Four days of celebrations marked the inauguration of the new BAPS Hindu Mandir and Community Centre in Canberra, in the presence of Pujya Anandswarup Swami and BAPS swamis from the ANZ region, devotees, and well-wishers.
On 14 March, Pujya Anandswarup Swami and the swamis were warmly welcomed.
On the morning of 15 March, a Vedic Shri Swaminarayan Vishwa Shanti Mahayagna was organized for world peace and the well-being of society. Pujya Anandswarup Swami commenced the yagna by lighting the auspicious ritual flame. Sanctified grains were offered in the ritual flame while 150 children from Australia and New Zealand recited the 315 Sanskrit verses of the Satsang Diksha shastra.
In the afternoon, a special cultural program for women, titled ‘Mandiram Atulyam’, highlighted the inspirational sacrifices by women that made the mandir possible. It featured cultural performances and inspiring speeches by young and senior women, as well as video presentations and a Bhakti Tula.
In the evening, swamis and youths from the ANZ region presented a melodious medley of devotional bhajans, gracefully conveying the timeless traditions and enduring values that mandirs instil in individuals and the local community, creating an atmosphere of spiritual harmony and cultural richness.
On 16 March, a colorful nagar yatra (procession) took place through the streets of Taylor, honoring the sacred murtis to be installed in the mandir on beautifully decorated floats. Devotees from throughout the ANZ region, well-wishers and other esteemed guests participated in this procession.
In the evening, a special cultural program was presented celebrating the inspirational journey of the BAPS Mandir in Canberra.
On 17 March, the Vedic murti-pratishtha mahapuja and murti-installation rituals were performed by Pujya Anandswarup Swami and other swamis in the presence of devotees from across the ANZ region and well-wishers. Thereafter, a dedication assembly was held to celebrate this momentous occasion.
Previously, in Ahmedabad, on
11 January 2023, His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj had performed the Vedic murti-pratishtha rituals of the murtis.
The event was graced by the presence of Hon. Dr Andrew Leigh MP, Assistant Minister for Competition, Charities and Treasury representing the Prime Minister of Australia, Hon. Anthony Albanese; Mr Andrew Barr, Chief Minister of the Australian Capital Territory; and Shri Suneet Mehta, Deputy High Commissioner of India. The guests sincerely appreciated and commended the efforts of BAPS and its volunteers, as well as the contribution of the Indian community in the region.