Be like the Lotus. Be the Lotus.
The Baha’i Temple in New Delhi, a gigantic 27-petalled blooming lotus in concrete and marble, is a gentle reminder of a key life lesson at the core of religions that have birthed in India. A life lesson which repeatedly states the importance of rising above the chaos of life and to bloom, like a lotus, unblemished. A popular term being: detachment. Lofty life goals, but one can try.
It is also one of my favourite places of worship in the world. A masterpiece in modern engineering. Peaceful and meditative. Four times a day, brief excerpts from Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, Christianity, and the Baha’i scriptures are read out, together. In tandem with the essence of the Baha’i faith that all religions are equally worthy.
There are over 7 million followers worldwide of the 19th Century Baha’i religion which was founded in Iran and has its holiest site in Israel. Its largest number of followers are in India. No surprises, since India is no stranger to syncretism, at times willingly, at times reluctantly, and often unconsciously. Another lofty life goal—syncretism—but one can try. 🙂
I have been to Lotus temple when I was a teenager. I really enjoyed the silence out there. the only other place where one can experience it is the Auroville- Matri Mandir.
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I very much want to go to to Auroville. Hopefully soon. Never been there but heard so much about it. My travel list is so long, one lifetime is too short for it all. 🙂
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True. One lifetime is too short for a traveler!
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So true …
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What a lovely monuments we have as in our Country, each depicting its own story 👌
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Well said. We truly have a rich, varied heritage in our country. Thank you for sharing your thoughts. 🙂
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My pleasure, your blogs is great enlightening with our culture ✌
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Thank you! It is very kind of you to say so. Am happy you enjoy reading my blog. Means a lot. Truly.
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I have been to Lotus Temple with my family and the environment was peaceful.
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It is a stunning architectural marvel. And true, so peaceful. I love the way people of all faiths just sit in silence inside. Contemplating. Connecting with each other and the universe. 🙂
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