3. Aligned with the Stars | The First of its Kind
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Foundation Stone Laying Ceremony for the London Mandir
- Pramukh Swami Maharaj arrives in the UK in June 1991 to perform the foundation stone laying ceremony.
- The ceremony involves paying homage to the land and seeking forgiveness from the animals and insects that would be affected by the construction.
- The first foundation stone is laid in a hole beneath where the central murti of Bhagwan Swaminarayan would be enshrined.
- The ceremony takes place on July 7, 1991, marking a historic moment for the London Mandir project.
The Ground-Breaking Ceremony and the Team Behind the Mandir Construction
- Balmukund Swami and the speaker were seated on opposite sides during the ground-breaking ceremony, with Pramukh Swami attentively present throughout.
- Pramukh Swami's pure intentions were focused on devotion flourishing within the hearts of the devotees.
- The mandir being built is meant to be a school for Brahmavidya (divine knowledge) and a place for individuals to experience inner peace.
- The mandir is intended for everyone's liberation and for peace to remain in the UK.
- The ceremony marked the beginning of the realization of the devotees' dream, but challenges lay ahead.
- Pramukh Swami assembled a remarkable team of professionals from different backgrounds to design and construct the mandir.
- The Mandir Project Team consisted of local devotees who were professionals in various fields.
The Process of Designing the Mandir in Arlington
- Different plans and designs were drawn by Akshaymuni Swami and Amrish for the mandir in Arlington.
- Other architects and structural engineers were consulted, and designs were selected from their input.
- The author was approached by his partner, Peter Bryan, about getting involved with the Hindu temple project.
- The author initially visited a run-down warehouse building and questioned his involvement.
- Amrish and Akshaymuni, along with Jashbhai Patel, contacted the author and created an Indian atmosphere during the interview with Indian fabrics.
- The author stayed for a cup of Indian tea, which sparked his interest in the project.
- This was the first time British architects and engineers were involved in the construction of a Hindu mandir, a significant step by Bapa.
- Nigel, the architect, was taken to India to see ancient mandirs and understand the stones used.
Memories from the Ground-breaking Ceremony
- Pramukh Swami remained present and attentive throughout the entire ceremony, with no distractions.
- The intention behind the mandir's construction was for devotion to flourish within the hearts of devotees.
- The mandir was seen as a school for divine knowledge and pure character.
- The mandir was being built for everyone, for the liberation of all.
- The completion of the ceremony in Pramukh Swami's presence signaled the beginning of the dream coming to life.
- A team was assembled to design and construct the mandir, with professionals from various fields and backgrounds.
- The Mandir Project Team, BAPS Mandir Construction Team, and external consultants and contractors worked harmoniously together.
- This project was the first time British professionals would contribute to the construction of a traditional Hindu temple.
Influence of Indian Architecture on the Design of a Mandir in London
- The team visited mandirs in India and were struck by the spirituality and devotion felt in these buildings.
- They studied ancient mandirs that were thousands of years old and still standing without a steel structure.
- Bapa advised them to study the architecture of the top floor of the mandir in Bochasan and the dome atop the mandir in Gadhada.
- They were impressed by the traditional and richly decorated haveli in Vaso.
- The team returned to London with the idea of incorporating these Indian architectural influences into the design of the mandir complex.
- Pramukh Swami Maharaj aimed to build a strong bond within the team and weld them together to work on the important project.
- The design of the complex in London was unique, consisting of both a traditional stone mandir and a cultural building for religious activities.
The Involvement of Architects and Engineers in the Construction of a Hindu Mandir in Arlington
- Akshaymuni Swami and Amrish drew different plans and designs for the mandir.
- Other architects and structural engineers were consulted by Akshaymuni Swami and designs were selected from there.
- The involvement of British architects and engineers was a significant step by Bapa.
- Nigel, the architect from the UK, was taken to India to see ancient mandirs and understand the significance of the stones used.
