Bahai's Lotus Temple :- Delhi Tourism

           Lotus Temple

The Lotus Temple, located in Delhi, India, is a Bahai's House of Worship that was dedicated in December 1986.  Notable for its flowerlike shape, it has become a prominent attraction in the city. Like all Bahai's Houses of Worship, the Lotus Temple is open to all, regardless of religion or any other qualification. The building is composed of 27 free-standing marble-clad "petals" arranged in clusters of three to form nine sides, with nine doors opening onto a central hall with a height of slightly over 34.27 metres and a capacity of 2,500 people. The surface of the House of Worship is made of white marble from Penteli mountain in Greece, the same marble used in the construction of many ancient monuments  and other Bahai's buildings. Along with its nine surrounding ponds and gardens, the Lotus Temple property comprises 26 acres.

                                 A 2001 CNN report referred to it as the most visited building in the world. It had attracted more than 70 million visitors, making it one of the most visited buildings in the world. According to the government of India, it had received over 100 million visitors by April 2014.  It is the first temple in Delhi to use solar power.

                                                            

                                  The Bahai's Faith teaches that a Bahai's House of Worship should be a space for people of all religions to gather, reflect, and worship. Anyone may enter the Lotus Temple irrespective of religious background, sex, or other distinctions, as is the case with all Bahai's houses of worship. The sacred writings of not only the Bahai's faith but also other religions can be read and/or chanted, regardless of language;  on the other hand, reading nonscriptural texts is forbidden, as are delivering sermons or lectures, or fund-raising. Musical renditions of readings and prayers can be sung by choirs, but no musical instruments can be played inside. There is no set pattern for worship services, and ritualistic ceremonies are not permitted.

                                  All Bahai's Houses of Worship, including the Lotus Temple, share certain architectural elements, some of which are specified by Bahai's scripture. 

                                   Bahai's scripture also states that no pictures, statues or images be displayed within the House of Worship and no pulpits or altars be incorporated as an architectural feature .