The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Bhavnagar, India, was inaugurated ten years ago by HH Pramukh Swami Maharaj. To commemorate this occasion, a Grand Vedic Mahapuja vidhi was held on 14 June 2015 in the esteemed presence of Pujya Swayamprakash Swami (Pujya Doctor Swami) and other sadhus. Through the inspiration of His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj, over 3500 devotees participated in the mahapuja celebrations.
The traditional mahapuja ceremony began in the morning after the shangar arti. Somprakash Swami conducted the main pujan. With the showering of flower petals and rice grains amid the chanting of Vedic hymns and prayers, several rituals were performed to commemorate the Mandir’s Dashabdi Mahotsav.
On this auspicious occasion, HH Pramukh Swami Maharaj called from Sarangpur and blessed all the devotees to prosper in satsang and for their inner wishes to be fulfilled. Swamishri also prayed for a good monsoon in the country.
Highlighting the significance, importance and value of a mandir, Pujya Doctor Swami said at the conclusion of the mahapuja, “Mandir is the college of Brahmavidya. From this college all have to understand and imbibe three principles: swarupnishtha (firm faith in the glory of God), sanghnishtha (unity) and swadharmanishtha (conviction).”
Devotees resolved to observe niyams and strengthen their nishtha and earn Swamishri’s rajipo on this joyful occasion.