Assembly Hall

Behind the foyer is the assembly hall, one of the central features of the Haveli. If you are unable to enter it from the doors, please see an image of it on the screen of this device. 

This assembly hall is the focal point of the weekly assemblies and the religious festivals celebrated throughout the year at the Mandir. 

It spans 55 metres by 50 metres, around 180 feet by 165 feet, with no supporting pillars, providing seating for 2,500 people when fully open. 

To accommodate various age groups and events, the hall can be divided into three areas by using folding partitions. It may be partitioned in this way during your visit today. 

Natural light is utilised through the light wells above. And when necessary, light is also provided by the specifically designed suspended lanterns. These are characteristic of the classical Haveli style, but fitted with modern energy-saving bulbs. 

The ceiling also houses a thermal heat exchanger. It conserves the thermal energy dissipated by the congregation and reuses it to heat other parts of the building. 

Environmental responsibility was an important consideration throughout the planning and construction of the Mandir, and remains so in its daily operation. 

The inside walls of the Assembly Hall are mounted with a series of large paintings portraying various events from the life of Bhagwan Swaminarayan. We will learn more about this remarkable personality to whom this Mandir is dedicated further along the tour. 

When you are ready, please make your way to the foyer and proceed along the wooden floor until you reach the two large portraits on the wall overhead. Then press next on your device.