The nine-day inaugural ceremonies, Akshardham Mahamandir of BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham in Robbinsville, New Jersey which commenced on September 30 will commemorate the essential elements of the grand temple and the universal values that form its foundation. Thus, on October 4, 2023, a momentous event took place at the temple, as the second session of the Murti Pratishtha ceremony was presided over by His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj.
This sacred ceremony marked the consecration of divine murtis, including Bhagwan Shri Ram, Sitaji, Hanumanji, Lakshmanji; Bhagwan Shri Shiv, Parvatiji, Ganeshji, Kartikeyaji; Bhagwan Shri Krishna, Radhaji; Bhagwan Shri Tirupati Balaji, Padmavatiji, and the revered lineage of BAPS spiritual gurus.
Before the commencement of the Vedic rituals, Pujya Ishwarcharandas Swami addressed the challenges faced by Shastriji Maharaj, the founder of BAPS, in establishing the Akshar-Purushottam principle.
Reflecting on the challenges and limited resources faced during that period of spiritual gathering, he drew a comparison with the forthcoming opening of the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham in North America.
He emphasised the significant strides made possible by the unwavering faith and sacrifices of the spiritual leaders. With profound gratitude, he expressed acknowledgment to Bhagwan Swaminarayan, whose divine presence will hold a central place inside Akshardham, bestowing eternal blessings upon the countless generations of future visitors, a report by BAPS said.
The occasion welcomed distinguished guests, including Pujya Swami Govinddev Giri, Treasurer of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, among its esteemed attendees. In his address, he said, “That you’ve forever constructed (BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham) is a lighthouse. What is a temple? It is a lighthouse, and it shall give its light forever. This lighthouse will spread through generations in the form of knowledge. This is a temple of humanity; a temple of faith; a temple of universal love; a temple of universal brotherhood.”
This significant ceremony underscores the profound spiritual and cultural significance of BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham in North America, emphasising its dedication to preserving and promoting Hindu heritage.
In his blessings, His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj expressed that all visitors to Akshardham would find inspiration in the messages engraved in the stone. Guiding everyone, he said that it was time to draw inspiration from this physical landmark and construct Akshardham within oneself, filling it with devotion, purity, and humility.
Acknowledging the exceptional dedication of everyone involved, Mahant Swami Maharaj extended his deepest gratitude to all who contributed to the completion of Akshardham.
Bob Blackman MP speaks during the event