The devotees of Kolkata, known as the city of joy, truly rejoiced to celebrate Pram Pujya Pramukh Swami Maharaj's 85 birthday celebrations with love and devotion.
On the auspicious morning of 8 December 2005, Swamishri performed his morning puja at the new BAPS complex site on N.H. 14, Diamond Harbour Road, south of Kolkata. A new shikharbaddh mandir with intricate carvings is currently being built on this 33-acre site. Swamishri's puja darshan was a divine memory for 1,200 devotees who had gathered there. After puja darshan the devotees and well-wishers participated in the mahapuja for the stambh-sthapan. (consecration of the first carved pillar) of the new mandir which was held on the plinth of the mandir. Swamishri gave his darshan and also performed the arti at the end of the ceremony. The 85th birthday celebrations then began with speeches by sadhus and traditional folk dances by children and teenagers. Swamishri blessed the asembly. Afterwards Swamishri performed the concluding rituals of the ceremony to consecrate the first carved stone pillar of the new mandir and inspired everyone to complete the mandir as per Brahmaswarup Yogiji Maharaj's wish.
The ceremony was also attended by Shri S. K. Birla - Birla Group, Shri Hari Vasya - Chairman Mysore Cements, Shri Gordhanbhai Jerambhai - Chairman Champdani Jute Mills, Shri V Sridhar - Chairman UCO Bank and other dignitaries.