Chicago March 28, 2014: BAPS Shri Swami Narayan Mandir, Chicago is a Hindu temple in the Chicago suburb of Bartlett, Illinois in the United States. It is one of the largest traditional Hindu Mandir of stone and marble to be constructed in the United States and was built by BAPS Swami Narayan Sanstha. It is located off of Illinois Route 59.

The Mandir was designed according to ancient Hindu texts on temple design known as the ShilpaShastras. It is constructed of Turkish limestone and Italian marble that was shipped to India and hand carved. The stone was then shipped to Chicago and assembled like a giant three-dimensional jigsaw puzzle. From the day its first stone was laid, it took 16 months to construct, and was inaugurated on August 8, 2004 by Pramukh Swami Maharaj, the spiritual leader of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, an international Hindu organisation belonging to theSwamiNarayan sect of Hinduism.

BAPS Shri Swami Narayan Mandir, Chicago

Adjoining the Mandir, linked by an underground walkway, is Shri Swami Narayan Haveli, a cultural centre. Opened on October 20, 2000, it has been designed according to traditional Indian Havel architecture - an architectural style fashioned from wood, involving intricate carving. Behind the traditional wooden facade, the cultural centre houses a large prayer hall, function hall, dining facilities, and offices.

12. Dishonest amendments made to the historical monuments, culture, and religious facts should be corrected so as to put forward an honest picture of India.

13. Education for all with common structure and syllabus is the key to success and peace. Hence, children should be taught the same moral values and academic knowledge so as to trim down the ill-effects of communal teachings.

14. To provide stable income to every household, 10 crore employment opportunities should be made available. For those who are illiterate, prospects like caretakers of cows and construction of buildings should be looked for.

15. The owners of sources of natural resources should have limited sharing in profits. For betterment of farmers, scientific ways of farming should be adopted without delay.

16. Cow milk and yogurt should be declared as national drinks. Plus, milk should be made available at 2 rupees per 250 ml to every citizen.

The nation which has been a spectator to Governments favoring special religions now seeks for tougher reforms. The BJP, which promised to be a political family of reformers, can be witnessed luring minority votes. While the Congress has always found doors to governance with the help of reservations and special packages for minority, the BJP also reflects an attitude of diplomacy. The Hindus, who are considered to be the key constituents of India, need to be vigilant and tough to uphold their integrity. Definitely, the voters must exploit their right with a view to strengthening the roots, and ensuring safety and advancement of all.