GANDHINAGAR, INDIA, October 7, 2002: On Monday, the Akshardham temple complex at Gandhinagar was a picture of serenity. Throughout the day, people kept filtering in through the main gate and almost all visited the main temple and exhibition halls. Had the metal detectors and armed security personnel been absent, one would not have guessed that this was the site of a bloody militant attack. Opening as it did to the public after a fortnight, Akshardham was full of activity on Monday. The temple had been shut since September 24, when militants entered the complex and shot dead 30 civilians and three security personnel. It was re-opened to public under heavy security today. ”The temple has once again got an air of serenity and peace. Despite people knowing the temple is closed on Mondays, over 2,000 people visited since morning,” said Jayesh Mankanda, a volunteer.
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