- On November 14, 1991, a group including Amrishbhai, Jashbhai, Madhusudanbhai, James Connell, Nigel Lane, and Austin Trueman visited India to meet Bapa and discuss the project.
- Pramukh Swami Maharaj showed great interest and engagement in the project during a visit to Ahmedabad.
Challenges and Considerations in Constructing an Indian Mandir in a Foreign Country
- The construction of an Indian mandir in a foreign country requires consideration of the host country's construction technology, climate, and laws.
- Adhering to local laws and regulations is essential for the project to progress smoothly, even if it may pose challenges for the Indian community.
- Extensive research on relevant legislation is necessary to ensure compliance with local laws.
- The chosen mandir style, the Nagara style, was selected based on its prevalence in Gujarat and Rajasthan and its association with mandirs constructed by Bhagwan Swaminarayan.
- The cold climate of the foreign country required the incorporation of insulation and other design features to address weather conditions.
- The design of the mandir was influenced by Swami Bapa's suggestion to adopt the style of the third-floor enclosed mandovar in Bochasan, allowing for ample natural light.
Pramukh Swami Maharaj's Vision for Traditional Hindu Architecture in London
- Visiting team from London is fascinated by the spirituality and devotion they experience in Indian mandirs.
- Bapa advises the team to study the architecture of the top floor of the mandir in Bochasan and the dome atop the mandir in Gadhada.
- The team is struck by the traditional and richly decorated haveli in Vaso, which aligns with their research goals.
- They discover that the mandir in Bochasan has an empty third floor with stone carvings in place of windows, offering unique design possibilities.
- In Gadhada, they find that the central dome of the mandir has been raised slightly with small windows for natural light, providing another innovative idea.
- The team returns to London and realizes that Pramukh Swami Maharaj had a greater plan to unite them and build a strong bond through the project.
Construction and Design of the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in London
- Pramukh Swami Maharaj constructed the mandir with a steel-less structure.
- The direction of the temple was determined to face true north, not magnetic north.
- The dimensions and alignment of the mandir were decided according to the Revati constellation.
- The structure was designed to be stable, proportional, and symbolize divinity.
- The design of the mandir correlates with the form of Aksharbrahma, creating a sense of unity.
- The construction followed both Shilpa Shastra rules and UK building regulations.
Challenges and Considerations in Constructing an Indian Mandir in a Foreign Country
- The construction technology, climate, and laws of the host country must be considered.
- Adherence to local laws may be a challenge, but it is necessary for the project to progress.
- Researching relevant legislation and innovating in design and construction is necessary.
- The Nagara style of construction was chosen for the mandir, based on its prevalence in Gujarat and Rajasthan.
- The cold climate of London required the inclusion of insulation and enclosed spaces in the design.
- Inspiration was drawn from mandirs in India, such as the mandovar in Bochasan and the central dome in Gadhada.
- The design incorporated components and techniques from mandirs built by Shastriji Maharaj.
- The mandir aims to be attractive and awe-inspiring, with an average of 3,000 visitors daily.
- The architecture of the mandirs built by Shastriji Maharaj was described as exemplary.
- The construction techniques prioritize structural stability without the use of steel.
Construction of the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in London
- Pramukh Swami Maharaj constructed the first mandir of Hindu architecture with a steel-less structure in London.
- The design of the mandir was aligned with lunar constellations and the direction of true north.
- The dimensions of the mandir were decided according to the Revati constellation.
- The structure was designed for structural stability, proportion and symbolism, and to convey the divinity of the abode of God.
- The design of the mandir correlates with the form of Aksharbrahma, creating a sense of unity.
- The construction followed both the Shilpa Shastra rules and UK building regulations.
Designing the Haveli Building with Swamiji's Guidance
- Multiple projects: Mandir and haveli complex.
- Discussions about unique requirements for the haveli building.
- No precedents for this type of building in Europe or England.
