
Birla Mandir (Birla Temple) refers to different Hindu temples or Mandirs built by the Birla family, in different cities. All these temples are magnificently built, some of them in white marble or in sandstone. The temples are generally located in a prominent location, carefully designed to accommodate a large number of visitors. The worship and discourses are well organized. The first one was built in 1939 in Delhi collectively by Ghanshyamdas Birla and his brothers, as well his father. Later temples have been built by, and are managed by different branches of the family.
The Birla temples in Delhi and Bhopal were intended to fill a void. Delhi, even though it was the capital of India, did not have any notable temples. During the Mughal period, temples with shikharas were prohibited until the late Mughal period. The Delhi temple, located at a prominent spot was designed to be lofty and spacious, suitable for congregational worship or discourses. Although built using modern technology, it confirmed with the Nagar style. The Delhi, Banaras and the Bhopal temple use a modern style.
History Of The Temple
According to history, the Birla temple was built on the land given to the Birla family by the Maharaja, for just a token sum of one rupee. One of India's most famous business families, B.M Birla Foundation, built this temple in the year 1988.
Layout Of The Temple
Located beneath the Moti Dungri Fort, the Birla Temple has three domes to represent the three religions of India; a tribute to the secular nature of the country. The Birla temple is bordered by lavish green gardens that highlight the splendour of the temple.
Best Time To Visit
The best time to visit this temple is between the months of October to March. In this temple, 'Janmashtami', the birth anniversary of Lord Krishna, is celebrated with great enthusiasm and gusto; that is the time you would witness the glamour of this temple at its fullest scale. The regular visiting hours are between, 8.00 AM to 12.00 Noon and 4.00 PM to 8.00 PM every day. At night, one can witness the temple illuminated beautifully, against the dark skyline.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Apart from the main temple, the Birla Temple complex incorporates a majestic museum that displays the ancestral possessions of the Birla family, and a stunning garden with a shopping complex. Various items are available at this shopping complex, perfect for tourists who wish to make their trip memorable. Situated very near the Birla temple is another famous temple of Jaipur, the Ganesh Mandir or Moti Dungri Temple. The people who visit the Birla Temple usually visit the Ganesh Mandir as well.