In a recent spiritual gathering that spanned over three months, the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham in Robbinsville, New Jersey, became a hub of profound spiritual fervour during the "Festival of Inspirations."
The culmination of this festival will be the inauguration of the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham, a Hindu mandir and campus in the US. This temple complex spread over 185 acres, has been built by 12,500 volunteers who dedicated millions of hours of selfless service.
The inauguration, to be held on October 8, 2023, will mark a grand dedication ceremony, a press release from BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha said.
The soon-to-be inaugurated BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham in Robbinsville, NewJersey, USA, on October 8, 2023
The festival brought together various activities, emphasising unity, spirituality, and community service, echoing the motto of Pramukh Swami Maharaj, “In the joy of others lies our own.”
On Saturday (23) the Indian Community Day celebration was a significant part of this festival. It witnessed numerous organisations coming together to celebrate the spirit of selfless service.
Pujya Gnanvatsaldas Swami initiated the evening, highlighting the significance of the motto, “In the Joy of Others” showcased by Pramukh Swami Maharaj and carried forward by His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj.
The event featured powerful addresses from notable figures who echoed the ideals of unity, spirituality, and community service.
Another key event that took place on September 16 focused on "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam: The World Is One Family."
Through captivating performances, guest speeches, and personal stories, attendees were encouraged to look beyond superficial differences and embrace the essence of a universal family.
Distinguished guests such as City of Edison mayor Sam Joshi and Bawa Jain, secretary-general for the World Council of Religious Leaders, joined the event. They shared their valuable insights and personal experiences, highlighting Akshardham’s mission of upholding timeless values.
One poignant moment involved an incident between His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj and Steven, a young man from Africa, illustrating the depth of selfless connection beyond cultural boundaries.
Throughout these events, His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj consistently emphasised unity and universal brotherhood, stating, “Our scriptures profess 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam - the world is one family. We're all God's children.' This is an unalterable truth. As long as our actions reflect morality and our character remains pure, we are esteemed in the eyes of God."
The Festival of Inspirations united attendees from diverse backgrounds under shared ideals and illuminated the path for present and future generations.
The BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham, crafted from an astounding 1.9 million cubic feet of stone, is set to be inaugurated by His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj.
The inauguration festivities are scheduled to commence on September 30 and will culminate in a grand dedication ceremony on October 8, 2023.
Viewers will be able to experience a cultural programme for the dedication ceremony of the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham on October 8, 2023 from 4:45 pm ET to 8:00 pm ET on usa.akshardham.org.
BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham will open its doors to visitors starting from October 18 onwards.
Anti-Racism protesters come out in support of refugees outside the Cladhan Hotel on September 13, 2025 in Falkirk, Scotland. (Photo by Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images)
