24th July 2010 (Latest Visit Aug 2012)

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Our friend, Alejo and his wife, Dana, drove us to this place in their brand new vehicle. In scorching mid summer early this day it had rained creating the most pleasant atmosphere. I and Rajan were very excited as new place to visit and also since we had no other plans for the weekend.

Located in Wilmette, around 10 miles distance, 1/2 drive, little away from city. It is one of the 8 Houses of Worship present around the world and they all have similar architecture. The Lotus Temple in Delhi-India is one of eight Bahai's, that I came to know later.



Bahai is a place of worship for all regardless of any religion hence no statue inside. The carving on the outside is intricated with religious symbols like Cross, Star/Crescent, and Swastika which was surprisingly showing left-facing arms. We strolled outside for sometime, there was a central water area, and few fountains in beautiful garden with variety of roses and other flowers. There were 9 towers leading to a hall which can hold approx 1100 people. Inside was quite and calm. There were pamphlets with info about the place in different languages. We sat in silence and prayed for 15 mins.



On stepping out of the place, the security person guided us to visitor center where we got more insight about the structure and also watched a documentary film depicting its existence and purpose.

I took enough pictures to mark a memory of this visit and would sincerely love to visit such a place again.


Written by Tanuja Rikame