Birla Mandir or the Lakshmi - Narayan Temple, situated just below the Mooti Doongari, which is a replica of a Scottish castle, is one of the most revered Hindu temples, dedicated to Shri Lakshmi-Narayan.
Situated just below Moti Dungri, the Birla Lakshmi Narayan Temple has a huge complex and is built in a contemporary style. The finest quality of white marble is used to build the temple and its beautiful stained glass widows depict scenes from Hindu mythology. The almost-transparent marble idol of Ganesh is a masterpiece while the idols of main deities of the temple, Goddess lakshmi and her consort Lord Vishnu, are carved out from one piece of marble. The temple houses several other Hindu deities along with great historical achievers, philosophers and religious giants such as Socrates, Zarathustra, Christ, Budhda, and Confucius.
The temple was built by Birla family, the famous industrialists of India, and has three domes, which are said to represent three different approaches to religion. Lord Vishnu, also popularly called as Narayan is one of the three main gods of Hindu Trinity while Goddess Lakshmi is said to be the bestower of wealth and good fortune. The beautiful exteriors of the temple are richly carved with beautiful sculptures based on various mythological themes while the interiors have a large marble panel depicting major mythological events. The idols of the main deities occupy the sanctum sanctorum of the temple. The temple itself is built on a platform and is surrounded by beautiful landscaped gardens. |
