The Lotus Temple known as the Taj of modern India is a
distinctive lotus-shaped marvel in marble surrounded by a landscaped garden.
The Lotus Temple, located in New Delhi, India, is a Bahai House of Worship
completed in 1986. This architectural marvel of the Bahai faith is essentially
a symbol of peace. it serves as the Mother Temple of the Indian subcontinent
and has become a prominent attraction in the city. The Lotus Temple has won
numerous architectural awards and been featured in hundreds of newspaper and
magazine articles. The Lotus Temple is open to all regardless of religion. The
Bahai laws emphasize that the spirit of the House of Worship be that it is a
gathering place where people of all religions may worship God without
denominational restrictions. According to Bahai faith the mere act of praying
is not sufficient. The inspiration drawn from one's prayers must be translated
into action which promotes the well being of humanity. The temple gives the
impression of a half-open lotus flower afloat, surrounded by its leaves. The
shining pure white marble, the majestic dome, the petals clearly standing out
create a sense of awe. The temple is surrounded by walkways with beautiful
curved balustrades, bridges and stairs that surround the nine pools
representing the floating leaves of the lotus. It is a remarkable tabernacle of
peace and beauty and an engineering feat that will set standards for centuries.
The inner dome is spherical and patterned after the innermost portion of the
lotus flower. It is like a bud consisting of 24 petals and light filters
through these inner folds which is diffused through the central hall. The Lotus
has three sets of petals. The outermost set of nine petals, called the entrance
leaves, open outwards and form the nine entrances all around the outer annular
hall. The next set of nine petals, called "inner leaves" appear to be
partly closed and rise above the rest and form the main structure housing the
central hall. Since the Lotus is open at the top, a glass and steel roof
provides protection from rain and lets in natural light in the auditorium.
