People who visit the Shri Swaminarayan
Haveli in Toronto, Canada will find themselves captivated
by its majestic beauty. Richly hand-carved wooden columns,
panels, and balconies adorn the exterior of the Haveli, and
the interior foyer and courtyard are filled with dancing peacocks,
delicate lotus flowers, and royal elephants that beckon in
greeting.
The Haveli, which serves the
prime role of a cultural and spiritual center, has a large
assembly hall where devotees gather to pray, a multi-purpose
gymnasium catering to children, as well as modern dining facilities.
Traditionally, the word "haveli"
refers to courtyard architecture, a style fashioned from wood
involving intricate carvings with various floral patterns.
This style of architecture creates an authentic Gujarati atmosphere.