Pushtidham
Godhra
Overview
Pushtidham, the largest temple cum community complex of Vaishnav sect of Hinduism, is the only one of its kind in the state of Gujarat coming up on the Bamroli Road in Godhra. The temple is spread over an area of 3.5 lakh sq. ft.
During its long journey of constant evolution, technological advancements and changing requirements, the project came to a halt with lots of entangled ends. Creators Architects was introduced to the project midstream in the capacity of project adviser and officiating architect. To get the project on track a bottom up approach was adopted and the vision was strengthened through design and technical interventions. This not only contributed towards the solution but also increased the experience desired by many folds.
Concept
The design concept originally developed by Ar. Hemraj Kamdar from M/s Earth Consortium, Ahmedabad, revolves around temple sitting in the centre surrounded by ponds and further encircled by facilities all around.
The design was strategised in layers to handle people visiting the temple at various timings with divergent interests and multiple activities. Being a public space focus was given to cater the management and security issues. Also being a charitable space it has its own fundamental requirements which were optimized and blended in the design.
From the standpoint of architecture, the design philosophy revolves around the lotus theme with its central temple being completely designed in that shape. This not only required the understanding of geometrical aspects but also called for having fine constructional methodologies. So the complexity of the project was not limited to design only but also to review the engineering side to result in a sustainable and narrative piece of art.
Each element of the temple signifies spirituality – the Neej Mandir, the Exhibitions and even the Gardens. The outer boundary offers parikrama where the architectural phenomenon is amalgamated with the natural lights and shadows. The path takes its course through many distinct areas which give the sense of exploration and diversification.
The Inner circle while being another parikrama is different for its narrative nature. On one side the wall is adorned by murtis representing many of the spiritual stories over many millennia dominated by the Krishna Lilas. On the other hand, the water creates magic with its sound and reflection.
Lighting plays a vital role in bringing out the divine nature of the place. The lights are positioned in such a manner that it does full justice to the lotus architecture.
The rooftop garden is covered by chatris for people to meditate and live the serenity. The temple complex houses lodging rooms, library as well as a cafeteria for the devotees.
Being a public building, safety and security were given special attention. Several strategies were deployed to easily scale the consumption of power and water during peak versus regular days.
The mixing of different colours, lights, sound, and other elements enhanced the design and made the visit to the temple a spiritually enriching experience.
Key features
More than 80% of the area is kept as gardens to ensure the “Vatika connect”.
The pond emits divine outward radiation from the Neej mandir area through mean sun lighting.
Water management is a sustainability challenge of its own because of evaporation losses.
Fountains and lights add values to the experience of the evening parikrama
Makes Impossible outcomes possible.