- Incorporating codes of conduct laid down by Shriji Maharaj and guidelines from Pramukh Swami Maharaj.
- Developing a building that accommodates the community's activities.
- Presenting four architectural options: Delhi, Jaisalmer, Jaipur, and haveli architecture.
- Unable to conclude on one type of architecture.
- Nigel Lane suggests making a presentation to Pramukh Swami in India.
- Nigel Lane travels to Sarangpur and discusses the designs with Swamiji.
- Swamiji and Nigel Lane agree on the haveli architecture.
- Swamiji emphasizes the importance of following Swaminarayan Bhagwan's legacy and Gujarat's style.
- Nigel Lane is happy with the decision.
Designing the Haveli Complex with Guidance from Pramukh Swami Maharaj.
- Nigel Lane followed the rules of the Shilpa Shastra and received guidance from Pramukh Swami Maharaj in the design stage of the haveli complex.
- The project team discussed the requirements for the building, as there were no existing precedents for this type of building adjacent to temples in India.
- The team aimed to develop a completely new building that incorporated the codes of conduct laid down by Shriji Maharaj and included multi-purpose spaces.
- Four architecture options were presented: Delhi architecture, Jaisalmer architecture, Jaipur architecture, and haveli architecture.
- Nigel Lane flew to India to make a presentation to Pramukh Swami and receive his directions before proceeding to the next stage.
- During the presentation, Swamiji and Nigel reviewed the drawings and ultimately agreed that the haveli architecture was the best choice.
Creation of the Swaminarayan Haveli and the Challenges Faced in Obtaining Planning Permission
- Nigel understood and adopted the concept of haveli-style architecture for the Swaminarayan Haveli.
- There was a unique friendship and trust between Nigel and the narrator, even though they didn't speak to each other.
- Swamiji approved and blessed the drawing of the haveli complex, marking a significant moment in its creation.
- The local devotees had faced failures in obtaining suitable land for the haveli complex three times before.
- Planning permission for a non-traditional building like the haveli was difficult and required discussions with the council planners and local residents.
- The challenge was to create a mandir next to a busy road without negatively impacting the lives of the residents.
- Undertakings were given by the temple trustees to address the concerns of the local residents.
Challenges and Triumphs in the Construction of the Mandir
- Fierce discussions and disagreements during the project.
- Instances of abuse on the platform were dealt with.
- The committee was split with some in favor and some against.
- The project was approved with just enough votes.
- Prayers were performed for the successful completion of the project.
- Planning permission was granted after a meeting with trustees.
- Different processes for mandir construction: Sompura's large-scale drawings, structural drawings, and breakdown with detailed information.
- Communication of drawings was challenging before the advent of email.
- Detailed explanations were needed for people unfamiliar with this type of mandir.
- Swami's amusement at the local authority's request for calculations, as these temples have been built for centuries.
- Prayers and strong spirits helped the architect with the placement of stones and the successful drawing of the temple.
The Creation of the Swaminarayan Haveli and Obtaining Planning Permission
- Nigel understood that Gujarati architecture is haveli-style and incorporated it into the design of the Swaminarayan Haveli.
- There was a unique friendship and trust between Nigel and the temple trustees, which allowed for effective collaboration.
- Swamiji approved and blessed the drawing of the haveli complex, naming it the Swaminarayan Haveli.
- The local devotees had faced challenges in finding suitable land for the temple in the past.
- Akshaymuni Swami, an engineer from Ahmedabad, arrived to hold discussions and ensure all needs are met.
- The process of obtaining planning permission for a non-traditional building like the mandir was difficult.
- The temple trustees had to address concerns from local residents about the impact on their lives and the busy North Circular Road.
- Undertakings were given by the temple trustees to address concerns and ensure a harmonious coexistence with the local community.
Pramukh Swami Maharaj's Guidance in Designing the Temple
- Pramukh Swami Maharaj provided inspiration and guidance for the temple's design.
- Drawings and designs were sent to a consultant who converted them into a digitized format.
