center for community activities. The ceremony to lay the foundation stones of the temple was held in the presence of Swayamprakash Swami, a senior leader of Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS).

The stones, which had been consecrated in Delhi on July 12 by BAPS spiritual leader Pramukh Swami Maharaj, were laid in the foundation along with thousands of bricks consecrated by devotees in an onsite Vedic ceremony, a press release form the organizers said.

The temple complex will be constructed in accordance with ancient Hindu scriptures, using white marble and featuring intricate carvings and architectural majesty, the press release said.

The construction is slated for completion in two years.

The complex will also include a prayer hall, a youth activity center, a welcome center and the Akshardham Mahamandir, organizers said in the release. 

“In addition to laying the foundation stones for a traditional Hindu mandir, each individual must lay a strong foundation of spirituality in their life to achieve lasting peace and happiness,” Swayamprakash Swami was quoted in the release as saying.

The Robbinsville Township Council president, Sheree McGowan, also attended the event.

“It’s just a great experience to finally see it come together after four years of planning,” she was quoted as saying about the temple construction.