Exploring BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir

Buzz summer intern Jordan Miller-Mandel standing outside the gate with the Mandir in the background. (Photo: Maddy Payne) 

Buzz summer interns Jordan Miller-Mandel and Maddy Payne, along with photographer Dylan Aguilar set out to explore new, interesting places around Houston. After hearing about the beautiful BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, they decided to visit in person. Located in Stafford, Texas (a little over a 20-minute drive from the The Buzz’s Bellaire office), the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir is a Hindu place of worship and prayers. Entering the gates you are quickly transported to a place of peace and serenity rather than the noisy streets of Houston. Walking into the grounds, you are met by the intricately carved temples and tranquil fountains.

The two structures when you enter the grounds. (Photo: Dylan Aguilar) 

Within the grounds, there was an exhibit outlining the history and Hindu religion. It was a great way to learn about BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir. Located in six different cities, it is a place of peace and worship for all. Visitors are more than welcome to come tour the grounds and learn more about the religion.

After walking through the exhibit, we went on to explore the inside of the temple. Before we were allowed in, we were asked to remove our shoes. All the women were directed to sit in the back rows, while the men were directed to the front, as customary in Swaminarayan temples it is custom believed men get distracted by women. Thus, women are not allowed beyond a certain point so both genders can devote their entire focus on prayer. We had the opportunity to sit and listen briefly to a prayer service. It provided us with a different insight on a different culture we had not experienced before. They were very welcoming to show their culture to us and any visitor that came through their doors.

Another building marked with detailed pillars; this building was the exhibition hall where visitors can learn about the Hindu religion. (Photo: Jordan Miller-Mandel) 

After the tour our stomachs were grumbling, so we decided to stop in the gift shop and cafe. We were met with delicious smells and an array of goodies. We each purchased some snacks to take back to the office. Maddy Payne and Jordan Miller-Mandel bought some Chata Chat, which are chip-like snacks with red chili. Dylan Aguilar bought some sweet, donut-like treats called Saata. We left with happy and full stomachs.

BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir is located at 1150 Brand Lane, Stafford, TX 77477. Check out their website here. Visitors are welcome from 9 a.m. through 4:30 p.m.