- The organization started using CAD early on for drawing purposes.
- Pramukh Swami Maharaj had the complete vision of the complex in his mind.
- The team sought his guidance repeatedly during the development of drawings and designs.
- Eyewitness testimonies, recordings, and leading volunteers provide insights into meetings with Pramukh Swami Maharaj.
- He would arrive 5 minutes early to meetings and liked everyone to be punctual.
- Pramukh Swami Maharaj made everyone feel comfortable and brought them into their comfort zone.
- He would suppress his divinity during meetings and appear natural.
- He quickly understood architectural drawings and details.
Challenges and Successes in the Process of Building a Mandir
- Fierce discussions and instances of abuse on the platform were encountered.
- The committee was divided, with some members for and some against the project.
- The project received approval, although the exact vote count is unknown.
- Prayers were performed for the completion of the work, and planning permission was granted.
- Drawings for the mandir were produced by Chandrakantbhai Sompura, with a need for more clarity and detail due to the unique nature of the structure.
- Communication of drawings was done through post, as email communication was not yet prevalent.
- The local authority requested calculations for the temple, which were met with amusement by Swami.
- Three processes were involved in mandir construction: Sompura's large scale drawings, structural and general plan drawings, and detailed breakdown by Vinodbhai Dhorajiwala.
Swami's Attentiveness and Inclusive Approach in Meetings
- Swami asks sharp questions and expects complete preparation.
- Swami remembers and reminds participants of things they have forgotten.
- Swami has a lot of enthusiasm and actively involves everyone in the discussion.
- He acknowledges and asks questions to everyone present, not just one person.
- Swami is fully focused and attentively listens without straining to be heard.
- His sheer presence and alertness make participants feel connected.
- Swami emphasizes the main purpose of the meeting and directs the discussion accordingly.
- Participants cherish the memory of sitting with Swami and his unique pose during meetings.
- Swami's mesmerizing and powerful gaze inspires and captivates everyone.
- He listens attentively and encourages everyone to share their opinions and suggestions.
- Swami aims to bring everyone onto the same page and seeks their consent in decision-making.
- Discussions automatically navigate towards Swami's vision and plans.
Pramukh Swami Maharaj's Involvement in Temple Design Meetings
- Pramukh Swami Maharaj provided guidance and inspiration for the temple design process.
- Drawings and designs were sent to a consultant for digitization.
- The organization embraced CAD technology early on for creating working drawings.
- Pramukh Swami Maharaj had the complete vision of the complex in his mind.
- The team sought his guidance repeatedly during the development of drawings and designs.
- Eyewitness testimonies, recordings, and professional consultants offer insight into meetings with Pramukh Swami Maharaj.
- Pramukh Swami Maharaj had a special ability to listen and pay attention to everyone during meetings.
- He arrived 5 minutes early to meetings and encouraged punctuality.
- He created a comfortable and pressure-free environment for discussions.
- Pramukh Swami Maharaj's divinity would be hidden during meetings, and he appeared natural and normal.
Swami's Attentiveness and Leadership Style
- Swami asks sharp questions and expects complete preparation.
- He remembers things sharply and reminds others of things they have forgotten.
- Swami is enthusiastic and actively engages with everyone present.
- He is fully focused and attentive during meetings.
- Swami's presence is strong and he is alert to what is going on.
- He reminds others to stay focused on the main purpose of the meeting.
- Bapa's presence and pose in meetings is cherished and serves as a source of inspiration.
- Bapa's eyes and gaze are mesmerizing and draw people in.
- Swami Bapa sits upright and expects answers.
- He listens to everyone's opinions and suggestions with love and attention.
- Swami wants to ensure that no one is left out and tries to bring everyone onto the same page.
- The discussion automatically navigates towards what is in Swami's mind.
Swami Bapa's Leadership Style in Meetings
- Swami Bapa facilitated meetings by asking questions and helping everyone reach a consensus.
