Birla Temple

Of the many beautiful monuments dotting the landscape of Jaipur, Lakshmi-Narayan temple is one of the most attractive. Popularly called the Birla temple, it is situated below the Mooti Doongari Fort. Built entirely of white marble, Birla temple attracts devotees in large numbers throughout the year. During Hindu religious festivals, devotees to the temple increase manifold.



History
Laxmi Narayan temple was built by the B.M. Birla Foundation, managed by the Birla family. The foundation has also built temples in other parts of the country as part of charitable activities.


The Temple Complex
Birla Mandir or Lakshmi-Narayan Temple has been built of white marble on top of a hill. Another magnificent monument-the Moti Dungari fort is located just above the temple. The temple has three domes, each dome portrays different approach to religion. The presiding deities of the temple are Lord Vishnu (called Narayana) and his consort Goddess Lakshmi. Lord Vishnu is one of the three Hindu trilogy Gods and Laxmi is the goddess of wealth and good fortune.

The exteriors of the temple has many exquisite carvings showing various mythological themes and images of saints. The interior of the temple has a large panel of mythological proceedings made of marble. The images of the deities-Lord Narayana and goddess Laxmi are placed in the sanctum sanctorum.

The entire temple complex is surrounded by lush green gardens. The temple is illuminated after sunset and looks splendid from a distance. Apart from regular worship services, prayer sessions are also held in the temple. Unlike some Hindu temples where rituals are done very rigidly and entry restricted, The Birla temple exhibits a liberal approach. Devotees belonging to all caste and religious groups can pay obeisance at the temple.