Submitted by WBRi on Tue, 11/08/2016 - 11:25.
A two story 49,000 square foot temple, BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, has opened in Melville (New York) on a five acres plot after three days of festivities.
Constructed by utilizing eco-friendly and cost-effective technological advancements, it includes an assembly hall, classrooms, gymnasium, dining area, indoor basketball court, etc. It is open to the public daily, conducts twice daily arti and offers Gujarati classes.
Opening celebrations included kirtan aradhana, yagna, prayers, murti-pratishta, etc. Sadguru Pujya Kothari Swami (Pujya Bhaktipriya Swami), one of the most senior swamis of Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS), presided. Although this temple was envisioned in late 1980s, its construction began in 2012.