- He made individuals feel valued and important by showing interest in their contributions and efforts.
- Swami Bapa involved everyone in the meeting, even if their input seemed irrelevant.
- He assessed information and provided input at the right moment, pointing out conflicts or errors.
- Swami Bapa would gently offer suggestions and encourage teamwork, with the understanding that his decisions were final.
- He stored all information in his memory and devoted attention to key projects without micro-managing.
- Swami Bapa created a light and freedom-filled environment, allowing individuals to flourish.
- Despite the seriousness of meetings, they always ended with laughter and joy.
Pramukh Swami Maharaj's Vision and Determination to Complete Projects
- Pramukh Swami Maharaj had the ability to manage projects with mastery.
- He had a precise and ambitious timeline for projects.
- His personal effort and ability to inspire others enabled him to set seemingly unattainable targets.
- He announced that the London Mandir project should be completed in three years, despite skepticism.
- There was a need to maintain momentum and complete the work to the highest standard.
- Despite logistical challenges, Pramukh Swami Maharaj insisted on a short timeline because he believed it could be done.
- His full confidence in completing projects was a driving force.
- Even when faced with difficulties and logistics, Pramukh Swami Maharaj remained determined.
Swami Bapa's Leadership Style in Meetings
- Swami Bapa facilitated meetings by asking questions in a way that everyone would reach a consensus.
- He made everyone feel important and valued their contributions.
- Swami Bapa assessed information and gave his input at the right moment.
- He pointed out conflicts or errors immediately and deciphered everything from drawings effortlessly.
- He taught the importance of teamwork and being a sevak (servant).
- His decisions were final and accepted by everyone, with some discussion but not extreme opposition.
- Swami Bapa created a light and free environment, allowing individuals to flourish.
- He gave freedom and guidance from a distance, allowing the team to develop the project.
- Meetings with Swami Bapa always ended in laughter or joy, no matter how tense they had become.
Progress and Vision of the Atladara Mandir
- Swamishri had recently obtained Atladara archives and photographs.
- The archived photographs showed the Atladara Mandir during its opening ceremony, with an airplane throwing rose petals.
- Swamishri emphasized the possibility of achieving even bigger things with a collective mindset and thinking bigger.
- Only a few rare people can see such a vision, but during Bapa's time, it was extremely firm.
- The construction progress was organized through scheduling and a chart to ensure timely completion.
- Swami Bapa instructed to study the letter outlining the schedule daily, similar to reading the Shikshapatri.
- The demolition of the Arlington site began on Janmashtami in August 1992 to prepare for the foundation.
- Swami Bapa insisted on the best foundations that would last for thousands of years.
Pramukh Swami Maharaj's Vision for Completing Projects
- Pramukh Swami Maharaj had a remarkable ability to manage projects with precision and organization.
- He would set ambitious timelines and targets that seemed impossible to achieve.
- For the London Mandir project, he announced a goal of completing the mandir and haveli in just three years, which was met with skepticism.
- Despite doubts, Pramukh Swami Maharaj insisted on the completion of projects within the given timelines.
- He had unwavering confidence and belief that the projects could be accomplished.
- His ability to inspire and motivate those around him to exceed their own expectations played a crucial role in meeting these targets.
- The insistence on completing projects within set timelines was driven by Pramukh Swami Maharaj's unwavering faith and conviction that it could be done.
Construction of the Akshardham Gandhinagar Temple
- Foundations were designed without steel and made of a concrete mix often used for dam construction.
- The foundation base was built on unreinforced piles, with 190 piles of 2-foot diameter of mass concrete.
- The foundations were approximately 100m by 50m by 2m deep, making it the largest in-situ concrete poured in the country at that time.
- 4.5 thousand tons of concrete was poured in 36 hours for the foundations.
- The temple itself was constructed without steel, using a large amount of cement and concrete.
- The construction process was shown to Swami Bapa, who called other teams in India to showcase the efficient and quick construction methods.
