Author: Gokuldhamnar

The Cow is representative of the divine and natural beneficence. These gentle creatures are associated with various deities, notably Lord Krishna, Lord Shiva and Lord Indra, as well as our Goddesses in attribution of motherhood. Cows, among other animals such as monkeys, elephants and tigers, are highly revered animals in India, and warrant veneration and protection. Hindu culture, therefore, expressly forbids any harm to cows.

 

This modern residential care home was built for senior citizens in 2006, with the generous support of our donors. So far, Gokuldham has been privileged to care for over 144 senior citizens, providing comfort, compassion and dignity.

Religion, language and food; these are at the core of every region’s culture. Food not only provides sustenance and nutrition, but also expresses and celebrates our cultural identity. Our pure vegetarian menu is carefully selected by a professional nutritionist, ensuring the highest balance is achieved in quality, taste and calorific content for all students. The emphasis is always to provide food that promotes healthy living and healthy eating habits.

This is a place of religious and spiritual retreat providing accommodation for ascetic Saints and spiritual leaders that have dedicated their lives to the devotion of God and service for the good of society.

The Ashram facilities are simple and practical, providing the Saints with an environment to perform their religious rituals, worship, yoga, meditation and recitation of scriptures.

The Yagnashala at Gokuldham Nar is constructed in the design of an octagon. The octagon signifies universal peace and the welfare of the Universe. The perimeter of the Yagnashala is decorated with 57 elephants with 2 rows of 4 swans welcoming you as you step up to enter. The style and design of the Yagnashala matches that of the main Temple. In the centre of the Yagnashala is the Yagna, where the ritual fire is cast and offerings performed daily for at least an hour a day for prosperity and happiness in the world. Traditional offerings are sweets and herbal woods for Lord Vishnu and Hanuman. Looking downwards from each corner of the octagon on the inside overseeing the offerings are sculptures of eight spiritual leaders. On the opposite side facing outside of

Gokuldham stands as a magnificent symbol of harmony with nature, a divine sanctuary in its own right. Spanning an area of 9.25 lakh square feet, this remarkable place not only champions environmental conservation but also nurtures a thriving ecosystem. With 1,639 towering trees from 49 species and 6,837 flourishing plants from 74 species, it celebrates the vibrancy of life. Home to 68 species of animals and birds, Gokuldham fosters a unique balance between nature and living beings.
Since 2007, Gokuldham has been a beacon of environmental preservation, spreading the message of peace and harmony. By planting 5,300 trees in its surroundings, it has gifted the earth a lush green embrace. Every corner of this sanctuary resonates with the beauty, serenity, and prosperity of nature, making it feel like a piece of heaven on earth.

Our Campus is located besides a very busy road (the Bagodara-Vasda Expressway) that is in constant use by travellers. To help weary travellers rest and recoup their energy, we have built several charming Gazebo structures within our Campus grounds, right by the entrance gates. Travellers and general visitors come to refresh the body, mind and soul in the midst of this remarkable lush green environment. They are welcome to visit the rest of our grounds and facilities before setting off on their journey.

This magnificent Temple of Lord Shree Swaminarayan is located in the centre of the Campus and forms its focal point. Its main prayer hall is a multi-use facility that regularly hosts many indoor programmes, including devotional sessions, discourses, seminars, meditation and yoga activities. As a main place of worship, people come to pray, gain solace and seek solutions to life’s complex issues. All these are part of our endeavours to help human beings transcend towards a divine goal. The Temple honours and respects Indian nationalism by incorporating majestic Indian national symbols, such as the Peacock, Tiger and the Lion throughout the temple complex.