A mandir is a Hindu temple - a sacred space designed to be a home for the gods on earth. Although many Hindus worship at home, the mandir is the centre of community worship and especially busy on festivals.

Features of a Mandir

The shikhara - a tall, mountain-like tower above the main shrine, representing the cosmic mountain Meru.
The garbhagriha ("womb-chamber") - the innermost sanctum where the main murti stands.
The mandapa - a hall where worshippers gather.
Side shrines for other gods.

Worship in the Mandir

Worshippers remove their shoes, wash, and walk clockwise around the shrine - keeping the murti on their right as a sign of respect. The pujari (priest) leads aarti, the climax of worship in which a tray of lit divas is moved in front of the murti while bells are rung, drums beaten and hymns sung. Worshippers cup their hands over the flame and then touch their eyes, taking the blessing in. At the end, prashad (food offered to the gods) is shared.

UK Hindu Temples

The largest Hindu temple in Europe is the Neasden Temple in London - the BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir - built entirely of marble and limestone. Mandirs in the UK are not only places of worship: they also host weddings, language classes and youth groups, making them important community centres.

Y8 Hinduism

Inside a Hindu Mandir