- The planning team put in a lot of effort to create a model of the temple, ensuring that work could be done accordingly.
Progress and Vision of the Atladara Mandir
- Swamishri had recently acquired Atladara archives and photographs.
- The archived photographs showcased the opening ceremony of the Atladara Mandir, which was not yet finished but had a foundation and shrines.
- Swamishri emphasized the possibility of achieving even bigger things and thinking bigger.
- Only a few rare individuals can see such a vision, but it was firm during Bapa's time.
- Despite the amount of work, efforts were put in by Akshaymuni Swami and the engineers to complete the project on time.
- A detailed schedule was created to track progress and ensure timely completion of tasks.
- Swami Bapa instructed to study the schedule letter daily, just like reading the Shikshapatri.
- The scheduling was organized under Pramukh Swami Maharaj's guidance.
Construction of Foundation and Materials Used for Akshardham Temple.
- Foundation of the temple was designed without any steel.
- A concrete mix used for dam construction was used for the foundation.
- The foundation base was built on unreinforced piles, with 190 piles of 2-foot diameter of mass concrete.
- The foundation was approximately 100m by 50m by 2m deep.
- A total of 4.5 thousand tons of concrete was poured in 36 hours.
- Cement and concrete were used without any stone or other materials.
- The foundation was completed within 48 hours.
- Swamishri praised the construction team and showed the photographs to other teams as an example of how to build.
- The planning team put in a lot of effort and created a model for the temple.
- Swamishri wanted a marble temple and visited quarries in search of the right stone.
Construction of the Mandir in the UK
- Pramukh Swami Maharaj performs the foundation stone laying ceremony in June 1991.
- The ceremony includes paying homage to the land and seeking forgiveness from animals and insects.
- The first foundation stone is laid beneath where the central murti of Bhagwan Swaminarayan would be enshrined.
- The ceremony takes place on July 7, 1991, marking a historic moment for the London Mandir project.
- Pramukh Swami's focus is on devotion flourishing within the hearts of devotees.
- The mandir is intended to be a school for Brahmavidya and a place for inner peace.
- Challenges lay ahead, but Pramukh Swami assembles a remarkable team of professionals.
- The Mandir Project Team consists of local devotees who are professionals in various fields.
- The BAPS Mandir Construction Team is an experienced team of volunteers and swamis.
- Different plans and designs are drawn by various architects and structural engineers.
- British architects and engineers are involved in the construction, a significant step.
- The team visits ancient mandirs in India to study their architecture and spirituality.
- They return to London with the idea of incorporating Indian architectural influences into the design.
- Pramukh Swami aims to build a strong bond within the team and weld them together for the project.
- The design of the mandir complex in London is unique, consisting of a traditional stone mandir and a cultural building.
- Compliance with local laws and regulations is essential for the project.
Construction of the London Mandir
- Pramukh Swami Maharaj arrives in the UK in June 1991 for the foundation stone laying ceremony.
- The ceremony involves paying homage to the land and seeking forgiveness from animals and insects.
- The first foundation stone is laid beneath where the central murti of Bhagwan Swaminarayan would be enshrined.
- The ceremony takes place on July 7, 1991, marking a historic moment for the London Mandir project.
- Pramukh Swami remains present and attentive throughout the entire ceremony.
- The mandir is intended to be a school for divine knowledge and pure character.
- A team of professionals from various fields and backgrounds is assembled to design and construct the mandir.
- British architects and engineers contribute to the construction of a traditional Hindu temple for the first time.
- The team visits various locations in India to study ancient mandirs and gather design inspiration.
- Pramukh Swami Maharaj's ability to synthesize tradition with modernity is evident in the design.
- Adherence to local laws and regulations is necessary for the project to progress.
- The Nagara style of construction is chosen for the mandir, with adaptations for the cold climate of London.
- The design incorporates components and techniques from mandirs built by Shastriji Maharaj.
