Welcome to the heart of the Akshardham Campus, the Brahma Kund. This stepwell, or ‘kund’, is far more than an architectural marvel. It’s a bridge, a link, an integration of two diverse cultures and people, India and America.

The water that dances in this kund has been carefully collected from the 108 rivers of India and from rivers and lakes across the United States. In its shimmering reflection, you see unity, you see a tapestry woven together by countless hands and hearts from around the world.

Water is life, and all civilizations sprang up around the life-giving bodies of water. In Hindu philosophy, water is considered the most cleansing element, purifying not only the body, but the soul as well. A stepwell, like the Brahma Kund, is traditionally considered a sacred place for this very reason.

Flanking each side of the kund are four magnificent murtis, sacred statues, representing the four holy rivers of India: Ganga, Yamuna, Saraswati, and Saryu. These rivers are not just water bodies, they are goddesses, worshipped for their life-sustaining powers. Their inclusion here is a tribute to the invaluable contribution of women in our society and our rich history.

As your eyes take in the marvel that is the Brahma Kund, they are gently drawn to the gardens that surround the plaza. Each flower, each tree here, is a testament to the tireless efforts of our volunteers, who have worked with a singular aim – to create an atmosphere of peace and welcome. The tulips, lavenders, and the myriad of other plants you see here are a visual symphony, a feast for the eyes and the soul.

In Hindu tradition, places like kunds are often seen as sanctuaries for introspection and reflection, a calming oasis amid the hustle and bustle of daily life. We invite you to experience that feeling of peace and tranquility that begins the journey to Akshardham.