Located in the Mogulwada area of the old city, the Laxmi Narayan Mandir/Swami Narayan Mandir is Vadodara’s oldest temple of the Swami Narayan sect, reportedly built in the 1870s by Acharya Bhagwat Prasad, a prominent figure within the sect. The Gaekwads of Baroda, known for their devoutness, allocated 3000 Rs. for the temple’s maintenance in that era.
The Temple:
The temple complex includes dharamshalas that surround a spacious courtyard housing various smaller temples (deras). Elevated on a high plinth, the main temple features several small domes and shikharas, with three prominent shikharas adorning the garbha griha and a dome crowning the sabha mandap. The temple also boasts a semi-open path for pradakshina (circumambulation). The interiors are adorned with graceful figures of dwarpals (gatekeepers) and digpals (guardians), both inside and out.
The sabha mandap, a grand double-height space within, is adorned with intricate wall paintings depicting Lord Krishna and female musicians. Recently refurbished, both the interior and exterior of the temple are resplendent with vibrant colors, enhancing its spiritual ambiance.
Regrettably, the part of walls had to be demolished some years ago to accommodate road widening. Despite this, the temple remains in robust condition and continues to serve as a focal point of faith in the community.
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