If work is getting on top of you but the chance of an exotic escape anytime soon is looking as likely as a day without an urgent deadline, you can still experience the wonders of the world right here on your doorstep. Temple visits are not just reserved for trips to Asia, particularly when you can drop into the largest Hindu Mandir outside the Indian sub-continent on your way back from IKEA.
Located a stone’s throw from the familiar blue and yellow pillars, the Temple is located just a few discreet streets away from the thundering roar of the North Circular. Rising up like the Taj Mahal in the heart of suburban Neasden, the Temple appears all the more psychedelic for the blandness of its backdrop. However, the choice of location may have more to do with its astrological significance than its more superficial aesthetic appeal.
Classified as the 7th wonder of London by Time Out, the temple was built in a fraction of the time it took to build the Pyramids and was funded to the tune of £10 million by the local community. A logistical nightmare of epic proportions, over 2000 tonnes of Tuscan marble and Bulgarian limestone were lugged over to workshops in Rajhastan and Gujarat to be painstakingly carved into 26,000 individual panels before being shipped back and assembled by an army of volunteers in the UK.
While the exterior provides a fairytale facade, it’s only once you’re inside that the sheer magnitude of the work involved becomes apparent. Shuffling along in my socks, I make my way up to the Shrines where a cavern of blinding white marble is revealed. Too mind boggling for the eye to fully take in, every inch of wall and ceiling is adorned with intricate carvings and delicate filigree weaving together to depict a complex web of tales from the Scriptures.
From behind the pillars, sudden flashes of crimson, jade and turquoise are revealed as the statues of the Gods peer out from their glass-encase shrines. (No photography permitted). Treated with the reverence of Kings, the deities follow a daily ritual of being woken up, offered food, bathed and clothed in luxurious day and evening attire before being lulled to sleep with hymns as the doors to the Shrines gently close once more.
To my left, a steady stream of worshipers circle the pillars chanting mantras in hypnotic circuits while others meditate or simply stand in silent contemplation before the Gods. Feeling more than a little awkward about being a gawping presence during these private moments of devotion, I’m met only with kind smiles and generous invitations to join in some of the rituals.
Feeling a little out of my comfort zone, I politely decline and opt instead to visit the Understanding Hinduism permanent exhibition located on the ground floor where tales of the religion’s heroes are dramatically brought to life in vibrant 3-D dioramas. The Museum’s collection of paintings, tableaux and traditional craft works also help to create a fascinating insight into the history and philosophies of the world’s oldest and third largest religion. (Entry fee £2.00).
If you’re looking to break out of the rut and experience something truly out of the ordinary, the awe-inspiring architecture and peaceful atmosphere of devotion at Neasden Temple are guaranteed to put daily work concerns into perspective and transport you far from the madding crowds.
Tips: Neasden Temple is free to visit and although no pre-booking is necessary it is worth checking their website for notice of special events which may not be open to the public. Strict security checks are in operation before entering the Temple and no photography is allowed inside the building. Shorts and short skirts are not permitted.
I’ve heard about this place but not visited yet. It looks so beautiful. Putting it on my ‘must do’ list.