Inside Riedel’s cutting-edge media network at America’s largest Hindu temple

Riedel Communications has joined forces with BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham – the largest Hindu temple in the U.S. and the third largest in the world – to deliver a state-of-the-art media and communications infrastructure. To manage the temple’s vast and intricate operations, BAPS turned to Riedel’s MediorNet and Bolero systems, creating a powerful, scalable, and user-friendly solution that even its volunteer teams can easily operate. Installed in early 2023, the advanced setup is now fully live across the temple’s breathtaking Robbinsville, New Jersey campus.

“With so many different events and services happening across our campus, we needed a system that could keep up without overwhelming our volunteers,” explained Prem Patel, one of many volunteers at BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham. 

“Riedel’s solution has been a game-changer: It’s reliable, easy to use, and incredibly flexible. Whether we’re live streaming a ceremony, coordinating a festival, or just handling day-to-day operations, the system lets us focus on what matters most – serving our community.”

BAPS chose Riedel’s MediorNet for its hybrid approach, particularly its ability to offer the flexibility of IP with the simplicity of SDI. The installation includes 14 MicroN UHD nodes deployed across multiple buildings – including shrines, worship spaces, and event venues – as well as portable flypacks that support mobile event production. These flypacks, equipped with MicroN UHDs and SmartPanels, can be quickly connected to the existing fibre network, enabling rapid deployment wherever needed.

The MediorNet system also tunnels Ethernet through its infrastructure, eliminating the need for separate switches and simplifying network expansion. This distributed architecture allows BAPS to bridge network connections across buildings using just a few fibre strands.

A central fibre patch panel and MediorWorks-powered control application allow operators to manage video routing, robotic PTZ cameras, and live streaming from a centralised control room. The system supports seamless distribution of services both online and across the campus. Given the temple’s intricate marble architecture and lack of cable trays, BAPS pre-installed significantly more fibre than immediately necessary, futureproofing the infrastructure while minimising long-term costs.

Wireless communication is powered by Riedel’s Bolero system, featuring an Artist-1024 intercom frame, 15 wireless beltpacks, four antennas, and 15 Air headsets. This setup ensures reliable communication for camera operators, stage managers, and volunteers. 

The use of Riedel’s 2300 Series SmartPanels further streamlines operations, allowing volunteers to access intercom and control functions with minimal training. With a consistent system across all locations, volunteers can operate confidently, regardless of where they’re serving.

“When BAPS first came to us, they were exploring IP-based systems to reduce cabling and increase flexibility,” reflects Philip Stein, VP Key Accounts / Manager LVP Sales at Riedel Communications. 

“But they were also concerned about the complexity that often comes with IP. Once they saw what MediorNet could do, they realised it was exactly what they needed. It’s robust, scalable, and flexible just like IP yet very easy to manage and operate, which makes it a perfect fit for an organisation that relies so heavily on volunteers.”