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"People are amazed that the temple is run by volunteers," says BAPS Akshardham USA Head
"The fact that everything here is run by volunteers amazes everyone. It's a story of inspiration and selfless service," the swami said.
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Chaitanyamurtidas Swami, the head of the recently opened BAPS temple in Robbinsville, New Jersey. / New India Abroad
Chaitanyamurtidas Swami, the head of the recently opened BAPS temple in Robbinsville, New Jersey, emphasized the extraordinary volunteerism behind the temple's operations, stating that many who visit the temple are amazed by it.
"In today's age, people don't have time to devote to others, yet here, the whole temple was made and is run by volunteers." Swami said in an exclusive interview with New India Abroad.
"The fact that everything here is run by volunteers amazes everyone. It's a story of inspiration and selfless service that resonates deeply with all our visitors. Many dignitaries, CEOs, and politicians have visited and expressed their admiration for this model of volunteerism. It's truly a testament to what can be achieved through collective effort and dedication," he added.
He shared insights into the temple's journey since its opening in October. "Mahant Swami Maharaj, our spiritual leader, graced the grand opening. Since then, word of mouth and media coverage have drawn thousands of visitors, fascinated by the temple's uniqueness in America," he said.
The temple's influence extends beyond spiritual education, benefiting the local economy in Robbinsville and New Jersey. "The township here, Robbinsville, and the state of New Jersey have become a must-visit destination for anyone coming to the area. It's common for local devotees from Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York to bring their guests here, much like visiting Manhattan," Swami said.
"Indian families find it familiar, and for the American public, it's a new and unbelievable experience to see such artistic and architectural value,” he said noting that more than 50 percent of visitors are non-Indians. "The general American public, people from various backgrounds, are coming here and learning about our culture, spirituality, and heritage. It's a major success story," he asserted.
Swami remarked that the temple hosts a number of programs all year round, including cultural events like music, dance, and food festivals, highlighting the substantial educational and cultural influence of the institution.
Discussing the craftsmanship and architectural marvel of the temple, Swami remarked, "Even those familiar with Indian temples find this one unique due to its scale, craftsmanship, and intricate carvings. For many Americans, it’s their first exposure to such artistry and spirituality."
Reflecting on the past year, Swami elaborated on the temple's visitor management and the steady influx of guests. "Initially, we saw a large number of visitors due to the newness of the temple. To ensure a pleasant experience without long wait times, we implemented a registration process in May, allowing a limited number of visitors at a time," he explained. "This has resulted in a steady flow of visitors who enjoy the educational and cultural aspects of the temple."
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