- The mandir aims to be attractive and awe-inspiring, with an average of 3,000 visitors daily.
Designing the Haveli Complex and Meetings with Pramukh Swami Maharaj
- Unique requirements for the haveli building discussed.
- Four architectural options presented: Delhi, Jaisalmer, Jaipur, and haveli architecture.
- Decision made to adopt haveli architecture after discussions with Pramukh Swami in India.
- Importance of following Swaminarayan Bhagwan's legacy and Gujarat's style emphasized.
- Challenges faced in obtaining suitable land and planning permission for the haveli complex.
- Fierce discussions and disagreements during the project, instances of abuse addressed.
- Planning permission granted after meeting with trustees and addressing local residents' concerns.
- Different processes for mandir construction, including Sompura's large-scale drawings and structural breakdowns.
- Communication of drawings challenging before email, detailed explanations required.
- Pramukh Swami Maharaj provided inspiration and guidance for temple design.
- Drawings sent to consultant for digitization using CAD.
- Pramukh Swami Maharaj actively involved in meetings, listened attentively, and asked questions.
- Swami made everyone feel comfortable, valued their contributions, and aimed for consensus.
- Meetings with Swami ended with laughter and joy.
Pramukh Swami Maharaj's Mastery in Project Management
- Pramukh Swami Maharaj had a precise and ambitious timeline for projects.
- His personal effort and ability to inspire others enabled him to set seemingly unattainable targets.
- He insisted on a short timeline for the London Mandir project, despite skepticism.
- His full confidence in completing projects was a driving force.
- Despite difficulties and logistics, Pramukh Swami Maharaj remained determined.
- Swamishri emphasized the possibility of achieving even bigger things with a collective mindset.
- Construction progress was organized through scheduling and a chart to ensure timely completion.
- The foundations of the Arlington site were built without steel, using a concrete mix often used for dam construction.
The Design Process of the Swaminarayan Haveli and Pramukh Swami Maharaj's Guidance
- Nigel Lane followed the rules of the Shilpa Shastra and received guidance from Pramukh Swami Maharaj in the design stage of the haveli complex.
- The project team aimed to develop a completely new building that incorporated the codes of conduct laid down by Shriji Maharaj and included multi-purpose spaces.
- Four architecture options were presented: Delhi architecture, Jaisalmer architecture, Jaipur architecture, and haveli architecture.
- Nigel Lane flew to India to make a presentation to Pramukh Swami and receive his directions before proceeding to the next stage.
- Swami and Nigel reviewed the drawings and ultimately agreed that the haveli architecture was the best choice.
- There was a unique friendship and trust between Nigel and the temple trustees, which allowed for effective collaboration.
- The process of obtaining planning permission for the non-traditional building was difficult, with concerns from local residents and the busy North Circular Road.
- Fierce discussions and instances of abuse were encountered during the planning permission process.
- The project received approval, although the exact vote count is unknown.
- Drawings for the mandir were produced by Chandrakantbhai Sompura, with a need for more clarity and detail due to the unique nature of the structure.
Swami Bapa's Leadership and Project Management Skills
- Facilitated meetings to reach consensus and valued everyone's contributions.
- Assessed information and provided input at the right moment.
- Pointed out conflicts or errors immediately and deciphered drawings effortlessly.
- Emphasized the importance of teamwork and being a sevak (servant).
- Made final decisions that were accepted with minimal opposition.
- Created a light and free environment for individuals to flourish.
- Gave freedom and guidance from a distance to allow the team to develop the project.
- Meetings with Swami Bapa always ended in laughter or joy.
- Pramukh Swami Maharaj managed projects with precision and organization.
- Set ambitious timelines and targets that seemed impossible to achieve.
- Insisted on completing projects within given timelines.
- Inspired and motivated those around him to exceed their own expectations.
- Emphasized the possibility of achieving even bigger things.
- Detailed schedule created to track progress and ensure timely completion of tasks.