ABHISHEK OF NEELKANTH
Visitors can perform abhishek of the murti of Neelkanth Varni - the youthful, yogic form of Bhagwan Swaminarayan. This ritual bathing of the murti is a uniquely participatory ritual, open to all visitors. An abhishek is most commonly accompanied by prayers for wish fulfilment. Mahant Swami Maharaj, spiritual leader of the BAPS Swaminarayan fellowship, consecrated this murti of Neelkanth Varni.
ABHISHEK RITUAL
The abhishek ritual begins with the tying of a sacred thread on the wrist. A brief recital of sanskrit shlokas follows, after which each visitor or family bathes the murti of Neelkanth Varni with a small pot of sanctified water. During the shlokas and the bathing, visitors are encouraged to pray for their families, friends, themselves and for harmony and happiness for all.